A strong and adept swimmer can often pull off the most efficient rescue of all: an aggressive self rescue. The aggressive self rescue is quick, simple, but tiring. This is often much faster than waiting for a tow to shore.
A strong and adept swimmer can often pull off the most efficient rescue of all: an aggressive self rescue. The aggressive self rescue is quick, simple, but tiring. This is often much faster than waiting for a tow to shore.
When you bail-out, you have to make a quick decision: do you hold onto your boat and gear? In more difficult rapids, or with known hazards present, you’ll want to let go of everything and concentrate on avoiding danger spots and getting yourself to shore.
If you choose to hold onto your boat, don’t get caught between the boat and a rock. Move quickly to the upstream end. Usually you will angle yourself and the boat towards shore and swim for an eddy using a sidestroke. Look for a way to help yourself swimming, don’t wait on a rescue!
At times you can get your boat to shore with a big shove. The idea is to flip the boat real quick, from the end, not allowing water in. Then push it to shore, and swim aggressively for it.
If you’re in big water you’ll probably want to keep hold of your paddle. It’s easiest to manage if you hold it near the blade. If you are near shore or in a smaller river you might toss it ahead into an eddy.
If you are doing an aggressive self rescue, move quickly to the upstream end. Usually you will angle yourself and the boat towards shore and swim for an eddy using a sidestroke.