Some sit-on-top paddlers have asked me if they really need to know this stuff because, after all, aren't sit-on-tops easier to deal with if capsized? The first part of the answer is that you need to consider the conditions that caused the capsize in the first place. For example, did you capsize because you tried to stand up in the boat on a calm day, or was it because you were offshore in four foot seas? The difference is how easy (or difficult) it will be to get back in the boat and stay in.

There is a technique called the "cowboy crawl" where you climb up onto the boat and straddle it behind the cockpit. Inch forward until you can drop your butt into the seat, then pull your legs in. This maneuver can be done in both decked and sit-on-top kayaks, but is almost impossible to do in big waves. So the second part of the answer to the question above is that sit-on-top kayaks have their limits too. There may be times when an aid is required to reenter and stay in your kayak. The main advantage that a sit-on-top has over a decked boat is that it is self bailing (it drains water out on its own), which completely eliminates the final step of the Paddle Float Self Rescue.

The following are the steps to performing a simple deep-water reentry into any type kayak using a paddle float. A paddle float is an inflatable air bag that fits over one end of the paddle and allows you to use the paddle as an outrigger for added stability. Here's how it works!

First, be sure to hold on to your boat and paddle after the capsize. Those two pieces of equipment are absolutely necessary for this to work. While keeping yourself attached to the boat, pull out the paddle float and insert it onto one end of the paddle. Secure it with the strap provided and inflate it. Place the paddle across the deck of the kayak behind the cockpit. Float with your feet out behind you (step 1).

Using your feet as much as possible, thrust and pull your upper body up on to the back deck of the kayak, belly down. Put one or both feet on the paddle shaft for added support (step 2).

Next, while staying belly down, pivot your body so that your head goes toward the stern of the boat. Keep spinning until both legs are in the cockpit. Use the paddle for support as much as you need to, you can't put too much pressure on it at this point (step 3).

Once both legs are back in the cockpit, spin your body in the direction of the paddle float until your butt is back in the seat. Again, keep some pressure on the paddle float, this will ensure that you don't flip over in the other direction (step 4 & 5).

Now that you are back in the cockpit in an upright position, you need to get the water out. Bring the paddle in front of your body so that you can continue to use it for support. Take out your bilge pump and start pumping. If you are in really rough water, put your sprayskirt back on first, then pump (step 6).

Brad Miller has been kayaking since 1991,
and has been teaching professionally since
1993. He acquired ACA (American Canoe Association)
instructor certifications for Whitewater Kayaking
in 1995 and Coastal Kayaking in 1998.

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