How To Tow A Kayak: The Complete Guide for Safe Water Rescues

The afternoon wind picked up faster than weather apps predicted on Lake Travis last spring. My buddy Mark, who'd insisted he was "totally fine" after a marathon week at work, suddenly stopped paddling about two miles from our launch. His face said everything – exhaustion had hit like a wall. That's when I reached for my kayak tow belt, grateful I'd practiced this exact scenario just weeks before.

Knowing how to tow a kayak isn't just a nice skill to have – it's essential safety knowledge that every paddler needs. Whether you're helping an exhausted friend, assisting someone with equipment failure, or rescuing a swimmer, proper towing technique can mean the difference between a minor inconvenience and a serious emergency.

Why You Might Need to Tow a Kayak?

After 20 years paddling everything from glass-calm lakes to choppy coastal waters, I've towed kayaks more times than I can count. Understanding when and why to initiate a tow is just as important as knowing the technique itself. If you're serious about kayak safety, towing skills belong in your toolkit right alongside your essential safety gear.

Common Towing Scenarios

Paddler Exhaustion: The most frequent reason I've deployed my tow line. Fatigue can hit suddenly, especially when conditions change or someone overestimates their fitness. Last summer on Ladybird Lake, I watched a group of tourists struggle against unexpected headwinds – two needed assistance before reaching shore.

Equipment Failure: Broken paddles, lost paddle blades, or damaged rudders can leave even experienced paddlers stranded. I once towed a fellow kayaker three miles after his carbon fiber paddle snapped at the ferrule during a particularly aggressive stroke. Without a spare paddle (rookie mistake), he would've been drifting toward the shipping channel.

Injury or Medical Issues: Shoulder strains, wrist injuries, or sudden illness require immediate assistance. During a guided tour last year, a participant developed severe cramping and couldn't continue paddling. Quick towing got them to safety for proper care.

Challenging Conditions: When novice paddlers encounter conditions beyond their skill level – strong currents, unexpected waves, or sustained winds – a timely tow prevents panic and potential capsizing. I've helped countless paddlers through rough patches they weren't prepared to handle solo.

Types of Kayak Towing Methods

Understanding different towing techniques gives you options for various situations. After training with BCU coaches and practicing in conditions from mill ponds to 4-foot seas, I've learned there's no one-size-fits-all approach. The key is matching your technique to the specific scenario you're facing.

Contact Tow (Quick Rescue)

The kayak contact tow line technique is your fastest option when someone needs immediate assistance. No ropes, no setup time – just direct boat-to-boat contact. I use this method constantly for quick assists through challenging sections or when someone needs a brief rest.

How it works: The tired paddler grabs your bow or deck lines while you paddle. They remain in their kayak, using your momentum to move forward. Position yourself slightly ahead and to the side for optimal paddle clearance.

Best for:

• Short distances (under 100 yards)
• Calm conditions
• Temporary assistance through difficult sections
• Quick repositioning away from hazards

Pro tip: Have the person being towed lean slightly toward your kayak for better stability. Communication is key – establish signals for starting, stopping, and releasing.

Short-Line Tow

When contact towing isn't practical but you don't need a full deployment, short-line towing bridges the gap. Using 5-10 feet of line, both kayaks stay close while maintaining independence.

Setup: Clip a short tow line between deck fittings, keeping kayaks parallel. Some paddlers carry dedicated short tow systems, while others use a standard kayak tow rope partially deployed.

Ideal situations:

• Moderate distances in protected water
• When the towed paddler has limited mobility
• Navigating through boat traffic
• Group paddles where staying close matters

In-Line (Long) Tow

For serious distance towing or rough conditions, the in-line tow is your workhorse technique. Using 30-50 feet of line provides proper spacing and prevents collisions in waves. This is where quality towing a kayak for water equipment really shines.

Key advantages:

• Better tracking for both kayaks
• Reduced collision risk in swells
• More comfortable for extended towing
• Allows towed paddler to assist if able

Line length matters: In calm water, 30 feet works fine. Add 10-15 feet for every foot of swell height. My 50-foot tow line handles most Gulf Coast conditions perfectly.

Essential Towing Equipment

After testing dozens of towing systems in real rescue scenarios, I've learned that quality gear makes all the difference. The wrong equipment doesn't just complicate rescues – it can create additional hazards. Here's what actually works when seconds count.

Tow Belts vs. Deck-Mounted Systems

Tow Belts remain my primary choice for versatility and quick deployment. Worn around your waist (below your PFD), they put the towing force at your center of gravity. The best kayak tow line systems share these features:

• Quick-release buckle (non-negotiable for safety)
• 30-50 feet of floating rope
• Shock absorption section
• Easy-access storage bag
• Reflective elements for visibility

The NRS Kayak Tow Line (Check Price on Amazon) has been my go-to for five years. The quick-release mechanism works flawlessly even with cold, wet hands, and the Cordura bag drains quickly.

Deck-Mounted Systems excel for frequent towing or when you need to switch between paddlers quickly. The towing force transfers to your kayak rather than your body, reducing fatigue during extended tows. However, they're harder to deploy quickly and can interfere with kayak modifications.

Choosing the Right Tow Line

Not all tow lines are created equal. After destroying a cheap tow line in moderate conditions (thankfully during practice), I learned to invest in quality. Here's what matters:

Rope Type: Polypropylene floats but stretches. Spectra/Dyneema offers minimal stretch with incredible strength. Most quality systems use a combination – floating main line with high-strength core.

Shock Absorption: Essential for preventing jarring impacts. Look for either built-in bungee sections or separate shock cords. The Level Six Rescue Tow Line (Check Price on Amazon) features dynamic rope with 24% elongation – perfect for smoothing out the ride.

Carabiners: Stainless steel beats aluminum for saltwater use. Keyhole designs prevent accidental release, while traditional gates deploy faster. I prefer keyhole carabiners after watching a standard gate fail during a rescue.

Quick Release: Test this feature before every trip. The mechanism should release smoothly under load – your life might depend on it. Practice releasing while swimming to build muscle memory.

Additional Safety Gear

Beyond the tow line itself, these items enhance towing safety:

• Paddle leash: Prevents losing your paddle during complex maneuvers
• Knife: Mounted accessibly for emergency line cutting
• Whistle: Communication over wind and waves
• Spare paddle: Essential if towing due to equipment failure

Step-by-Step Towing Techniques

After hundreds of practice sessions and real rescues, I've refined these techniques to work reliably in various conditions. Remember, reading about towing is just the start – you need to practice these skills before you need them. Consider taking a kayak safety course that includes rescue practice.

How to Execute a Contact Tow?

The contact tow looks simple but requires finesse to execute smoothly. Here's my proven approach:

1. Approach carefully: Paddle alongside the tired kayaker, matching their speed and direction. Communicate your plan clearly – surprising someone rarely goes well.
2. Position your kayak: Angle slightly ahead with your cockpit level with their bow. This positioning lets them grab your deck lines while giving you room to paddle.
3. Establish contact: Have them reach across and grip your static deck lines (never bungees). Their outside hand should hold their paddle to prevent loss.
4. Start slowly: Begin with gentle strokes, letting them adjust to the motion. Sudden acceleration can destabilize both kayaks.
5. Maintain communication: Establish clear signals – I use head nods for "okay" and raised fist for "stop." Verbal communication gets difficult over wind and splash.

Common mistake: Paddlers often position too far forward, making the towed kayak surf into them. Stay just ahead of their cockpit for optimal control.

Setting Up an In-Line Tow

When distance or conditions demand a proper tow, the in-line method provides stability and endurance. This technique has gotten me and fellow paddlers through everything from equipment failures to medical emergencies.

1. Communicate the plan: Explain what you're doing, especially with novice paddlers. Knowing what to expect reduces anxiety and improves cooperation.
2. Deploy your tow line: Unzip your tow belt and extract the carabiner end. Keep the rope organized to prevent tangles – I hold coils in my off hand while approaching.
3. Attach to the towed kayak: Clip to their bow toggle or front carry handle. Avoid deck bungees which can fail under load. For added security in rough conditions, I'll pass the carabiner through the toggle and clip back to the rope.
4. Pay out the line: Back away slowly, letting the rope feed out smoothly. Watch for snags or tangles. In waves, time your acceleration to avoid jerking.
5. Begin towing: Start with easy strokes until the rope comes taut. The initial load can be surprising – brace for it. Once moving, find a sustainable pace you can maintain.
6. Monitor constantly: Look back every 10-15 strokes. Watch for:
   • Line angle (should be straight)
   • Towed kayaker's condition
   • Approaching hazards
   • Signs of equipment stress

Advanced Towing Scenarios

Real-world towing rarely happens in perfect conditions. Here's how to handle common complications:

Towing in Wind: Quarter into the wind rather than fighting directly upwind. This reduces effort and improves control. The towed kayak will weathercock, so coach them to use their rudder or skeg if equipped.

Rough Water Towing: Extend your tow line to prevent collision when kayaks surf down waves. Time your strokes to pull when both kayaks are in troughs. Consider using a kayak tow rope with extra shock absorption.

Multiple Kayak Towing: I've successfully towed two kayaks by clipping them side-by-side, then towing the pair. This "raft" configuration works well with an experienced paddler stabilizing the second kayak.

Night Towing: Attach a waterproof LED to the towed kayak for visibility. Your kayak lights become critical for avoiding collisions with other boats.

Safety Considerations

Towing another kayak introduces risks that demand respect and preparation. I've seen well-intentioned rescues create additional emergencies when safety protocols were ignored. These guidelines come from both personal experience and lessons learned from other paddlers' close calls.

When NOT to Tow?

Sometimes the safest choice is not to tow. Recognizing these situations has kept me out of serious trouble:

Beyond Your Ability: If towing would exhaust you or compromise your safety, call for help instead. Two swimmers need more rescue resources than one tired paddler. During a rough water incident last year, I made the hard choice to signal for boat assistance rather than attempt a risky tow.

Dangerous Conditions: Strong currents, breaking waves, or severe weather can make towing attempts deadly. I've aborted tows when conditions deteriorated, opting to raft up and wait for assistance.

Equipment Limitations: Inadequate tow lines, damaged kayaks, or missing safety gear should stop you cold. Never improvise with inappropriate equipment – I've seen painters line and bungee cords fail catastrophically.

Medical Emergencies: Serious injuries or unconscious paddlers require professional rescue. Stabilize the situation and call for help rather than attempting a tow that could worsen injuries.

Quick Release Importance

The quick release mechanism on your kayak tow belt isn't optional – it's lifesaving equipment. Practice these scenarios until the motion becomes automatic:

Entanglement: If the tow line wraps around you, your paddle, or obstacles, immediate release prevents drowning. I practice releasing while swimming, rolling, and in current.

Capsize Under Tow: Being dragged underwater while attached to another kayak creates panic. Quick release lets you surface, breathe, and reassess. During eskimo roll practice, include tow line release drills.

Diverging Paths: When the towed kayak heads toward hazards (rocks, strainers, other boats), releasing prevents you both from impact. Better to regroup than crash together.

Release Technique: Pull the toggle firmly away from your body. Don't just yank – use a deliberate pulling motion. Some systems require lifting before pulling. Know your specific mechanism intimately.

Communication Protocols

Clear communication prevents confusion during stressful rescues. Establish these protocols before you need them:

Visual Signals:

• Raised paddle = Stop immediately
• Paddle waved side-to-side = Problem/need assistance
• Thumbs up = Good to continue
• Pointing = Hazard in that direction

Verbal Commands: Keep them short and distinct:

• "STOP" = Cease paddling immediately
• "READY" = Prepare to be towed
• "RELEASE" = Let go (for contact tow)
• "PADDLE" = Help by paddling

Whistle Signals: Three sharp blasts universally mean "help needed." One long blast can mean "attention" or "look here."

Common Towing Mistakes to Avoid

Learning from others' mistakes has saved me from plenty of my own. These are the errors I see repeatedly during rescue practice and real-world scenarios:

Line Length Errors

Too Short: In waves, short lines cause constant collisions. I learned this lesson in 3-foot chop off Port Aransas when repeated impacts nearly damaged both kayaks. Now I add 10 feet of line per foot of wave height.

Too Long: Excessive line creates control problems and tangles. In busy waterways, 75 feet of line turns you into a navigation hazard. Match line length to conditions, not maximum capacity.

No Shock Absorption: Rigid lines create jarring impacts that can injure both paddlers. Even calm-water tows benefit from shock cord sections. The constant jerking exhausts the tower and destabilizes the towed kayak.

Poor Attachment Points

Deck Bungees: These elastic cords seem convenient but fail under load. I watched a paddler lose their kayak when a bungee snapped mid-tow. Always attach to solid points like bow toggles or dedicated tow points.

Perimeter Lines: While better than bungees, perimeter lines can slide along the deck, creating unpredictable towing angles. They also risk damaging deck fittings not designed for towing loads.

Paddle Attachments: Never attach tow lines to paddles. Beyond the obvious risk of losing your primary propulsion, the leverage can snap even quality paddles. A friend learned this expensive lesson with his carbon fiber paddle.

Towing Position Problems

Too Far Forward: This causes the towed kayak to surf into you, especially downwind. Position your cockpit level with their bow for optimal control and safety spacing.

Wrong Side: In crosswinds, position yourself upwind of the towed kayak. This prevents them from being blown into you and provides better control angles. I adjust positioning constantly based on conditions.

Fighting the Wind: Towing directly into strong wind exhausts you quickly. Quarter into the wind for better progress and reduced effort. Sometimes the longer route is actually faster and safer.

Towing a Kayak Behind a Boat

Different dynamics apply when using powerboats for tow behind kayak situations. I've been towed by everything from jet skis to fishing boats, and each requires specific considerations for safety.

Boat Towing Setup

Bridle Systems: Never tow from a single point – kayaks become unstable and can flip. Create a bridle using the bow toggle and two points near the cockpit. This three-point system prevents rolling and maintains directional control.

Towing Speed: Keep it under 5 mph for occupied kayaks, 10 mph maximum for empty ones. I learned the hard way that 15 mph turns a kayak into an underwater torpedo. Speed creates lift, potentially flipping or submerging the kayak.

Line Management: Use floating rope at least 50 feet long to keep the kayak behind the boat's wake. In the prop wash, kayaks become uncontrollable. Quality kayak towing wheels won't help here – you need proper marine rope.

Safety Considerations:

• Remove all loose gear from the kayak
• Close all hatches and install drain plugs
• Monitor constantly for flipping or submarining
• Have a knife ready to cut the line if needed
• Consider insurance implications – some policies exclude towing

Special Considerations for Motorboat Towing

Wake Effects: Boat wakes can swamp or flip towed kayaks. Cross wakes at angles, slow down, or stop completely for large wakes. I've seen kayaks cartwheel impressively when hitting wakes wrong.

Legal Requirements: Many states require registration for towed kayaks, flag displays for overhanging loads, and proper lighting at night. Check local regulations before towing – kayak registration requirements vary significantly.

Emergency Procedures: Establish clear communication with the boat operator. Hand signals work better than shouting over engine noise. Always have a quick-release plan if the kayak becomes unstable.

Towing Equipment Recommendations

After testing dozens of towing systems in conditions from Lake Travis to the Gulf of Mexico, these products consistently deliver when it matters most:

Best Overall Tow Belt: NRS Kayak Tow Line

The gold standard for reliability and quick deployment. Features include:

• 50 feet of high-visibility floating rope
• Comfortable 2-inch belt with quick release
• Two storage pockets for safety gear
• Reflective tape for low-light visibility

Best Budget Option: Seattle Sports Paddle Leash & Tow Line

Dual-purpose design offers value without sacrificing safety:

• 30 feet of polypropylene rope
• Simple, reliable quick release
• Doubles as paddle leash
• Compact storage

Best Premium System: North Water Sea Tec Tow Line

Professional-grade features for serious paddlers:

• Spectra core line with minimal stretch
• 55 feet of rope for rough conditions
• Integrated shock absorption
• Stainless steel hardware throughout

Essential Accessories

Knife: The NRS Pilot Knife stays accessible and sharp for emergency line cutting.

Whistle: Fox 40 Classic – loud enough to overcome wind and waves.

Practice Weight: A mesh bag filled with water bottles simulates towing resistance for training.

Practice Makes Perfect

The middle of an emergency is the worst time to learn towing techniques. I run through these practice drills monthly, and before any trip where I might need to tow:

Solo Practice Drills

Deployment Speed: Time yourself deploying your tow line from seated position. Goal: under 30 seconds from decision to attached and towing. Practice with gloves and in rain for realism.

Quick Release Training: Practice releasing under various conditions:

• While stationary
• During forward paddle
• After capsizing
• With cold hands

Line Management: Deploy and re-pack your tow line repeatedly. Muscle memory prevents tangles when stress runs high. I practice in the dark to ensure I can manage by feel alone.

Partner Practice Sessions

Role Reversal: Take turns being tower and towed. Understanding both perspectives improves technique and communication. You'll quickly learn what works and what doesn't.

Condition Progression: Start in flat water, then add:

• Light wind
• Moderate waves
• Boat traffic
• Current
• Reduced visibility

Scenario Training: Practice realistic situations:

• "Broken paddle" (paddle with one hand)
• "Injured shoulder" (limited mobility)
• "Exhausted paddler" (dead weight)
• "Panicked beginner" (erratic movements)

Group Towing: If you paddle with regular partners, practice towing configurations with multiple kayaks. Establish standard procedures everyone understands.

FAQ Section

How long should a kayak tow rope be?

For most conditions, 30-50 feet works perfectly. I use 35 feet on lakes and extend to 50 feet for coastal paddling. Add length for bigger waves – roughly 10 feet per foot of swell. Longer isn't always better; excessive line creates control problems and tangles.

Can you tow a kayak with a jet ski?

Yes, but proceed carefully. Keep speed under 5 mph, use a proper bridle system, and monitor constantly. Remove loose gear and ensure hatches are sealed. I've been towed successfully by jet skis several times, but it requires an experienced operator who understands the dynamics.

What's the difference between a throw bag and tow line?

Throw bags are designed for shore-based rescues – you throw the bag to a swimmer. Tow lines attach between boats for pulling. While some systems combine both functions, dedicated equipment works better. I carry both on remote trips.

How fast can you tow an empty kayak?

Empty kayaks can handle 10-15 mph behind powerboats, but stability varies by design. Sit-on-tops tow better than sit-insides. Always start slow and increase gradually. Watch for diving, rolling, or aerial acrobatics – yes, kayaks can fly at speed!

Do I need special training to tow another kayaker?

While not legally required, professional instruction dramatically improves safety and technique. Look for courses covering rescue techniques, or join a kayak safety class that includes towing practice. Learning from experienced instructors prevented me from developing bad habits.

Can inflatable kayaks be towed?

Yes, but they behave differently than hard shells. Use lower towing speeds and shorter lines to maintain control. The flexible hull can fold or buckle under towing stress. Check manufacturer guidelines – some specifically address towing limitations.

What if my kayak doesn't have a bow toggle?

Never tow from deck bungees or carry handles not designed for load. If your kayak lacks proper tow points, consider installing them. Many kayak shops can add bow toggles or dedicated tow points. It's a worthwhile safety upgrade for any kayak.

Should I tow from my PFD attachment point?

Some rescue PFDs include tow attachments, putting strain on the jacket instead of your waist. These work well but require proper training. The quick release becomes even more critical since entanglement risks increase. Type V PFDs with tow points need additional swiftwater training for safe use.

Final Thoughts

That day on Lake Travis with Mark turned out fine – 20 minutes of steady towing got us to a protected cove where he recovered after some water and snacks. But it reinforced why I practice these skills regularly and carry quality towing gear on every trip.

Learning how to tow a kayak transforms you from a solo paddler into someone capable of helping others in need. Whether assisting a tired friend, helping a struggling stranger, or managing your own equipment failure, towing skills provide options when things go sideways.

Start with quality equipment like a proper kayak tow belt and practice in controlled conditions. Build skills progressively, working up to more challenging scenarios as your confidence grows. Most importantly, know your limits – sometimes the best rescue is the one that calls for professional help.

The investment in gear and training pays dividends in confidence and capability. Every time I clip in a tow line, I'm grateful for the hours spent practicing in calm conditions. Those skills have helped dozens of paddlers reach safety and turned potential disasters into mere inconveniences.

See you on the water – and remember, the best rescue is the one you prevent through preparation and smart decisions. But when someone needs help, you'll be ready.

Stay safe, paddle smart, and always carry a tow line. The life you save might be your paddling partner's – or your own.