Go with the flow! You’re no idiot, of course. You love being on the water and in the great outdoors. But when it comes to canoeing or kayaking, you’re starting to think you hear a waterfall. Don’t head for higher ground! The Complete Idiot’s Guide® to Canoeing and Kayaking will prepare you for your journey—whether you’re heading down a local river, around a regional lake, or into the ocean. In this Complete Idiot’s Guide®, you get: • Detailed information on the different types of canoes, kayaks, and tips for choosing the right one for you. • Paddling strokes, maneuvers, and techniques for all kinds of conditions. • Foolproof tips on navigating all types of waters—from rough rapids to slow-moving streams. • Great advice on using kayaks and canoes for fitness, fishing, camping, and competition. Learn more about: • Safety considerations, including quick exits, Eskimo Rolls, swift water-rescue techniques, and more. • Safely paddling with kids, to make sure everyone has fun. • Clothing and equipment, including how to choose and care for a personal flotation device. • Paddling techniques and how they evolved through the years. • Planning a trip and choosing an outfitter or guide. • Building your own canoe or kayak.

A beginner's guide to paddling canoes and kayaks, with tips on choosing equipment, safety and and performing maneuvers.

Kayaking is one of the most exhilarating ways of getting afloat, whether enjoying a leisurely paddle or shooting whitewater. This lavishly illustrated and clearly written guide imparts readers with all the knowledge they'll need for getting out on the water, and the confidence to tackle all of the basic kayaking maneuvers. Beginning with launching and basic paddling skills, the book goes on to explain more advanced techniques, including a step-by-step guide to the Eskimo roll. Safety is emphasized throughout, with full chapter dedicated to rescue and righting procedures.

Well-illustrated with more than 600 color photographs, this how-to book achieves as high a standard as the authors' Paddle Your Own Canoe with step-by-step instructions on essential techniques, and includes history, recommendations, camping and more.

Get the authoritative guide to the rivers of New York, featuring 50 of the state’s best paddling trips. From the slow tidal rivers of Long Island to the swift whitewater in the Adirondack Mountains, the best way to experience nature in the Empire State is by paddle! Canoeing & Kayaking New York is a comprehensive guide to New York’s creeks and rivers. Written by expert paddler and New York native Kevin Stiegelmaier, the guidebook provides engaging and concise information, while offering carefully selected details vital to successful trips for beginners and experienced paddlers alike. For more than a decade, Canoeing & Kayaking New York has been a trusted source for paddlers. This popular guidebook presents paddling routes like the majestic Hudson River as is heads to the urban waterways of New York City, the incomparable scenery along the Marion River, the peaceful solitude offered by the Sangerfield River, and the Old Erie Canal—perfect for families with children. Inside you’ll find: Details on 50 of the best trips along New York’s premier rivers for paddling River profiles with maps and GPS coordinates Recommended runs for waterfalls, wildlife viewing, trips with children, and more At-a-glance data including river class, length, and time Canoeing & Kayaking New York is simply the best and most informative New York paddling guide. Wet your paddle and whet your taste for outdoor adventure!

Maine is one of the premier paddling destinations in North America. And across the Greater Portland Southern Maine region, paddlers can find plenty of protected, flat water to play in, whether canoeing, kayaking, floating, or coasting along on an SUP. Paddling Southern Maine includes maps, photographs and suggested routes, with a strong focus on safe and responsible paddling and environmental awareness. There is an "At a Glance" chart to help you find just the outing you're looking for, and none of the trips require shuttling or portaging. The authors note the skill level and endurance needed for each trip, and there are fun outings for novices and strong, experienced paddlers, alike.