Reading Whitewater

Remember these three things: the APPROACH, the ENTRY (to your line), and the RAPID.

APPROACH : The approach is key, because if you don’t get lined up right you’ll likely miss your entry spot and you will probably wind up somewhere you don’t want to be – like getting munched in a big hole! Scout ahead – if you have to get out before a big rapid section to scout, do it. Know your strength and the speed of the river. Also know where the big dangers are and don’t take any chances!

For example, let’s say that if you go right of the boulder you hit the rapid, but if you go left of the boulder you go under a log jam – in this case you should OVERCOMPENSATE right! You never know how strong the currents may be, and once you’re in a line it’s tough to change it.

As you line up, once you are confident you will hit your entry point, look ahead quickly to see if you need to make changes or maintain your line.

ENTRY: Hit your entry point where you need to be according to what you decided from the approach. If you need to change your line it’s going to be difficult, even if you have a powerful kick, so as long as you are not in any big danger you may want to just ride out the line you (erroneously) chose.

(TIP: If you do need to navigate in the midst of a rapid, the key is to be ahead of the water – your fins can propel you faster than then current is moving, which helps you move and turn.)

Make sure you see the whole rapid, or on really long stretches, see at least until the next big hole or flow change, and be aware of your surroundings. This all takes practice, but as you get used to it these decisions and the awareness comes second nature. Gear up for a wild ride as you enter. If you’re on line, hold on tight and keep your knees up so you don’t slam into rocks.

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