You can park your kayak just like your car. At a beach or parking lot on your property, or along a sidewalk or bike path.
You must park your kayak near water, preferably not too close to shore because the wake may damage it. If possible, use a dock rather than tie it up around rocks.
Kayaks should always be tied down safely to avoid them being damaged by wind, waves, or even animals. To find more info on where can i launch my kayak, keep reading!
Table of Contents
Can I Launch My Kayak Anywhere?
Yes, but you will need to know some things first. The most important one is that if there’s no boat ramp nearby, you cannot launch at any home, garage, driveway, or even private property without permission from the landowner.
So please check with your local authorities for permission before launching your kayak. And don’t forget to get the permission of all other landowners who have boats on their docks or water-side areas.
If you’re planning to use a boat ramp or launch area, make sure to ask the local authorities to inspect them regularly so they stay safe.
Where to Launch Your Kayak?
Kayaking requires a certain amount of space as well as safe paddling conditions. It is very important to be able to paddle away from the safety of the landing when launching or retrieving the kayak. Therefore, choosing the right place to launch your kayak is essential.
Some people prefer to just land their kayaks without tying them down because they say it makes them feel more connected to the water and nature. Others like to tie theirs down securely to avoid losing anything. It’s all up to you!
It takes quite some time for the kayak to become stable, particularly after pulling a long distance. For this reason, launching out of sight of the landing spot is recommended, especially when launching at night.
Where Can I Launch My Kayak? Next To Another Vehicle?
No, unless it’s your car. But then you’ll have to move your kayak every time either you want to go somewhere else or come back.
So how far away from your house, or your parked vehicle, can you park your kayak to launch it?
According to Kayak Gear Magazine, you should be able to launch your kayak at least 50 meters — 1,500 feet — from your house or car.
Where To Put Your Kayak After Landing?
The next thing you need to consider is where to put your kayak once you’ve finished using it. This will depend largely on:
How big your kayak is?
if you plan to store it on top of your car or in its own garage; or if you plan to leave it outside; then
A good rule of thumb is putting your kayak alongside your house. That way you won’t have to worry about it getting wet when it rains or freezing during winter.
How much room do you have available?
You have to store it under the deck of your kayak carrier (a trailer that carries your kayak and keeps it dry).
Kayaks should never be stored wet. They are best stored dry, but it doesn’t matter whether you store them outside or inside your home. If they start getting wet, they could attract pests, which can cause damage to your kayak.
Where Should I Start Paddling When Launching My Kayak?
Generally, starting paddling by the boat ramp or near-shore launches is okay, but it depends on your personal preference and what kind of kayak you have.
If you’re going to be spending a lot of time fishing, you may benefit by learning to launch farther out than usual, but keep in mind that the farther you launch, the more difficult it becomes to control the kayak once it begins moving.
Conclusion
All kayaks require a specific amount of space before launching them. Before deciding to launch a kayak, make sure you have enough space for it.
Hope you get all the information needed to find where can i launch my kayak safely. If you like article, please share it with friends or comment below. Thanks!
FAQs
1. Is it necessary to buy a separate kayak stand for my kayak?
No, there are many different options for stands that fit most types of kayaks.
2. How important is it to protect my kayak while launching and storing it?
Yes, protecting your kayak is very important. A number of other things could happen if your kayak gets too wet, such as rusting or cracking.
3. What size container would you recommend for launching a kayak?
For smaller kayaks, 5 gallons is usually sufficient. However, larger kayaks may need more depending on their length and width.
4. Can I just launch my kayak down on grass or sand?
To keep your boat safe, you need to pick it up and move it onto something solid. The grass isn’t enough because it could become soft if it rained recently. Sand is also not enough because if it’s not well secured, it might slip and you’ll lose control of the kayak.
5. Will my kayak float if launched in a river with strong currents?
As long as your kayak has no holes or tears in its hull and it floats upright, it should float. Soaking overnight will help prevent it from sinking too quickly.
6. Can I kayak on any river UK?
In most cases, yes – but always check in advance! Some rivers are only suitable for experienced kayakers, while others may be closed to the public due to environmental considerations. If you’re unsure, get in touch with a local kayaking club or organization that will be able to advise you.