Scouting
Also: scouting, inspecting
Scouting means looking at an unknown or difficult section from the bank before running it and planning your line.
Wikibooks writes that you must be able to see the section you're paddling or have assessed it beforehand by scouting. From WW IV scouting is usually necessary, from WW V essential. When scouting, clarify: where's the line, where are the hazards, where does the safety cover stand, where are the eddies to get out? And: where do we portage if necessary?
Tip: memorise distinctive landmarks like a light-coloured rock or a tree, because everything looks different from the boat.
Sources and further reading
Research as of 13 Nov 2026. We have marked manufacturer information as such.