Kayaking BSA Award

The BSA Kayaking Award Patch is not worn on the scout uniform. It is worn on the left side of the swim trunks.

See the Kayaking Application Form, the Kayaking Information Page, and the Kayaking Worksheet(page 7 on).

Requirements

1. Before fulfilling the following requirements, successfully complete the BSA Swimmer test.
2. Do the following:
   1. Describe various types of kayaks and how they differ in design, materials, and purpose.
   2. Name the parts of the kayak you are using for this exercise.
   3. Demonstrate how to choose an appropriately sized kayak paddle and how to position your hands.
3. Do the following:
   1. Tell what precautions must be taken for a safe trip afloat.
   2. Demonstrate how to select and properly fit a PFD.
   3. Explain the importance of safety equipment such as PFDs, air bags, grab loops, and helmets.
4. Demonstrate your ability to aid yourself and others in the event of a capsize:
   1. Capsize your kayak in water at least seven feet deep, perform a wet exit if necessary, and swim the boat to shore.
   2. With assistance, if needed, ready the capsized craft for use.
   3. Show how to approach a capsized paddler in your kayak and tow them to shore.
   4. While upright in your kayak, right a capsized kayak, empty it of water, and assist the paddler aboard without returning to shore.
5. As a solo paddler, demonstrate the following:
   1. Entering and launching a kayak from shore or dock.
   2. Landing or docking and exiting a kayak.
   3. Forward stroke
   4. Sweep stroke
   5. Reverse sweep
   6. Draw stroke
   7. Rudder stroke
   8. Back stroke
6. As a solo paddler, do the following:
   1. Paddle forward in a reasonably straight line.
   2. Move the kayak sideways to the right and to the left.
   3. Pivot 360 degrees to the right and left.
   4. Stop the kayak.