Getting Started with Osprey Outdoors Kayak School

Q: What's the best way to get started paddling a white water or flat water kayak?
A: The most beneficial way to get started on an enjoyable path in either a flatwater kayak or a whitewater kayak is to take a tour on the lake or a lesson in the lake and river with a certified kayak instructor who can teach you how to paddle efficiently and effectively to help prevent injury and fatigue.

Q: Why is instruction important?
A: Paddling with a certified kayak teacher reduces time and stress on the body when learning how to maneuver a flat water or whitewater kayak. Correct use of the paddle in the water can make your experience in a kayak so much more fun and enjoyable.

Q: Why are classes with Osprey Kayak unique?
A: Osprey Kayak is operated by Michael Kirwin who has over 15 years of experience teaching kayaking. Michael is also a teacher who teaches Special Education classes and has taught in the elementary, middle and currently the high school level. Michael is a certified kayak instructor who has been certified for over eight years. Michael continues to learn and teach in the sport of kayaking. He has recently become an Instructor Trainer for the American Canoe Association and is able to certify others interested in becoming certified kayak instructors. Michael's teaching experience and the experience of his staff combines many years of kayak instruction in a fun, exciting manor.

Q: Where are the lessons held?
A: During the spring, lessons are held on Lake Siskiyou and the Upper Sacramento which drains the Eddy Mountains and Mount Shasta. During the summer and early fall, classes are held on the Klamath river. Both rivers provide excellent opportunities to learn and grow as a kayaker, or to just experience the river. One will see beautiful rivers abounding with wildlife, not other people.

Q: Where are flat water tours held?
A: Flat water tours are held on beautiful Lake Siskiyou which provides awesome views of Mt. Shasta and lots of wildlife. Gumboot Lake is also another option for a tour, while a smaller lake the wild flowers, wildlife and scenery are incredible. If you are lucky, you will see the Bald Eagles that nest there. Additionally, McLoud Resevoir provides an opportunity for tours on a lake nestled in a dense forest with water a unique aqua blue.

Q: What sort of gear will I need and what will be provided?
A: Osprey Kayak will provide modern kayaks and equipment including a life jacket and paddle for lake tours and a helmet and spray skirt for whitewater. Also, Osprey Kayak provides paddling jackets on those windy chilly days. What you need to bring are river shoes, such as watertennies. For more information on what you need to bring, please check the What to Bring Page. See our Equipment Page for more information on what we provide.

Q: What are some pitfalls to avoid or misconceptions that beginners have?
A: People wanting to try whitewater or flatwater kayaking may feel that all schools are the same. After all, it's only kayaking! Not so, many instructors have just started teaching limiting their bag of tricks to help you successfully transition into the sport. Also, some instructors call themselves teachers and haven't been through any formal training. They have just learned from friends. Watch out for this type of instruction. It can lead to bad habits and possibly an injury making the sport seem scary. Osprey Kayak offers a special touch to help you feel comfortable and have fun, too! Check out the Taste of Whitewater, Total Immersion, or Lake Tours for the type of paddling that fits your dreams.

Q: Can anyone learn to kayak?
A: Yes of course! My mother, who is sixty-seven has taken up lake touring and just loves it. With a few tips on paddle strokes, she is able to have a great time on high lakes in the area. So whether it be a mellow flat water paddle of a more exciting whitewater lesson, Osprey Kayak has the class for you.

Q: Are there good places to stay in the area?
A: You can camp right next to the river. Or you can stay at great motels and inns in the charming towns of Yreka or Mt. Shasta.

"Thanks again for a great day of Kayaking. You are a great kayaker and an excellent instructor. Besides learning from the "master" I also got to watch you in action. Sunday was the highlight of my vacation in Mt. Shasta. What a rush when you enter to rapids (even though they were small ones for the first day) &dagger down the river with a kayak...you can feel every little wave of water. Hoping to go up on the rating scale in a year or so to take advantage of the whitewater kayaking. Anyway now back to work and already started to think about the next time I'll be in one of those kayaks going down the river in Shasta. " -Nick Ozkan

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Michael Kirwin's Osprey Outdoors Kayak School
530-925-6310
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