Been there, done that. Here are two methods I use.
1. Exit the kayak while still in knee-deep water. Lift the bow up high while walking to the shallows and gently set it on the rocks/bank or a log. Little to no scratching. Reverse procedure for getting back in.
2. Use a grapple (or other) anchor and leave the kayak in knee-deep water away from rocks.
In both these cases I leave the drive in with one arm bungeed back to keep the fins flat against the hull bottom rather than frequently removing and installing them. Unless there are lots of shallows in the river so I am paddling rather than pedaling.
Honestly, As time goes on I have become a lot less concerned about minor scratches. Do a forum search on keyword "scratches" and forum member "fusioneng". He has some great posts on bottom care.
Peter
_________________ 2016 Hobie Oasis with Evolve v2 rudder mount, Sidekick ama kit, Mirage sail kit, Garmin echoMAP CHIRP 42dv, bilge pump 2007 Hobie Outfitter x 2 with Mirage sail kits, large rudder blades
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