Kayaking Experience Needed Please

Blackdawn_70631

Looking for another form of exercise outside aside from dog walking. I can't run, and walking on our road is dangerous with no safe place to walk (live out in the country). And where I'm going is not a designated swim area.
I haven't gone kayaking before, but have been canoeing many years ago (about 25 years ago). I've never been kayaking in an open river or lake, what I had done was as a little girl in a lagoon part of the lake where it was safe for kids. And have gone canoeing in really big ponds. I also do know how to swim.
What I'm wondering is, what to expect out in open water in a massive lake (Toledo Bend Lake), with the strong currents?
I haven't gotten my kayak yet as I'm still debating about it. I won't be going out into the main part of the lake, but the smaller channels. They're still quite big, but nothing like that main body of water.
So, are there any kayakers here who could give me some more insight?

ambitiouseva1

I am an avid kayaker, I love it.. Stick to small swamps and ponds first. Stay away from currents until you build up your arm muscles.. And get used to the kayak first. When doing currents have someone with you so you don't get stuck somewhere and can't get back up steam.

StacywithaY

I have a flat water kayak and went out with a friend on bigger water..., one word "rudder!" It makes all the difference. I didn't know any better when I bought mine. For the most part, on small lakes and quiet rivers mine is fine, but on anything with current a rudder is a must have.

Machka9

I'd recommend taking a class first. A friend of mine did that a number of years ago.

BeeerRunner

I would also recommend classes. They can teach you a lot about proper technique and also what to do in case of a flip. If you are kayaking, especially by yourself, please wear a life vest...even if you know how to swim.

JoRocka

Go take classes and lessons- learn how to properly paddle- not with your arms- with your trunk.

Learn how to roll your boat.
Classes classes classes.
Wear a safety vest and helmet.

kenyonhaff

^ All of this above.

Kayaking isn't really *that* different than canoeing, so if you are very experienced with canoeing most of that common sense paddling transfers over. Wear a life jacket, know how to exit in case of a capsize, know before you go, etc.

What I also do recommend is finding people who have first hand knowledge of the open water and so on. If there are dangerous currents and so on find out where they are. Your good local paddle shop (there is often one in the area) often knows what local outdoor clubs, loose groups, and so on can set you up. Or there is some sort of outdoor small craft association in the area online or something.