Rigging Like No Other

Different canoes have there own type of rigging.  Overall, a beginner paddler should start out rigging the canoe leaning in a little towards the ama.  Although more weight will be distributed towards the ama, the canoe will feel a bit more stable.  As the paddler becomes better, the canoe can be rigged, so less weight is on the ama.  Eventually, when the paddler is sitting on the canoe in flat, still water and a level is placed across the foot well, the bubble will be close to level.  The eventual goal of the paddler is to be able to paddle with very little weight on the ama, so the ama would be skimming the surface of the water with the least amount of drag.  There are a handful of paddlers that have honed their ablility to balance the ama in the air while paddling.

Post Rigging Tip

Well, you have your canoe rigged up and you're ready to hit the water. For the first timers, step in between the ama and canoe facing the nose, find the balance point of the canoe and slip your right arm under the hull and lift. With the canoe resting on your right shoulder, use your left hand to hold the foot well area to stabilize the canoe. You can also hold the paddle in your left hand at the same time or slip it in the bungee cord to secure it (if that accessory comes with your canoe). When you reach the water, place the canoe parallel with the shore if you are launching from a shallow beach. Remember that the rudder is deeper in the water than the hull and make it a habit to check all plugs and lock screws before taking off.