Eddy turns

The eddy line

An eddy is the calm behind a rock. Crossing its line — the seam between moving and still — is the whole skill of the river.

The turn

approach   ferry angle, upstream
commit     paddle hard across the line
lean       into the turn, downstream
relax      the eddy catches you

Why it matters

Every scout, every rescue, every lunch stop is an eddy. Master the turn and the river opens up.