How to J-Stroke a Canoe

A canoe being paddled forward will veer to the side opposite the side on which the stern paddler is paddling. The J-stroke helps correct this problem without having to switch paddling sides.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Canoe Gear Bags
• Canoe Kneeling Pads
• Canoe Paddles
• Canoe Racks
• Canoe Yokes
• Canoes
• Life Vests

1. Use the J-stroke only in the stern (back of the canoe).
2. Do a normal forward paddle stroke. (See "How to Forward Paddle a Canoe.")
3. During the forward paddle, begin turning the thumb of your top hand away from you body, causing the blade to angle slightly away from the canoe.
4. Increase the angle as you complete the stroke.
5. Point the thumb of your top hand straight down as you finish the stroke (it should almost be that way already), and pry the blade of the paddle slightly out to rudder the canoe.
6. Shape the entire stroke like the letter "J." Use this stroke only as needed to maintain the proper heading.

Tips & Warnings

• You can use a normal forward paddle with a pry stroke at the end if that is more comfortable for you. The main idea is to rudder your canoe at the end of a normal stroke.
• If you are paddling backward, the bow paddlers can perform a "reverse" J-stroke to rudder the canoe.
• Always wear a life vest when canoeing.