Water Sports

The Izaak Walton League’s Rockville Chapter Paddle Sports program provides educational and recreational opportunities for adults and children interested in kayaking and canoeing. The program runs through the summer months and is open to both chapter members and non-members.

Started more than 30 years ago by Chapter pioneer Jim Hill, the program has trained Olympic-level championship paddlers starting at an early age. Today's program is more family oriented, with things for both adults and kids alike to learn and do. The Chairmen of the program provides hands-on training in the chapter’s boats. Training sessions for children and beginner paddlers afford participants an opportunity to practice skills and become familiar with different boats. The overriding priority of the program is proper water and boating safety. Beyond that we want to teach the fundamentals and good technique. If you establish a solid foundation your skills will grow naturally as you gain more experience.

Our Chapter’s program also includes regular group paddling outings. We paddle on the Potomac River, Monocacy River, Little Seneca Lake and the Triadelphia Reservoir.  There is an age requirement of 12 and above for these outings and no prior experience or equipment is required. Participants must be able to swim and children must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. For more information or to register for an outing, contact us at iwlarwatersports@gmail.com.