"Essential kayak accessories" is a phrase somewhat more involved than it may seem at first read. To begin with, when one buys a kayak, all they receive is a kayak. With few exceptions, the boat purchase will include no paddle, no P.F.D. (Personal Flotation Device / life jacket), and no safety equipment. When asked what pieces of equipment are essential, the first answer you should always hear is a P.F.D. and paddle. The P.F.D. is important for safety reasons, since it will help a capsized boater float, as well as legal purposes (the USCG requires you to have one!), and should fit well without rubbing on your sides while you paddle.

Kayak paddles come in many sizes, shapes, and materials. Be sure to get the right one for you. Ask your dealer the differences between the blade shapes and the correct length to fit your paddle stroke, boat, and paddling style. As in most things, you will get what you pay for. If someone buys a $20 paddle, it will be heavy and, most likely, less durable than a more expensive model. Plunk down the extra money up front for a nicer paddle, and it will enhance the paddling experience in the long run.

The next two pieces of equipment one should have at all times while in a kayak are a paddle float and bilge pump. The paddle float requires a small amount of training to use properly; it is a float, either styrofoam or inflatable, that is used in conjunction with a paddle to help a capsized kayaker re-enter the boat. The bilge pump is a small hand-operated pump used to empty a boat that has become filled with water.

Beyond the aforementioned items, a spray skirt would most likely be your next purchase. The skirt will help seal the cockpit of the boat, keeping water out so the paddler remains drier and more warm and comfortable.

The one accessory not yet touched upon is one that can make a huge difference in a paddler's safety and comfort level on the water: a basic paddle skills and rescue course. In these courses, which any good paddle shop will offer, a new kayaker will learn how to use all of their equipment properly as well as basic safety considerations and self-rescue techniques (How to get back in if the boat flips!).

Get the gear, learn to use it, and happy paddling!

Learn more about this author, Casey St. Henry.
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