Too many times, people attempt to run water that is too difficult for their skill level. Foolish pride prevents many of these people from pulling their boats from the water and walking around a stretch of water. Even world-class boaters know when it is best to get out and walk. Know how long the trip will take you. Being on an unfamiliar river after dark can be a dangerous venture.
Landowners often find themselves shuttling overdue paddlers back to their vehicles.
Be sure to find out the length of time a trip takes for the type of paddling you will be doing. If you plan on fishing, don't figure on the same amount of time that paddling would take. Allow yourself plenty of time to get off the river before dark. Many people find the need to pull out of the river early sometimes after taking a refreshing swim in the river. Once you become wet, it is very hard to maintain a normal body temperature when the outside air is below 80 degrees.