Broad Slough is a significant tidal slough within the Sacramento-San Joaquin River Delta, connecting the San Joaquin River near Antioch to the Sacramento River. The primary and most commonly used launch point for paddlers is the Antioch Marina or the adjacent Antioch public boat ramp. This provides direct access to the San Joaquin River, from which paddlers cross approximately a quarter to a half mile to reach Kimball Island and the entrance to Broad Slough. This crossing of the deep-water shipping channel is a major hazard, requiring high caution for fast-moving ships. The entire area is subject to strong tidal currents, with flows reaching at least 1.6 knots during flood tides. Currents are tricky, especially at Point Sacramento where the San Joaquin and Sacramento Rivers converge. The slough is highly exposed to wind, particularly from the northwest, which can quickly generate steep, two-to-three-foot wind waves on the San Joaquin River and open sections of the slough, making conditions intimidating. Paddlers should plan trips around wind forecasts and tide tables, ideally paddling against a gentle incoming tide and returning with a flood tide for assistance.

The paddling experience offers a stark industrial and natural contrast. The rumble of industry from the south shore is audible, but the slough's edges and connecting waterways like Cabin Slough and the Dow Wetlands provide quieter, protected areas rich in wildlife. Common sightings include river otters, seals or sea lions heard in the distance, and abundant birdlife among the tule reeds. The skeletal remains of old boats are noted along some shorelines. For day trips, a common route involves launching from Antioch, crossing to Kimball Island, and paddling up Broad Slough to Point Sacramento on Sherman Island, a distance of approximately 3.5 miles one-way. Exploring the intricate network of sloughs within Sherman Island or the Dow Wetlands is popular, but paddlers are warned to watch for low tides in these areas and to use GPS to avoid getting lost in the maze of channels. Landing is prohibited at the ecologically sensitive Antioch Dunes. The area sees significant fishing boat traffic, particularly during salmon and striped bass runs, and recreational boat traffic near the public launches.