Pike Lake – Kickstart

This is a 3 to 4 hour block of instruction for the brand new kayaker. Intended for the person who just bought a kayak, or who is thinking about taking up the sport – we got you covered. These very basic kayaking skills provide you a better appreciation for the sport and provides a safe way to learn new skills.

Before hitting the water, there will be at least an hour’s worth of classroom. If you have concerns about your physical ability,  please read our EEC. Class size will be limited to 8, unless otherwise noted. Bring your own kayak, otherwise the use of Kayak, paddle and PFD are included in the price. Some of the topics you will learn when taking this :

Getting to know your gear:

Matching the kayak for the type of water

Wearing the right clothing

PFD fit and proper wear

Paddle – blade types & hand position

Kayak – Anatomy and Physiology , body position, boat fit

How to paddle correctly:

It’s not just using your arms when you paddle

The catch, propulsion, recovery –  how the paddle moves through the water

Forward, Stop, Reverse directions

Understanding what a sweep stroke is, and how it can turn your kayak

How to enter/exit a kayak, launch and land your craft from shoreline, or from a dock.

Ways to transport your kayak – on the road and on land.

What to do when you fall into the water

Trusting your PFD

How to empty a flooded kayak

Wisconsin State Park sticker required for entrance.

Cost – $65 per/person