New Mexico Kayak Instruction

I was interested in learning how to kayak and stumbled across the New Mexico Kayak Instruction website. I have been on numerous whitewater rafting and inflatable kayak trips. I only signed up for the Level 1 class naively thinking that would be enough to get me started. I am grateful I followed Kelly's advice and took the Level 2 class. My comfort level in a hard-shell kayak dropped significantly from being in a lake vs. river. As I practiced what we learned in the Level 1 class going down the river in the Level 2 class it became obvious why Kelly focused on technique as much as safety. Kelly's patience, ability and willingness to teach reflects his knowledge and passion for the sport. New Mexico Kayak Instruction has excellent instructors. I had a great experience and would recommend them to anyone interested in kayaking.

Took the level 3 whitewater kayaking class and it was more then just a class. It was an experience. Kelly and his staff offer a top notch experience and make Learning to kayak fun and safe. I would recommend New Mexico Kayak Instruction too anyone I know. I'm gonna take the class again!! Paddle on!!!

This was my first time kayaking and I thought it was an excellent class. We spent the first four hours at Sandia Lakes, where we learned some basic skills and how to get out of the kayak when it flips. I was really nervous about flipping and Kelly was very kind and patient and helped me work through it. In the afternoon, we kayaked down the Rio Grande, from Bernalillo to Corrales. This was a high water year, and it was exciting and lots of fun. Kelly and his staff were awesome. I highly recommend the class and I intend to take it again to continue to hone my skills.

Amazing Classes! I was a self-taught kayaker who constantly got caught in situations that were either dangerous or beyond my skill. In fact, I almost gave up the sport multiple times before I met Kelly. After taking his courses, I found that I was in much better control on the river and began to enjoy it more. I never realized how much technique went into boat handling and reading the river. Kayaking changed from a sport that constantly terrified me, to a sport where I felt exhilarated and challenged, but still in control. Kelly’s classes focus on reading the river, developing paddling skills, safety, and responsible fun. The best part of taking his courses is meeting new people to paddle with. I am now surrounded by like-mined paddlers whom I can trust on the river, for I know they received the same training. Kelly’s classes turned me into a life-long kayaker.

This is now my third year of kayaking. I have taken many classes from Kelly at New Mexico Kayak Instruction, some more than once. I learn something new each time I take a class. My confidence on the water has grown and more importantly Kelly has introduced me to the New Mexico paddling community where I have made many friends with which to paddle. The paddling community offers many opportunities to kayak whether it is moderate and challenging white water adventures, kayaking down the mellow Rio Grande in town, or kayaking on the lakes of NM. Whatever your preference, there is something for everybody. I would never have met any of my newfound friends without the assistance of Kelly, and for that fact alone I am grateful. Kayaking has changed my life for the better.