How to Paddle

Paddling is a great activity to spend time with family and friends, enjoy scenic views and spot a variety of wildlife. As you learn to paddle, start with these helpful tips.

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Start With the Basics

  • Wear a properly-fitted lifejacket while on the water. Kids 12 and under must wear a life jacket at all times when underway on a recreational vessel on any Iowa water.
  • Learn about and study your route in advance. Know where your take-out access is located, how many river miles downstream, and how long it is going to take to get there.
  • Plan your shuttle needs — make sure you have vehicles at both the river launch and takeout access to transport your gear, kayak and all paddlers in your group. Local canoe and kayak liveries can assist with your shuttle needs and may provide rental opportunities.
  • Carry a supply of food and drinking water adequate for the length of your trip.

Essential Gear

  • Lifejacket
  • Dry bag with extra clothing
  • Cell phone
  • First aid kit
  • Water shoes
  • Hat with brim
  • Sunscreen
  • Insect Repellant
  • Whistle
  • Waterproof flashlight
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Dress Appropriately

  • Dress appropriately for weather and water conditions, including air and water temperature. When water temperatures drop below 60 degrees, the risk for hypothermia rises fast. 
  • In cold weather, wear a dry suit or wet suit, along with layers, to help avoid hypothermia or cold water shock.
  • Wear quick drying material and proper water shoes, not flip flops.
  • Bring along a dry bag with a set of extra clothes, a first-aid kit and a protected cell phone or weather radio. 
  • Get out of wet clothing as soon as possible.
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Stay Safe

Learn more about safety and regulations for paddle sports in Iowa.

  • Paddle with a group, not by yourself. Let a friend or family member where you are going and when you expect to return.
  • Know and understand your river levels and flows, as well as the weather forecast.
  • Never paddle rain swollen streams that are at or near flood stage.
  • Be aware of where dams are. Most designated “water trails” in Iowa have signage upstream warning of these dams. Never go over a low-head dam.
  • Never paddle under the influence of alcohol.

Join a Paddle Community

Paddling clubs and organizations are a great resource for paddlers, regardless of the type of paddling you do or skill level. Meet other paddlers, join groups on various outings and even lead your own trips.

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Online Paddle Safety Boating Course

Check out this free boater's safety exam and improve your safety knowledge when it comes to paddling. This course is NASBLA (National Association of State Boating Law Administrators) approved. All new paddlers should take this free course and it is a great review for the experienced. Register for a free account and get started today.

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Iowa Paddling Sports Retailer Training

Iowa DNR is offering staff training to all paddling sport retailers. Together, we can help Iowa recreational paddlers have a safe and fun paddling trip, every time they are on the water.

Iowa Paddling Sports Retailer Training bag with brochures
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Additional Resources

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