Im a new guy to paddling and have a problem staying straight,if I paddle on the right side the board goes that way same as on the left,it's like I zigzag like mad cow disease.I've looked at the instructional stuff on Seabreeze but carnt seem to straighten up.I thought maybe some expert out there can help.One good thing I'm getting fit I go for a 2 k paddle and Finnish up paddling 6ks.Any help gratefully accepted.
Cheers
Ron

What type of board are you on?

Hi rager,yeah I should have written about it it's a new Naish 10' mana and I'm using a naish adjustable makani paddle
Ron

PonoBill over on standup zone has a vid he did a couple of years ago about paddling straight.
Here's a link.

http://www.kenalu.com/how-to-paddle-straight-2/

Annabel anderson would say keep your paddle vertical and dont follow the line of the board

What fin set up are you using?

I'm guessing you 're standing a few inches too far back on the board.. Once standing look back and see if the tail is slightly lifted from the water.. If not more forward till it is.

Also try putting more weight on the foot that is on the same side that you're paddling on.. You can do this easy by slightly lifting your heel on the other foot.

I sometimes run with an 8 1/2" fin in my 10' Mana instead of the smalls 6" stock center fin.. It also helps heaps.

Also try paddling with the paddle more vertical and use shorter strokes instead of long ones that go past your feet.

Also.. How long have you been paddling it? .. If not long just give it some time and down the track you will look back and wonder why you ever had this problem.

DJ

Thanks heaps
Human cartoon that's a really good link an oldie but good
DJ thanks for the advice I've only been paddling for 2 weeks if that, I'll try your suggestion with the fins I think like you said I'm not standing vertical and splashing alot.I'll check next time to see exactly where I'm standing.
Supa I'm using the standard Naish 9" fin,in the centre of the box
Thanks guys I'll keep trying
Cheers Ron

Keep your head up and look where your going.If you look down at your paddle you can't see if your wandering or not. look at your next waypoint (marker bouy or headland etc)and you will find you paddle a straighter line.
Jason