Spinning in a hole is a basic whitewater kayaking playboating move that teaches you how to work with the water and also how to set yourself up for harder tricks. It’s super fun and when you get in the groove on a good feature you can spin forever! I love the feeling of dancing with the water 🙂

I’ve created a teaching video using GoPro footage I took while paddling the Big Laurel River near Asheville, NC where I live.

When we paddle this river during Creek Week and I encourage my students to practice their spins because  playboating also improves your creeking!

Here are my key points for how to enter a hole and spin:

• Ferry into the hole and don’t let your bow drop too soon. Your boat has to be in the hole and retentive before you can actually side surf.
• When side surfing look upstream longer than you think you need to. When you see your stern out of the corner of your eye then you know it’s time to switch.
• When you switch to look over your opposite shoulder do it quickly. No looking downstream. Remember that wherever you look is where you boat will go. If you want to stay retentive you’ve got to keep your eyes on the hole.

Watch the video with narration and you’ll be on your way to spinning like a champ!

I’d love to hear from you so please post in the comments below! If you’re looking to boost your playboating or creeking skills check out my private instruction offerings!