Sit-on-Top Kayak by Derek Hairon
Published 2007 by Pesda Press
Paperback
ISBN 978-1-906095-02-
Price £7.99
Sit-on-top kayaking is without doubt the fastest growing branch of paddle sport. There has been a veritable explosion in their use and popularity in the last few years. A concern is that many are sold by retailers, who believe that because they aren’t decked, they are much safer than standard sea kayaks. This fails to recognize the challenges posed by the environment in which we operate and so many of this new breed of paddlers are heading out onto the open ocean not adequately prepared. As I write this, there have been two incidents in recent weeks in our area involving local paddlers, one required the lifeboat and the other an ambulance.
The publication of Derek’s book is hopefully one way that many of these new paddlers will be able to receive some form of education as many are not following the “normal” route of joining clubs, going to centres or receiving any form of formal training. There are literally hundreds of sit-on-top paddlers in Jersey but as yet only 2 have expressed an interest in joining the local Club!
The book is in full colour and so is visually attractive. It will certainly appeal to the casual browser in bookstores. The layout is clear and concise; it is surprising how much information can be contained within 88 pages. The skills sections covers the basic skills on both singles and tandems there are actually very few kayaking books which offer advice on paddling doubles so this is good to see. The book emphasises the need for good kayak handling skills.
The safety chapter is clearly important judging by the numbers of sit-on-top paddlers who have been experiencing difficulty. VHF, flares and towing are all covered as well as weather, tidal conditions and surf.
Kayak fishing is a huge growth area in the sport and it is amazing how successful many sit-on-top paddlers are when out on the sea. Rod holders, fish finder’s, sea anchors and storage are all things for the serious kayak fisherman to consider. It all appears so much more complex than the paravane with a single spinner that I use, but judging by the kayak loads of sea bass that I have seen being landed this summer, it can be very successful.
Derek is a highly experienced sea kayaking coach, with numerous long expeditions to his credit but he has developed a very successful sit-on-top outfitting business so he is in an almost unique position to write this book, a BCU Level 5 Coach with practical experience of sit-on-tops on the sea. You know therefore that what is in the book is the result of years of experience on the water and not just somebody cashing in on the latest craze.
If the sit-on-top is your preferred craft then you should seek out a copy of this book and dip into it regularly, without doubt your copy will soon be dog-eared. If you don’t paddle a sit-on-top take a look at this book and see what new opportunities may arise.
Kevin Mansell
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