Why Your Kayak Doesn't Go Straight (And How to Fix It)

One of the most common questions I hear from paddlers is: “Why won’t my kayak go straight?”

While kayak design can play a role, most of the time the answer comes down to technique. A kayak that feels “loose” or tends to wander can usually be tamed with a few small adjustments to how you paddle.

Here are three key skills that will help you track straighter, conserve energy, and enjoy a smoother ride.

Paddler using good technique to go straight

1. Look Where You Want to Go

Your kayak will follow your eyes. Pick a spot on the horizon and aim to keep your bow between 11 o’clock and 1 o’clock.

The moment you drift off course, make a gentle sweep on the opposite side to bring it back. Correct early — the farther you wander, the more energy you’ll waste getting back on track.

2. Use Subtle Corrective Strokes

Paddling multiple times on one side to “fix” your course usually makes things worse, causing your kayak to zigzag and lose momentum.

Instead, make micro-corrections as part of your normal stroke:

• If you’re veering left, sweep a little harder on the left side.

• Let your paddle blade stay in the water slightly past your hip.

• Pull your hip toward the paddle at the end — a mini draw stroke — to quietly realign your boat.

These tiny adjustments keep you on course without slowing you down.

3. Stay Centered and Rotate Your Core

A rocking kayak is a wandering kayak. Keep your weight balanced over your centerline — think “nose over your belly button” — and use torso rotation with every stroke.

Plant your paddle near your feet, push with your top hand, and let your core power the movement. This even pressure helps your kayak track naturally without constant corrections.

Bottom Line

Kayak tracking issues are rarely just about the boat. Good technique is the #1 factor in going straight — and the best part is, it can be learned.

For more help, check out my Kayaking 101 and Kayaking 102 videos.

If you’d like personalized feedback, send me a short paddling video. I offer stroke critiques for $35, and good instruction can transform your paddling experience.