Jonathan Hanson Jonathan Hanson Jonathan Hanson is a writer whose lifelong appreciation of nature shows up frequently in his work. Meet Jonathan Previous Answers

First, the rule was intended for straight-shaft paddles. If you use a bent-shaft paddle, it should be shorter by two or three inches. For tandem paddling, most people feel the stern paddler should have a slightly longer paddle — say nose high.

However, don't stick blindly to any arbitrary rule. The goal you're after is efficiency and comfort, and often the best way to determine both is through simple trial. Sit in your canoe in your normal paddling position, and hold the paddle in the water as if you were in the middle of a stroke, with the blade submerged to the throat (the juncture of blade and shaft).

The hand on the grip should be at a comfortable height, more or less shoulder level. If you have to reach much higher than that you're wasting energy with each stroke.

Don't neglect blade width and shape in your choices. For most paddling on flat water and mild rivers I prefer a fairly narrow blade, about 6 inches across. It's less fatiguing, and I've never had a problem maintaining enough power or speed over long distances. However, there's no question that for quickest acceleration and maximum control in fast water a wider, 8-inch blade is superior. Most wide blades are also square at the bottom, which adds a bit more purchase. In a narrow blade you might prefer a beavertail, which splashes less and is quieter — a plus for fishing!

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