How to Draw-Stroke Paddle a Canoe

The drawstroke paddle maneuver is useful for moving the canoe sideways and for quickly changing the direction of the canoe.

Instructions

Difficulty: Easy

Things You’ll Need:

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

1. Position yourself in a well-braced sitting or kneeling position.
2. Hold the paddle with your inside hand on its top and your water-side hand 2 feet down the shaft.
3. Reach out over the edge of the canoe as far as you can without losing your balance. To move the canoe sideways, reach on the side that is the same as the direction you wish to go. For quick turns, reach in the direction you want your end to turn.
4. Insert the blade of the paddle into the water. Your lower arm should be fully extended and your top arm should be bent.
5. Straighten your top arm and bend your lower arm, drawing the blade of the paddle toward you through the water.
6. Pull the paddle inward until it is within 6 inches of the canoe. Imagine yourself pushing the water under the canoe.
7. Slice your paddle backward and up to remove it from the water, then reach out for another drawstroke.

Tips & Warnings

• Watch your balance as you reach out. Make sure your base is well centered in the canoe.
• For maximum power, use your whole body to do the drawstroke.
• Always wear a life vest when canoeing.
• Canoeing is an inherently dangerous activity that can result in serious injury or death. We recommend that you seek proper training and equipment before attempting this activity.