How to Use Kayak Rudders

Wednesday, April/24/2024

1). Release the rudder's keeper cord that locks the rudder to the rear of the kayak. Sit in your kayak's cockpit. Lower the rudder into the water by releasing the lift line.
2). Press each foot against a rudder pedal in the cockpit. The pedals should have foot pegs to secure your feet from slipping.
3). Paddle your kayak forward. Practice steering the kayak left and right by pressing the corresponding pedal. A kayak loses side-to-side stability during turns. Practice anticipating changes in your weight distribution by shifting in the opposite direction of the turn. Press your knees and thighs against the kayak's inner walls to prevent the kayak from tipping.
4). Pull the rudder up, using the lift line, when approaching shallow rocky water.