The most comprehensive canoeing techniques book ever is now available for the first time in paperback.

Illustrated with 600 full-color photographs, this wide-ranging book is designed with both beginner and seasoned canoeists in mind. Gary & Joanie McGuffin, North America's most celebrated canoeing couple, discuss issues rarely covered in other how-to guides, such as developing fitness and balance.

The book offers first-hand, experience-based instruction on outfitting, reading the river, paddling strokes for all flatwater and whitewater conditions, advanced turns and maneuvers, portaging, safety and rescue techniques - even how to tie a canoe on your vehicle.

Recommended by both the American Canoe Association and the Canadian Recreational Canoeing Association, Paddle Your Own Canoe features: Canoeist's vocabulary Selecting the right canoe Selecting the right paddle Portaging techniques Self-rescue techniques Solo whitewater spins Complete flatwater techniques Complete whitewater techniques

"Paddle Your Own Canoe" set a new standard for how-to-canoe books. In this companion title, Gary and Joanie McGuffin use the same model for the art of kayaking. The authors discuss the kayak's Inuit history, types of kayaking, recommended kayak sizes and shapes, and proper gear and clothing. They also offer expert, step-by-step instructions on all of the sport's essential techniques.

Illustrated with more than 600 color photographs and illustrations, Paddle Your Own Kayak is designed for both seasoned and novice kayaker, offering guidance on: Balancing the body Strokes and maneuvers Paddling fundamentals Recoveries and rescues Carrying and launching Weather and water conditions techniques Staying centered Navigation methods.

A special section on kayak camping provides good advice on what to look for in a destination, how to select a site, packing your kayak, setting up tents and shelters, meal preparation, water filtration, first aid and much more.