paddling flat water

this is my first post, nice to be here , i have a question about paddling flat water and the sides of my raft ,seems when i paddle my paddle is rubbing against the side tubes and im wondering about if some kinda protection is necessary… was thinking about getting an explora seat to raise me up a bit or putting tape along the side tubes where it hits, ive only had the raft 3 weeks and i use it for fishing in the salt water and long flat lake trips so i paddle alot and i have used it nearly every day since i got it,and i notice scratches along the sides anyone ells have this…

Hi Whazzup. When I paddle flat water, I like to have a longer, 240cm, paddle to reach over the sides of the packraft. A higher seat will also help get you hight out of the boat. Hope that helps!