Ace Kayaking School - Benton, Tennessee

Joseph S.

If you've already decided that you want to enter the world of kayaking and are searching for the right instructor or outfitter, look no further. Ace is professional, well-known and well-liked on the river, and highly knowledgeable.

I took a 5-day course with a friend, which was split into 2 weekends and included instruction from 3 different instructors. I had zero experience with a whitewater kayak on day 1, but by day 5, I had a somewhat controlled roll, a solid understanding of how to operate and care for my boat, knowledge and experience in being an active participant in my own safety, and the ability to perform various strokes and know when to use them. Most importantly, I had a blast while learning.

They will meet you where you're at in your progression and can handle both big water or working on strokes in the lake.

I have already booked my next trip with Ace.

The D. D.

I took a roll clinic private lesson with Joe and it was the best lesson I have received. Very deep knowledge-it went well beyond rolling! I also have had some nervousness due to a prior poor lesson experience-Joe was able to get me to trust him and relax to physically learn the maneuvers of kayak rolling. My job is to practice and follow up. Great job overall.

Dale K.

I decided I was going to learn how to Whitewater Kayak after major surgery a year ago... Ace Kayaking went above and beyond to accomodate my journey. They helped me develop a plan that didn't impact my health and focused on incremental progression.

I hadn't even tried kayaking on flat water and the staff at Ace devoted a few hours to help me establish a solid base before we ever progressed to whitewater. It is a testament to their commitment to safety.

I have taken a few lessons and always leave with strengths/weaknesses, a few new techniques, and "homework," to ensure I progress. Everyone on the team communicates with you and makes learning safe/fun. They have encouraged me to push myself safely.

I have tried other complex hobbies that restrict beginners, but Ace shatters that and is commited to your goals. Clinics, trips, private lessons... it's a community.

Special thanks to Joe, Savannah, Will, Cade, and Haley for being the best! I have been stopped by others on the river and been told that there is not a better group of people to learn from... and I 100% agree!

Trey S.

What a memorable experience! We had rafted before but this was the first time in an inflatable kayak. We met up with Lucien for a quick tutorial, then hit the water. The guides were top notch. Safety is a top concern and we were made to feel like regulars on the water. Exciting is an understatement. Such a different perspective in a ducky. Coming back for more next year!!

Dana S.

I cannot stop raving about my lesson with Natalie! I was blown away with the level of professionalism and detail that went into the day. We spent the day on the Ocoee working on drills I had never done, edging, various paddle strokes, it was incredibly thorough. Natalie answered every question I had with as much detail possible. I had quite a few "light switch" moments where things that didn't make sense to me the last year, clicked in just our 1 day together. It was probably the best day paddling I've ever had, plus she is a blast to hang out with. Worth every penny if you truly want to grow and excel as a paddler!

Garrett I.

I had a wonderful experience with Ace! I found they did an excellent job of creating a relaxing and safe environment while also making sure you are learning the fundamentals. I would recommend at least two days. We spent day one covering some basics and day two was more implementation. In my opinion trying to really grasp everything in one day would have been too much for me but if your schedule only allows one day you will still learn a ton. I spent one day with Joe, and the next with Savannah and they were both wonderful. If you have the chance to get different instructors between days I would suggest it. This gives you a chance to hear things explained in different ways and really maximize what you can pick up from Joe and his team. If you are looking for a good place to learn, this is it.

kelsey D.

This was my first introduction to whitewater kayaking and I am so happy to have chosen Ace. My friend and I took a private weekend lesson with Nick, who was such a great instructor! He did a great job of keeping the experience fun while also teaching technique and occasionally throwing us tough challenges. As our skill level improved, he catered the lessons to keep up. With his past training as a paramedic and his many years of kayaking experience, he helped us feel safe and confident on the water. Ace instructors are very well trained and you could go as far as you like in this sport with them. Highly recommend for beginners looking to get a taste of the sport through expert paddlers looking to improve their skills.

David

I wanted my two sons to learn correctly and safe how to begin their whitewater adventures. I set an appointment with ACE on July 6 2020 for the beginners class. They were spot on time, with all our gear for the day sized correctly. We spent about 5-6 hours of learning and having a blast. The only thing that my boys didn’t like was they didn’t get any instruction on rolling which we just run out of time. Joe, the owner of ACE told us to come back on a Thursday for the free roll teaching/practicing day. I was a little hesitant about driving all the way down there again for a group setting, but it was very important for my boys so we went on a Thursday evening. Joe spent almost the entire time working with myself, and my two sons on rolling technique. He taught us the C to C form and, both my boys where rolling great within the week. I can’t say enough about the treatment my 14-year-old has received from the staff at ACE. They were just as excited to teach him as he was in learning. I was very pleased with how they conduct their business, and very satisfied as a customer. I would highly recommend for any skill level, and for families. Thanks Joe & ACE staff!
David, New Market TN