How to tow a kayak (in a kayak) - Easy guide
If you are out on the water in your kayak and something goes wrong, you may find yourself in a situation where someone needs to be towed to safety. This is where a kayak tow comes in handy. A kayak tow is a rope or line that is attached to the back of a kayak and is used to tow the kayak to safety.
Having a kayak tow is only half the solution though, knowing how to transport a towed kayak is another piece of information that is important to know. Hopefully, in this article, you will learn the process of towing a kayak as well as some helpful tips and tricks.
When is a kayak tow needed?
Damage to the kayak
If the kayak has been damaged, it may be difficult to paddle it to safety. This is especially true if the damage is to the hull of the kayak. A kayak tow can help to get the kayak to safety so that it can be repaired.
A kayak has capsized (flipped)
A kayak tow can also be used if the kayak is capsized. If the kayak is capsized, it can be difficult to right it. A kayak tow can be used to tow the kayak to safety so that it can be flipped back upright.
This technique is only best for those who don't know how to properly do kayak recovery. If you do know how to recover a flipped kayak out in the water then doing that will save you a tow back to shore dragging a kayak filled with water.
The person is injured
Another reason why a kayak tow may be needed is if the paddler has become injured. If the paddler is unable to paddle the kayak to safety, a kayak tow can be used to get the kayak to safety.
This is especially important if the paddler is in a remote location and there is no one else around to help.
The person is unable to paddle
One last reason someone may need a tow is if they do not have a paddle anymore. Whether it got broken or lost, the kayaker will have no way to paddle back to shore without it.
What do you need to tow a kayak?
If you're looking to tow your kayak with a kayak, there are a few things you'll need.
First, you'll need a towline. This can be as simple as a rope or strap, or you can purchase a specialized towline designed for kayaks. Whatever you use, make sure that it is capable of towing a couple of hundred pounds.
Next, you'll need a way to secure the towline to your kayak. This can be done with clips, carabiners, or other similar devices. These can easily be found at your local big-box retailer.
Finally, you'll need a way to attach the towline to your kayak. This can be done with a hitch, a cleat, or another similar device. Depending on what you have to secure the towline and your kayak, this step may not be required and you may just be able to hook the line directly to your kayak.
How to tow a kayak
- Navigate to the other kayak. Make sure that the path to them and to shore is clear of any danger or obstruction. If they are stranded, it may be because of some dangerous hazard. Make sure the scene is safe and then approach.
- Communicate with the other kayaker what you are doing. Communication is key when it comes to towing, while it may be easier when towing a friend than doing this with a stranger, be sure to let them know what you are doing and the steps you are taking. Many people spend lots of money on their kayaks and can get nervous when strangers start touching it, even if their intentions are good.
- Get out all your necessary equipment and check for damage if you haven't yet. Ensure that your equipment is in good condition before you start to secure it to any boats. Having faulty equipment can make you lose the kayak you are towing, potentially in a worse place than where it was.
- Secure your towline to the rear of your kayak and front of the kayak you are towing. Make sure that your line is properly secured to both boats so that it doesn't come undone mid-tow.
- Start paddling. The hardest part of this step is building up speed, especially if you don't have much kayaking experience or lots of strength. While it may be difficult at first, once you get some momentum, your strokes will get easier and you won't need as much strength.
Other tips and tricks
There are many different ways to tow a kayak with another kayak and it really depends on what type of kayak you have and what you are trying to achieve. If you are just trying to get from one point to another, the easiest way is to just tie the kayaks together with a rope and tow the kayak behind you. This method is called the buddy tow and is great for short distances.
If you are going to be kayaking for a longer period of time or in rougher waters, you may want to invest in a towline that attaches to the back of your kayak and the front of the other kayak. This will give you more control over the kayak and will prevent it from hitting the other kayak or getting tangled up.
Here are a few things to keep in mind when towing a kayak with another kayak.
First, make sure that the rope or towline is secure and that the kayaks are not going to come apart.
Second, be aware of your surroundings and don't tow the kayak into any obstacles.
Thirdly, be aware of the other kayaker and make sure that they are comfortable with being towed.
One last thing you can do is to practice using your equipment and technique in shallow water, this will give you the necessary insight into the process and will teach you how to properly use the equipment efficiently and safely.
Conclusion
If you're like most kayakers, you probably don't think much about towing your kayak until you need to do it. Whether you're rescuing a friend or paddling in a group, knowing how to tow a kayak with another kayak is a useful skill. So, if you're ever in a situation where you need to give a kayak a tow, remember these easy steps:
- Navigate to the other kayak.
- Communicate with the other kayaker what you are doing.
- Get out all your necessary equipment and check for damage if you haven't yet.
- Secure your towline to the rear of your kayak and front of the kayak you are towing.
- Start paddling.
With these steps, you can expect a safe and easy journey back to shore!
Happy Paddling!!