|
|
 |
Kayak Programs > Beginner Kayak Instruction Programs
|
|
|
The Beginner Kayak School
 Held
in July, August, and September, these weeks are designed for the
first time or beginner paddler. Classes begin on flatwater by
introducing basic strokes, boat control, and the Eskimo roll before
we move to the river. This course gives you a solid
foundation that emphasizes proper technique and control so that you
are poised to move ahead with confidence. We will kayak on the
Klamath River and, if water levels permit, on sections of the Salmon
River.
Because we custom tailor our programs to the paddler's needs, we
often can accommodate stronger paddlers during these weeks. We
"sub-group" the students into different levels according to the
skills each paddler most needs to work on, so whether you've had
some experience or not, we will group you accordingly. Otter Bar provides the latest top-of-the-line
kayaks and equipment
for these classes (including life jacket, spray skirt, fleece top,
paddling jacket, paddle, and boat). By July, the weather and water
are quite warm and dry suits or wet suits are usually not needed.
Click for details of the beginner kayak course [+]
 The
Beginner Kayak Progression
Day
one finds students becoming familiar with the kayaks and equipment,
safety procedures, and the basic strokes. Two spring-fed ponds
adjacent to the lodge are used to introduce you to the sport. Near
the end of the day, the roll is introduced.
Day two reinforces the skills introduced on the first day and
students will learn how to handle gentle currents and maneuver in
the river.
Days three, four, and five find the class moving forward on the
river, practicing new skills and gaining comfort in their boats. Eddy turns, peel-outs, ferries, edge control, and the roll will be
covered along with important concepts such as vision and river
reading. Day four is devoted to roll and stroke review and you'll
have time pursue other activities if you like.
 Days six and seven are devoted to an overnight raft-supported
"graduation" trip on the Klamath River. These days are lots of fun
and serve to strengthen your newly acquired skills and comfort on
the water in a social setting. We camp riverside on a beautiful
river bar and still enjoy the fine
cuisine that Otter Bar is known for. Our camp is a wonderful setting of
beautiful forests, starry night skies, and quiet serenity. We'll
enjoy the unique opportunity to wake up beside the river and paddle
our way from camp to the take-out while running some of the finest
rapids on the Klamath.
|
|
 |
Otter Bar Lodge Kayak School | 14026 Salmon River Road | Forks of
Salmon, California | 96031
phone: 530.462.4772 | fax: 530.462.4788 |
©2008 Otter Bar Lodge, Inc. | Site & photos by
Scott Harding
|
|
 |
