Kayaking Locations for Night-time Kayaking
Most kayaking locations are open for night-time kayaking trips. Depending on where you live, you may not have many choices regarding places specially set up for night-time kayaking. However, there are still ways for beginners to get out and do this one-of-a-kind activity!
The night-time kayak trips have been some of my all-time favorite kayaking trips. You can go from skilled to a novice in no time when it comes to enjoying a night-time kayak trip, so learn everything you can before you go on a night-time trip.
The benefit is that you can go out on the water at sunset, which means you can get some great pictures and videos. There’s also a sense of peace and relaxation when you’re paddling out in the dark. You’ll be free from the distractions of the world around you and can focus on your surroundings.
What Are The Best Times To Go Night-time Kayaking?
When you go, night-time kayaking is up to you. I’ve had great experiences every month of the year, so it’s really up to you as far as when you decide to hit the water! Go on a cool evening in the fall, the winter, or the spring. Take along a headlamp if you want some good pictures.
How Can I Find A Place Near Me That Offers Night-time Kayaking?
Many locations offer night-time choices where you can enjoy your night-time kayak trip. However, if you’re just getting started, I’d recommend starting in your local area. Many state and national parks offer kayaking as a way to get out on the water and enjoy the night-time scenery.
There are many different kinds of night-time kayaking locations these days. You should start by asking around friends and family who have been on a night-time kayak trip before. People are usually willing to share their tips!
Where Is The Best Place To Go Night-time Kayaking?
Most state and national parks have good night-time kayaking opportunities. Go right around where you live! You’ll get to know your local waterways and get some great pictures of places you’re familiar with seeing.
Do Most Places Allow Night-time Kayaking?
Yes, many places allow night-time kayaking. You will want to check in with the land manager or appropriate authority for the area you’re interested in visiting.
Before Going Out At Night?
Be ready to have a flashlight and a GPS tracker with a light on it when kayaking at night. Dressing appropriately is also essential for the weather, and take extra food and water if an emergency arises.
How Much Does A New Kayak Cost?
The prices for new Sit-on-top kayaks vary depending on the models and features you’re looking at purchasing. A new kayak can range in price from $500 to $2500.
The Sit-on top kayaks seem to be much better for night-time use. They’re a lot more visible on the water and have a higher profile, making them easier to see.
When you’re kayaking, you’re able to catch fish as long as you follow all of the regulations and rules set by the park or body of water that you’re fishing in.
Guides to Buying Are Available About Kayaking?
There are many kayak guides that you can buy. Look for the guidebooks. These books have been around for years and cover many of the basics that you’ll want to know before taking your first trip. Here are two books.
David Burch and Tobias Burch Fundamentals of Kayak Navigation: Master the Traditional Skills and the Latest Technologies, Revised Fourth Edition
Shelley Johnson The Complete Sea Kayakers Handbook, Second Edition
Kayak Environments
Look for some examples of popular models and how they match what you want to do.
Kayaks for specific environments: whitewater, flat water, touring, surf kayaks, tribal craft.
Kayaking Accessories
Such as paddle leash or spray skirt, Kneepads for kneeling in the boat. Kayaking accessories are important.
Possible Hazards
Common hazards on the water: waves breaking over the bow of your boat (wave-capping), weather conditions (wind and waves), sudden changes in currents at narrow passages or constricted areas during low tide.)
Before you head out on your kayaking adventure at night, there are a few things you should know.
-Have an emergency plan: before kayaking at night, make sure you have a backup plan in case of any emergencies. If you have a car break down or get stuck near the water, don’t stick around waiting to find a solution. Immediately call for help and be prepared to tell them where exactly they need to meet you.
If you have an emergency when you are on the water, use your phone that you put in a waterproof container and text or call for help. Be sure your GPS tracker is working on your phone before you leave the shore.
– Find a course: there are many courses out there that cover the basics of kayaking. Although these courses are not necessary to make your trip safe, they will help you decide not to go solo. The course will teach you some survival tips in case of an emergency and help you stay safe.
-Equip yourself: it is recommended that you equip yourself with a first aid kit that contains bandages, gauze pads, and disinfectant wipes.
-Tell someone your plan: you must tell someone where you are going and when to expect you back. Be sure to give the person you have told your estimated time of arrival or ETA. That way, if something goes wrong, they will start looking for you much sooner.
-Be sure to stay visible: kayaking at night can have some hazards. It is vital that people on the water can see you. Put on a safety vest that has reflective stripes. Always have a flashlight handy as well.
-Find a friend or buddy: it is not recommended to go kayaking by yourself at night. It is always best to have someone with you for safety purposes.
-Pack a spare battery: particularly if you do not know how long you will be out on the water, you may need a battery. You can always use it to charge your phone if need be.
What Should I Bring?
Some things to bring with you are rain gear, a hat, a waterproof flashlight, and a first aid kit.
Where Should I Go?
Always go with friends. Don’t go alone unless you know your surroundings very well because it is easy to get lost. The best places to go kayaking at night are natural areas, parks, rivers, and lakes. The safest place to go is a lake that you know well and will not pass any other boats or difficult waters.
What Should I Wear?
It is just as important to dress for kayaking at night as it is for the daytime. Have on brightly colored clothing to help other boats and other kayaks see you as you’re floating around. Also, make sure your hat has a brim on it to protect your face from the sun or rain.
How Should I Be Safe?
-Awareness of your surroundings: if you are out looking at the beautiful night sky, keep an eye out for boats. When you are floating down a stream or a river, you need to be aware of shallow areas, rocks, and fallen trees. Plan ahead of time as to what to expect before you head out on the water.
-Don’t get distracted: you are out in the water so that you can enjoy your surroundings. Try not to be talking too much on the phone or texting because paying attention to where you are going is essential.
-Watch out for powerboats: If you are kayaking on a large lake or river, watch out for boats that may be just as distracted as you are. These large speed boats can cause significant damage to your kayak and even injure you with their wake.
-Be courteous: if you are on the water at night, it is vital to be aware of people who are sleeping or enjoying the quiet. Don’t go out in areas that disturb anyone, or make sure you let people know what time you plan to be out there.
-Keep your flashlight and life jacket with you: it is very easy to lose track of things when you are floating around, so keep a flashlight and a life vest with you at all times. Have them strapped on just in case.
-If you run into trouble, stay calm: if your kayak gets stuck, or if you fall in the water, don’t panic. Stay calm, get your bearings straight and try to find your way back to the shore.
-When you don’t know how to get back to shore or the closest point of help, stay put and call for help. Use a waterproof phone case so that your phone will be safe if you do end up falling in the water.
-Remain calm: Not paying attention to the water, disregarding the rules, or lacking in preparation can be dangerous. Remember that all of these tips are for your safety.
Wrapping Up
So why are you waiting? Get out there! Go kayaking at night and experience the peace and quiet of nature as you float along the water. Of course, always be safe and have a backup plan in case something goes wrong.