Waves crossing your direction of travel can cause your boat to capsize, although a brace stroke will provide great stability. Waves following your direction of travel will cause your boat to swing around and a sweep or rudder stroke will get you back on track. Use caution, as waves become larger over shallow areas.

Wind, Weather and Waves

The weather must be considered while planning any paddling adventure in the Squam Lakes area. While the weather patterns in central New Hampshire can be predictable at times, they can also change quickly. Before heading out on the water, check the weather forecast or bring along a weather radio.

Northwest winds, often 10 - 20 knots predominate from ice out in April until June, although west and northeast winds are also common. During July and August, west and southwest winds are common and are usually moderate. Southeast winds are usually followed by rain. West and northwest winds predominate during the fall and winds of 10 - 25 knots are common.

Thunderstorms are frequently in the forecast in July and August and often hit over the mountains to the north of the Squam Lakes. Paddlers should be wary of thunderstorms and should get off the water as soon as possible if a thunderstorm is moving in. Thunderstorm winds of 30 + knots are common and the storms usually pass quickly.

Paddling into a strong wind can slow your progress greatly, although hitting waves head on is the most stable course. Paddling across the wind tends to pull a boat towards or away from the wind (weathercock). For safety, most boats are designed to veer towards the wind. Boat lean is enough to carve back on track in a gentle breeze and a sweep stroke on the windward side will help you track straight across strong winds. Kayaks equipped with a rudder or skeg will offset weathercocking. Paddling with the wind at your back can be deceiving, because you will not notice the wind speed until turning back into the wind.