More important, if you have never tried it before, it would be better if you went on a guided trip with an instructor. Don’t assume you can "figure it out." There is more to kayaking than just plunking the boat in the water and thrashing around with a paddle. In fact, no responsible outfitter will just give a renter a kayak to take off site without some on-the-water instruction in technique and safety. You’d be amazed how many first time paddlers get in trouble and even drown on small lakes because they don’t know what they are doing.