canoeing first arrived in brasil in 1943 with the help of german immigrant Jose Wingen - he designed a wooden boat similar to ones he had used as a child in germany - it took many years before the sport picked up in popularity and quality canoes were available to use. during the late 1970 and 1980s the varying types of canoeing gained momento, and clubs were formed to grow participants.

the fecaerj is the state wide federation for canoeing in rio de janeiro - they are a non for porfit organization with information on all forms of canoeing, available competitions and associations.