Paddling Instruction....1 on 1?

[ducktrooper]

I'm fairly new to recreational kayaking and kayak fishing and want to refine my skills, techniques. I don't have time for a full day/weekend event sanctioned event.

Who can I contact for some hourly instruction(several hrs) on a nearby river...ie, Buffalo or similar? thanks...

[Cowper]

I don't know if anyone is doing that sort of thing here locally right now. If no one speaks up, then I would offer this alternate suggestion:

It is still possible to learn a lot of paddling techniques from one of the books with decent illustrations. That is where my first round of WW knowledge came from. Also, some videos such as "The Kayaker's Edge" do a really good job of laying out the basic principles, and watching something like this really can make you a much better paddler. Some would probably say it is "dated", but I mention "The Kayaker's Edge" partly because some of the newer videos are aimed more at playboating, or creeking, than at general river-running.

Also, consider joining one of the float trips you see mentioned on this board, and let the others going know you would really like some tips or to be shown a new skill. It won't replace a one day "course" focused on training vs. recreation, but you'll get more than if you just joined a trip without asking for those tips.

Finally, watch for events like Surf & Turf, and Rendezvous. There are almost always some "intro to paddling" type sessions with just a couple of hours of instruction.

[Jaytee]

There are a number of certified instructors int he club and on the board, and they are good folks and great teachers. I'll resist the temptation to make a speech about how awesome the experience of a weekend school can be, especially since those just finished for this year, but for a fair price (or even a meal and drinks or whatever) I know some of the instructors in your area will be happy to help.

When I was looking 3-4 years ago there was a list of certified instructors via my local chapter's part of the website. Don't know if that is still true or not. Where are you (what part of the state)? I assume the goal is some rec kayaking basics?

Aside from the club, some of the local vendors (Lewis & Clark, for example) will offer clinics from time-to-time. Although recreational boating is not complex, it is amazing what a half-dozen informed pointers will do to improve your comfort, skill, safety, speed, and fun.

[Shep]

Plus there are a few poor college students who might be interested... (Unfortunately I am a canoe guy, not a kayak guy...) I know both OOO (Hot Springs) and OMTC (Rogers) had staff go through the kayak instructor class in April. What part of the state are you in?

Shep

[justanovice]

When I first fell in love with kayaking, I found that some of the State Parks of Arkansas offered some great opportunities. Just conduct a search for Arkansas State Parks and then type in "kayak" for the keyword. It will list all of the parks that offer some events, sunset cruises, and training. It was the perfect place to start.
In addition, I was just up at OOO last weekend. Don mentioned that they are going to start some activities on Lake Ouachita as well. You may want to give them a call.
I'm fairly new as well, but I have noticed that ACC members are always very welcoming to newbies joining a float trip. I'm always concerned about being viewed as a "burden" with my limited skills, but everyone seems to be very accepting and willing to assist as needed. Without a doubt, I have met some of the kindest people through this sport and message board. Good luck!
Sandy