Cold Water Kayaker

Paddle Trip: Back to the Concord River

2019-11-27T15:00:00.000-05:00

As the temperature drops, I look to take my touring kayak to rivers (read my posts 5 Tips for Paddling in the Bumper Seasons and 5 Tips for Touring a River in a Kayak ). I hadn't paddled the Concord River in Bedford and Concord, MA in a few years, so Tim (read my post An Unexpected Adventure) and I took a trip down Rt. 128 to Rt. 4 and put in across from the Bedford Boat Landing at the Carlisle Road (Rt. 225) bridge. The day was bright and crisp with a westerly breeze that made for a head wind, which added to the current (we paddled upstream) as a drag on our progress. We weren't in any hurry, though, and as I've stated in past posts, paddling upstream first on a river sure makes the return trip a lot easier. The river is wide just upstream of the bridge, and the breeze blew up a small chop in the middle. Progress was good, though, as we cruised along enjoying the waning color of the late autumn leaves on the banks.

The Concord River is formed by the merging of the Sudbury and Assabet Rivers at Egg Rock near the Concord Battleground and the Minute Man statue. It winds downstream (east/northeast) through Concord, Bedford, Billerica, North Billerica, and Lowell, and empties, ultimately, into the Merrimack. It's a substantial river - wide in most places, which is what you want if you're paddling a touring kayak as we were. 'Yaks in the 14-17' range can be difficult to maneuver on narrow rivers and streams - especially if they have hard bends and currents around obstacles. As we moved farther upstream, we ran into some of these types of narrower sections, but largely, the Concord is well suited to accommodate longer craft.

Wildlife was mostly quiet, save for a few ducks and geese along the way. I was hoping to spot some deer in the woods on the banks, but had no such luck. The big surprise was seeing painted turtles basking on logs on the north bank, taking advantage of the south westerly sun arc to catch some late October rays. I was surprised to see turtles still active that late in the season with ambient air temperatures in the mid 50's℉, and dropping rapidly when the sun descends in the late afternoon.

The banks of the river on our route upstream toward Concord are largely uninhabited, with trails on the north bank, and much of the south bank lying within the Great Meadows National Wildlife Refuge . As we approached Concord, however, some large private properties with expansive lawns can be viewed on the north bank. Great Meadows has landings for kayaks and canoes. We didn't stop there, but a trail hike in the refuge could be added to a river paddle for a stretch of the legs and some additional interest. We did stop at one point on the north bank for a quick stretch beside one of the riverside trails.

Boat traffic was sporadic, with some small motor craft traveling along. They kept their speeds low , so safety was not a concern - although one two-boat group of fishermen had lines in the water - which is always a hazard to keep wide of, especially when other obstacles are present - like logs and tree limbs, as were in this case. I often find it better to wait in an eddy and time a burst of hard paddling to get clear of other boat traffic.

There are a couple of interesting bridges to pass under on the way upstream. The stone bridge at Monument Street was built in the late 1800's and the The Old North Bridge at Liberty Street harkens back to colonial days. As we approached the Old North Bridge, rented kayaks were plentiful on the water, with inexperienced paddlers aboard - so a measure of caution passing through this area was warranted.

The Old North Bridge, Concord, MA

We turned south on to the Sudbury at Egg Rock and paddled for another half mile before deciding to turn around and head back toward Bedford. As expected, the current at our sterns was a welcome push and a reward for enduring the same current while paddling upstream. We made great time as we glided with the flow, and we discussed a possible future trip up the Sudbury from the boat launch just upstream form The Old North Bridge.

By the time we got back to the our landing, the sun was already getting low in the west, and the temperature drop was noticeable. I was glad to be off the water. We used Google to find a local pub, and drove over to nearby Acton for some tasty appetizers and a couple of well earned draft beers.

The return trip to the Concord River was a fine paddle in crisp air, with a couple of sites along the way - roughly 4 hours round trip. I'd do it again, and I look forward to heading further up the Sudbury in the future.

- TB on the Water

Catching Up: What's New with CWK

2019-07-10T15:00:00.000-04:00

2019 has thus far been a year sadly lacking in new CWK blog posts. Other priorities have pulled me away from posting, and unfortunately, from as much kayaking and waveski surfing as I'd like. Additionally, the purchase of a new vehicle (I swapped out my short bed truck for a small SUV with roof top crossbars) has resulted in a bit of a learning curve to define the best loading/carrying options for my gear. In light of those realities, I decided to post a quick update on 3 topics in development, and to give some insight into what I hope will become more detailed future posts:

1. Attending the New England Paddle Show 2019. I attended the New England Paddle Show at the University of NH this year - for the first time in several years. I was accompanied by my friend Gary, with whom I reconnected recently after many years of taking separate paths. Gary was researching what turned out to be the purchase of his first kayak, and I hope to post in more detail my thoughts on these shows; what to consider when attending one, what gear you might want to purchase there vs. what you might research for a later purchase, what information can be obtained from manufacturer's reps, etc. This topic warrants a full post and will require some due consideration on my part. Look for it soon.

2. Adjusting to Rooftop Carry on a Shorter Vehicle. I learned the hard way that my tie down system was insufficient for my touring kayak when a bungee broke and the front end of my 'yak lifted out of the J-cradle and slid down the side of my Subaru Forester - on the highway at 65 mph! Fortunately, some additional securing held it onto the vehicle, and I was able to safely pull into the breakdown lane and re-secure the 'yak to the cradles (with one minor scratch to my paint). It was unnerving, to say the least, and forced a reconsideration of what anchor points I need to safely secure 2 kayaks for highway travel. I am learning quite a bit about what works and what doesn't, and this adjustment deserves to be fully described in a post of its own - also on the project list.

J-CRADLES MOUNTED ON CROSSBARS

3. A New Addition Has Been Welcomed to My Kayak Collection. In keeping with my penchant for procuring vintage kayaks for specific uses (clearly an illness at this point), I finally got my hands on a much heralded surf kayak I have yearned to obtain for several years: a Cobra Strike SOT. This is a plastic SOT model that surfers speak of in high regard, and I had the opportunity to surf one years ago (thanks Mike from Jenness Beach, NH if you ever read this). A very rare used model (nobody ever sells these boats) became available close to my location, and I picked it up at a bargain price. It did need some TLC, however, and I am in the process of getting it serviceable and making some minor upgrades. It should be ready to surf within the next couple of weeks, so I will be due for more than one post on this subject. It will be interesting to contrast my 2 vintage surf craft (the Walden Milo Waveksi vs. the Cobra Strike), and to see how they operate in different conditions. I'm looking forward to the adventure.

3 VIEWS OF MY NEW (used) COBRA STRIKE (stripped down):

COBRA STRIKE - SIDE VIEW

COBRA STRIKE - SINGLE FIN

COBRA STRIKE - FRONT VIEW

If you've been checking this blog for new posts, I apologize for being absent for a while - but it looks like I have some some valuable topics lined up, and maybe some useful insights to offer.

Cheers,

TB on the Water

Curated Post: 2018 Tips Learned (video)

2019-01-09T15:00:00.000-05:00

Occasionally, I use this blog to post something I run across that I think is of great interest and/or value. I really like this brief video from "Kayak Hipster" on Youtube, discussing the valuable tips he picked up in 2018. Some of these are advanced, but many are useful even to kayakers with little experience:

I'll continue to keep an eye out for good content like this. Let me know what you think in the comments.

- TB on the Water

Advice: Getting There - 5 Considerations for Transporting Your Kayak

2018-12-19T15:00:00.000-05:00

With the holiday season in full swing, gift purchasing is an ever present challenge. If you have a kayaker in the family (or maybe you're playing Santa for yourself 😁) crossbars, racks, tie downs, and other related transport hardware could be a welcome addition under the tree. The questions are: what kind of hardware, and where do I start? I purchased a new mini SUV recently, and have been asking myself those questions. Here's a quick hit list of my considerations that might make your search a little easier:

1. What kind of a vehicle do you have? There's a big difference between a sports sedan, an SUV, and a pick-up truck in terms of what solution is appropriate for your kayak transport. If you have a pick-up bed and a short kayak, you might just get away with laying your 'yak in the bed - maybe with it leaning up against your tailgate, or laying it flat with the tailgate down. Either way, make sure to strap it down and tie a visibility flag to the end that's sticking out the back. If you need to use your roof for transport, you'll need to take additional measures. Minimally, you'll have to put some kind of padding down and strap your 'yak directly to the roof. I wouldn't recommend this - certainly not for long kayaks, or for highway travel. Having roof rails (the factory bars that run parallel along the sides of the roof) makes this arrangement more stable from side to side, but front to back is a much more tenuous proposition - especially if you have to brake hard for some reason. You should seriously consider installing crossbars/loadbars (bars that run perpendicular to the sides of the car, and cross your roof from one side to the other). Crossbars can be mounted on factory roof rails, or with the addition of "feet" that attach to the roof or to the gutter (the edge above the windows that redirects rain water). Crossbars also provide the option of swapping out different cradles/holders for different gear. Take note of how flat or curved your roof slope is when you look at your vehicle from the side; this can determine how much clearance you will have under your crossbars, which can affect where you position them. Finally, if you have a tall vehicle, think about how you will reach the kayak mounting locations - and how that might effect your choice of hardware.

If you have OEM crossbars (like this vehicle)

make sure their load capacity is sufficient

OEM (original equipment manufacturer) crossbars mounted on side rails

2. What kind of kayak do you have? A 15' touring sea kayak is a different boat than a short creek 'yak, or a recreational model, or a surf kayak. The length, width, hull shape, and curvature ("rocker") of your kayak will play a large role in determining what hardware will properly support it. For example: my waveski is 26" wide, and 6' long. It will lay flat on top of my new crossbars easily (with the addition of padding), with room to spare. However, my 15' touring boat will require additional accommodation - I usually carry 2 of them, so side by side will not work. They will have to be mounted on their sides, which will require vertical cradles of some sort - which I considered when selecting my crossbars, to make sure I could mount those. See how your boats and your paddling activities determine your solution? It's always a good idea to carefully consider how many, and what kind of kayaks you will be transporting, and adjusting your hardware selections to match that reality.

3. How will you get your kayaks on top of your vehicle? If you have a tall SUV, or are using the roof of your pick-up to carry your kayaks, height might be a challenge. This could affect what solution you choose. For instance, there are kayak cradles/saddles with rollers that allow you to lean the bow of your boat onto a roller and push/roll the kayak into the correct position. This might help if you're short and/or by yourself. There are crossbars that have a section that slides out from the side of the car and hinges downward, so you can put the kayak on it, then slide it back on to the roof. Each of these are more expensive options than standard gear. If you're using upright cradles, you may not be able to slide/drag your kayak across one to the other - to center it on the roof. This means lifting from the side of the vehicle may be your only option. You need to be tall enough to reach, in this case - you wouldn't want to try "throwing" your 'yak into the cradles. How you will mount your kayaks will help determine what hardware makes sense - keep your height and physical ability in mind as you consider your options.

4. Where will you tie your kayaks down? This question may seem obvious if you obtain carriers/holders that have integrated tie down straps, but it it might be more complicated than you think. Tying kayaks near their center is a great location for locking them firmly onto your roof. Dealing with the wind is a another matter - it will push the front end around as you vehicle moves forward, and can push the rear end from side to side as crosswinds and turbulence pass over. Tying the ends down makes sense, especially for long kayaks. If your kayak is longer than your car, what will you tie it to? Fortunately, there are handy ready made loops available that get shut under the hood latch and the rear hatch latch (that sounds funny 😊). There might be something you could connect to a trailer hitch in the rear. Think about the ends as well as the middle when it comes to tie down locations. If you're planning on using crossbars and padding alone, try to figure out what will keep your center straps in place, without sliding. Anchor them by winding them for a turn or two around the side rail feet.

5. How much $ do you want to spend? Ah, my favorite topic when discussing gear. Anyone who has priced out some of the popular brands of roof rack gear knows how pricey it can be. You could easily spend $500.00 for a full new set of feet, crossbars, and cradles/saddles. I would strongly suggest using online tools (available on the manufacturer websites) to configure the right combination of mounting gear for your 'yaks and vehicle, then seeing if you can find it on Craigslist or eBay. Lots of people are selling transport/mounting equipment in good condition (sometimes in the OEM box) at more competitive prices. By all means, if you want to spend the full monty, have at it - but, at least buy from a place that will install the system as part of the deal. Perhaps consider a lesser known brand. Did you know the name brands sell mounting/transport equipment under other brand names at Walmart and Target - at least on their websites? It's true, and it will cost you less. You may not get all the bells and whistles, but that choice is up to you. As for me, I went on the automotive section on Amazon, looked up my vehicle, and found a nice pair of crossbars - specific to my make and model, brand new, with a 150lb. load capacity, and aerodynamic to boot...all for around $100.00. Trust me - that's cheap. They look great too. So, take your time and do your homework. You could save hundreds of dollars.

Choosing the right transport/mounting gear can make life a lot easier when you want to get to the water. Why not make the challenge about your paddle trip, instead of how to get your kayak there? That way, you can put your real effort into the best part of the adventure.

Merry Christmas, Happy belated Hanukkah, and Happy New Year - here's wishes for a great one!

- TB on the Water

Waveski: Back to the Surf!

2018-10-17T15:00:00.000-04:00

After staying away from the waves for most of the summer, I've finally gotten back to the surf a few times in the last 2 months. Fall is the best season for surf here in New England, in my opinion (read my post Why NH Summer Surfing Sucks). Hurricanes pump regular wave action into the Gulf of Maine, parking options open up, and you don't have to keep an eye out for bathers who invariably swim directly in front of your line. The summer water temperatures carry over for a few weeks, so you can get away with a spring/fall wetsuit and no hood or heavy gloves are required. Traffic to and from the beach is largely gone too, so getting to the waves is much quicker, and this offers multiple location options (sometimes even during the same day). As long as the sun is shining and the wind is down, conditions can be quite comfortable.

Like getting back to anything you haven't done in a while, there's always a bit of rust to knock off when you start up again. Add to that some trepidation caused by aging and one too many gnarly scenarios, and a little knot can hit your stomach if you're heading out into anything bigger than you're sure about. Even small waves can be a challenge to your nerve (hey, we're not all Laird Hamilton, right? 😉). Getting those first few rides, and regaining your confidence is crucial. I was fortunate to get those rides over Labor Day weekend - on a freakishly hot day for early September in New England. I surfed in shorts and a 2ml vest, and I felt like I was in bath water for the session. I caught a bunch of rights off a break pretty close to shore at Jenness Beach in Rye, NH - at least, until a dad and his two little boys started working the shore break with boogie boards down the line from me. Them and a bather enjoying the last of summer water temps shut me down from that spot, and I nearly called it a day when my wife showed up at the beach to get some sun. After a few minutes of consideration, though, I decided to try the left that looked like it was shaping up off the point at the north end of the beach (I know it as "Straw's"). That was a decision I was very happy with.

Straw's Point:

The left peels off the point and gets pinched between the rocks and a rip current that forms in a consistent spot a little farther south, off the beach. This has the effect of slowing the wave and holding it up as it reforms 1-2 times - making it surfable all the way to the sand, just about. Then, the rip is a handy escalator back out to the break. A couple of board surfers were the only others playing on this left, but they paddled far out past the point to catch the occasional larger waves that hit in every third or fourth set. I noticed a decent break forming somewhat farther in to shore along the rocks - which I now had all to myself. The good size ones were pitching up to 4 feet, which can be a fun surf on a waveski, if the waves are strong enough and fast enough. They were. I caught at least 20 before I called it quits. It was also a test of my nerve, because I got stuck in the rip last season - and got a little help from a boardie who towed me in close enough to shore to get my feet down. Aside from heavy seaweed right at the beach, conditions couldn't have been better for my first real surf in a few months.

Nahant Beach, Lynn Beach and Lynn Shore Drive:

Nahant Beach and Lynn Beach can pitch some great waves - algae can be a problem, though, and so can the smell.

Since then, I've been out a couple more times - and have been paddling onto some larger waves. I've traveled to at least one spot I haven't surfed in over a year (Nahant Beach), and tried a brand new one (for me, anyway - the north end of King's Beach in Swampscott ). I've had the chance to test out my new seat, which works great after I shaved off some the rear support rim (I kept the side rims, though - they hold me pretty tight without any sliding over the deck). I've also tested a gasket I added to the deck hatch, which works like a charm - I've taken on almost no water.

With the days getting shorter and a chill in the air, most folks are thinking about a toasty fire and a warm sweater. I'm thinking about the wave forecast.

- TB on the Water

Paddle Trip: The Merrimack River - from Rocks Village to Merrimacport

2018-09-05T15:00:00.004-04:00

As I mentioned in my post The Plumb Island River from Plumb Island, one of the few trips I've paddled over this summer was my first ever paddle on the section of the Merrimack River from the Rocks Village Bridge to Merrimacport. This was a few weeks ago, and I've meant to write a post on it, so here it is:

The Rocks Village Bridge - with the Merrimack River below

The Rocks Village Bridge crosses the Merrimack between West Newbury, MA and and the Rocks Village section of Haverhill, MA. On the West Newbury side (south bank) a concrete boat ramp angles into a flat section of water just upstream from the bridge. A few parallel parking spots are available along the roadside, on a gravel section well off the road. Some foot paths offer alternate routes to the river, but watch out for poison ivy if you use them - it's plentiful in the undergrowth. Depending on the tide, the carry to the water can be over some muddy banks, but the footing is pretty firm, and you won't sink in. The Merrimack River is highly influenced by the tide in this section, as the first dam on the river is farther upstream - the Great Stone Dam in Lawrence. It's very important to know what direction the tide is flowing when you set out. Ebb tide (outbound) will work with the river current to create a strong pull downstream. This can cause areas of great difficulty to paddle against if you're heading in the opposite direction. Flow tide (inbound) is strong enough here to flow against the river current, and carry you upstream. The tide changes will always be delayed relative to the mouth of the river at Newburyport. Use tide charts like this one to determine the best time to launch.

I launched on a hot July day, later than advisable relative to the tide change, and paddled downstream against the flow tide. Even with the river current in my favor, paddling against the flow was a bit of a slog - but, I made steady progress. I stayed close to the south bank to avoid the boating channel that runs largely next to the north bank. Power boats and jet skis are abundant on the river when the weather is hot. The occasional boat wake waves rose to a foot and a half in height after a few of the passes, so I kept on eye on them, and didn't get too close to the bank, where they washed out. I paddled past (or underneath) some boats docks, but much of the river bank was undeveloped.

About a half mile downstream from the bridge, I spied something curious off my starboard (right) side on the remaining river bank (soon to be covered by the tidal flow). At first, it looked like a shiny rock - then I saw it move. I paddled closer to get a better look and discovered it was a mammoth (for these parts anyway) snapping turtle. It had a head the size of a small log, and a shell big enough to accommodate two humps instead of the more common one hump. It didn't seem to mind my presence, and continued with its business of devouring a foot long carp that had washed up dead on the river bank. I watched it snap and tear chunks off the fish for a few minutes, then I moved on to leave it to its scavenging. I have no real idea, but I wouldn't be shocked to learn a snapper that big was 50 years old - it had certainly been lurking in these waters for a long time.

Not long after, I started to cross paths with other kayakers and a paddleboarder riding the flow tide back upriver. One mentioned in passing that they were coming from a sandbar downstream where folks gather at low tide and anchor their boats or beach their kayaks. I set this as my destination and paddled on.

It was tough progress against the flow tide, but the breeze was cooling in the heat, and the riverbank kept my interest with gnarled tree roots and surprising small sand beaches or marshy areas. As I approached the bend in the river near Merrimacport, the river widened, and people were water skiing and playing on jet skis. I was careful to stay well clear of the action, but folks were being reasonable with their fun and I wasn't in any danger. A couple of friendly "hello"s from some anchored boats near the riverbank let me know everyone was having a relaxed day on the water.

I could see the sand bar and remaining anchored boats downstream, but I decided to take a detour into a small tributary river (really a creek) winding south into a marshy area along the bank. This is the Indian River, and it appears to be the outflow for the watershed that forms Mill Pond in West Newbury - a recreational area open to the public. The Indian River is largely hidden in the marsh grass, and was quiet to river traffic. Birds flitted back and forth across the water, and a fish splashed nearby as I paddled further into the marsh. I eventually came to an impassible foot bridge with a small rubble stone dam under it. A small pond was formed on the upstream side of the dam, and I saw a rope swing kids use to hurl themselves into the water, apparently. After getting out to stretch my legs on the footpath that runs to the bridge, I re-launched for the return trip.

Upon re-entering the Merrimack, I immediately felt the power of the flow tide at my back, and was pushed along at a far more rapid rate than my downstream paddle. What took me an hour to paddle downstream, took me less than half that to return. Passage under the bridge was no problem, and there was no choke point current to battle. I slid along the placid water over the mud flat bank and back to shore - with a shorter carry back to the roadside now.

I never did make it all the way to the sandbar, but I'll keep that for a future trip. Considering I live 20 minutes from the launch point, I really have no excuse not to spend more time on this stretch of the Merrimack. I'm glad I finally got around to paddling this area, and I look forward to exploring it more in the future.

Rivers can be a fun alternative to ocean kayaking - just take care to understand each river section's particular challenges (read my post 5 Tips for Touring a River in a Kayak). Then, head out on the current and see what you find. You might be surprised.

- TB on the Water

Paddle Trip: The Plumb Island River from Plumb Island (Refuge Lot 1)

2018-07-25T15:00:00.000-04:00

I'm back for the first paddle trip post in some time; due to a busy schedule, it's been a while since I've gotten out on the water (with the exception of a recent paddle down the nearby Merrimack River - read my post The Merrimack River - from Rocks Village to Merrimacport). I managed to carve an early morning paddle out of this past Saturday's schedule, though, and it was well worth the effort.

I've written about paddling Plumb Island Sound in posts like Pavilion Beach to Sandy Point and Plumb Island Sound - A Natural Beauty, but this trip on the Plumb Island River was the first time I put in at the National Wildlife Refuge Public Boat Launch. I have been remiss not to take advantage of this resource in the past, but I will surely take advantage of it in the future. I was joined on this trip by Tim (see my post An Unexpected Adventure) who has also been tied up with a busy work schedule, but provided the refuge pass we used to park in Lot 1. We arrived fairly early (around 8:15 a.m.) with the expectation Lot 1 would fill up fast. It's the primary parking location for folks hitting the beach on the ocean side of the island. Only a few cars were there at that point, though, so we had our choice of parking spots. We drove down the short dirt track to the boat launch, dropped the boats, then parked back in the lot for the duration.

The boat launch is a concrete decline into the Plumb Island River which ends at two tall marker posts. It's grooved across the surface for traction, and I didn't find it too slippery. The angle is slightly steep for getting into your kayak with maximum stability, but it's not so steep as to make it precarious. The tide was outbound, but just recently, so we had plenty of depth beneath us. We opted to paddle southwest, against the tide, toward Plumb Island Sound - rather than with the tide through Plumb Bush Creek, under the bridge, and into the Joppa Flats and the mouth of the Merrimack. We knew we'd have the tide with us on the return trip, so getting some harder paddling out of the way up front made sense.

The Plumb Island River is fairly wide at the launch - maybe 30 yards across, but you have to keep an eye out for occasional boat traffic crossing from the Merrimack to Plumb Island Sound, and the mouth of the Ipswich River beyond. There are tidal creeks meandering to the east (port side/left) that could offer a paddle diversion at full high tide, allowing you to get closer to the west side of the island. We stayed on the main branch of the Plumb Island River until it turned almost due west. Then, we paddled right (northeast) to head further into the marsh and to explore what might be seen there.

Shortly thereafter, we came across some numbered marker poles with small metal flags on them. It took me a good while to realize we were on the water trail I had read about during previous research of the area. This is a great amenity provided for paddlers, and a fantastic paddle venue - especially for beginners. The conditions were not too challenging (although, be aware of surrounding marsh mud walls (read my post Safety is a Mindset)) as the tide drains out), but we were still paddling against the outbound current - even deep into the marsh. We passed a marker that was labeled 8 END which appears to be the end of the water trail. Using this marker as a return point, we explored 2 creeks (one to the southwest and one to the north) a bit further, but ultimately got chased out by greenhead flies. I managed to squash 3 of these relentless, "Terminator" like monsters that will not die - a veritable massacre for my part. I felt a great sense of accomplishment as I washed fly mush off my hands in the brackish water.

The return paddle picked up substantial speed by moving with the tide, rather than against it as before. We moved quickly back down the water trail, and I could see various sand bars forming as the water level dropped. This area might be fun at low tide, if the river is still navigable by a kayak. There would be multiple opportunities to stretch your legs on sand bars, and maybe play a bit in the water (warming up nicely as the tide waned). We paddled south around the bend, further down Plumb Island - my having confused us, and not taken the left to head back upstream, toward the launch. The depth was getting pretty shallow across a wide stretch of the river. Deep hulled boats would not make it through, or so it looked. We had the widest part of the river to ourselves. We had crossed the threshold to where the river flows out to the sound. Not wanting to get too far out from our return (we were already close to 4 hours paddling), we turned around and paddled north again against the tide, until we re-crossed the drainage threshold, and rode the tide back outbound toward the launch. After a brief diversion past the launch to get within view of the bridge, we turned around again and paddled against the tide, one final time, to the launch and the end of our journey.

The view west from the Plumb Island Turnpike Bridge

For the first paddle back (with Tim, anyway) in a while, this was a great relaxing morning under the sun, on a flat tidal river, in the beautiful marshland of a National Wildlife Refuge.

Life could be worse, for sure.

- TB on the Water

Caution: Riptides and Currents (and how to deal with them)

2018-05-16T15:00:00.000-04:00

The ocean (and rivers, for that matter) can throw a variety of hazards at you, not the least of which is the force of moving water in the form of riptides and other currents. I have been caught in both, and they are not to be taken lightly. Keeping your cool, avoiding any additional challenges, and getting yourself out of the predicament as soon as possible should be your goals. Prior planning can help, and here are a few suggestions to help you avoid or deal with being caught in one of these hazards:

Riptides are not always visible, but sometimes you can see (and avoid) them

Riptides...

I typically run into these while surfing my waveski. Riptides are formed when ocean water is piled up in a spot where it has nowhere to go, and it needs to find a path back out to sea. This can be at the corner of a cove, next to a sandbar, in-between cross-currents, or, frankly, anywhere along a beach where the shape of the bottom funnels water into a current that moves along, or away from the shore. Riptides can be extremely powerful. If you're a bather, they can take your feet out from under you, and carry you rapidly away from the shore. If you're on a paddle craft, they can change your direction in unexpected ways, and potentially swamp your boat. We've (almost) all heard the advice to swimmers: don't swim against the rip, swim perpendicular to it, or let it take you out the back of the current, then swim perpendicular to it. This is easier said than done, and it's hard not to panic if you're caught in a rip, but you must stay as calm as you can if you want to get out of it. If you're on a paddle craft, rule# 1 is not to leave your craft. Even if it's swamped, it will still have some buoyancy, which can help keep you afloat, and help to save your energy. Float with the rip until you are in calmer water, then address any water in your cockpit. Once you get back in/on your craft, look for a safe place to land - where you can finish bailing out, and get yourself and your gear back in order. Rule# 2 is a prophylactic - always, always, where a PFD (lifejacket) - if you get separated from your 'yak, you will still have buoyancy to help you keep your head above water, and to keep your energy up while you deal with getting out of the current. Rule# 3 is to hang on to your paddle. Your paddle can provide a little bit of additional buoyancy, but, even better, it can help you swim out of the current. Slide your grip very wide on your paddle shaft, and use the blades as part of your swim stroke; in essence, you are giving yourself giant hands. This will propel you through the water with much less energy than swimming alone, and, coupled with the buoyancy of your PFD, will keep you skimming along the surface, with much less drag than if you were deeper in the water. Rule# 4 is to use waves to your advantage. As I mentioned earlier, I mostly run into riptides while surfing my waveski. These can be handy escalators out through the surf zone to pick up another wave, but if you wipe out in the middle, and lose your craft (I have), you can get stuck between the incoming surf, and the outbound rip current. Save your energy for the next wave, then try to use its energy to get you out of the rip. Sometimes, it can get you close enough to shore to get your feet down - so you can walk your way out. Use the paddle technique previously described to amplify the effectiveness of the wave force. This has helped me on a few occasions. Also, pay particular attention when the overall tide is outbound - this can add power to the rip, and make it even more menacing. Check out this helpful entry on the Beachapedia page.

Learn to see the current flow when you look at the water (looks like it's headed to the right in this image)

Currents...

Currents can happen anywhere. A rip is a type of current, but so is river flow, tidal flow, differences in speed between 2 sections of water, increased flow speed at choke points and around obstacles, etc. Currents can be large and surprisingly powerful, and can carry you long distances from where you were headed, and sometimes toward danger (like active boat lanes). In most cases, paddling against a current is fruitless - or, at least, a huge expenditure of energy. It's much better to work with a current than against it. I've been caught in currents that didn't give me much of a choice but to cross them as best I could (read my post The Mouth of the Danvers River & Nearby Islands), until I reached flatter waters. Try to angle across the current to the nearest calmer water - even an eddy will do. This will give you a chance to consider a strategy for getting out of the area. Recognize that the current will carry you even while you are paddling across it, so look ahead to where you might end up, not at what's directly in front of you. You've encountered this phenomenon if you've ever paddled through an area with moored boats, and found yourself crossing behind a boat when you were sure you'd be in front of it (read my post Paddle Trip: Pavilion Beach to Sandy Point). That's OK, so long as you safely get across. Try to estimate the speed and strength of a current before you attempt to cross it; use objects like buoys or rocks to see how fast the water is moving. If the current is close to shore, sometimes it's just easier to get out of your 'yak and drag it along the shore.

Currents can form waves - even waves big enough to crest. They can seriously put you in a hazardous scenario. If you get caught in a current, keep your cool - you'll need it. If you capsize, stay with your boat and hold on tight - you're in for a ride that may carry you some distance. Remember, though, if you're with with your kayak, you may at some point get the opportunity to get back in it, and to paddle to a safer spot. Plus, you'll be more visible to other boaters, or to rescuers if you're next to a larger object like your kayak.

The first step in dealing with riptides and other currents is to learn to spot and avoid them. They won't always be directly visible, but the conditions that generate them might be. Watch for land features, narrowing of waterways, rivermouths, obstacles - anything that might speed up a section of water relative to what's around it. Be aware of tidal conditions, and remember that tide changes can cause currents that can help or hinder you. It's sure easier paddling back home with an inbound tide pushing you from behind, then it is fighting an outbound tide. Work with the water, not against it - in most cases, the water will win.

Stay safe, go with the flow, and keep your cool. Being more in tune with the water will help, and will make you appreciate its power and its beauty.

- TB on the Water

Advice: Spring is Back! Plan Accordingly.

2018-03-28T22:44:00.001-04:00

Bring it on! I'm ready for Spring. We have passed the vernal equinox, and the sun is hanging longer in the day. Coming off a series of nor'easters, and mercifully, a (hopefully) final one that missed us largely to the south, southern New England is slowly melting out of the snow. Rivers are high, and the air will soon gain a scent of new, green growth. I know I need it - I'll bet others do too.

Here comes the Sun!

I've been spending a little time scouting some target paddling locations, picking up some minor gear improvements (a new waveski seat), and trying to ease myself back into some kind of paddling/carrying shape (kettlebells are great for the shoulders). I think a few weeks out to the paddling season (I know, better paddlers than me are probably out right now) is a good time to envision some highlights of your upcoming spring, summer, and fall. Even if you only get to execute on a couple of them, you're priming the imaginary pump for future paddling seasons.That can't be a bad thing, and some research has shown anticipating an event can increase your experience of pleasure (here's one paper on the subject from researchers at Cornell University) - so why not luxuriate a little in your fantasy paddling trip. Do this for a couple of weeks, then block out your calendar. The older I get, the more I realize scheduling can be more of a tool than it is a prison.

I've said it before, but I will continue to repeat it; Spring is the most dangerous time of year for paddlers, in my opinion. It's the time of year when folks want to get out on the water as quickly as possible to enjoy the long awaited sun and warmer air temperatures - and to forget about how cold the water still is. Remember the mantra: dress for the water, not for the air (read my post 8 Tips for Dressing Right for Your Kayaking Adventure). The winter will linger in the water far longer than it does on the land - and it could kill you if you don't treat it with respect and plan accordingly (read my post Please, Stop the Kayaking Deaths! (proper risk management)).

Watch the Coast Guard perform a cold water rescue in Portsmouth, NH:

I like to keep the early paddling trips shorter, and in more protected waters than later in the season. This gives me a chance to re-build skills and conditioning that have atrophied over the winter. I am also careful about river paddling trips in the Spring, as water levels are high, and flow is generally faster. That can be useful in a typically smaller river that might not provide sufficient depth in the dryer seasons, but it could be dangerous in a river that is hemmed in by steep banks or other natural and man made features. Scout Spring river locations carefully, and leave the rapids to the white water kayakers and rafters (read my post 5 Tips for Touring a River in a Kayak).

A full review of your gear is necessary for the beginning of the season. Check your kayak, your paddles, your PDF, clothing...everything - to make sure it's in good working order. If repairs are needed, get them done asap. Also, check your transportation. Make sure your vehicle is in good shape, and check your crossbars and related hardware to make sure they are structurally sound and solid. Check the condition of your straps and other tie down gear to make sure you have what you need, and that they are safe and strong. Consider purchasing any season passes (if they are required) for locations you will visit more than once. Add any additional gear that might make your trips safer and more efficient - like a headlamp, a water resistant watch, fore and aft boat lights, communications equipment, etc. I just purchased a new waterproof map case to help aid my navigation this season. With any new gear purchases, read reviews, carefully consider features, and imagine how you will use them when you're on the water.

If you're planning on doing any fishing from your 'yak, check all your fishing gear, rod holders, and required permits - then schedule your trips for the times and locations best suited to better your odds of hooking a few. Also, consider how you're going to preserve any keepers for the trip home.

The birds are singing, flowers will soon be in bloom, and the sun will shine warm upon our faces. Paddling season is upon us. Mind the water temperatures, upgrade your safety gear and knowledge, plan your trips thoughtfully, and prepare to enjoy.

We survived another winter - now comes our reward.

- TB on the Water

Curated Post: Don't Blow a Drysuit Gasket

2018-02-21T15:00:00.000-05:00

As part of the changes/additions I will be making to this blog (as referenced in my CWK Celebrates its 30th Post! post), I will be adding some curated content when I don't see a way I could improve on the topic being written about. I will publish content I believe is important (or should be) to kayakers, and is educational as well.

This particular article from Canoe & Kayak, written by Conor Mihell is a great example of a well written and photographed short guide on dry suit gasket repair. I've written in previous posts like 8 Tips for Dressing Right for Your Kayaking Adventure that you should consider a dry suit purchase if you intend to push the boundaries of the season and temperatures in which you'll be paddling. I bought one a couple years back, and sadly, haven't made much use of it. I've been trying to figure out how to shorten the legs (mine has socks/booties attached) without damaging the suit. I'm going to make that more of a priority, so I can put that suit to good use for the increased safety it offers - especially in cold springtime waters. I also intend to give the gaskets a thorough going over, and if they need repair, the first guide I will turn to is this article:

Don't Blow a Gasket

How to replace drysuit seals

May 01, 2017 By Conor Mihell

I'll never forget the first time I ripped a neck gasket. I was three days into a two-week solo sea kayak trip on Lake Superior's north shore. It was early May and ice still sheathed the sheltered bays; my drysuit was a critical margin of safety against the deadly cold water. When the latex seal shredded, so did my confidence. I fretted away the cold evening. The next morning I resolved to jury-rig a duct tape repair. It was ugly but it worked.

When I got home I replaced my first gasket--a project I've repeated just about every two seasons ever since. Neck, wrist and ankle gaskets are a drysuit's weakest links. Fortunately, they're easy to replace at home. Here's what you'll need:

New latex gaskets (can be ordered from your drysuit's manufacturer or purchased at your local paddling shop)
Aquaseal adhesive (one small tube is enough to install one neck gasket and two wrist gaskets, with some to spare)
Sturdy cardboard (or better, ¼-inch plywood) cut in a circle, 10.25-inch in diameter; sand smooth if using plywood
Sturdy cardboard (or better, ¼-inch plywood) cut in a "donut"-shaped ring, with an outer diameter of 10.25 inches and an inner diameter of 7.25-inch. Cut this ring in two to create two U-shaped pieces and sand smooth if using plywood
Sturdy cardboard cut in a 8-inch-diameter circle
1 medium soup can (19 oz.) or yogurt tub (22-24 oz.) for replacing wrist and ankle gaskets
60-grit sandpaper
Two-sided tape; masking tape; waxed paper
8-12 spring clamps
Scissors
303 Protectant

**READ THE REST OF THE ARTICLE AT Canoe & Kayak: DON’T BLOW A GASKET

Do yourself a favor and the read the rest of Conor's article, and maybe check out some of his other posts on Canoe & Kayak.

- TB on the Water

Waveski: 5 Tips for Picking Your Wave

2018-02-07T15:22:00.000-05:00

I've written about surfing my waveski in a few previous posts, and today I'd like to talk about wave selection - both in the sense of picking which wave to paddle onto, and also in the sense of what surf breaks to try.

When folks on the beach approach me about my waveski - mostly out of curiosity (having never seen such an apparatus), and sometimes out of interest in how to do it, I occasionally get comments alluding to how easy it looks. Because I'm in a seated position, people tend to think anyone can do it. The truth is: almost anyone can. Almost anyone. It took me a solid year or two to get confident enough with my 'ski to get on any sizable waves (read my post Waveski: Back to the Surf!), and a few more years before I could start playing with bottom turns and other maneuvers (OK, I'm a slow learner, give me a break 😏). It also took a few years to get really good at reading waves. In particular, to get good at reading waves that I could surf well with my craft. Look, top waveski surfers can surf the same waves as most board surfers, but I wouldn't include myself in that category. So, I carefully choose when and where I surf, and that has greatly increased my success and my enjoyment. If you are a beginner waveski or surf kayak surfer, then these tips might help you get better faster - and have more fun doing it.

This one looks like a bit of a shore break

1. Look for waves that are going somewhere. Well, what does that mean exactly? What it means is look for waves that are breaking from left to right or right to left - not everywhere all at once. The longer it takes the wave break to work its way down the course of the wave, the more forgiving it is, the longer the ride that's available, and the more time you have to pull off the unbroken shoulder and get behind the wave before it closes out. It's just easier to work with. Advanced surfers and waveski surfers can stay on the face of a less forgiving wave, but I can't most times. If you're out to have some relaxed fun, find a wave that breaks to one side or the other over a long stretch.

2. Look for waves that break off a point or bottom feature. One way to find waves that break from one spot to another in the same direction is to look for features that slow part of the wave down and pitch it up relative to the rest of the wave. Rocky points, sandbars - places like that cause a wave to break off them in a reliable direction. That way, you can paddle out, set yourself in position, and patiently wait for the really good one that you know will be coming eventually.

3. Look for waves that are "clean". A clean wave is a wave that has a uniform shape, and isn't all chopped up by the wind or other factors. The cleanest waves are called "glassy" because they have a surface so smooth you can almost see a reflection in them. A clean wave will be easier to pick up, smoother to ride, and is indicative of good surf in general. Even small waves that are clean can be a lot of fun.

4. Be aware of the wave energy. This one's a little hard to eyeball, but if you go to the same spots often, you'll eventually get the hang of gauging the wave energy by how they look and sound. Smaller waves with a lot of energy behind them can be a real kick - they can rocket you right along. Large waves with a little less energy than usual can be more forgiving, and can allow you to stretch your limits a bit. Check out wave forecast site like this one that show a wave energy forecast. Match that to how the waves feel when you go, then use the forecast in the future to help select your target location.

5. Be flexible. OK, so all of your research told you location X was going to be perfect on a given day, but when you got there, the surf was too small to work with, or bigger than your abilities. Don't be afraid to bag it, and call it a day - especially if you're new. Maybe try a different location, maybe try another day. Don't worry about it - another day will come. And remember: this is supposed to be about having fun, anyway.

Waveski surfing has been a blast for me over the past several years. I still get the odd looks for surfing something not typical in the lineup - but mostly, I have great interactions with all kinds of surfers. I've even been invited to share a few waves by a "boardie". We had a great afternoon, and he couldn't have been friendlier. Assess your abilities accurately. Develop your skills diligently. Respect surf etiquette. Then, take your place in the lineup (because you belong there), and pick your wave.

- TB on the Water

Technique: 5 Alternative Paddle Strokes

2018-01-17T15:00:00.000-05:00

There's a fair amount of information available on how to correctly execute kayak paddling technique. Here's a great video from PaddleTV that shows how to do it:

This post aims to offer some alternate paddling techniques that I use from time to time, and find quite handy in the right situation. I'm not claiming to have invented these paddle strokes, nor am I contending they don't exist under names other than what I call them. That said, here are the 5 alternate paddle strokes I use, and when I use them:

1. The Torque Paddle. So, the standard paddle relies on a mid to wide grip position, and engages your back in the stroke. It's not necessarily a pulling stroke, but the idea is to use a wide array of muscles (in a relaxed manner) to keep from tiring out smaller, individual muscles (forearms, shoulders, etc.). Nevertheless, you can still get tired, and having an alternate to switch to for a while can give you a nice break. I use something I call the "torque paddle". This is where I position my grip narrower than the standard paddle position, tighten the circles traced by my paddle motion, and rely on the leverage of the paddle length (generated by the torque produced from my shorter grip, also moving in a much tighter circle) to apply force to the water. This technique can be remarkably powerful, and works well in confined areas (under tree branches, etc.). You'll have to play with your grip position and the size of the circles you trace, both with your hands and the paddle tips, but try to find the "groove". You'll know it when you feel it. You'll feel yourself generating power at your paddle blades from a compact, smooth hand rotation. This technique does not always work well in heavy chop that may drop out underneath and leave your paddle blade hanging mid-air. It's a nice change of pace to have in your toolkit, though.

2. The Crawl Paddle. Heading straight into the wind is not a fun direction to paddle. It's helped a bit by your smaller profile relative to being sideways to the wind, but you're still an upright wind block, acting like a sail that wants to send you in reverse. Getting your profile even smaller can only help. So, in this scenario, I lean forward with my eyes raised to see where I'm going, and paddle from this bent position. It seems like you'd tire out your lower back, but the resistance of the water helps to brace your body position. You can use either a modified standard paddle here (maybe reach longer in front to engage as much of your back muscles as possible) or a torque paddle a bit more out in front of you. Even if you can only perform this technique intermittently, it will give you a little break from the wind in your chest, and will help to quicken your overall pace.

3. The Backward Paddle. This paddle technique is not meant for extended use (it's always better to see where you're going). However, it is something you should practice and use in the occasions that call for it. You can use a backward paddle on one side of your kayak, alternated with a forward paddle on the other side to turn your 'yak in a much tighter radius than would be possible using a rudder alone, or another paddle technique. Combine this alternating paddle technique with the correct rudder position (you'll have to switch from side to side to match the paddle stroke), and you can turn even a long touring kayak on a dime. You can also use backward paddling on both sides of the 'yak to radically slow forward progress (say, if you want to avoid a hazard in a hurry), to back out of a tight rock crevice, or to re-position or hold yourself steady in a current. Remember, your shoulders will be doing most of the work, so take it easy - and try to use as much of the paddle blade as possible. I personally use this technique when I'm surfing my waveski, and I want to re-position myself while keeping an eye on incoming waves.

4. The Canoe Paddle. A kayak paddle is designed to take advantage of the efficiency of both paddle blades working to propel the 'yak forward, without having to switch a single blade from side to side. There are times, though, when using a single blade can be the best choice. Changing your orientation by dragging a paddle blade or using a backward paddle technique will slow or kill your momentum. You worked hard to get that momentum going, so slowing it down for anything less than an intentional choice doesn't make sense. If you have a rudder deployed, you can use it to steer your direction in a wide arc (the faster your speed and momentum, the wider the arc). If you don't have a rudder, or if you want to assist your rudder, you can paddle on one side only for a couple or several strokes - depending on how much you want to change your orientation. You won't keep the same speed as two paddles doing the work, but you also won't impact your speed like a dragging a paddle blade or backward paddling will. Try not to pull too much with the paddling hand - try to push with the opposite hand over an imagined shaft point (a fulcrum). This will better approximate paddling with an actual canoe paddle.

5. The Paddle Drag. OK, so this isn't exactly a stroke, but it's not really a brace either. Dragging one blade on one side of your kayak will slow that side down relative to the opposite side - resulting in a turn of direction more to the dragged paddle side. This can be deployed in a spectrum from a feather light touch to a full on paddle plunge, with the affect on your speed and direction relative to the angle and duration of the paddle drag. This is a fun one to play with. Sometimes, giving up a little speed is worth it to learn how effective your paddle blade can be in changing your direction. Plus, getting comfortable with a paddle drag can set you up to learn side bracing and sweep strokes. Try different angles on your blade, different plunge depths, different durations - and see what affect they have. It's also very handy in an emergency stopping situation - it can slow you down quickly and set you up for a backward paddle to reverse direction.

I hope these alternate paddle strokes are useful for you on the water. There are variations on all of them existing or yet to be discovered. Just make sure to work with your paddle and not against it.

A paddle is another tool, and like all tools we clever monkeys create, can be used well or used poorly. Remember, part of using yours well is to use it paddling waters that engage your mind and sing to your heart - what better use could there be than that?

- TB on the Water

Advice: 5 Tips for What to Do With Your Kayaking Off Season

2018-01-03T15:00:00.000-05:00

Happy 2018! In 2017, I started this blog, as well as some other online content channels (Facebook, Twitter,), and embarked on the exciting journey of digital publishing. In 2018, I will continue to refine the content I offer, and to add some other options for my readers - stay tuned.

It's been a frigid couple of weeks here in New England, as well as in much of the continental U.S., and the last thing on most people's minds is heading to the water (unless it's some idyllic Caribbean white sand beach 😎). We have been under attack by a dip of the jet stream drawing Arctic air south, and it looks like there is more to come in the near future. This is a time in New England when many paddlers hang their paddles on a rack and instead opt for a set of snowshoes or skis. Some of us just stay inside writing blog posts - hunkered down until the Spring brings us some relief. That said, all is not lost for the kayaker during these months (this is "Cold Water Kayaker" after all 😋), and here are a few suggestions for how to use your down time to improve your paddling experiences:

It was 90F degrees here in August

1. Fix Your Gear. You inevitably dinged, scratched, tore, or otherwise maligned some piece(s) of equipment over this past paddling season. Why not use the down time to fix what you can? Re-seal hull penetrations, stitch up fabric tears, replace worn-out hardware, put new O-rings on drain plugs - whatever needs doing. When the paddling season starts up again, you'll be ready. Use online videos that show you how, and check out my post Kayak Repairs That Last.

2. Research, Research, Research. The winter months can provide a great opportunity to spend that time you can never seem to spare in the warm weather to research where to paddle, what equipment you might want to purchase, what techniques you need to improve upon and how to do that, online resources for advice (like this blog, for instance 😉), paddling groups you might want to join - really anything you didn't get around to investigating during the paddling season. Do your homework now, reap the rewards later. For some suggestions on planning kayaking trips, read my post Where Should I Paddle?.

3. Take Advantage of Off Season Deals. I've mentioned in previous posts and on my ABOUT me page that I don't like to spend a lot of money on gear (at least when I don't have to). I've purchased plenty of used gear, including kayaks from places like Craigslist and hardware from eBay. I've also purchased a kayak from a paddle touring company a season old, used it for several seasons, then sold it again for half of what I paid. People who are selling items when the market is not at it's highest demand for them (snowmobiles in the spring, motorcycles in the fall, etc.) are advertising that they might be flexible with pricing. Otherwise, they'd wait until they had a better chance of getting top dollar. The same can be said for kayaking gear in the winter. If it's on Craigslist in December and January, you should negotiate steadfastly - and maybe pick up a deal. If they won't negotiate, look elsewhere. Also keep an eye out for retailers who are looking to move off season water gear at a discount, if any is left over and they need to liquidate inventory.

4. Exercise. There is nothing that will mimic the exact movement of drawing a paddle through water, bracing, lifting your boat to a car roof, etc. You just have to do it to get better at it, and more fit for it in the process. However, you can still keep up your general fitness to make your return to extended paddle condition quicker when you get back on the water. Keep your grip strong, work on your balance, keep your shoulders and back strong and flexible, and try to work on any nagging areas where an injury has lingered. Eat healthy food and don't put on too many "hibernation" pounds. Use a winter pass time like hiking, snowshoeing, or cross country skiing to keep your endurance. Work on your range of motion. All of these activities will set you on the right path for your return to paddling.

5. Dream. I've heard it said the anticipation of an event or activity can greatly impact the overall enjoyment of it. So, why not let your mind wander to that paddle trip you have planned for a new destination on some sun drenched summer day? Just make sure to actually schedule it, so it doesn't remain only a dream. Let your mind's eye gaze over the places you have only seen on a map, or on a blog, or a paddler's forum. Relish the preparation and talk about it with whomever will accompany you. Then, when it finally arrives, let it unfold like a flower from the seed you planted in your mind, and nurtured until it blossomed in reality. That will surely help keep the winter chill off your mind.

The snow may fall, the wind may blow, and old man winter may knock at your door. Tell him to take a hike - you're busy working on your gear and dreaming about that paddle trip you've meant to do for years. Make 2018 the year .

- TB on the Water

Story: "Florida Day" (Part 2)

2017-12-27T15:00:00.000-05:00

I first want to take a moment to wish everyone a belated Merry Christmas and Happy Chanukah, and to send you all best wishes for the coming New Year! I sincerely wish good health, prosperity, and peace for you and your loved ones. Let's hope 2018 offers us some of each - and hopefully some great experiences on the water.

When I left off on part 1 of "Florida Day", we had just completed our paddle trip down a section of the Ocklahawa River, which borders the Ocala National Forest in central Florida - north of Orlando and west of Daytona Beach. We had a largely pleasant and uneventful paddle through the forest, with the exception of Steve's capsize (a momentary crisis) and the spotting of a very large 'gator close by on a log - which came as a bit of a surprise to Steve's son. We had survived our journey unscathed in any case, and the day was warming well past the chilly temperatures of a February Florida morning. Steve had suggested earlier that he had a place he wanted to take us for lunch - in a village that had some unusual history. We got ourselves into some dry clothes and set off.

We drove southwest (generally - there is no direct route in that direction) to the village of Ocklahawa on the shore of Lake Weir , which took about 45 minutes, maybe an hour. Steve was taking us to Gator Joe's, a restaurant on the lake with a deck and pier over the water, and an adjacent beach. I was surprised by the white sand beach leading to the water. Here in the northeast, lake shores are often rocky - and if they have sand, it is usually a darker, caramel color. It was one of these little revelations that surprises me about the Florida landscape, and that is so different from what we're used to in New England. Apparently, Gator Joe's is so named for the enormous alligator that was caught in the lake in 1952, and was known to have resided there from at least 1930. A replica of "Joe" is stationed near the entrance, and once inside the front door, you can view one of Joe's front feet under glass - it's about the size of a dinner plate.

Lake Weir, Florida

Ocklahawa village and Lake Weir are also known for another interesting piece of history. It was the hideout for the infamous "Ma Barker Gang" at one time - ending with a shoot out in 1935 between Ma and her son Fred, and FBI agents. Ma and Fred were both killed. The house where they stayed still remains, and is privately owned. There is a local bar just east of the village on County Rd 25, called "Ma Barker's Hideaway Bar" (more on that in a bit).

The menu at Gator Joe's features items like chicken sandwiches and, inexplicably, Alaskan pollock fish sandwiches (why would anyone want fish from Alaska, when the ocean is an hour away? - it's a mystery to me). I like to eat what's local, so I had the fried 'gator tail. I've eaten alligator several times, and I find it a perfectly acceptable (and sometimes truly delicious) thing to eat. During lunch, Steve enthusiastically recounted what he knew of the Ma Barker history in the village, and suggested we drive by the hideout house, and then get a shot of liquor at the bar named in her honor. I replied "if they have bourbon. I'm in!".

We paid our bill, piled into the car, and headed over to the address of Ma Barker's old hideout. The architecture in the village is that great, 1930's and 40's, wooden beach houses with screen porches and often colorful trim work. Maybe they're a little ramshackle these days, but I still liked the feel of the place. Ma Barker's old house wasn't much to see - a partly rundown wooden house with a for sale sign in front. We didn't spend much time looking at it. We headed east on County Rd 25, and made our way to the bar named in her honor. There were several Harley's lined up out front, so Steve and I decided we'd go in for a quick shot of whiskey and leave the ladies in the car. I know that sounds a bit stereotypically prejudiced, but after all, this was unfamiliar territory. When we walked out of the sunlight into the dark bar, it was clear we were recognized as strangers. The bartender actually came out from behind the bar to ask us what we'd like. We asked for a couple shots of bourbon. She responded that they didn't serve liquor, only beer and wine. Steve and I looked at each other, then both nodded we should just move along. I had to chuckle to myself wondering what the wine list looks like at a roadside bar in Florida named after a criminal gang leader😉.

We all decided it was time to head back east to the coast, and to Steve and Kristina's place. Kristina was driving east on the 2 lane County Rd 25 about 10 minutes later, when a light colored sedan pulled up fast behind us, and ultimately passed in a no-passing section of the road. Soon after, Kristina noticed a pursuing police car coming up fast from behind. At this point, the sedan had passed a couple more cars in a similar fashion. We pulled to the right to let the police pass, then watched as the sedan veered off the road in a cloud of dust about 50 yards ahead of us. They were apparently trying to make a run for it. By the time we passed where they had exited the roadway, the dust had settled just enough that I could view the sedan, driver's side front wheel perched on top of a pile of wooden pallets, resting in a sparsely wooded field. The doors were open, and the occupants were racing off on foot in several directions. The police had just arrived and were continuing their pursuit - it didn't look good for a getaway. We laughed at how much it looked like a "reality" TV show police chase. Just then, Kristina turned to us in the back seat, laughing, and said, "welcome to Florida!".

As we reminisced over our day for the rest of the drive back, we checked off all of the Florida themed experiences we had throughout our trip: alligators? check. colorful locals? check. a police pursuit? check. This day had it all. And, that's when we decided to give it the name "Florida Day".

Sometimes, the exciting and memorable parts of a trip - even a paddle trip, are the ones least expected. Keep a sense of humor and your mind open, and your paddle adventures can be part of a bigger story...maybe one you can chuckle about when you remember it.

- TB on the Water

Story: "Florida Day" - Our Florida Paddle Adventure

2017-12-13T15:00:00.000-05:00

When winter blows in to the northeast, many folks pine for a trip down south to get some reprieve from the chill, and maybe a little sun. The link between Florida and New England is well established (check out how many Patriots fans show up at a Pats/Dolphins game), with many yankees having relocated to the sunshine state, or who take regular winter vacations there. Having visited Florida on several occasions, I have come to appreciate the state for more than the well known tourist attractions and beaches. Florida has some fantastic natural wonders; lakes, rivers, springs, the intercoastal waterway, wildlife, islands - the list goes on, but many of these features involve water. Florida, after all, is a very low lying state, with the highest point above sea level being a mere 312 feet in the peninsula, and 345 feet in the panhandle. Water is always close to the surface, and this provides an abundance of kayaking opportunities for those looking to add an outdoor adventure to their Florida vacation. A few years ago, me, my wife and some friends had such an adventure, which we named "Florida Day" before sunset.

We opted for the single kayaks - these folks took a tandem

Our friends Kristina and Steve moved from Newburyport, MA to Merritt Island near Cocoa Beach decades ago. They settled there and raised a family, and we make a point to visit them if we're nearby (we typically fly into Orlando, which isn't too far of a drive). Having notified them of an impending visit a few years back, Steve suggested we go on a kayaking excursion - something he had mentioned previously. We agreed, and we all reserved kayaks at on outfitter, the Ocklahawa Canoe Outpost & Resort. On a particularly chilly (certainly for Florida) February morning, we got a start at the break of dawn to drive the couple of hours north and west from Merritt Island to the Ocklahawa River location. I was nursing a sizable hangover, having spent far too much time at an outdoor bar in Orlando with my brother-in-law the previous afternoon. The air temperature was in the 40's (F) at dawn, and I was anxiously waiting for the sun to rise and warm the day, and hopefully for my headache to subside 😓.

There were 5 of us in total: myself, my wife, Steve, Kristina, and their high school freshman son. We all opted for single 8' kayaks that were really more like plastic canoes, with no drain plug and a large cockpit opening with no spray skirt. I recognized immediately that if one of these boats took on water, there would be no way to empty it, short of turning it over. I hoped the Ocklahawa river was shallow enough to accommodate such an effort if necessary - turns out it wasn't.

We piled into a van that took us and the kayaks to the launch site upriver. The owner handed us a couple of rudimentary maps and told us to basically follow the current downstream. The water looked reasonably calm as we departed, but I kept a close eye on all parties as we paddled off, me being the most experienced paddler of the group. I was looking forward to seeing some wildlife, including the chance to see one of the monkeys, left behind by a movie production, that had escaped and established a colony now living feral in the Ocala National Forest.

The river varied from a width of 20-25' to maybe 40' at its widest. Depth was hard to gauge, but occasional depth markers showed 8-10'. The flow was fairly slow and meandering, but picked up some speed around tight river bends and fallen logs. We didn't see much wildlife to start, probably because it was cold - very cold for a Florida morning. Temperatures were still in the 50's (F), with the forest blocking much of the low rising sun. We landed for a quick break at the first landing spot marked on the map - a narrow, slightly muddy break in the cedar and cypress trees big enough to accommodate 2 landed kayaks side by side. This spot would be important for us in the near future.

After climbing back into the 'yaks, and heading downstream, I began to pull away from the group. Try as I might, I could not seem to paddle slow enough to keep back with them, and kept having to turn around and paddle upstream to check on everyone - the wives happily chatting as they drifted along and Steve and his son getting a bit cantankerous with each other 😒. Not too long after we departed the landing, I was ahead of the group again when I heard raised voices echoing through the trees, and the inevitable splash of water that I feared, as someone undoubtedly had gone into the drink. I heard my wife call out for my assistance, and I paddled back to find Steve chest deep in the river and straining to hold his kayak from floating on downstream. Steve was shouting a bit at his son, who, it seems, had somehow been involved in Steve's capsize.

I paddled over to Steve and coached him to get to a shallower place with a foothold so he could empty his water logged craft, but he insisted on re-entering it where he was. He miraculously got back into the cockpit, but the boat was very low in the water and unsteady. It needed to be drained, but the trees on both banks were so thick there was no place to land. I remembered the landing we stopped at back upstream, and figured it was the quickest way to get to a safe location. I stayed with Steve as he carefully paddled back, and instructed the others to follow. I dragged Steve's water laden boat onto shore, helped him climb out, then turned it over to drain the cockpit. The problem now was Steve was wet, and it was still cold out. Cold enough to be dangerous. Steve was wearing a pair of jeans and a cotton sweatshirt - not appropriate clothing for paddling (see my post 8 Tips for Dressing Right for Your Kayaking Adventure). Fortunately, I had enough moisture wicking clothing on, and I was dry, so I peeled off a layer and gave it to Steve to wear. We got ourselves sorted as best we could, and the experience seemed to wake the group into a better mindset for concentration, so we departed once again, heading downstream.

Shortly afterward, I would be thankful the capsize had already taken place, because the panic level would have surely been much higher...Steve's son was now keeping up with me at the front of the pack, and sometimes paddling ahead of me. I was keeping an eye on him, because I noticed him daydreaming a bit and not keeping his eyes on the water. During one of these episodes, we rounded a bend in the river, and I spotted a large alligator sunning itself on a log directly in front of him. He hadn't seen it yet. I estimated its head length at 2 1/2', its body at 4 1/2', and its tail at another 4-5'. All in all, I estimated its length to be somewhere between 9 and 11'. I called out "big gator straight ahead to your left". When his eyes caught hold of the animal, I saw him startle. The current was carrying us straight toward the log. I wondered what the gator would do. Fortunately, as we drifted closer, it slid heavily, but quietly into the water, and the wake of its tail swipe, even deep under water, betrayed its power. We had seen a couple of small 2' gators to this point, but this one was clearly the grandaddy of the river. I shuddered to think what the capsize scenario would have been like after we saw this beast.

Ours was a bit bigger than this one...

We paddled on for a couple more hours, stopping at another landing, this time a shallow, sandy one farther downstream. It actually had a rope swing that people use, apparently to launch into the river - yes, the same river with the large gator in it. The sun had risen higher, the temperature had climbed to at least the 60's (F), and Steve had dried out. We were all in lighter spirits as we tried to catch some lizards scurrying around a fallen log on the shore. We pulled into the final landing another 45 minutes later, having enjoyed a fun paddle adventure through the Florida forest. We never did see a monkey, though.

As we returned our paddles and PFDs to the gear rack, the owner came out from one of the cabins and asked how the trip went. We said it went well, and then he asked (perhaps a bit too knowingly) did we see anything? I said we saw a big gator. He replied, "yep, he's a big boy for sure". When I asked how much the gator weighed, the owner thought for a moment, then said "oh, I'd expect 300, maybe 400 pounds". Yep, he was a big boy for sure.

To read the rest of the story click on "Florida Day" Part 2.

- TB on the Water

Advice: 5 Tips for Paddling in the Bumper Seasons

2017-11-15T15:00:00.000-05:00

Even the swans know it's time for the lakes in late Autumn

As autumn fades to winter, and colder temperatures arrive in the northeast, the challenge for finding suitable paddling trips gets a bit more complicated. The dangers associated with lower temperatures and less daylight make kayaking an activity that requires more planning and consideration. In that spirit, here's 5 tips for enjoying late autumn (or early spring) paddling:

1. Be aware of the water temperatures. As I have stated in other posts like 8 Tips for Dressing Right for Your Kayaking Adventure and Safety is a Mindset - 10 Tips for Kayaking Safely, you must be aware of, and dress properly for, the existing water temperatures in case of an unexpected immersion. In the autumn, there is some carry over of summer water temp's in the ocean (and in larger lakes), but in the early spring, there is carry over of colder winter water temp's. Either way, the water is going to be colder than in mid-summer, and the ambient air temperature (and maybe wind chill) will be colder too. Find out what the water temperatures are in the areas you are considering, then exclude the coldest options and dress appropriately.

2. Consider Moving Inland. Flat water rivers and lakes are a better option for colder weather paddles, as are salt water marshes that meander far inland. I often save some of these areas that are on my "to paddle" list just for these times of year. You can frequently see active wildlife like migrating birds and deer in the bumper seasons, which is a bonus. There's also the benefit of paddling inland waters when the boat traffic is minimal, if any at all. Add a paddle up a historic river (see my post 5 Tips for Touring a River in a Kayak), and you will have plenty of interesting things to see.

3. Stay Close to Shore. Capsizing far from shore can be dangerous no matter the season, but in the colder weather it can be deadly. Keep close to river banks, islands, or lake edges to give yourself an escape to dry land (or just a rest spot) if it is necessary.

4. Absolutely Bring a Dry Change of Clothes. If you get wet, you will need to get dry ASAP. It could mean the difference between life and death - seriously. You MUST have something dry to change into in case of immersion. I also recommend bringing something to reliably start a fire in an emergency scenario.

5. Wear a Watch. Shorter days will give you much less of a buffer for your return trip, and you want to get back before dark. Darkness will only add another layer of danger to a challenging paddling scenario. Wear a watch, check it often, and head back with plenty of daylight to spare.

You can enjoy serene paddling through beautifully stark landscapes here in the northeast in late autumn. After the leaves fall, vistas open through bare tree limbs that bend and hang like modern sculpture. The angle of the light casts long shadows that ripple under the stroke of a paddle blade, and the still air invigorates as it chills your lungs. The world becomes more elemental, and to me, in some ways more beautiful - as nature dies and sleeps, and waits to be reborn.

Plan for it properly, then you too can slide quietly across its cold smooth waters.

- TB on the Water

Gear: Keeping Your Stuff Dry - 5 Tips for When You Don't Want it Wet

2017-10-25T22:04:00.002-04:00

Kayaking is a water sport. Things are going to get wet. Your boat, your paddle, maybe even your gloves and clothing - all are subjected to water exposure, and are meant (or should be) to function well when submerged in, or washed over by, water. However, there are items you may want to bring on your paddle trip that you do not want to get wet, or frankly are not designed to survive water exposure. Your mobile phone comes to mind, as an example. Beyond that, snacks, a dry towel, a change of clothes, matches, a map - these are examples of items you want to keep dry. Doing this may be a little more complicated than it might seem, so here's some tips from my experience to make keeping your stuff dry easier and more effective:

1. Store Items for Accessibility. How often and how easily you need access to an item will determine where you locate it on or in your kayak, and therefore will influence how you keep it dry. Items that you need to access only in case of emergencies (like a dry change of clothes, or matches/a lighter to start a fire) can be stored in forward or aft bulkhead compartments, which is your first line of defense in keeping them dry. Items that you might want easier access to (like a camera) can be stored in some kind of dry bag or deck bag located within reach.

2. Use Multiple Layers of Protection. I bring a cell phone with me on my paddle trips for emergency communication, and also to take occasional pictures when I land on an island beach or some other temporary rest stop. Because I don't need ready access to it while paddling, I store it in my forward compartment, which is sealed by a tight fitting hatch - protection layer #1. Inside the compartment, the phone rests inside a dry bag - protection layer #2, and inside the dry bag, I keep my towel wrapped around my phone - protection layer #3. I could even go so far as to put the phone inside a water resistant case, then inside the towel, then inside the dry bag, and so on. You get the picture. Use multiple layers in case an outer layer fails.

3. Consider Inflatable Dry Bags. Once I discovered that the bulkheads in the interior of my sit-on-top touring kayak were not water tight, I opted to add inflatable dry bags to each compartment (see my post Kayak Repairs That Last). These are meant to perform double duty as dry storage bags and float bags to give my kayak additional buoyancy should it take on water (especially since the bulkheads are unreliable). These bags come with a stem that you blow air through to inflate the bag. They have the same kind of fold over, gasketed bag opening that standard dry bags have. Once you have them filled, and the opening folded closed and clipped with the attached buckles, you can use the air stem to inflate them. This adds a positive pressure to the interior of the bag that makes water less likely to penetrate. I find they hold the air pretty well, so long as the opening is folded tightly, and the stem cap is twisted on tight.

Inflatable Kayak Dry Bag

4. Make Sure Your Hatch Covers Fit Tight. Your hatch covers are your first line of defense for items stored in compartments. They work to keep water washing over your deck from getting inside the compartment, or for keeping water out of the compartments should your kayak capsize or roll. Their function is as much for safety as it is for storage, so make sure your hatch covers fit tight. There are a variety of designs - some are held tight by straps and buckles, some snap on over a lip in the compartment opening, some have a neoprene membrane that pulls tight over the opening and under the cover, and some lock or screw inside a ring that is mounted to the deck. Carefully examine the design of your hatch covers, and make sure all their elements are functioning properly and are fitting securely. If yours fit inside an attached ring, make sure the ring is sealed and screwed tight to the deck. Apply fresh sealant once per season, or otherwise as needed.

5. Consider Upgrading to Waterproof Gear. If your goal is to capture multiple images of your in-progress paddle trip, maybe you should consider a waterproof camera, or a GoPro. Maybe a marine radio is a better choice for emergency communications. Any gear that's designed to be wet, especially items designed to be submerged, will fair better in kayaking conditions. The more precious the item, the more you need to ensure it can withstand the water.

Getting wet is part of the fun of being in or on the water, so long as you're drying off fast enough to stay safe (see my post 8 Tips for Dressing Right for Your Kayaking Adventure). Keeping some of your stuff dry, though, is imperative. Use the right gear, protect it in multiple layers, and batten down the hatches. And, if you don't think you'll need it for safety or comfort, leave it back on dry land.

- TB on the Water

Gear: 5 Tips for What You Should Own, Even if You Only Rent Kayaks

2017-10-11T15:00:00.000-04:00

In previous posts like 10 Tips for Which Kayak You Should Buy, I suggested some people might not be up for the challenge of owning and transporting a kayak, or might not have the facilities to store and maintain one. However, that does not necessarily mean they can't enjoy kayaking from time to time. There is an abundance of kayak rental shops popping up - many of which offer guided tours, or "create your own adventure" hourly rentals (see my post "Florida Day" - Our Florida Paddle Adventure). In many cases, the rental shops are located adjacent to a body of water where you can paddle, or they have the ability to drop a kayak at the location of your choice. I've stated my preference for sit-on-top kayaks (see my post Benefits and Weaknesses of Sit-On-Top Kayaks) for safety - especially for inexperienced paddlers. Asking if this type is available from a rental shop is a good idea. I have also stated my aversion to tandem kayaks, but for a rental, this option is reasonable, as you won't be lugging around a heavy tandem as your own full time 'yak.

A rented kayak can get you here...

OK, so you've decided you might want to go kayaking a few times a year - which may not be a sufficient quantity of paddle trips to justify owning a kayak, but is a sufficient quantity to consider owning some gear that could greatly improve your paddling experiences. So, here's a list of items you should consider owning if you intend to paddle rented kayaks on a regular basis:

1. A Paddle. Paddles are provided with kayak rentals, but they are often cheaper, possibly adjustable, models with run of the mill materials and blade design. There's nothing wrong with them. Compared to a carbon fiber shaft with offset hand positions and low drag blades, however, they are the equivalent of driving a family sedan versus a high performance sports car. Your grip will be easier, especially over time, with a high end paddle. Your paddle speed will be better. You will get less fatigued. You will paddle more efficiently. You buy a paddle sized for your body, so there is no mistaking you are paddling with the proper paddle length. And, for the vain among us - they look cooler. There is a down side, though - they are expensive. You are probably looking at a couple to a few hundred dollars for a good high end paddle, depending on the materials. Aluminum shaft is the low end, fiberglass is better, carbon fiber is best. Wood is robust, but can be heavy - check the weight. Wood blades (like on this model) can be buoyant, which can help over a long paddle. If you get sized for a model and figure out what length you need, you might find a used one on Craigslist or eBay, but buyer beware. Make sure they are not damaged. Solid shaft paddles can sometimes leak where the blades are inserted, so shake the paddle and listen for water. Shafts you can disassemble often have springs that can break or become dislodged. Check to make sure everything works right. There is no getting around the research. Read about blade types, materials, shaft shapes (some are oblong if you cross sectioned the shaft, not just circular - for an easier grip). Read my post 5 Alternative Paddle Strokes. Take your time determining which paddle will work best in the areas you will be paddling. If you decide to purchase a paddle, your research will have been worth the effort - and don't forget the paddle leash!

2. A PFD (personal flotation device). A PFD (life jacket) will almost certainly be provided or available from a kayak rental shop, but like a paddle, having your own can have some benefits. You can make sure that your PFD fits your body type well - which means snug and secure, so it doesn't slide up over your head if you end up in the water. You can look for additional features - like pockets and reflective materials. Just like with a paddle, do your research, read reviews, and then go try them on to find the perfect PFD for you. Heck, you can even pick your favorite color (consider something bright that can be seen easily on the water, like this one). A good PFD will serve you in all water related activities, so it can be used beyond kayaking - which is one more reason to consider owning yours.

3. A Sun Blocking, Water Resistant Hat. A hat is another item that can serve you in activities beyond kayaking, but you will surely want one when you're on the water. The sun can beat down on you mercilessly when there's no cloud cover. Even with some clouds, sunburn can occur much quicker than you might expect. Get something with a broad brim that gives good coverage. You can go so far as a model that offers accessories, like a rear flap over your neck (see my post 8 Tips for Dressing Right for Your Kayaking Adventure), but at least get something that will cast a substantial shadow over your head and face. Consider what other outdoor activities might benefit from which type of hat you choose - maybe one with some ventilation, so it doesn't get too hot off the water. You should probably choose a lighter color as well - dark colors get hotter in the sun.

4. A Dry Bag. Kayak rental shops may or may not have dry bags available, but they are invaluable for safe protection of items you don't want to get wet - like your wallet, your cell phone, a dry change of clothing, paper maps, etc. You might consider additional water tight carriers for things like your cell phone as a back-up in case the dry bag leaks. You can use a dry bag anywhere on the water - bring one along on a boat trip for piece of mind, for instance. I recommend a model with a see through panel, so you can see inside without having to open it, and a bright color, so it's easy to find and identify. Mark your name and contact info. on it as well with a permanent marker, in case you accidentally leave it behind somewhere. They're great for camping, too - to protect items from rainfall.

5. Eye Protection. Eye protection (UV rated sun glasses) are necessary in many outdoor activities, but especially so on the water. The reflected light can cause squinting, and can impede your vision - which is very bad for safety. You want to be able to see approaching power boats or jet skis - as well as surface indicators of currents, water hazards, etc. Keep in mind you may lose your glasses though, so consider a cheap pair (and maybe a back-up cheap pair) or some foam floats that attach to the stems via a neck loop.

I'm going to give an honorable mention to clothing. On your rental kayak paddle, wear clothing that dries easily if it gets wet, and will keep you warm, wet or not. This is typically synthetic, moisture wicking fabrics. Jeans and cotton fabric items are not a good choice - nor are any items that are heavy when wet. I'm also giving an honorable mention to some kind of hand protection (gloves), especially if you are prone to blisters. These should also be made of a material that performs well in water. Finally, I'd like to emphasize safety. If you do not feel confident in your skills, go with a tour. Even if you do feel confident, don't go alone. A few paddle trips a year will not make you an expert, so use the buddy system, and be conservative with your choice of paddling location and conditions. I strongly suggest viewing some online safety instructional videos for re-entry into a capsized kayak - and maybe even taking a class if one is available near you. Here's a great video that shows how your paddle buddy can help you re-enter your kayak:

Renting a kayak is a great option for those not interested in the work of owning, maintaining, and transporting one. If you plan to do it on a regular basis, though, owning a few key items that you can transport easily (and might be useful for other outdoor pursuits) could make your paddling experiences even better.

Whatever quantity of time you get to spend paddling, it's the quality that really counts. Make yours as good as it can be. See you on the water.

- TB on the Water

Milestone: CWK Celebrates its 30th Post!

2017-09-27T15:00:00.000-04:00

Celebrating the 30th Post!

When I started this blog, I must admit, I had no firm idea where it would go. I knew I had some advice that might be useful - especially for beginners. There are plenty of kayakers out there who have a great deal more experience and expertise than I do, but I still see some value in adding my voice to the conversation. On many occasions, when the topic of kayaking came up in general small talk, I found myself answering questions for folks who seemed unaware of the basic requirements for safe enjoyment of the sport, and who (let's face it) probably won't ever really get into kayaking in anything but a casual way. That's fine. I have no problem with people recognizing they don't have the time or interest level to fully commit to any particular activity. I enjoy kayaking and waveski surfing (see my post What's That Thing Called? (it's a waveski)), but I work a full time job and have limited hours to spend on each pursuit. Surfing has shifted into the forefront of my water activities in recent years - I can get to my usual break in less than an hour, surf for a couple hours, and get back before noontime after a morning surf. I do enjoy the several times a year I get the long boat (what I call my touring kayak) out for a paddle with Tim (see my post Paddle Trip: Choate Island and Crane Beach) or Mike (see my post 5 Tips for Kayak Fishing (once in a while)). The fewer times we can fit touring or fishing paddles into our schedules makes me appreciate the occasional trip all the more. So, I can understand anyone who might have only a peripheral interest in trying out a kayak. I hope the advice I have given in posts like 10 Tips for Which Kayak You Should Buy (hint: maybe none at all) help steer those folks to kayaking opportunities that don't require a huge commitment - like rentals or organized tours, for example. For those who do want to take the next step, I have aimed to provide some advice for lowering the cost of entry to the sport, and the cost of maintenance of your equipment (see my post Kayak Repairs That Last - 10 Tips for Maintaining Your Kayak). I still have some more advice on those topics for future posts, but the post links above, and other posts I have published are a good start for anyone wanting to learn more. I have also linked to other resources that can provide additional information, and I strive to make sure those resources offer the level of quality my readers deserve.

Another aspect of my blog content has been the promotion and appreciation of my local New England coastal waterways. I have been drawn to these waters since my youth (see my post Why I Love the Ocean), and my wish for my last breath would be to release it while gazing upon the shining Atlantic. My love for New England and its waters was only heightened by a brief foray to the southern California coast in the early 1990s. When I drove back across this great country (ostensibly for a temporary visit - and boy, Texas takes a long time to drive across!), I knew, when my eyes caught the glinting morning light reflected through thin ice on Connecticut hardwood trees, that I would never leave. My first gaze upon my beloved Atlantic only confirmed that knowledge. I am a New Englander. It is in my bones, and I hope that condition shines through my posts about local paddle trips and locations. I try to offer as objective a viewpoint as possible, including some criticism of local shortcomings like parking and access to the water (see my post Essex Bay - A Northeast Massachusetts Gem (but where's the parking?)). Let's face it, though, I am a booster for all things New England, and will continue to be. If a reader from another region or part of the world gets a taste for this beautiful coastline from my blog, then I've done my job as I see it.

The beautiful Atlantic Ocean off New England

My readership has grown quite a bit since my first post, and it's been interesting to see who's viewing my blog. Of course, the lion's share of views have come from the U.S., but there are also views from many countries throughout the world, on most continents. I hope I represent New England residents, and kayakers more specifically, well. I can imagine a resident of some distant land, who may not have much knowledge of the New England area, having her perspective on the region at least partially shaped by my posts. That idea gives me a sense of responsibility that will continue to inform my writing moving forward.

With the exception of the month of June, 2017, I have been publishing weekly blog posts. Now that 30 posts have been accumulated (a goal I set for myself a few months ago), I will be posting less frequently. I haven't yet fully decided how often that will be, but my Posting Schedule page will list updates to my posting frequency. Less frequent posts may take on a different tone - maybe longer, maybe a series on a specific topic - I'm not quite sure yet. I also want to curate more useful content onto my blog, to make it more of a "one stop shop" for my readers. Whatever form this blog takes in the future, I will continue to strive with integrity to provide my honest viewpoint and perspective on kayaking New England waters.

Thank you to anyone who has visited this blog (or may be visiting now, for the first time). The concept that anyone might find what I have to say useful or interesting is humbling. In an ever busy world, time is ever more precious. Thanks for spending some of yours with me.

Be safe, take care of your gear, plan your trips well - then get out there and paddle with a song in your heart. Here's to the next 30 posts!

- TB on the Water

Season: Kayak Touring New England Fall Foliage

2017-09-20T15:00:00.000-04:00

New England is famous worldwide for its glorious fall foliage. The amazing color variations of leaves during this season include reds, oranges, yellows, greens, and everything in between. Different plant species change color at different times, so the color palette changes over the course of the season, and from place to place. Color change comes earlier in the north, and later in the south, and can also be affected by elevation and micro-climate conditions. When exactly the change begins and ends differs from year to year, and can be affected greatly by the amount of summer rainfall and the weather patterns. So, it's no guarantee any particular year will be ablaze with color variation. Most years, though, reward us with spectacular scenery. 2017 is forecast for a spectacular show (story here). New England fall tourism can generate billions of dollars of revenue for the region. Most people drive to their favorite locations, like the White Mountains, then hike a trail, or stop at a scenic lookout. Folks get out on foliage train rides, boat cruises, bike tours, ATVs - so, why not include kayaking in the fun?

New England lakeside fall foliage

One of the great advantages of viewing foliage from a kayak is you'll have much less competition for a prime viewing spot. Unless you're in a busy waterway, you'll have nothing between you and the trees. In some places, you'll be able to paddle right up to, or underneath, them. Another advantage is, well, you'll be in a kayak, enjoying all the benefits kayaking offers the rest of the year. It's just an enhanced version in the fall. Daytime temperatures can remain quite warm during the fall, but will chill as the season progresses. Dressing in appropriate layers is key to comfort and safety (see my post 8 Tips for Dressing Right for Your Kayaking Adventure). Shortened days give you a narrower window in which to enjoy the water, so time your paddle to return well before late afternoon. With proper planning, though, you can enjoy sun filled days with crisp, clean air, amidst a vibrant visual display.

In order to get close to the best foliage, you might consider a lake or river paddling location (here's a list of rivers from Easternslopes.com). That said, ocean bays and inlets can offer foliage options as well. Either way, chart a course that keeps you close to land, or at least among islands with leaf bearing trees, so you can get a good view. If you plan on taking photos, paddle somewhere quiet and placid, so you can concentrate on getting great shots without sacrificing safe operation of your kayak. I like quiet backwater estuaries that give you the best of all worlds - salt water (and its attendant wildlife) and proximity to the coast. One great example of this scenario close to me is Newcastle, New Hampshire (see my post Newcastle, New Hampshire - a Kayaker's Dream). There are plenty of coastal trees here, as well as trees on multiple islands, and Sagamore Creek is available to get farther upstream and inland. This leads to still waters that reflect the foliage for a great photo subject.

Fall foliage reflected on the Squamscott River in New Hampshire

Fall fishing can be pretty good, too. Stripers are chasing baitfish all over the New England coastline. You can fish with a view of the glorious leaves as your backdrop. Then, if you land a big one, your buddy can catch the foliage in the background of your show-off pic 😉. Fall is also a great time to beach your 'yak near a trail and take a short hike to view the leaves close up. The bugs are mostly gone, and you won't get overheated in the cool air. Boat safety is better - boat traffic has diminished in most New England locations after Labor Day, but lakes and rivers could still be busy, so practice due diligence.

So long as you dress right, practice proper safety (see my post Safety is a Mindset - 10 Tips for Kayaking Safely), and make sure you time your paddle correctly, the fall is a great time to kayak in New England - and an even better time to enjoy the show the trees put on every year, before they shed their leaves for the long winter sleep. Do yourself a favor: get out there and take advantage of the season for paddling - before your long winter sleep.

- TB on the Water

Advice: Launching Your Kayak

2017-09-13T15:00:00.001-04:00

It seems like a fairly straightforward proposition; paddling your kayak means putting it in some kind of water. However, some consideration and technique can be brought to bear on the specifics of launching your kayak, and I think it's worthwhile to examine what those specifics might be. I briefly touched on launching in my post 10 Tips for Which Kayak You Should Buy, but I'll go into more detail here.

The beginning of your journey

The first thing that always comes to mind when I'm researching a launch location is: are kayaks allowed? Sounds a little basic, right? Consider Lake Cochichewick in North, Andover, Massachusetts - not far from where I live. I've spied this lake as a possible paddling spot for a few years, as it is abutted on its western shore by conservation land, is big enough to offer a couple hours of circumnavigation, and looks like a nice, easy destination to enjoy some fall foliage. After researching this spot, though, I determined that it is suitable only for town residents with closed hull kayaks. Lake Cochichewick is a drinking water supply for several towns. It does offer access to non-motorized boats, but via a town boat launch specified for residents' use. It also requires all boats to not have any possible communication between the water and boat occupants - which means a cockpit drain hole is technically not permitted. So, in this example, kayaks are permitted, but only under specific conditions that don't apply to me and my 'yak. My research saved my a wasted trip and maybe even a fine.

The next thing I think about is parking. I know, the whole idea behind kayaking and other activities in nature is to get us out of our cars and to be surrounded by the natural world. Well, unless you live on a lake, the ocean, or a river, then you're probably going to transport your kayak(s) via a car or truck. Having a dependable parking spot close to your launch point takes one logistical issue out of your paddle trip. If parking is not close, you will either have to drop your boat at the launch site, then go park, then walk/jog/run back to the water, or, you will need a wheeled kayak carrier to get your 'yak from your vehicle to the launch. In that scenario, you'll have to plan on what to do with the carrier. Does it fold sufficiently to fit inside a hatch? Can you carry it on top of your kayak? Remember, it will add weight, possibly affect you ability to roll your kayak (see my post Safety is a Mindset), and may be subjected to salt water (and therefore, can rust). Also, if you are heading to a new (for you) paddling location, is there more than one parking option? You can't know exactly how busy it will be, or whether any construction or other unforeseen issues will thwart your first choice for a parking spot. Be prepared for unknown parking restrictions (like "resident parking only") as well, and bring quarters for old-school parking meters and a credit card for newer meters.

After permission/suitability and parking, I think about the launch conditions. Is it rocky or sandy? Will there be mud to slog through? Is the grade to the water a gentle slope, or a steeper drop-off? Do you own a type of kayak you don't want to scratch (it's a good idea to avoid scratching any kayak hull, but fiber glass and wood finishes can be particularly affected by gravel and rocks - which is why my 'yak is plastic 😏)? Are you launching from a beach, from a concrete boat launch, from a dock? - the type of launch can greatly affect the best practices for getting in the water (still mostly dry 😉) and getting out. Different launch types can favor different kayak types. Dropping a heavy fishing kayak off the side of a dock, for example, can be tricky. Getting into/onto your kayak can be tricky, too. Different techniques are required for different launches. A word here about assisted kayak launches (someone giving you a push): in my opinion, don't do it. I can recall a launch off some rocks in Magnolia where some helpful divers, fresh out of the water, offered to give me a hand launching. They pushed straight into the trough of an oncoming wave, and had, without telling me, folded my rudder on top of my 'yak. I plunged bow first off rocks into an oncoming wave with only my paddle to control the boat. Do yourself a favor - leave your launch timing and gear status to yourself, and fully in your control. Folks may think they're helping, but in the end, it's your ass in the cockpit.

The most versatile and easiest launch type is a gently sloping, sandy beach near flat water. This can be at the ocean, on a riverbank, or on a lake or pond. The gentle slope allows for an easy carry to the water's edge. If the sand is fine grained, you can drag your kayak with minimal scratching (fussy fiberglass hull paddlers might still want to carry theirs all the way to the water). That said, a 45lb kayak can be a tough drag (or tougher carry) for many people. Wheels will roll easily if they are made for sand. Pneumatic tires work well on sand, but thin, hard wheels - not so much. You can pull your kayak half way into the water, get in it, get yourself organized with your gear, then shimmy yourself forward until you're in water deep enough to float. A couple of paddle presses off the soft sand bottom, and presto, you're on your way.

Mounting your kayak when it's already in deeper water (like on the side of a dock) means an error could send you splashing into the drink. I personally have unceremoniously tumbled into the water (on a return landing, no less...embarrassment is a great teacher 😖).This can be a safety issue in a current, and could float you and your boat away - and away from each other. There are specific techniques for controlling your kayak and bracing off the dock. Here's a video from Paddling.com that shows you how to do it...

Steep drop offs into deep water and rocky launch points add another level of difficulty, so choose a launch that suits your ability. Launching into the surf is for advanced paddlers and deserves a post of its own, so I won't go into it here, aside from saying don't do it unless you have a spray skirt deployed or are on a sit-on-top kayak and know the paddling techniques required to safely punch through waves. Do your research, and practice in small surf first. Getting tossed by waves in a touring length kayak is no joke - it could break your neck. Landing in surf conditions is even more challenging. So, avoid surf launches unless you are advanced.

Another consideration for your launch point is what will the conditions be like when you return from your paddle? If the tide goes out and leaves nothing but thick mud between you and your landing, that could be a long, hard slog. You might even get stuck. I have lost footwear in thick mud. Trust me, you want to avoid it. This is one reason why known boat launches are good candidates. They have already been vetted for changing tide levels. Launching into a river current might be easier on the entry - the return could require landing at speed. Coming into a dock at the speed of the current can be difficult - you don't want to get smashed into the side of it, or dragged under a gangway.

Like most aspects of kayaking, selecting the right launch may be a bit more complicated than it first appears, but don't let that intimidate you. Your launch point is where you leave your terrestrial life behind and slide onto liquid. It's the gateway to your kayaking adventure, and the port that welcomes you home. Consider it thoroughly, choose wisely, then leave the land and its troubles behind you - at least for a little while.

- TB on the Water

Location: The Mouth of the Danvers River & Nearby Islands

2017-09-06T15:00:00.000-04:00

I'm not going to write about a specific paddling trip to this area in this post, but I have paddled its waters on several occasions, including while casting for stripers. Both Tim (see An Unexpected Adventure) and Mike (see 5 Tips for Kayak Fishing (once in a while)) have set out on these waters with me, and we have launched from a few different spots - exposing us to its varying conditions. While the body of water surrounded by the shores of Beverly, Manchester-by-the-Sea, Magnolia, and Gloucester to the north, and Salem and Marblehead to the south is technically part of Massachusetts Bay, its seems like it should have its own name - but I haven't found one. The Danvers River drains into this waterway from the west, and open ocean lies east of Gloucester and its opposite, Marblehead. There are several harbors adjacent to these waters, including those at Gloucester and Manchester-by-the Sea on the north side, and those at Salem and Marblehead on the south side. Islands lay from north to south, including Misery Island, which is a Trustees of Reservations property and offers hiking trails and seasonal restroom facilities, should you need to stretch your legs. Crowninsheild Island is also a Trustees of Reservations property, but is on the south side of the waterway - just outside of Marblehead Harbor. It's small, with no amenities, but could be a great base for some kayak fishing, or as a rest stop before heading to other islands farther into the bay.

This area, in my opinion, is not suitable for beginner kayakers. In fact, experienced kayakers would do well to take the conditions here seriously. There have been kayaking fatalities in these waters. Currents can be very strong. I was caught in the Danvers River current on one trip with Mike, and had no option but to paddle hard toward the Marblehead shore to keep from getting swamped. Crossing currents drove random waves over my bow, and it took all my skills and 45 minutes of paddling to get me out of the current. Even Salem Harbor can have strong currents depending on the tide conditions. The wind chop can get challenging there as well. Paddling to islands farther into the bay will take you over deep water - far from land and in near open ocean conditions. I would not recommend paddling far from shore alone. As in all paddling trips, give thorough consideration to all safety related preparations (see Safety is a Mindset), especially in this area. These waters are not to be taken lightly. If you would like to stay in calmer areas, then Marblehead Harbor and the coastline along Beverly should work. Salem Harbor and Gloucester Harbor are more challenging, and paddling to any of the islands (other than Crowninsheild Island) is more advanced.

Parking can be tricky depending on your launch point, but, given the vast surrounding coastline, options can be found throughout. Decide where you will launch, then check out the town website (links are in the first paragraph) for boating access. Some locations may charge a fee. I also use Google Maps (like the one above) to scan coastlines for possible launch locations. If you're lucky, you can find a small beach area with nearby free parking that will suffice.

Boat traffic can be heavy in the harbors, so keep your head on a swivel there. Powerboats don't always follow "no wake" rules, and will wash you with wake waves. Stay out of the main boating lanes, or cross them quickly when there is a lull in the traffic. Sail boats have the right of way, so give them a wide berth.

Marblehead Harbor

These waters are deep and cold outside of the harbors, so dress appropriately - the wind over the water will be substantially cooler than back on shore. Plan for plenty of time to get where you're going. The islands can appear closer than the actual time it takes to paddle to them. This area is to be enjoyed in smaller bites - then, with experience, you can push your paddling to make a bigger meal out of it. This coming fall could provide great weather for enjoying this area, but it won't last long. Shorter days will bring the temperatures down quickly. Viewing foliage from a kayak, however, is a beautiful thing indeed (see my post Kayak Touring New England Fall Foliage). Afterward, you can stop in Salem for a pint and some beer snacks at Notch Brewery & Tap Room.

I always try to treat this waterway with the respect my experience here has engendered. That being said, if you have skills, plan correctly, and paddle with company, these waters offer a rugged adventure with remote island beaches that can put you in another world.

- TB on the Water

Paddle Trip: Choate Island and Crane Beach (Essex Bay)

2017-08-30T15:00:00.000-04:00

Recently, my paddling co-conspirator Tim (see my post An Unexpected Adventure) and I enjoyed a leisurely 3 hour tour around Choate Island (formerly known as Hog Island) in Essex Bay (see my post Essex Bay - A Northeast Massachusetts Gem). This is an area I revisit regularly due to its shear beauty and kayak friendly (aside from parking options) conditions. You'd be hard pressed to locate a better kayak touring location than this area. It's big enough to offer wide ranging trip options, has plenty of protected back waters to keep you out of the power boat lanes, is abundant with wildlife, and has a few spots to stop and stretch your legs. Every time I paddle here, I seem to encounter something new, and this paddle trip was no exception.

Looking East toward Crane Beach from Long Island

We left from Conomo Point in Essex as we typically do. The tide was low, but inbound. This rendered the beach, from where we often launch, far from any water - other than small creeks formed in the muddy bottom. We opted to try another launch point over the hill near Clammer's Beach that was closer to the water with more gravel than mud. The few parking spots there are designated for resident sticker parking, but one spot was available to temporarily park and offload the boats. Tim stayed with them while I drove my truck back to park beyond the "resident sticker only" parking sign on Conomo Point Road. I jogged the 1/4 mile back to the beach, and we were able to get on the water by about 10:00am. The morning breeze was off the ocean, and felt cool and refreshing as we paddled around the south side of Dilly Island, and angled toward deeper waters. We hit a shallow patch, and had to drag the 'yaks 30 feet or so, but found water deep enough for our paddles as we headed east along Dilly Island and into the deeper channel that clammers use for powering their outboards out to the clam flats. We saw 2 clammers raking hard, nearly knee deep in the mud wearing their rubber boots and with backs bent to drag clam rakes. A white, long legged wading bird, which I took to be some king of heron, and may have been, more specifically, a Great Egret, stalked through the shallows to our left eyeing minnows for breakfast.

Deeper water increased our paddling speed, and we rapidly left Dilly Island behind, proceeding to the back side (west side) of Crane Beach. At full low tide, which this was approximately, the deep water is confined to a channel running parallel to Crane Beach, which descends steeply into the water here, contrasted to the gradual grade decline on the ocean side. The currents can be strong in this channel, and a paddler should pay attention. A couple of power boats were carrying a few fishermen each, who were casting for stripers in the deeper water. We kept to the shallower side of the channel, and paddled among some pleasure boats that were anchored in what I guessed was about 10'-12' of depth. 2 guys in waders were hip deep in water closer to the nearby island, and looked like they were fly casting. Soon after we passed them, we made our way to the gravel beach next to the dock on Long Island - which runs adjacent to Choate Island. I have heard the dock was upgraded (around 1995) for delivering equipment and personnel used to film the movie The Crucible. Now, the islands (dock included) are the property of the the non-profit Trustees of Reservations, who's mission is to "care for more than 100 special places - nearly 25,000 acres - all around Massachusetts".

The dock at Long Island

After a brief respite on the beach near the dock - to take some pictures and stretch our legs, we climbed back into the 'yaks and paddled across the channel again to the Crane Beach side - to check out the dock there, and saw another heron - this time a Great Blue Heron, stroking its huge wings along the shore in seemingly slow motion. The blue color of its wing feathers was striking. We crossed the channel one more time, and headed toward the west side of Choate Island. The tide was well inbound now, and the marsh creeks behind the island were deep enough to afford smooth paddling for the most part. I noticed a platform installed to encourage the nesting of Osprey. This one had a nest on it (the birds come back to the same nest location year after year, but a nest does not necessarily mean birds are currently using it). A few minutes later, I heard the telltale call of an an Osprey, and saw one land to roost in a tall pine tree on the hill near the west side of the island. I always enjoy seeing these raptors - it's a good sign of the overall health of the local environment; they survive on fish as their primary food source.

The hilltop on Choate Island

We paddled through the marsh creek west of Choate Island and back south toward the Essex River mouth. It was here that we had the most unusual encounter of the day. As we moved along the shore of Corn Island and Dilly Island (this time on its north side), I heard a splash to my left and caught the last of some white water out of the corner of my eye. At first, I thought it had been some kind of a wave, but I quickly realized the minimal wind chop was not nearly big enough to break, and it had to be something else. Then, I thought something must have breached the water. What I had seen out of the corner of my eye, though, made too big of a splash to be a striped bass. I asked Tim if he saw anything, but he hadn't. Just then, as I looked past Tim farther into the river, I saw the shiny black head of a seal. "It must have been that seal", I said, pointing Tim's gaze in its direction. We watched the seal as it watched us back. Then, its shiny head slipped under the surface. Half a minute later, Tim and I both saw another splash - this time an explosion of fish leaping free of the water to escape the pursuing seal. I had never seen a seal feeding like this, and it was a revelation. Tim glided over to the area where the fish had leaped into the air, and soon after, another watery explosion of fish happened not more than 12 feet from him. This repeated a couple more times until a motor boat approached and the seal spooked. This was a surprising highlight of our paddle, and another example of how nature can show you something new every time you look.

By the time we got back to Conomo Point, the tide had risen sufficiently to land at the usual beach spot on the south side of the point - which made for a slightly shorter walk back to my truck. This paddle was everything a relaxed kayaking trip should be: fresh air, beautiful surroundings, and a nature show to cap it off.

I still think the town of Essex is missing an economic opportunity by not having easier kayaking access to Essex Bay, but maybe that's what keeps it so special. I, for one, will continue putting in the work to get in the water there, and to enjoy all that it has to offer.

- TB on the Water

Surf: NH Summer Surfing Redeemed (sort of)

2017-08-23T15:00:00.000-04:00

OK, so anyone who read my rant Why New Hampshire Summer Surfing Sucks knows that in June I swore I wouldn't hit the waves again until the fall. Well, I caved (what can I say? My wave jones got the better of me 😏). I recently took a couple of cracks at catching some waves, with mixed results. My first try (about a week ago) was on a sunny day with plenty of bathers in the water, lots of board surfers (many of whom do not practice surf etiquette - even among themselves), and various other yahoos playing in the surf (I actually saw one guy trying to ride waves with a giant inflatable lobster 😒). I was careful to stay out of the "no surfing" zone, which has been made much more identifiable at my local break by signs with arrows designating where the surfers are not allowed (this was probably done more for the benefit of non-surfers, as surfers usually understand the flags alone). Of course, this doesn't mean any non-surfers are going to pay attention to the signs.They're not excluded, by any means, from the "surfing allowed" areas, but they should be aware of the risks. From my observations, they typically aren't. I had to pull off many waves to avoid running into bather's heads bobbing in the water. That said, I knew ahead of time this would be the scenario, so I made the best of it, and managed to catch a few decent shore break waves.

The author surfing his Walden "Milo" earlier in the season

My second attempt was much more successful. Conditions were aligned such that everything was in the surfer's favor. The tide was inbound at dawn, with a few hours left before high tide. The skies were overcast, so beach attendance was minimal - especially that early in the morning. The waves were a little better than typical for this time of year, and some were bigger than had been forecast. I wore my full 3|2 wetsuit, which would have been too hot if the sun was out, but was perfection with the low 60's F water temperature. The water was at that perfectly refreshing temperature that makes you glad to be alive, and glad to be in the waves. The only down side relative to fall conditions was that it was a Saturday, and the waves were crowded. They will be much less crowded as water temperatures cool in October and November. In the section I was surfing, though, everybody seemed to click in that wordless understanding that allows surfers to share waves and not hurt each other. Etiquette was mostly followed, and over the hours, we each got the feel for what the strange but increasingly familiar faces gliding past would do. It's also good to re-establish my waveski (see my post What's That Thing Called?) in the lineup and to show fellow surfers that I generally know what I'm doing, and that I belong there. By about 10:00, though, I was ready to call it quits as the late risers paddled out, and I felt like I was practically rubbing shoulders with the "boardies".

I caught a bunch of decent shore breakers that day, both lefts and rights. The rides weren't exceptionally long, as the waves were closing out faster than I would have liked. It took a little while for them to clean up too. They were pretty choppy and difficult to position at first. They cleaned up a bit as the tide rolled in and the light came up, which was welcome. I was particularly happy with a left where I was barely hanging on to the steep face, and actually found myself in a mini-curl before it closed out. I was sure I was headed for a tumble as I held my rail edge just onto the wave face, but I managed to hold it together and slide out the end and over the shoulder. A waveski can be a lot like riding in a go-cart; you're so close to the surface, it increases your perception of the speed you're going. I mentioned this to a friendly dread-locked board surfer who asked me about the 'ski - I get a lot of interest in the busier warm water months. Some of these surfers haven't seen me before. During the cold water months, I get a lot of "hello"s from more hard core surfers who recognize me.

All in all, I felt much better about summertime conditions in the local waves - but again, this was a specific and unusual situation. For there to be little in the way of beach attendance on a Saturday in August is a happenstance that is few and far between in these parts.

I'm still looking forward to watching ducks fly south as I wait for the next set, but for now, I feel better about New Hampshire summer surfing (except for the inflatable lobster - really? 🙈).

- TB on the Water

Travel: Bar Harbor - Gateway to Outdoor Adventure

2017-08-16T15:00:00.000-04:00

Bar Harbor, Maine and the surrounding geography are too big of a subject for one post, so I will likely revisit this subject again in the future. For now, I'd like to focus on the town of Bar Harbor itself, and the many opportunities it presents for folks wanting to kayak the pristine waters of Frenchman Bay or other nearby waters, or to hike, bike, fish, rockclimb, ride on horseback...a near endless list of outdoor activities.

Bar Harbor and Frenchman Bay

Bar Harbor is the largest town (or village, as the case may be) on Mt. Desert (pron. DEsert or deSERT - either way is acceptable) Island. Mt. Desert Island is home to Acadia National Park, the oldest national park east of the Mississippi. There are several areas that permit boating within the park, which should include kayaking. However, these same areas do not necessarily permit paddle boarding, kite surfing, etc. - so double check with park officials before planning an in-park kayaking trip. You will probably want a wheeled kayak cart with all terrain tires to get your 'yak to the launch point, as parking lots are often not immediately adjacent to the water's edge. You may have to travel via a short trail to get to the water. I personally have not yet paddled within park boundaries, but my inclination is that places like Long Pond and Echo Lake would be prime candidates. Outside the park and surrounding Mt. Desert Island are ocean waters including Frenchman Bay, Eastern Bay, and Somes Sound (once considered a fjord, but now called a fjard). These areas offer a multitude of kayaking trip possibilities, from beginner to advanced - so plan your trip relative to your experience level (see my post Where Should I Paddle? - advice on planning your adventure), or consider joining one of the tours offered by the local kayaking tour businesses.

The town of Bar Harbor, as the largest populated area on the island, is a hub for all island activities. It's a great place to start when planning a trip. Some of the island locals will lament the summertime influx of tourists that can cause traffic back-ups in town and a less than sedate atmosphere. However, they also bring a lot of commerce with them that supports local retail, restaurants, and recreation opportunities. If a touristy atmosphere drives you crazy, consider visiting in the spring, or better yet, the fall - when the town is a bit quieter than during the height of summer. Alternatively, you can stay outside of Bar Harbor and head in to town to join a kayaking tour, hop on a boat, rent bikes, etc. The Island Explorer bus line offers shuttle routes to many areas on the island. Accommodations range from campgrounds to cabins to hotels, and sometimes come with package deals that include recreational activities. Food offerings range from local markets and lobster pounds where you can find excellent products to cook yourself, to roadside casual spots, and all the way to upscale dining.

The best aspect of Bar Harbor and Mt. Desert Island is the huge variety of things to do, especially in regards to recreation and the outdoors, within a fairly compact geographical area. You can drive across the island in 30-45 minutes, depending on which route you take. The worst part is how long it can take to get there. From my home in northeastern Massachusetts, it's a 6 hour drive if I stick to Rt.95 north to Augusta, then drive east on Rt.3 to Belfast, then coastal Rt.1 north to Ellsworth, then Rt.3 again - this time southeast onto the island. Alternatively, Rt.1 can be driven for a longer stretch with stops available in several of the mid-coast Maine towns like Rockland and Camden. There is an airport, the Hancock County - Bar Harbor Airport, that offers flights via Cape Air, Pen Air, and Jet Blue. I've never used these carriers, so make sure to research flight options thoroughly if this interests you. A location that requires a bit of a journey, even for New Englanders like myself, can be a good thing. It forces you to leave your day to day life behind and encourages you to optimize your visit once you get there. This can result in a memorable trip. Do your research, plan thoroughly, leave some space and time for spontaneous trip alterations, have back-ups in case of inclement weather, give yourself plenty of time to get there...then enjoy. If you haven't been there before, I guarantee you will want to go back. If you have, then you know what I mean.

For kayak tours (which I recommend for the less experienced - one of my earliest paddles was on one of these) you can find Acadia Kayak Tours, Coastal Kayaking Tours, and Aquaterra Adventures right in Bar Harbor. There are additional kayak touring companies located elsewhere on the island. If you want to paddle independently, you can rent a kayak which can be dropped at a launch point by the rental company. If you bring your own kayak, make sure you have it fully secured for the long drive, that you will be able to park your vehicle comfortably with your kayak(s) loaded, and that you have fully researched the local paddling conditions. Paddling independently in a strange area can be more risky than going on a tour, so talk to the local experts at the rental companies and ask as many questions as you can. Buy a map, if they have one, to compensate them for their advice. Remember, Maine waters are c-c-cold , so wear appropriate clothing (see my post 8 Tips for Dressing Right for Your Kayaking Adventure).

Sand Beach, Acadia from a mountain top

Whether you plan on lazily relaxing in Bar Harbor, paddling the local waters, or climbing a mountain, you will enjoy your visit and marvel at the natural beauty of the place. Acadia National Park is diminutive by the standards of the vast parks of the West, but it is nonetheless remarkable. This area showcases coastal Maine in all its glory, and gives visitors the opportunity to explore its natural wonders, its fresh seafood, its history, and its hospitality - and I haven't yet mentioned the fresh local beer for aficionados (like myself 😋), with brewers like Atlantic Brewing, and Jack Russell's Steak House & Brewery located right on the island. A cold local beer and some fresh shucked oysters are my little piece of heaven when I'm there.

Do yourself a favor, if you haven't visited Bar Harbor and Mt. Desert Island, do so as soon as possible. If you have, go back for more. You'll thank me.

- TB on the Water