Welcome to the Keel-Haulers

New to paddling? Start here.

A volunteer-led club based in Northeast Ohio, with members across Ohio and surrounding states. You can ask for help choosing equipment, learning skills, or finding your first club activity.

  1. Choose a practice session

    Pool practice is one place to ask about basic kayaking skills and learning to roll. Akron’s published schedule provides boats, paddles, and life jackets as needed. Kent’s listing welcomes new kayakers and says a boat may be provided. Confirm availability and registration before attending.

    Find upcoming pool activities Compare practice locations, prices, and equipment

  2. Ask before you arrive

    Tell the club that you are new, which session you are considering, and whether you need equipment or instruction. For Akron roll instruction, email ahead so the club can arrange an instructor. Participants using that help are asked to be or become club members.

    Ask the club about your first session

    You do not need to own a boat to ask about getting started. Equipment availability, registration, and membership requirements depend on the activity; confirm whether you can attend before joining.

  3. Get ready, then join the crew

    Review the session’s gear-cleaning, arrival, price, and registration details. For river trips, discuss the particular river, current conditions, skills, and equipment with the organizer. A pool session does not establish readiness for a river trip.

    Explore membership — $20/year Read the club’s safety references

Experienced paddler, new to the club?

Browse upcoming activities, open the river desk, or introduce yourself to the club. Ask the organizer about expectations and arrangements before joining a trip.