Paddling in the Madison Area

Paddling is very popular in the Madison area. There are numerous easy put-in points and rentals are increasing. Paddlesports include any human-powered craft: canoes, kayaks, stand-up paddleboards (SUP), and various rowboats. Paddlesports is the fastest growing form of water recreation. It's an easy way to get on the water - equipment is cheaper than for powerboating or sailing and upkeep is minimal. The big problem with most paddling is that there is no fear factor. Human power makes it seems like one is in complete control whether canoeing, kayaking, paddle boarding, or  rowing.  But many things can upset this perceived control very quickly. Paddlers are often difficult to see by power boaters. It doesn't take much of a wake to upset a paddlecraft.  Always wear your lifejacket - once you are in the water, you've got other things to worry about than putting on  your lifejacket (which is very difficult to do in the water!).

Photos courtesy of U.S. Coast Guard (2); lakemetroparks.blogspot.com, and physicsworld.com

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