Uploaded December 2024 | Updated September 2026, 2 weeks ago
One of the essential skills for any sea kayaker is mastering the bow rudder manoeuvre. This technique is not only practical for making sharp turns but also enhances your overall control and confidence on the water.
Remember, every kayaker improves at their own pace, so be patient and persistent.
Pro Tip: Pick a target to help gauge your progress. By setting a clear target, such as a 180-degree turn, you can track your progress and gradually refine your technique.
One of the essential skills for any sea kayaker is mastering the bow rudder manoeuvre. This technique is not only practical for making sharp turns but also enhances your overall control and confidence on the water.
Remember, every kayaker improves at their own pace, so be patient and persistent.
Pro Tip: Pick a target to help gauge your progress. By setting a clear target, such as a 180-degree turn, you can track your progress and gradually refine your technique.


![Patso - A River Life
“I can’t imagine not having that [the river] in my life, ever. It has formed my life.” – Patricia Patso Stow
In 1979, Patrica “Patso” Stow joined the (mostly-male) crew of guides on California’s Stanislaus River. Her life—and the northern California boating community—would never be the same.
From guiding on the Tuolumne to meeting her husband Tim, learning to kayak alongside her teenaged sons at age 58 to tackling the SF American with her “posse”, Patso is a force of nature as fierce and nurturing as the rivers that continue to shape her life.
“My name is Patso Stow, I’m mommy, river mommy, wife, play companion, part of a posse, former teacher, Rock of Gibraltar for some….”
Filmed and directed by Greg Cairns
Featuring: Patso Stow
With support from NRS & Jack’s Plastic Welding Patso - A River Life](https://i.ytimg.com/vi/_hc_ngkvT5M/mqdefault.jpg)







