Kayaking can be an exhilarating and peaceful experience. However, if your kayak is not tracking (moving in a straight line) effectively, it can be a frustrating and tiring ordeal. Fortunately, there are numerous ways to improve your kayak’s tracking.
1. Improve Your Paddle Technique
One of the main reasons why a kayak may not track straight is due to incorrect paddling technique. Ensure your paddle is angled to the side of the kayak rather than at an acute angle. This will give you more control over the direction you want to go. Additionally, make sure you are using your torso muscles rather than just your arms to paddle. This will give you more power and steering ability.
2. Balance the Load
Load distribution can significantly affect a kayak’s tracking ability. Ensure that the heavier items are placed towards the center to maintain balance. Additionally, packing your gear evenly on both sides of the kayak will prevent it from leaning to one side, hence helping it track straight.
3. Adjust the Foot Pegs
Foot pegs provide kayakers leverage and control over their kayak. If the foot pegs are in the wrong position, it can lead to poor tracking. Adjust the foot pegs to a comfortable and ergonomic position to increase your kayak’s control.
4. Trim the Kayak
Trim refers to the balance of the kayak’s weight distribution from bow to stern. If the weight distribution is off, it can lead to poor tracking. You can adjust the trim by moving the gear around or adjusting the position of the seat or foot pegs.
5. Add a Rudder or Skeg
A rudder or skeg can significantly improve a kayak’s tracking. Rudder or skeg steers the kayak in the right direction, ensuring it tracks straight. A rudder is a blade-like structure attached to the stern of the kayak’s underside, while a skeg is attached to the kayak like a fin. Both rudder and skeg can be adjusted to provide the right amount of steering and maintain a straight course.
Poor tracking in kayaks can be frustrating and exhausting, but by following the above steps, you can improve your kayak’s tracking ability. Keep practicing, and with time, you’ll be paddling straight without even thinking.