Use a tree if there are any around.

I use a stake and self launch all the time when land kiting as I am usually the only one around. It's not hard even in 20knots. It takes practice but it can be done. The stake I use came with my Ozone Octane, but you can get a good one and preferrably with a handle from most camping shops. Make sure it's the thickest and longest one you can find and get a rubber mullet to hammer it in. You may also need some strong rope to pull it off the ground, but I hardly needed to use it. Next hammer the stake at an angle with the head of the stake towards upwind, so it adds extra "grip" to the bar or chicken loop and does not pop out if the kite self launches! Oh and make sure the donkey dick is also wedged in for that extra grip. Move your kite to the edge of the wind window first (or park it there first in strong winds) and then race back, hook yourself in, and self launch! There are plenty of vids on utube on how to self launch anyway.

Hi ToshAuer. I personally don't much like the concept of launching my kite when I'm not attached to it. But i remember well the days of my first few times going out solo and am sure I would not have liked to have self launched/landed myself.

I think NoBS advice is spot on. I self-learned to launch and land a kite by copying what others did. There were some epic failures along the way, including getting dragged by along on my knees when the steering line got snagged round the kite.

Both are relatively easy, but are best practiced on a nice open beach ideally under instruction. There's no shame in it, and paying for an hour or two lessons to learn how to launch and land whilst attached is a lot cheaper than launching a kite that is not correctly tethered, and loosing the kite.

Whatever you do, take it easy for the first few until you're comfortable with the technique.

Good luck and enjoy!

NoBS said..

Here's a brainwave...

Why dont you go see a reputable school, pay for a lesson and spend 2 hrs self launching/landing..



It's ok, that advice was for free.

I agree with you here. Self launching is a crucial skill as there will be times when no one else is around. Its extremely easy even in higher winds.

BLUESCREW..
Thats what i was recommended and use.

Billy has a good point. Oh and Self drift launch,... I'd personally steer clear of that one for many many days... but i guess I might just be a massive big-girl's-blouse.

I guess I've always done self launch on a beach... and in my head, a lake in WA has nice sandy beaches with the occasional croc.

ToshAuer said..

Hi guys

I am just starting out and soon moving to a remote rural town in QLD so to get in the water will be a 2 hour drive. ( not that bigger deal to me as i currently drive 8 hours to work each way each week) but i have access to a large lake near where i will be living and figure if the wind is right i will be able to board there. Heres the kicker i havn't ever seen someone riding there so i doubt i will find someone to help launch the kite. I have been looking at kite mates and kite buddys and want to know the dangers associated with launching off one of these setups with only limited skill. Looks safe enough but im sure there is a bad side.

Cheers

Tosh

Assuming there are no crocs....
If there is enough shallow water in the lake, I would put a permanent anchor in it and use that to launch the kite.

You can use concrete and it will cure underwater if you cant get another solid anchor.

Advantages are -
You are less likely to get injured in the water.
Its very easy on the kite - even if it tumbles downwind.