Frequently Asked Questions

We offer private and small-group lessons in both stand up paddleboarding (SUP) and surf ski for all skill levels. Current options include:

• SUP Basics Level 1 — for complete beginners
• SUP Basics Level 2 — intermediate skills, precision and turning
• Tides, Currents & Wind — land-based navigation training
• Freighter Wave Surfing — surf container ship waves in Seattle (Apr–Sep)
• Deception Pass Tidal Rapids — advanced SUP in saltwater current
• Surf Ski Lessons — beginner through advanced open-ocean touring
• Custom Training Programs — tailored to your goals, races, or schedule

Absolutely. SUP Basics Level 1 is designed from the ground up for first-timers. You'll learn balance, stance, efficient paddling, and water safety — no experience required. We work with all ages and fitness levels.

A 90-minute session covers the core skills for that lesson type — great if you want to try something new or have limited time. The 3-hour session allows more time to practice, refine technique, and cover more ground. For advanced topics like downwinding, tidal rapids, or race prep, the 3-hour format is strongly recommended.

Yes. If our standard lessons don't fit your goals, Rob can design a custom session or multi-week training plan around your schedule, budget, and objectives. This is especially popular for athletes preparing for races like the Seventy48 or planning long-distance Salish Sea expeditions. Learn more here.

We work with teens 16 and over and can structure a session for teens and adults together. Rob and his coaches are well known for their patient, encouraging approach with younger paddlers.

Salmon Bay Paddle is a mobile business with no physical shop — we meet you at the water. Beginner and intermediate lessons are based in Ballard, Seattle. Advanced sessions venture further into the Salish Sea, including Puget Sound and Deception Pass. Rob confirms your exact meeting spot when you book.

Yes — we paddle every month of the year. Seattle's waters get cold in winter, but we provide wetsuits and quality cold-weather gear so you stay comfortable. The one seasonal exception is Freighter Wave Surfing, which runs April through September only.

In warmer months, board shorts or a swimsuit works well. In cooler months, we supply wetsuits and related when needed.. Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat. Sunglasses with a strap are a handy bonus.

You're welcome to learn on your own gear or use ours. All paddle boards, surf skis, paddles, PFDs, and safety equipment are included in every lesson at no extra charge. Just show up ready to paddle.

Absolutely. Rob has deep knowledge of boards, surf skis, and paddles across all price points. Many students use their lesson to test different equipment and get buying guidance. Just let Rob know and he'll work it into your session.

As a bonus, Salmon Bay Paddle alumni receive 10% off at Urban Surf and on Rob's guidebook Paddling the Salish Sea: 80 Trips.

All lessons are led by Rob Casey or one of his PSUPA-certified coaches for sup, Jac Howard and Alex Vaughan and for surf ski Mike Liddell. Rob is the author of Stand Up Paddling: Flat Water to Surf and Rivers, named a pioneer of the SUP industry by Stand Up Journal, and founded Salmon Bay Paddle in 2010. Meet the full team.

Very. Every lesson is tailored to your specific goals, experience level, and learning style. With small-group and private formats, you get direct, focused coaching — not a generic class. Rob's approach is built around helping each paddler overcome their unique challenges and build real confidence on the water.

A surf ski is a long, sit-on-top kayak built for open-water, touring, recreation, speed and downwinding. Unlike a SUP, you sit in it and use a double-bladed paddle. They're fast and well-suited for downwind runs, ocean touring, and racing. Our surf ski lessons cover everything from your very first paddle to advanced open-ocean technique on Puget Sound and the Salish Sea.

No prior experience needed. Rob introduces surf skiing from the ground up — covering balance, paddle technique, and water reading, then progressing to open-ocean handling and downwinding as your skills develop.

Use the Contact page to get in touch with Rob. Describe your goals, experience level, and preferred dates and he'll follow up to confirm details, location, and payment.

Rates vary by lesson type, duration (90 min or 3 hours), and private vs. small-group format. Visit the Training page for sample rates, or contact Rob to discuss options that fit your budget.

Contact Rob as early as possible if you need to reschedule or cancel. Weather cancellations are handled case by case and we always do our best to find an alternative time that works for you. Reach Rob through the Contact page.

Yes. Rob Casey runs the PSUPA Flat Water 1 SUP Instructor Certification, typically offered in May or June. The course covers paddleboarding technique, water safety, and teaching methodology — everything you need to become a certified SUP instructor. Learn more here, or contact Rob to get on the list.