Paddle Boarding Safety on Small Rivers

Spring time is here and summer is just around the corner! What does that mean?!!! It’s time to hit the water! And this time of year provides wonderful opportunities for small river paddling.

Paddle boarding on small rivers can be an exhilarating experience, offering a unique opportunity to explore nature’s beauty and enjoy a super peaceful adventure. However, like any water-based activity, it’s essential to prioritize safety in order to ensure an enjoyable and accident-free outing. In this blog post, I’m going to outline key safety guidelines to follow while paddle boarding on these wonderful, and sometimes intimidating, small rivers. I’ll be covering equipment, preparation, and on-water practices among other tidbits.

Before we jump into the deep end here, I need to go over hydrodynamics, ie. what makes a small river tick, so to speak. Understanding these nuances provides valuable insight into the intricate workings of these vital water bodies.

Small rivers are vital components of our natural landscape, playing a crucial role in the hydrological cycle and supporting diverse ecosystems. To gain a deeper appreciation of these water bodies, it is important to understand the hydrodynamics governing their flow patterns and features. Some of the few key elements of small rivers which include flow velocity, hydraulic features, channel morphology, erosion, sediment transport and deposition. While all of these contribute to the unique characteristics and functions of small rivers, I’ll only briefly outline the first three:

Flow Velocity

Flow velocity is a fundamental aspect of small river hydrodynamics. It refers to the speed at which water moves within the river channel. The velocity is influenced by various factors, including the gradient or slope of the river, the volume of water, and the presence of obstacles or constraints. In general, flow velocity tends to be faster in steeper sections and slower in wider, shallower areas.

Channel Morphology

The shape and morphology of the river channel significantly impact its hydrodynamics. Small rivers often exhibit diverse channel forms, including straight reaches, meandering sections, and braided channels. Meandering channels, characterized by gentle bends and curves, are common in small rivers. These meanders create a complex flow pattern, with faster currents occurring on the outer side of the bend and slower velocities on the inner side.

Hydraulic Features

Small rivers exhibit various hydraulic features that result from the interaction between the flowing water and the riverbed. These features include riffles, pools, eddies, and backwaters. Riffles are shallow areas characterized by a rocky or gravelly riverbed, where water flows faster and creates surface disturbances. Pools, on the other hand, are deeper sections with slower flow velocities. Eddies are circular currents that form behind obstructions such as rocks or bends, while backwaters are calm areas sheltered from the main flow.

Now, let’s get into the Equipment you’ll need.

Selecting a Paddle Board

When paddle boarding on small rivers, opt for a stable and durable board specifically designed for calm waters. A wider board with ample buoyancy will provide better stability and maneuverability. Inflatable paddle boards are super popular these days. They’re fantastic for rivers. They’re basically a whitewater raft in a smaller package.

Recommendation (gratuitous plug): Bird Island Outfitters is one of the only companies out there that offers an inflatable paddle board with supplemental pontoons. It’s uber-stable and handles rapids like a champ. It’s also durable. This type of board is the best of all worlds when it comes to river paddling! Because it’s inflatable, getting to and from the river is a breeze.

Personal Flotation Device (PFD)

It’s recommended that you always wear a properly fitting PFD or life jacket while paddle boarding. At least you should have one secured to the board and easy to get to. There are a ton of options out there when it comes to PFDs. It’s important that yours is approved by appropriate safety authorities and designed for water sports. I like my PFD’s to have pockets for storing essential items like a river knife, sunscreen, etc. A bright color is never a bad idea either. It’s much easier to spot a bright color in the water if you happen to go swimming!

Leash

Attach a leash to your ankle or calf and secure it to the board. This will prevent the board from drifting away if you fall off, allowing you to easily retrieve it.

Helmet

Consider wearing a helmet and appropriate protective clothing, especially in areas with potential obstacles such as rocks or low-hanging branches.

Bow Line

Having a line (rope) attached to the front of your board can be helpful if you make a pitstop and need to secure the board while you’re away from it. You can also use the line to drag it while in shallow water. It’s an easy addition and one that’ll, no doubt, come in handy.

Anchor

It’s not a must have, but you may want one if you’re fishing or plan to stop often without getting off the board. Many outfitters offer small anchors for kayaks for a nominal cost. The old DIY makeshift anchor (rock + rope) always works in a pinch!

Pump

A must if you’re using an inflatable paddle board. No one wants to hear the dreaded “psssssssst”. But, punctures do happen. Rivers sometimes have sharp rocks, thorny bushes on the banks, paranha, rebar, sharp sticks, etc. Don’t be a fool. Bring a pump!

River Knife

A knife on a river trip is not a weapon, but an crucial tool in your boating kit. Not only could it be used for food prep, it can be used for quick field repairs. There are lots of ropes when it comes to river trips. A person could get entangled in a rope or snagged by their PFD webbing. The best river knives have a blunt point. The blunt tip will prevent knives that randomly pop out from embedding in boats or worse…soft tissue on someone’s body. And, always make sure it’s readily available… maybe securely attached to your PFD.

Water Shoes

Water shoes with tough soles are another must. You may not want them on all the time, but if you have to portage or jump off into questionable substrate for any reason, you’ll be glad you brought them. As a former whitewater raft guide, I’ve always liked Chaco sandals with the toe loop (for added security). But, neoprene wading booties are great too. It’s really up to you.

Water Hat

Need a say more. Personally, I like to use surf hats with chin straps when I’m on the river. Losing my hat is just not an option!

Sunscreen

Use bio-degradable sunscreen (less harmful to the environment) to protect against harmful UV rays. And remember to reapply on those long outings!

Pre-checks! Muy Importante.

Check Weather and River Conditions

Before heading out, consult local weather forecasts and river conditions. Avoid paddle boarding during severe weather conditions, strong currents, or when water levels are unusually high. This is especially important in the Spring depending on where you are. If you happen to be in the mountains, be mindful of snow runoff… especially on those warmer Spring and early Summer days.

Familiarize Yourself with the River

Research and gather information about the river you plan to paddle board on. Be aware of any potential hazards, including underwater obstacles, rapids, or sections with strong currents.

Inform Others

Inform a reliable person about your paddle boarding plans, including your intended route, estimated time of departure and return, and emergency contact details. This will ensure that someone is aware of your whereabouts and can take appropriate action if necessary.

Let’s Go Over On-Water Safety

Buddy System

Whenever possible, paddle with a partner. Having someone with you significantly increases safety and provides assistance in case of an emergency.

Start Slow and Gradual

Begin by paddle boarding on calm and slow-moving sections of the river. Practice basic paddling techniques and familiarize yourself with the board’s stability and maneuverability before attempting more challenging areas.

Maintain Situational Awareness

Always be attentive to your surroundings while paddle boarding. Observe the flow of the river, anticipate any upcoming obstacles or hazards, and maintain distance from other watercraft or swimmers.

Respect Wildlife and Environment

Avoid disturbing wildlife and respect the natural environment. Keep a safe distance from nesting areas, refrain from littering, and adhere to any local regulations regarding protected species or areas.

Stay Hydrated

Bring an adequate supply of drinking water to stay hydrated during your paddle boarding excursion. Dehydration can negatively impact your performance and decision-making abilities.

Practice Fall Recovery

Small rivers often have rapids. They can be a ton of fun to negotiate. They can also be treacherous. Falling off your paddle board is okay. Not only is it okay, it will happen… especially if you’re a beginner. Practice falling away from the board to prevent injuries caused by landing on it. Learn proper fall recovery techniques to quickly get back on the board.

Be Cautious of Strainers

Strainers are objects like fallen trees or branches that can trap and obstruct the flow of water. Be cautious of these hazards, as they can pose a serious risk to paddle boarders and kayakers. Stay alert and avoid areas with visible strainers. If you happen to find yourself swimming, keep your feet facing down river. As you approach the strainer, turn your body so you’re facing the strainer head on. Then, with the momentum of the current, push yourself over the strainer as you come into contact with it. Best scenario, avoid them at all costs!

…

No matter what you do on the river, the peaceful energy of these life giving systems can play a beneficial role in your general well being, both mentally and physically. If you choose to experience these places with a paddle board, good on ya!!! Paddle boarding is such a unique way to connect with nature and experience the power and the tranquility of these waters. By adhering to the safety guidelines outlined in this essay, you should be able to minimize the inherent risks involved while ensuring a happy, healthy and full experience on the water!

Brock Munson | Contributor
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