Threatening skies rudely interrupted the pleasant forecast with wind-lots of it. For the better part of an hour we struggled to keep water out of our canoe. Later, I reflected on strategies for wind-wary paddlers. Paddle a suitable canoe - Think about waves when you buy your canoe. Big wind makes big waves.
Big canoes are drier in big waves.
A well-trimmed canoe rises with waves to help you stay dry, and it responds better in confused waves. Unite with your canoe - If you are seated, a foot brace and gunwale pads give you a solid connection. You can respond to the waves with your hips to control lean. In small, compact waves, a fast canoe paddled aggressively spans wave troughs to maintain control, boat speed, and dryness. Lean your canoe away from a steep wave to keep the windward gunwale high.