Stan,

This is a very common problem. Most beginning whitewater kayakers
experience this. In many ways it is like learning to ride a bicycle.
The beginning rider has not learned to make the proper minor
corrections and wobbles down the road. At some point, your body gets
it and you begin to make minor corrections well before you get out of
control. What you need is more "seat time." As you spend time in the
seat, you will steadily get more control. Instruction would certainly
speed your learning curve.

Here are a couple of tips:

1) Paddle in front - Put the paddle in by your toes and take it out at
your hips.

2) Keep the paddle relatively close to the boat and vertical. Wide
strokes are called "sweep Strokes" and are used for correction and
turning.

3) Try to anticipate the turning and correct it as soon as you feel
it. correct it with a wider stroke on the side you are turnig towards
(i.e. - If you are spinning left, take a wider stroke on the left).
Note a harder (more energetic) or multiple strokes on that side will
also work.

4) I would take your WW boat on flat water first. That will allow you
to eliminate the current factor and concentrate on control.

Good luck to you. If you really want to paddle whitewater, stick with
the whitewater boat. It does have a bit of a learning curve but you
will get it eventually.

Have fun!

Randy