New Paddle for Larger, Older Paddler

I'm 64, 6' 2", 225 pounds, have arthritic hips and mostly paddle flat water. My current paddle is an Epic large wing (that I've used since 2007) and my ski is a Think Evo. Would my rough-water skills be improved with a different paddle?

I always suggest that paddlers error on the smaller size when selecting paddles. You may find a medium paddle will suit you better. If you can, try get to your local kayak store and try some paddles out. So many designs, shapes, shaft types etc, you're spolit for choice.

"Would my rough-water skills be improved with a different paddle?"

Can't say if they'll be improved or not. An Epic Large is a big blade no matter your size. Going to a smaller blade like a medium or small/medium will likely be easier, i.e. less tiring to use and it's what most all ski paddlers use. Going to a smaller blade will also likely make you feel a bit less stable, though, unless you make up for it by slightly increasing your cadence - which should come naturally with the smaller blade anyway.

"Would my rough-water skills be improved with a different paddle?"

Can't say if they'll be improved or not. An Epic Large is a big blade no matter your size. Going to a smaller blade like a medium or small/medium will likely be easier, i.e. less tiring to use and it's what most all ski paddlers use. Going to a smaller blade will also likely make you feel a bit less stable, though, unless you make up for it by slightly increasing your cadence - which should come naturally with the smaller blade anyway.

Started to get the same feeling after the age of 50 -- now at 55 6'6" tall and 95kg and my paddling has gotten alot more comfortable since i shortened my blade length to 212cm and gone down in size - using a Flyer Maxpaddle ( smaller than Epic meduim mid wing)
Stability has improved as i can get a quicker rotation and average speed has increased ie. giving some youngsters a go for their money !!!
in saying all this yu still have to try out and see how yu go !! good luck mate !!!

Looks like Santa is bringing me a Braca IV min in a fancy Braca paddle bag. Hope I can sleep on Christmas eve!