I keep mine on the bow, for this very reason. Im getting well practiced at pulling it while holding my breath upside down, and that is a handy thing to be able to do

: If you can't get it while upright and in the kayak, it isn't much use to you
: when you may need it.

: I've seem sudden wind take a paddle (let go rather than getting dumped),
: people without leashes drift away from laid down paddles while lunching,
: photographing, bird watching with binoculars, etc.

: Having two different type paddles (different blades sizes or lengths) gives
: you more options for differing conditions or moods if you can reach and
: trade for the second paddle.

: In any kind of emergency or rescue, the spare paddle should be easy to get.
: Emergencies and rescues almost always happen on the water under less than
: friendly conditions.

: My float and spare paddle are always where I can get them quickly if pushy
: conditions arise.

: Like any emergency gear, it is seldom if ever really needed or used but that
: shouldn't be the reason for whether or where to carry it.

: Randy