Paddle Out Techniques

For this post in my surf kayaking series, I have surf guru Jeff Laxier sharing his tips for Paddling Out.  Jeff has a lifetime of playing in the surf and is a sea, whitewater, and surf kayak instructor for Liquid Fusion Kayaking.

Jeff Laxier surfing on the Oregon Coast.

Paddle Out Techniques by Jeff Laxier

There are many ways to get out to the waves and here we will explore the three methods I use most to paddle out:  Bunny Hop, Turtle Dive, Route Finding.

All three methods have four of the same components.

1.       Speed - We need to be moving to get through a wave.

2.       Angle - Boat angle to the incoming wave.

3.       Timing - When to paddle hard, when to hold position, and when to run away.

4.       Awareness - Of route, waves, other users, wildlife, wonder

The Bunny Hop: This is a fun way to blast up and over a foam pile (this can also work on river hydraulics).

1.       Generate speed with 3-5 strokes as you approach the foam pile.

2.       Change the boat angle to angle away from the wave (No more than 45 degrees)

3.       Lift wave side edge (drop shore-side edge)

4.       Forward sweep on shore-side

5.       Once over the foam pile, lunge forward and paddle, repeat when necessary

Bunny Hop - Generate Speed.

Bunny Hop - Angle/Edge Boat

Bunny Hop - Lunge forward and paddle away.

The Turtle Dive: This is a great way to avoid a dumping wave on your head, getting hit in the gut by a powerful wave or foam pile, and decreases the likelihood of the wave pushing you back to shore.

1.       Speed - Generate as much speed as possible (don’t get winded you will need that air)

2.       Flip - Capsize with precision so your bow will bury into the seam where white and green water meet then push up with your paddle (this brings the bow deeper).

3.       Pause (feel the wave go by)

4.       Roll up and GO! Do not be plankton - Dig in and paddle away!

Turtle Dive - Generate speed and capsize so bow buries in the seam.

Turtle Dive - Push with paddle to drive bow deeper and wait for wave to pass.

Turtle Dive - When wave has passed over you, roll up.

Turtle Dive - Dig in and paddle away!

Route Finding: Look for an easy path out to the line up with the possibility of a dry hair paddle out.

1.       Find a rip that will take you out to the outside.

2.       Establish reference points. These will help you make route changes as well and help you avoid the most severe sections. This can also help in reading your progress.

3.       Find the soft spots - Smaller or less consistent waves breaking (path of least resistance).

4.       Wait for your window of opportunity (wait for a lull).

5.       Be patient and aware.

Route finding - find a rip and ride it to the outside.

Route finding - find the soft spot of the wave or where it isn't breaking.

Conclusion:

Surfing waves is great fun, and getting out past the breakers is necessary in all types of craft. Whatever your craft (surf kayak, whitewater kayak, sea kayak, surfboard, stand up paddleboard), we have to paddle out.  A seasoned paddler will make this journey out to the lineup easy, effective and efficient and have more energy for surfing. We must plan and prepare both mentally and physically. The more challenging the paddle out the more physical and mental toughness is needed.