You will need to know exactly how to prepare before you get into your car and go canoeing. First, you must decide what type of canoe to buy from the sporting goods store. There are many kinds of canoes, however if you plan on canoeing in an area with moving water, you will need a rocker. Once you have found the canoe you like, closely examine the stem to the stern; there should be 2 inches or more here. If the canoe has no kneel, you will have no problem making tight turns or spinning around. Having a stable canoe is also important, so look for one that is 36 inches wide. Remember, canoeing in Alaska requires skill, so spend time on calm waters and practice, because canoeing is also dangerous for novices. If you want to bring kids, you can, but be careful and always make sure the canoe is stable. An easy way to level the canoe is to pack it with moose meat, however this method makes maneuvering tougher.
When you are packing, you will need the proper gear, so you have to make sure you are well prepared and that you securely attach the canoe to your car. Canoes are very tipsy, so you have to pack at the bottom and put your lighter things at the top. Make sure to install tie down points if your vehicle does not have them because you do not want anything flying off. If you pack an inflatable canoe, put a crushable item at the bottom to prevent the floor from damaging. A helpful item that you can also pack is a 5-gallon bucket with a lid because it has a few uses. Firstly, it can store your food during the trip until you are back on land. Secondly, once on land, it makes a handy camp seat if you do not have many chairs. Finally, when it is time for dinner, you can use it for a cutting board to prepare the fish you caught. One of the best places to go canoeing in Alaska if you are just beginning is Clearwater. You can camp out near Jack Warren Rd and float to the lake; this area has great fish and nice scenery. Once you are done canoeing, you are going to need to an anchor; however, you do not have to buy one. The easiest way to make one is to use a coffee can filled with concrete that is secured to an eyebolt.
During your trip, you are going to encounter powerboats passing you while you are on the lake. A powerboat generally produces a 5-inch wake after it passes you if it is cruising. A speeding powerboat, however, will sometimes cause you to be splashed depending on where you are on the lake. Willow creek is good area to go avoid this because it is narrow, but there will be other jet boats, airboats and props there all well. The best thing to do when you see a powerboat is move to the side. Doing this prevents you from seeing the other person's boat, but you will hear it once it is close enough. The most important thing to have is courtesy, if you get along with everyone you won't have any problems.
An Alaskan canoeing trip is great to relax, just make sure that you choose the right canoe, pack correctly and make room for other people in their powerboats.
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