By Kelsey Thompson and Wave Sport - The Stern Stall is a move where the paddler balances their kayak vertically on its stern end. Most paddlers find this move more difficult to learn than the bow stall but the concept is the same.

Just like the bow stall you need to be able to get your boat vertical only this time on the stern. There are two ways of doing this: you can stern squirt into a stern stall or you can use a reverse double pump. Although maybe not the easier of the two, using a reverse double pump will provide you with the most control and once you're good at it is a much more reliable way of getting into the stall.

As you reach vertical use your paddle to stop your boat from falling side to side and look up at the sky. Put both of your paddle blades behind your head and lay back so your back is touching the water. From this position you're ready to control what happens to your boat and can continue to use your paddle blades to stop you from falling side to side. (A paddle with an offset of 0-30 degrees will make this easier)

Just like the bow stall the opposite of what you think will happen is what happens. When you lean forward your kayak is actually pulled more vertically and when you lean back your kayak will flatten out. Mastering these body leans without thinking is vital to your success and will take lots of time to learn.

More moves: Backdeck Roll, Bow Stall, Flatwater Cartweel, Flatwater Loop, Double Pump and a video.