Hey friends! Nicky here. I wanted to share something really important, especially for my fellow kayaking enthusiasts. Whether you’re a seasoned pro or just dipping your toes in for the first time, knowing how to handle a capsize can literally be the difference between life and death. I learned this the hard way when I capsized at Oleta Park – one minute the water was calm and the next I was staring at the sky from underwater! Luckily I had practiced some self-rescue techniques like the paddle float re-entry and roll. In this blog, I’ll provide you with some techniques that are useful for you when you go kayaking, so ready to dive in?

First off, why is self-rescue so important? Look, kayaking is amazing – you get that perfect mix of joy, adventures, and a little workout all rolled into one. But let’s be real, it’s not without its risks. Capsizes happen to the best of us. That’s where knowing self-rescue is a life-saving moment. It can turn what could be a total emergency into just a minor hiccup in your adventure.

So here are the self-rescue techniques that every single one of you needs to have in your toolbox:

The Paddle Float Rescue – This has been my go-to for getting back into my yak in open water. Simple, effective, and a real lifesaver.

The Roll – It takes some practice, but once you nail it, being able to roll yourself upright without even exiting the kayak feels like a magic trick.

The T-Rescue – Perfect for when you’re paddling with a buddy. An extra set of hands can make all the difference in getting you sorted out again.

The Wet Exit – This is square one for self-rescue. If your kayak flips and you can’t roll up, knowing how to safely exit underwater is crucial. Practice it in shallow water until it’s second nature.

The Cowboy Scramble – Another solo re-entry, but more physically demanding. You climb over the back of your kayak and slide into the cockpit. Fun to practice and super satisfying when you nail it for real.

You’re also going to want to have some key gear: 

A paddle float for buoyancy, a bilge pump or sponge to clear water from the cockpit, a tow line (which can be a lifeline if you get exhausted), a whistle and signal mirror in case you need to get someone’s attention, and a dry bag with emergency essentials. The most important thing is to practice, practice, practice these skills before you ever need them for real. Trust me, when you’re upside down in the water, you’ll be thanking past you for putting in the work.

And get this – The ultimate Self-Rescue Kayaking Workshop going to happen on March 23rd! This is your chance to come to learn and master all these techniques that could one day save your life or someone else’s. Whether you’re brand new or a total pro looking for a tune-up, this is the workshop for you. Head over to our paddle event page ASAP to sign up before spots fill up.

At the end of the day, understanding self-rescue isn’t optional for any kayaker worth their salt. It’s the difference between facing a capsize with cool confidence or total panic. Let’s get prepared together so we can keep enjoying these beautiful waters safely for years to come. Just don’t forget to pack your self-rescue skills! For more interesting content signup our Newsletter.

Stay safe out there and paddle on, my friends!