A couple of members have mentioned that they struggle to paddle a sea kayak in a straight line. One solution is to use a skeg (see the tip on using a skeg) but this is a poor solution as that’s not what a skeg is designed for, except in certain situations. If you find it difficult to paddle in a straight line without a skeg in windless conditions and little or no current, then there is a problem either in your paddling technique or boat setup/trim. Using a skeg is not the answer. We need to analyse the underlying problem.

If you are having this problem, first check the trim of your boat to make sure it’s more or less neutral and balanced (similar weight in the front and rear hatches). This is unlikely to be the problem, but worth a check.

Secondly, check your posture (upright or leaning slightly forward) and that you’re sitting bang in the middle of your seat. If you have a tendency to lean slightly one side or the other, the boat will tend to turn the opposite way you’re leaning.

The most likely problem though is paddling technique. It could be that your paddling is slightly asymmetric. Consider:

• Are you holding the paddle with each hand exactly the same distance from the blade?
• Does your paddle stroke follow the same path on each side of the kayak? – Starting close to the bow and sweeping slightly away.
• Do you pull more strongly on one side than the other?

You may need someone to watch and even video you paddle from both the front and side to analyse.

Finally, it may be that you just need to practice more!