: Turn the power face of the paddle away from the canoe. This puts the blade in a vertical position where the water provides resistance, acting as a rudder to nudge the stern away and straighten the bow.
: As the blade reaches your hip, start the "J" motion. Rotate your top hand so that your thumb points downward or toward the bow. j strokes
: New paddlers often "pry" too hard, causing the boat to swerve in the opposite direction. Apply just enough resistance to maintain a straight line. : Turn the power face of the paddle away from the canoe