So I’m finally taking the plunge and renting a kayak for the first time this weekend at Possum Kingdom Lake! I’ve done some paddleboarding before, but never kayaking — and I’m honestly a bit nervous. Do y’all have any tips for someone who’s never handled a kayak before? Especially things I wouldn’t think to ask about, like how to actually get in without flipping over or how sore I’m going to be afterward 😅
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Do y’all have any tips for someone who’s never handled a kayak before?
Do y’all have any tips for someone who’s never handled a kayak before?
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Great question! Kayaking for the first time can feel a bit intimidating, but it’s honestly one of the most relaxing outdoor activities once you get the hang of it. A few quick tips:
Start on calm water like a lake or slow-moving river.
Wear a properly fitted life jacket at all times.
Learn basic paddling techniques (forward stroke, reverse, and how to turn).
Keep your center of gravity low and stay relaxed—tensing up makes it harder to balance.
Also, don’t go alone on your first trip if possible—having someone experienced with you is super helpful. And random side note: I just got back from a short kayaking trip last weekend and it actually gave me a ton of clarity. I finally had time to stop stressing about whether I had time to write my essay before the deadline. Nature works wonders!
Some entertaining and relaxing games available include Speed stars. Use little victories to have fun and unwind, therefore releasing tension.
You’re gonna love it! Kayaking is super fun and way more stable than it looks, especially on calm waters like around Bluff Creek. My first time I was scared I’d fall in just trying to sit down, but if you start from a shallow edge or dock, just place your paddle behind you for balance as you sit — sounds weird but it helps big time. Also, don’t overgrip the paddle. It’s instinct to hold it tight but it’ll kill your wrists and make your arms sore faster. And wear water shoes if you can — stepping on rocks barefoot is the worst part of the whole experience lol.
Oh, and if you're renting or have any questions ahead of time, the team over at Bluff Creek Marina is super helpful. They’ve got kayak rentals and are great at walking people through what to expect. If you're unsure or want to double-check anything, you can contact them here — their contact us page is where I booked my first rental. They even gave me tips over email about where to paddle based on the wind that day. Honestly made it way less stressful.