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Canoeing Basics for Lakes and Rivers

The Canoeing Basics for Lakes and Rivers Class is just that, the basics. The classes are intended for people with no, or little previous experience in a canoe. If you have never tried canoeing or cannot paddle in a straight line with your canoe partner, this class is for you!

Click Here for the Instruction Class Schedule.

Requirements:

• Must be over 10 years of age.
• Must enjoy the outdoors.
• Must be ready to learn.
• Must pre-register (at least one week in advance)

Welcome to the most elegant sport on water, tandem canoeing. Watching people canoe with control and grace is a marvelous experience. And, canoeing with control and grace is one of the great pleasures of life. Hopefully, when you finish this course, you will have the basics for exploring the art of canoeing. We will not teach you to be expert canoeists. That will come with practice. We want you to learn how to approach this sport. We teach this class as a tandem because that is the most sensible way to learn how to paddle. Some go on to solo canoeing, but solo or tandem begin with the Basics.  If you don't have a partner, don't worry, we'll pair you up at the class.

The on-water class requires several days of instruction. The on-water will be held at Fletcher's Boat House, which is on Canal Road off of M Street, beyond Key Bridge in Georgetown. Class will run from 9:00 until 4:00, at the latest. The class is held on flatwater, in this instance, the C&O Canal. We urge students not to buy a canoe before the class because the class will include discussion of types of canoes.

You will need:

• A canoe, paddles, PFD (aka, Life Jacket) — All can be rented at Fletcher's ($25 per tandem canoe, or $12.50 per person).
• Lunch. Lots of Water (there is a concession stand at Fletcher's, but bring TWO water bottles per person).
• KNEEPADS. You will paddle kneeling at some point.
• Rain Gear. We go rain or shine.
• Do not wear blue jeans or similar gear for the class! Poly-nylon quick-dry clothing is preferred, as synthetic materials will keep you warm better than non-synthetics . You may get wet.
• SunScreen, Hat, Sunglasses. Glasses should always have Croakies or similar attachment devices.
• Lots of enthusiasm. We will work you hard.

Do you have questions, or need additional information? E-mail us