Paddle Sports

Paddle Sports on Candlewood Lake

Candlewood Lake is a great place to explore via kayak, canoe or stand up paddleboard! Head out on a quiet weekday or weekend morning and explore our natural shoreline areas. You probably won't sneak up on them, but you may get to see a blue heron, osprey or even an American Bald Eagle, among many others

When out enjoying the lake via paddlecraft, please be safe and follow CT laws regarding personal floatation device usage. Please note that Dike's Point in New Milford has a car top launch which may also work well for paddlesport enthusiasts.

  • Wear Your Life Jacket: You must have one life jacket per person aboard, but people lose their lives every year because they aren’t wearing their life jacket…so please wear your life jacket!
  • From Oct 1st through  May 31st it is required by CT law to wear your life jacket when on a manually propelled vessel like a kayak or stand up paddleboard.  Use extra caution when paddling during these times.  Hypothermia can set in quickly and accidents are more likely to be fatal when the water or air are colder.
  • Float Plan: Let somebody know when you’re going, planning to return and the route you plan to paddle.
  • Bring Friends:  It’s always safer to paddle in a group…and it’s more fun too.  Paddle together and stay within voice range of each other.
  • Weather: Check the forecast before leaving and be prepared for bad weather regardless. 
  • Know your Abilities: Winds can change or come out of nowhere.  Know that you need to have enough energy to get back, possibly into a strong headwind.  Be prepared!
  • Dress Appropriately: Wear synthetic materials that wick moisture and keep you warm even when wet.  Don’t wear cotton!
  • Safety Whistle:  Make sure you have one with you – preferably attached to the life vest you are wearing.
  • Other Items to Bring: First aid kit, fully charged cell phone, lots of water, food, map of the lake, sun block, hat, sunglasses.
  • Stay Near Shore:  The lake can be busy…especially on weekends.  Stay near shore and avoid motorboat traffic.
  • Paddle Sober: Never paddle if you are under the influence of alcohol or drugs.