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(As for me, I first went to Quetico having been in a canoe probably 2 or 3 times. Learned just by doing it and asking questions. I know probably four or five strokes, and 99 percent of my paddling has been on open water (lakes and big rivers), or small creeks, rather than rapids.)

Same here. I think if you have the time/place to learn all those advanced skills that's great, but realistically how many people do?

  If you picked up a book or video before having any experience you might be so intimidated you'd never go on a trip.

I've been in places that based on my skills I probably shouldn't have been but made it thru because I take it slow and easy and always leave myself an out.

There is a "geek' factor to every endeavor where people just literally overload themselves with knowledge that unless you can practice on a regular basis you can't get into muscle memory and IF you need it, chances are you won't have it. You might know what you should do, you just can't do it.