There is a saying in the kayak angling community, “If you have not capsized…you will.” Capsizing seems to be the biggest concern of all anglers who want to try out kayaking. But if the angler is prepared, both by correct equipment and training, then capsizing can become no more than a minor inconvenience. Granted rolling in 3-foot seas in January can be tough. If you know how to recover, your chances are much better on the kayak.

The best place to practice is in some protected waters, with a buddy. A kayaking instructor would be even better! In this demonstration I chose a swimming pool. I’ll give some info on instructors a little later.

The technique that I use is called, Belly Button, Bottom, and Feet. In general you right your kayak, if needed. Pull yourself onto the kayak with your belly button in the seat. Then rotate your body while keeping your center of gravity low, and swing your feet into the kayak. This technique can also be employed with the assistance of another kayaker. They can help you with your kayak, and steady the kayak while you recover. Here is a little more detail of the solo technique complete with pictures.

Step 1: First, you have to capsize
This is actually the easy part. Sometime you may fall off of your kayak and it will still be upright. In that case go straight to the Belly Button, Bottom, and Feet steps. But, by intentionally capsizing in a controlled environment, you can learn the limits of you and your kayak. As demonstrated here, I capsized with my crate on board. This will closely simulate what is like to capsize an equipped kayak. I also wear my PFD. This also will complicate climbing back on. I don’t know about you, but I wouldn’t want to be in this situation with one. I also use a paddle leash to keep the paddle tethered to the kayak. Now certain situations such as wind may make you have to chase down your kayak. Try to get in the habit of grabbing for your kayak if you capsize. This is automatic in many cases. One exception is in the surf. The surf generates another situation, and the best you can do is to not let the yak get between you and the oncoming waves. Best thing to do in the washing machine is to stay clear of the yak and get to shore; the yak will eventually get there. Surf rescues will be another lesson.

Step 2: Right your yak
This step is best practiced in water that is over your head. This uses your buoyancy to right the kayak. If you can touch bottom, it is a lot easier because you can use you legs. Position your shoulder under the edge of the kayak, then reach to the other side. Most yaks have grab handles that makes this easier. Once you have both grab handles, push with your closest hand while pulling with the hand you reached under with. This rapid motion should right the kayak. Try to keep a hold on the kayak to keep it from kicking out.

Step 3: Belly button
This is the tricky part, and takes some degree of physical strength and skill. Grab the closest handle with your left hand. And while kicking, reach across the kayak and grab the other handle with your left hand. Keep kicking and pull your self up to where your belly button is touching the seat. Now the hard part is over.

Step 4: Bottom
While keeping your center of gravity (your bottom) low, rotate and get your bottom into the seat. Be sure to use your arms to help keep you stable. Done correctly you will now be side saddle in your kayak.

Step 5 : Feet
Simply swing your feet around to the foot braces, and you have now successfully self rescued. Now get your paddle (which should be on a leash attached to the kayak) and you are back in business. You may loose some gear in this process, but it is your life that should be your main priority, not replaceable fishing equipment.

As mentioned earlier, the best way to learn Basic Paddle Skills and Rescues is with a certified American Canoe Association (ACA) Instructor. On the Southside Tidewater contact Ed Schiller at Wild River Outfitters Touring Company 757-403-0734. Peninsula anglers should contact Vic Sorenson at Appomatttox River Company 757-890-0500. Your local paddling organization can also organize rescue clinics. Also be sure to check out the Tidewater Kayak Anglers Association at www.tkaa.org. Stay tuned for lots of new exciting articles in the near future. See you on the water!