How to Draw Stroke in a Kayak

A draw stroke in a kayak moves the boat sideways. This can allow you to pull up close to a dock, another boat, or something you dropped in the water. Read on to learn more.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Kayak
• Paddle

1. The draw stroke takes some waist flexibility. You need to rotate your body to one side. The paddle held vertically in front of you with the paddle facing the boat and the back facing away from you. The paddle should be held perpendicular to the boat.

2. Place the paddle blade out from you in the water and draw the boat towards the paddle. Lift the paddle out from the water and insert it again at arms length. Repeat the process.

3. You can also turn the paddle sideways in the water slice it out and away, then turn it again parallel to the boat, and pull the boat close to the paddle. This style is slower but quieter than removing the paddle fully from the water.

4. This can be repeated as necessary. If you add a little forward momentum to the stroke you can perform a side-slipping maneuver. Just keep your hands vertical and outside the side of the boat to get the most power out of the stroke.

Tips & Warnings

• Leaning your boat away from the stroke will keep water form being drawn into it.
• Always wear the proper sunscreen when paddling.