Submit your project to the paddling film festival

Since 2006, the Paddling Film Festival and World Tour has been showcasing the very best paddling films. The World Tour was screening in 130 cities around the world. So far it’s screened 984 times to more than 296,864 audience members. The Paddling Film Festival has awarded $94,00 in cash prizes to paddling filmmakers and World Tour hosts have raised hundreds of thousands of dollars for local charitable projects. The Paddling Film Festival World Tour has grown to become one of the largest paddling events in the world.

film categories, awards and prizes

  • Best Sea Kayaking Film

  • Best Canoeing Film

  • Best Whitewater Film

  • Best Kayak Fishing Film

  • Best Standup Paddling Film

  • Best Paddling Documentary

  • Best Adventure Travel Paddling Film

  • Best Instructional Paddling Film

  • Best Short/Amateur Paddling Film

  • Best Environmental Paddling Film

  • Best Rafting Film

Each year there are $5,500 in cash prizes awarded.

Each of our 11 category winners receives a $500 cash prize, paid in Canadian dollars. Films may be entered in more than one category, but may only win in one.

The Aqua-Bound People's Choice Award winner also receives a $500 cash prize, paid in Canadian dollars. How do we decide who wins the Aqua-Bound People's Choice Award? We don't, audiences decide. Near the end of the tour, the scores will be tallied and the Aqua-Bound People's Choice Award winner will be announced at one of the major outdoor industry trade shows.

How to Submit Your Project to the Paddling Film Festival

Submissions for the paddling film festival 2026 will open in the spring. 
Paddling Film Festival accepts entries on FilmFreeway.