Bill Mason was one of the most prolific writers and filmmakers on canoeing during the 1970’s. His books like Path of the Paddle and instructional films were both beautiful and groundbreaking. This short film from 1977 is both historic outdoor education and timeless as canoeist Bill Mason explains clearly how to locate a deep water channel by reading the rapids and how to apply paddling strokes and manoeuvres to steer the canoe where you want it to go. It also depicts what happens if you “wipe out” in a turbulent rapid and shows you how to survive the swim. Watching Bill paddle a solo boat is indeed watching and artist exercise his craft.