Andrew DeCarlo
Kayaking Guide, AAG Ambassador Since 2021
For me, kayaking is my favorite way to get out in nature, challenge myself, and get some solid exercise all at the same time. It’s engaging both physically and mentally and is a sure fire way for me to just clear my mind and disconnect from any stresses of life, even if it’s sometimes “stressful kayaking.”
About
Andrew DeCarlo
Where Are You From?
I’m from Ashland, a little coal mining town in Schuylkill County, PA
Where Do You Live Now?
I moved to Fayetteville, WV in spring of 2017 and for the past year, I’ve called Oak Hill, WV home.
What’s Your Home Run?
I’d call my home run(s) anything around the Fayetteville area. Mainly the Meadow, Gauley, and New rivers.
How Long Have You Been Kayaking?
I had played around in kayaks here and there, but really started kayaking with any kind of frequency in winter 2019.
What's Your Favorite Run?
It’s difficult to pick a singular favorite so I’ll give you a few. Local favorites are Lower Meadow and Mill Creek. Non-local favorites – Blackwater River, WV and Raquette River, NY
What's Your Favorite Boat To Paddle?
Pyranha Scorch X for sure. It’s just so fun and doesn’t paddle nearly as big as it looks. A lot of volume to float you high, but still nice and sporty.
What Got You Into White Water?
Well, I started into whitewater as a raft guide when I moved here. Floating down the river in a raft watching the kayakers surf, squirt, and splat their way down the river, I knew that’s what I wanted to do so I just made it a point to get in a boat and start learning. And shout out to all of the paddlers here that have helped me learn. Whether it be teaching skills, borrowing gear, or showing me down new runs, the Fayetteville paddling community is awesome and everyone does their best to help the newbies.
