Paddlesports Resources
American Canoe Association (ACA)
The ACA National Paddlesports Instruction Program has been acknowledged as the “Gold Standard” of paddlesports education throughout the United States and abroad. The ACA has developed a wide variety of curriculum, trainings, and resources to serve paddlers of any skill level and chosen paddlecraft. To take advantage of these great tools and opportunities, begin by browsing the ACA website:
Get a crash course in basic paddling skills, safety, and important tips with the ACA Smart Start for Safe Paddling Online Course. It’s 100% free, takes about 20 minutes to complete, and comes with a certificate of completion. Dig a little deeper with the ACA Smart Start for Safe Paddling Resource Collection, which includes several books, presentation slides, infographics, and FAQs. The ACA Paddle Smart Web TV Series is designed to provide you with the need-to-know information required to make smart decisions and stay safe on the water. The series covers the paddlesports disciplines of Canoeing, Stand Up Paddleboarding, Recreational Kayaking and Kayak Fishing. Each series consists of 12 episodes that are entertaining and to the point. Ready to get on the water now? Use the ACA website to find instructors all over the country and the world – include a guided tour or skills building class in your next vacation or locate instructors for family and friends out of state. Need more assistance? Contact the ACA Safety Education and Instruction Department to ask more questions and get expert guidance.ACA Resource LibraryThe heart of the ACA is the people who paddle, cherish, and protect the rivers, lakes, streams, bays, and oceans of the United States and beyond. To assist those who want more information and opportunities to learn more about paddling as a lifelong outdoor recreation pursuit, ACA provides the following resource library which contains the Smart Start for Safe Paddling program, video collections, statistics, and educational tools such as infographics, brochures, and free online coursework. Some highlights include:
Infographics to help promote safe paddling:
- Communications
- Defensive Boating
- Float Plan
- Life Jacket Wear
- Paddlers Checklist
- SUP Leashes
- SUP Life Jackets
- Trip Leading
Statistics, National Reports, and Regulations applicable to paddlers
Smartstart for Safe Paddling (New – May25)
The Smart Start for Safe Paddling program is a suite of resources that provides essential information to help novice paddlers stay safe and have fun while on the water. The comprehensive program book addresses each NASBLA core and human-propelled standard, and provides in-text citations for easy cross reference.
- Facilitators Guide — ACA Store — Amazon — Kindle
- Student Workbook — ACA Store — Amazon — Kindle
- Free Online Paddling Safety Course (20 minutes long)
The ACA’s Smart Start for Safe Paddling on-water course is a short program emphasizing safety, enjoyment, and skill development. The skills and knowledge gained through this course can set the stage for a lifetime of exploration, adventures, a healthy lifestyle, appreciation of water and the natural world, lasting memories with family and friends, and a rewarding experience for all – remember, we paddle because it is fun!Want to learn more about all the on-water courses available? Check out the ACA website!
