Wow, this was so much fun! We had about 27 people recruited to race out at the whitewater park yesterday, and ended up with 7 heats of like 4 people each. Basically what you had to do was paddle through M wave, catch the 2nd eddy on left, touch the flag, then touch flag on right at Shutdown, touch the 3rd on left, then one last one on RR below the rock pile, and race to the end.

There were all kinds of people in the race, a whole bunch of ladies, some youngsters, handpaddlers, new and old. Thanks a ton to Eric C who was a good sport and tried out the handpaddles, he almost won, he was paddling really fast, so fast in fact that he totallly missed a flag. They should have never hid it behind that rock. ugagh!

Thankfully Jim lent me some of his wisdom at the start by telling me to tuck my grab handle inside my boat. Patrick claimed he didnt hear that advice and subsequently another racer noticed his newbie status and immediately pulled his skirt and pushed him into M wave.

There was plenty of addition carnage for the crowd, one heat alone had like 3 swimmers, but I think most of them pulled their own skirts.

During the final some crazy man came sprinting (running) down the middle of the channel at the end and tackled, pull skirt, and flipped like 3 racers. I heard mention of Beans? No one seemed to know his real name, we wondered aloud did he really like Mexican food? Was he related to Jack from the fairy tail? I guess the mystery remains.

At the end we all gathered at the tent and Jason and Sam passed out cool prizes. I got a parrot.

Thanks a ton to Jason and Sam and World Kayak, they take time off from their “real” jobs to do this and they do a great job. I get to design the course next month, so beware.

The next race is July 22nd at 6pm.

edgar

With the current trends in the paddling industry, Stand-up Paddling (SUP) may be the first recreational sport to cross not only the surf market, but the general paddling market, and also enter the fishing and fitness markets as well.  A new twist on one of the ealiest forms a recreation, stand up paddling takes elements from surfing and kayak and canoeing and blends them into one of the best workouts money can buy.  With the ability to do well in several genres of watersports SUP may be the next big trend from coast to coast.

“Stand up paddle surfing is derived from Polynesian roots. The Hawaiian translation is Ku Hoe He’e Nalu; to stand, to paddle, to surf, a wave.”

The modern form of SUP originated in Hawaii as a means for surf instructors to have a higher vantage point of the surrounding area and their students and SUP was an easier way to get out into surf, it also afforded a great form of exercise to big wave surfers when the surf was down.  The main differences in surfing and SUP is that the later can be done without waves.  With enough stability and buoyancy a SUP board can be used in flatwater as well.  Around 2000, the sport migrated to California. As it caught on, it wound its way into the american surf culture. It didn’t take but a few years for it to jump coasts and is now migrating into inland lakes and rivers.  With its roots firmly planted in the surf culture it is an easy transition from surfing to SUPing; however, with the evergrowing popularity of paddlesports many paddlers are making the transistion to standing while enjoying their sport on both flatwater and, more recently, whitewater.

The equipment needed to enjoy SUPing is fairly basic.  A stand-up paddle board (an old windsurf board with all the foot loops removed works as well), a stand-up paddle and clothes you don’t mind getting wet in (swim trunks and a t-shirt or rash guard).  The size of the board is important depending on the type of paddling you plan on doing and the size of the paddler. The smaller the board the more maneuverable it will be for surfing but it also means it won’t track well on flatwater. The longer the board the straighter it will travel on flatwater like lakes and other inland waterways. It is not uncommon for a inland SUP board to be 12+ feet in length. Longer boards will also typically carry more weight, but you also have to take the thickness and width of the board into consideration. The thicker the board the more weight it can hold. If you are going to be SUPing in the surf a leash (a longer version of the surf leash) is needed to keep the board from getting too far away from the paddler. These boards are typically equiped with either a single large fin or a large fin and two smaller fins on the bottom of the board to aid in the boards tracking (keeping the path of travel in a straighter line). In cooler temps adding layers or a wetsuit, neoprene booties and even gloves can keep one paddling into and through the winter months.  If taking this sport into a whitewater venue interests you, the addition of a good whitewater helmet and possibly even knee and elbow pads may be a good idea.

The paddles used are similar to a canoe paddle except they are 7-9+ feet in length and are often fiberglass or carbon fiber.  Wood paddles are also fairly common, but can be heavier than their composit brethren.  Though not a steadfast rule, adding 8-10 inches to the paddlers height is a good place to start in determining paddle length.  The type of paddling you are doing (flatwater, surf or racing), the distance you plan on traveling, and your personal preference also should come into play. Surf paddles are often a little shorter while flatwater and race paddles often longer.  If traveling many paddles come in 2-3 pieces so they can be broken down for packing.  Some paddles are adjustable in length to accomidate different styles of paddling without having to get a paddle for each style.  My favorite paddle is the Werner Spanker, a super lightweight, stiff, carbonfiber paddle (http://www.wernerpaddles.com/paddles/stand_up/performance_core/spanker/).  It has a larger blade width for a greater purchase on the water.  Others we currently carry at GetOutdoors are the Werner Advantage (an all fiberglass paddle) with a somewhat narrower blade for efficient flatwater SUPing (http://www.wernerpaddles.com/paddles/stand_up/premium/advantage/).  If you like wood paddles the WhiskeyJack Ocho, is a suprisingly lightweight model (http://whiskeyjackpaddles.com/paddles_ocho.asp).

Once equiped, getting started is fairly easy. When begining this process make sure you are in deep enough water to safely fall of your board without hitting anything in the water.  Wearing a PFD (personal floatation device/ lifejacket) is also a great idea and is often required as SUP boards are now categorized by the coast guard as watercraft like a canoe or kayak (http://www.supmagic.com/sup-standup-paddlesurfing-and-bouyancy-aids/). Start by placing the board in about a foot or more of water, making sure to have enough depth to clear the boards fin of the bottom of the lake.  Start out on your knees about shoulder width apart in the middle or the balance point of the board (this is often were the grab handle or hand groove is) and get a feel for the stabilty of the board and how it reacts to your movements in the water.  More stability is gained by forward momentum and once you start to feel more confident in your movements, standing is the next step.  Lean forward on all fours, with the paddle laying perpendicular to the board and under your hands.  From this stance get your feet under your hips (remember to keep your feet shoulder width apart) and stand in one clean motion.  The smoother this is done the easier standing will be, jerky movements will often land you in the drink.  As you become more comfortable balancing on your board and paddling freely about, you can start to work on paddling technique and becoming a more efficent SUP boarder. More on these techniques in later posts.

As I stated previously SUPing has a great fitness aspect not only do you get a great upper body workout from paddling, but by balancing on the board you also incorporate your legs and core into the workout. The is a great was to cross train and make training more enjoyable without having to force yourself to workout in a gym. The core workout is probably the most beneficial aspect SUPing will give the paddler. A strong core enables better balance and coordination, in addition it also make you less prone to back injuries. A good friend who got me started SUPing had back surgery last year and used SUPing as a means of rehabilitation and she is now stronger than she was prior to her surgery.

We are in the process of bringing SUP Boards in the store, we will have a selection of entry-level through high-end boards that range in price from $900- $2300. With the popularity of kayak fishing, Native Watercraft will, hopefully soon, be releasing the Osceola. This 12 foot Kevlar board blends some basic kayak designs with the tradition of the stand-up paddle boards. It has a simple dugout design and a shallow “v” hull which allows for more secondary stability and foot purchase on the deck than a SUP board typically has. Equipped with deck bungees and Scotty rod holder mounts this new board will allow the more adventurous fisherman to take fishing and SUPing and blend them together for a new angling experience (http://www.nativewatercraft.com/media/videos/osceola.cfm).

Be on the lookout at GetOutdoors for new lines of SUP boards to get you started in this great sport later this fall and into next spring. Keep an eye on the local lakes as you will see a lot more of us using them to travel our local waterways and exercising through the winter.

Check out this link for a recent local news story on WXII 12 about this exciting trend in paddlesports as we taught local weather man Austin Caviness to SUP (http://www.wxii12.com/video20730033/index.html).

See you on the water!!!

Will

Check out the following links for more info on SUPing
http://www.supmagic.com/
http://www.standupzone.com/forum/index.php
http://howtostanduppaddlesurf.com/

If you wonder if whitewater kayaking is the sport for you, here is your chance.

This lesson will be an introduction to whitewater kayaking. This is not simply being led down the river, this is a lesson focusing on preparing you to safely navigate rivers, and start to organize your own trips.

Summary:
Date: August 2nd (8am-9pm)
Cost: $100 including transportation from Greensboro

Details:
1. To participate in this trip you have to have participated in at least one flatwater lesson with me, or a roll class with me. This can be scheduled for any weekday evening.

2. We will do this lesson on the Natahala River near Bryson City, NC. It is about 3.5 hours away from Greensboro. We can ride together from Kernersville, or meet at the river.

3. Equipment: You need to have your own helmet for this lesson. You can buy a helmet at Get Outdoors, or at the Natahala Outdoor Center when we get to the river. I will provide all other equipment/gear. The NOC has tons of choices in stock. Warm clothes that are not cotton are also important, fleece works well, and/or a wetsuit, dry top, splash jacket, etc. You can get stretchable fleece at an outdoor store, or polyester shirts at Walmart for $14. Stretchable fleece is very nice and warm, but can be expensive.

You can rent a wetsuit at NOC for $15 when we get there if you want. The weather will be warm (about 80), but the river water is cold (40 degrees).

I will provide an ACA Certified Instructor (me) and at least one assistant, kayaks, paddles, lifejackets, float bags, skirts, and probably a few funny pictures!

4. After this trip you will probably know whether you want to do whitewater paddling. The section of river we are doing is about 5 miles. It is mostly class II, with a bigger class III rapid at the end that you can try, or skip if you arent “feeling it”.

5. There will be a max of 6 participants on this trip.

6. Cost: $100

7. Feel free to review my qualifications under “Instruction” at http://www.piedmontlakesnc.com

8. To sign up for this, or to schedule a private lesson for $20 email Edgar at edgar@getoutdoors.us or yespe@aol.com

This is going to be FUN! This trip is a perfect intro, with something for everyone.

Feel free to ask questions.

Edgar Peck
ACA Whitewater Kayak Instructor

With the amazing amount of rain we have been getting here in NC this spring, creek boaters everywhere are calling in sick, avoiding family obligations, and dissing boy/girlfriends. NOAA weather predictions produce a flurry of discussion on message boards and superstitious boaters will scold others for mentioning “sure” rain and jinxing everyone. Boaters will begin to spend hours analyzing weather patterns and checking online rain and river gauges. Confused teachers and bosses will be trying to figure out the mysterious 24 hour sicknesses that coincide with heavy rains. Creeking season has been EXTENDED!

Creeking is usually thought of as a run with steep drops, epic portages, and slides long enough to make a water park jealous. But creeking is much more than that. So, how do you know if you are a member of this elite subset of whitewater boaters?

You know you are a creekboater if:
1. You can’t tell your mom about most of the rivers you paddle.
2. When staring at Niagra Falls you catch yourself looking for a line.

3. There is brush in your grab handles.
4. You live in an apartment, but own two chainsaws.
5. Going for a swim will later require dental work.
6. You have more experience with pins than Hulk Hogan.

7. If you’ve ever woken up to find your drytop frozen to the clothes line.
8. You spend more time on slides than your 8 year old.
9. Swimming involves serious injury.

10. There is a mouthguard in the pocket of your PFD.
11. You have ever had icicles hanging from your helmet.
12. “It can’t be done” is an acceptable challenge.
13. You enjoy practicing getting “beat down”.
14. You have time to rail grab on your boofs.

15. You have started coming up with new ways to pronounce “portaged”.
16. The hike out is harder than running the river.
17. You need 4 wheel drive to get to the put in of your favorite run.
18. You have used your kayak as a sled.
19. You know how to rig up your kayak as a backpack using one NRS strap.
20. You have pictures of yourself hiking through the snow with your boat.

21. There is a football facemask attached to your helmet.
22. You’ve broken more paddles than the Werner R&D department.
23. There’s something sloshing around in your boat, but it’s too warm to be water.
24. A really good paddling day will involve some bleeding.

25. You encourage friends to try impossible moves then enjoy watching the show.
26. That last rapid had more moves than your cousin Larry on singles night.
27. You can predict rain more accurately than the meteorologist on channel 12.
28. You have ever arrived at the river and found people ice skating.

29. The last river you paddled has dished out more beatings than Brock Lesnar.
30. You know the story behind “Gorilla”.
31. There is climbing equipment in your boat.

Finally, if you drive 4 hours away from all civilization, up on a mountain, down a series of endless dirt roads, and when you get there you still know everyone in the parking lot, you are definitely a creek boater, welcome to the club!

Hope this made you laugh!

edgar

The SWR class this weekend was fantastic!

1. Anyone can benefit from this class. We had a really, really, broad range of paddlers. There were some class V gnar boaters who have had buddies drown right in front of them, and who had themselves swam some of the nastiest sieves/undercuts that we all have nightmares about. There were some people who had never even been on a river, and some who have done class I-II only, along with some in the middle.

We started out with swimming, and quickly moved to work on strainers and other hazards found in rivers. Here we are working on the Strainer Bar Drill.

They all did great. Better than great. We had two people who were under 15 years old, they ended up being some of the strongest swimmers, and did most of the line ferries and set up anchors for the drills.

The group worked together like clockwork, which is pretty hard sometimes as we all know when you just met the person and dont even know their name.

Everyone knew the strengths of each person in the group and people were directing each other and just filling in where they needed too.

The class was even watching out for people that werent in their group dealing with tubers, rafters, kayakers, and rednecks who looked like they were about to drown. We almost did a few “real” rescues in our class.

2. The class learned a lot from experience, I tried not to do too much and the class set up the line ferries, set the anchors, and did all the work to set up the strainer bar, v lowers, live bait, and other drills. It was almost like every drill was a scenario. I have learned that the participants dont learn much from watching me set up the anchors, z drags, and other things that are necessary to make these drills happen quick and safe. It may take a little longer, but not much, and they really learn.

They set up/downstream safety for themselves and made teams and decisions throughout, so it was easy once they got to the scenarios, and got a chance to do more realistic exercises more than in 1 scenario. Of course they were backed up by instructors just in case.

Here we are doing a line crossing technique called zipline.

3. I am getting better and better at setting up scenarios thanks to “friends” who have come out and let me practice and experiement on them in “unofficial” classes this year (thanks Dave, Josh, Eric, Erik, Will, Quay, Brandon, Candace, and everyone else). I hope you all come back out again, I have some new evil ideas that will hopefully challenge you more!

The great thing is that I have to sit home for days trying to think up harder scenarios because the paddlers I have had in class are so good they solve problems quick, simple, and safe.

This time we did a scenario where we had a pinned boat, two paddlers in the water, AND a victim foot entrapped 40 feet out in the river in chest deep moving water. The group rescued the swimmers, and got up a stabilization line in like 2 minutes and had the entrapped victim to shore in like 3 min. WOW!

We didn’t get to practice mechanical advantage as much as I would like, time and the weather are sometimes working against you. I hope everyone goes home and practices a bunch, and teaches the other people they paddle with.

You can never practice enough, I hope everyone out there that has taken SWR will come back and do it again.

I will be scheduling more Advanced SWR classes later this summer with super complex scenarios and more in the water topics that arent covered in most basic classes, like cinches, now that I have found a way to foot entrap a victim in the middle of the river in a relatively safe way.

The next SWR class is July 18-19th. With advanced classes scheduled whenever people want to take it, just email or call me.

More information and pictures are up on the website, with video and tons of photos coming soon.

www.piedmontlakesnc.com

Paddler: 6 year old male- 42″ 45 lbs
Experience level: beginner, semi-swimmer, with several paddling trips and one overnight under his belt. He has been in kayaks since 18 months, first solo paddle at age 5 (a month before 6th birthday), has paddled solo 2X since.

Boat: Wilderness Systems Tsunami SP
Length/ Width: 12′/ 21″
Max Weight Capacity: 180lbs
Other Features: Movable foot pegs, bow and stern bulkheaded hatches, adjustable thigh braces
Pros: Simple but comfortable outfitting, bulkheaded hatches, tracks well, deck lines
Cons: heavy and awkward for a kid to move on their own

Wildy Tsunami SP (small person)

At the store I often get asked, “How old does a child need to be to start paddling?” My initial reaction is as soon as they can sit up on their own. However, there are many factors that weigh into this decision. First never take a child strapped into a car seat in a boat. No, there are no seat belts you do not want your child strapped or attached to the boat. You and your child need to be able to get free should the boat capsize. Children under the age of 13 are required by federal law to wear a PFD or lifejacket in any boat. If you are afraid of capsizing with your youngster and don’t know how you or your child would react then you may want to wait until you are more confident in your own skills. This is kayaking and while you may not want, and don’t plan on capsizing. It’s a very real possibility and almost inevitable at some point in time during your paddling career. However, if you love paddling, chances are your enthusiasm will get your kids exited too.
If paddling is part of your lifestyle, than your boats should be introduced to your child at a very early age. My youngest son, has been climbing in and out of boats at home before he could even walk, at approx 18 months, my wife and I took him on his first paddling trip in the floor of a tandem.

Age 2

He sat in my lap until he was too big and was tired of the repeated bonking he got from my paddle shaft as I maneuvered the marshes of the Outer Banks.
We then moved to a tandem, where he sat up front and drug his arms in the water as I paddled us around, or he sometimes would sit in the tankwell of a 14ft Tarpon.

Age 4

As his sixth birthday approached, it was time to start some early paddling lessons of his own, like his older brother who also started paddling at age 6 in Maine (but that’s a different story entirely). I was surprised that the Tsunami SP (TSP) fit him so well when he first sat in it. With the foot pegs all the way up he could sit up straight and firmly plant his feet on the pegs with his legs below the thigh braces…4 inches below (he still has quite a bit of growing room). He was a little nervous doing it on his own but he knew how the hold his breath and was not afraid of falling in or getting wet. I stayed close and gave him his first lesson on paddling strokes and techniques.

age 5

He seemed to be quite stable and comfortable in the boat, the paddle seemed awkward for him and certainly could have been shorter due to the narrowness of the boat. He picked it up quite quickly despite it being his first time paddling on his own power. The boat tracked well and seemed quick, he had a bit of trouble getting it to turn, but due to his early knowledge of the strokes this did not surprise me. It also confirmed that it tracked fairly well. After about 15 minutes we paddled enthusiastically back to shore. I did not want him to get tired or bored and I wanted to leave a lasting good impression of paddling on his mind. This was the end of the summer and by the next summer he would be ready!

paddling lesson

A trip to Bugs Island Lake the following May would be his next lesson in the TSP. With a few months of growing between paddling trips he fit in the boat a little better and was certainly more confident. We paddled twice that trip. Once as an instructional session of about 15 minutes, than after lunch took about a mile long paddle to explorer some coves and see a few birds. I towed him the majority of the time, but he paddled as if he was on his own over the better part of the trip. He had no problem resting and letting me do the work when he was tired, but as soon as he felt rested he was back at it again. It seemed very stable, and he had no problem getting it to go when and where he wanted.

age 6

Not to say that all parents should take their small children out paddling on their own, especially if they do not feel comfortable, but this is what I do, I teach paddlesports. I certainly used caution, I am not taking him out in conditions or cold water, I am aways with-in a paddle stroke way and he is aways, always wearing his PFD.
Making sure that kids wear a properly fitted PFD is extremely important, too big is no good and loose and unzipped is no good either (this topic is a different rant altogether).

Paddle Stroke Lesson

If you are eager to try paddling with your children, I would certainly encourage you to look into a class that you can take together or inquire about kids lessons at your local paddling shop. Also inquire about kids paddling classes at local lake municipalities. As it currently stands in Greensboro, NC kids under 12 must be in a tandem, ages 13-15 can paddle in a solo boat with an adult paddler with-in a paddles length away, and kids must be 16+ to paddle completely on their own. Kids classes should be relatively short in length and be geared toward safety which will develop into good habits on the water, this will help to keep your children’s interest up while having fun and being safe. Good paddling technique takes time and lots of practice, so don’t rush it. They will get better with practice and as they get stronger their endurance will improve, allowing them to paddle longer. If you get frustrated then so will your kids and they will not want to paddle. It is supposed to be fun, so make it fun, keep it short and bring a tow rope…

and Maybe I’ll see you and your kids on the water,

Will

Cape Lookout National Seashore on North Carolina’s southern coast is a unique spot to paddle. The Cape Lookout Lighthouse, a well known navigational landmark and sought after photographic landmark, is the backdrop to many photos taken in this area. The wild ponies, sea birds, and marine wildlife only add to the majesty of this paddlers paradise. Mile upon mile of open coastline alongside tidal marshes and creeks that line the Core and Back sounds of the lower Outer Banks allow for days of wonderfully picturesque paddling and camping.

Sunset on Cape Lookout

However this location is not ideal for the unexperienced and ill-prepared paddler. Strong winds, storms, tides, currents, and waves all of which can change the water conditions quickly and unexpectedly. Any combination of these conditions can turn a seemingly beautiful day on the water into a dire situation in a matter of minutes. Incorporate traffic filled boating channels and a scattered group inexperienced kayakers and you are looking at a recipe for disaster.

Too many of the boats that are paddled in these open waters are ill-equipped to handle any one of the above mentioned conditions. Most recreational kayaks are not suited for waves as their open cockpits eagerly await a large gulp of water that will quickly fill the boat and capsize. In addition to their large cockpits the lack of secondary stability of many rec boats does not give these kayaks the seaworthiness needed for the rough conditions that this windblown locale will often provide. The lack of flotation in these boats is their most serious flaw. The majority of recreational kayaks have at the very most, a rear hatch and bulkhead that only provide marginal flotation. Once the water starts entering the cockpit the entire front of the boat can quickly fill with water. It can be extremely difficult to recover from this situation during good conditions, add in a little wind and some tidal currents and the inexperienced paddler may need to call the Coast Guard.

On Patrol

Navigating the maze of marsh creek channels along with the shifting sand bars and surging inlets of the Outer Banks is a daunting task and should not be taken lightly. Many paddlers get disoriented by paddling in and out of the monotonous grass lined islands and creeks. Out going tides can quickly trap a paddler in an interior pond, or in a tidal flat causing them slog their boat through knee deep muck as they find deeper water. In open water changing tides can make paddlers frustrated and exhausted; and if in the wrong place at the wrong time can take you into the confused seas of an inlet or into the path of an oncoming motor boat.

Taking a bearing

Despite the need to know proper paddling skills, rescue & recovery techniques, have reliable equipment, and know how to navigate many folks ignore the warnings and get into trouble paddling these waters. By using an experienced, and qualified kayak guide you can greatly minimize your risks and insure an enjoyable adventure.

A qualified guide/ instructor will be able to assess your current skill level and teach you the paddling skills needed to safely make the crossing this trip commonly consists of. Your guide should also discuss with you the risks involved in venturing into this location. This includes environmental risks, physical risks, as well as the psychological risks in paddling with a group. This should be done prior to signing any paperwork. Before you commit to any coastal paddling trip you should know, understand, and appreciate all the risks involved. Individual safety is each paddlers own responsibility, it is the guides jobs to intervene in dangerous situations and make the decisions that their experience and judgment dictate are prudent. The guide facilitates an enjoyable experience for their clients, teaching skills when needed, sharing experiences, telling stories, jokes, keeping the group motivated, and often doing the cooking and cleaning as well. Myself like many guides will be first one up in the morning and the last one down at night. An experienced guide will plan routes and activities suitable to the groups experience and not let the group spread out too far, which can be detrimental when the conditions get less than ideal.

A quality guide service will also provide proper boats, paddles, and life jackets suitable for the experience of the group, the location of the trip, and the conditions the group will be paddling in. Touring boats (sea kayaks) as well as properly fitted and comfortable life jackets are essential to an enjoyable experience.
These boats provide the storage capacity needed to carry not only the paddlers personal gear but their share of group gear as well. More importantly they have inherent flotation with front and rear bulkheads and hatches. Touring kayaks generally have greater secondary stability allowing these boats to be paddled in rougher water with better reliability than many recreational kayaks. These boats are designed to have a tighter fit than their rec cousins, which actually gives you better boat control. Their longer length allows the boat to travel quickly in a relatively straight path with ease.

Many guides that regularly lead trips in these water know the ins and outs of the islands, marsh creeks, and sandbars that dot this coastal region. By using proper navigational skills which include using nautical charts, tidal charts, with a blend of local knowledge a good guide can get a group through the maze of grasses with relative ease. Also having and using a reliable weather radio, to keep tabs on the ever evolving weather patterns, wind speeds, marine forecasts and warnings. having this knowledge is also important in planning the day’s journey.

Local lakes and ponds as well as many slow moving rivers are great places to strengthen your paddling skills in preparation to head out to a coastal environment. If you lack the proper knowledge I would certainly recommend taking a class from a qualified instructor before venturing into waters of Cape Lookout. While using a guide service will minimize many of the risks it will also allow you to relax and enjoy the scenery and the experience. With all the logistical preparations and planning taken care of, having your meals prepared, your route planned, you have little to worry about. There are many great guides along the coast and interior portions of North Carolina that guide trips along the Cape Lookout National Seashore. Keep an eye on our calendar as we will be headed back to the Cape before too long, and we would love to show you around this magical area.

Piedmont Lakes: A Guide for Boating in the North Carolina Piedmont
Piedmont Lakes Website

Piedmont Lakes began as an effort to provide boaters a resource for finding new destinations for water recreation across the piedmont. There are over 20 lakes within 90 minutes of Greensboro. Unfortunately many are left unexplored due to the lack of information available about many of these lakes.

This book finally provides boaters detailed descriptions of the lakes in our area. Details are provided about each lake and lakes are organized by their location in the piedmont. Each section begins with the size and location of each lake, and a general description of the lake and facilities. Camping and launch fees are provided, as well as fishing and wildlife reports. The marina phone numbers provided can save boaters a trip to a lake that is closed.

Addresses to each ramp are also provided to assist in the location of the ramp via internet map resources or GPS devices. Each section closes with detailed directions to each boat ramp. Maps are also provided to illustrate the nature and size of each lake, and the location of the boat ramps on the lake. Further, a map of the entire piedmont including lake locations is helpful for boaters to understand the lake locations that are nearest to them.

The reference section of the book provides boaters information about fishing resources, boating outfitters, boating clubs, safety, and other resources. A quick reference guide makes it easy to choose a destination based on your recreation needs.

I have recently begun constructing a website to expand on the information in the book. This website provides multiple pictures of each boat ramp. These pictures are invaluable when choosing a destination. This website also provides links to local paddling clubs, outfitters, shuttle services, fishing clubs and resources, maps, and destinations outside the piedmont. Other sections of the website discuss equipment, safety, drills, and paddling articles.

The information on the site is constantly being updated and expanded. We have recently begun adding gear reviews and trip reports. With information from local boaters this site can continue to expand and grow into a great local resource. Please email me with pictures, descriptions, or accounts of your boating experiences at yespe@aol.com.

Piedmont Lakes Website: www.piedmontlakesnc.com

Buying a Kayak

1. Types of Kayaks:

Whitewater Kayak-typically less than 9 feet long, shaped like a banana (rockered), small cockpit opening, paddled with a neoprene skirt, used for paddling large rapids and waterfalls.

Great for whitewater paddling
Not for paddling lakes

Recreational Kayak-typically a 10-14 foot boat with little rocker, a large cockpit opening, often paddled without a skirt, used for gentle moving rivers and lakes (the average boater).

Great for gentle water, comfort, new paddlers
Not as fast as sea kayaks, typically not used on rough water

Sea Kayak-typically at least 14 feet long, very little rocker, small cockpit opening, paddled with a skirt, used for paddling on the ocean or sound, or paddling 5-25 miles in a day. Sea kayaks will have deck rigging for spare paddles, maps, and rescues.

Great for long distances (>5 miles), rolling, and/or camp
Not as stable as a recreational kayak, tight fitting

Sit on Top Kayak-typically a 10-14 foot boat with little rocker, paddler sits “on top” of the kayak hull, which is sealed, water drains out of the kayak automatically.

Good for not feeling trapped, summer time, fishing
Not for paddlers who want to go fast, stay dry and warm

2. What will you use it for?

Lakes-get a boat that is fast and tracks straight, usually a boat at least 12 feet long.

Gentle Rivers-get a boat that has a flat bottom so that it will turn well usually 12 feet or less in length (depending on size of paddler).

Gentle Rivers AND Lakes-there are boats that do well at both, and some have a rudder or skeg you can use that on windy days at the lake.

The Sound-this is the ocean, with all its dangers (current, tides, waves, wind) get a boat that helps you minimize your risks and maximize your enjoyment. Buy a sea kayak or sit on top.

3. Who will you paddle with?

You want to have a boat similar to the others in your group, if your group is all paddling 14 foot sea kayaks and you are in a 10 foot recreational kayak, you will have trouble keeping up. Similarly, if your main paddling partner has a 12 foot boat, you should also, or longer if they are a stronger paddler. Typically the longer a boat is, the faster it is.

4. Length:

Lakes: Typically 12 feet works great for most paddlers. It is easier to manage in windy conditions on the water, and easier to load than a 14 foot boat. I would only buy a 10 foot boat if you are doing some rivers, or plan to make very short (less than 2 mile) trips, or if small children will be paddling the boat often.

Rivers: Plenty of flat bottomed 14 foot boats work well on local rivers like the Dan and the Yadkin, but if you paddle mostly rivers and are not over 250lbs, a 10 foot or 12 foot boat will be much more maneuverable and keep you from getting stuck sideways on the rocks. Length and speed are not usually issues since the current is pushing you along, get the shortest boat that floats your weight comfortably.

5. Choosing the Boat:

Demo, Demo, Demo. Talk to a knowledgeable paddler who can help you decide on a few boats (2-3) that would suit your needs. Next, go to a “Demo Day” held at a local lake and paddle both boats. Get Outdoors holds demo days every other week during the summer giving you plenty of opportunities to paddle a wide variety of boats and make an informed decision. Paddling the boat you are going to buy is by far the best way to choose a boat. Regardless of what a friend or salesperson recommends, YOUR opinion is the one that really matters. The best way to make an informed decision is the paddle the boat.

6. Comfort:

When sitting in a kayak be sure you adjust the seat, foot pegs, and thigh braces to fit you. Are they easy to adjust? If you are not able to demo a boat on the water, be sure to spend at least 10 minutes or so sitting in your boat. You want to be sure you are comfortable. Something that is a little uncomfortable in the store will become unbearable once you are in the boat for hours. It will not matter how great the performance features of the boat are if you are not comfortable.

7. Price:

There are reasons some boats are more expensive than others. “Cheap” boats are often just that, cheap. Important comfort and hull design features are often missing on the least expensive boats. Spend the money to get a boat that is comfortable and paddles well so you enjoy your time paddling. If you do not enjoy paddling your boat it is likely to become an expensive garage ornament. If you store your boat properly it will last decades. Invest in a quality kayak that you enjoy paddling and it will pay off with many great days on the water over the years.

Statistics:
Paddler: Height-5′ 7″ Weight-165lbs
Remix 69: Length-8′ 9″ Width-26in Volume-69gal

I cannot put my skirt on with one hand. That is why I paddle a Remix 69.

I realized this while I was paddling the source of the Eagle River in Colorado this year. After spending some time unpining a boat upstream, I climbed back to my waiting boat. As I tried unsuccessfully to put my skirt on with one hand, while maintain my deathgrip on the shrub that was holding me onshore, I dropped my paddle. So, I let go, and peeled out after my paddle with my skirt off. I had almost caught it when I saw the beaver dam.

Needless to say I quit worrying about my paddle, and started worrying about making the next eddy. I made the eddy just in time to watch my paddle become a permanent addition to the dam. I have been handpaddling ever since.

I had been paddling a Jefe for a few years, and loved the boat, but now that I was a handpaddler, I started thinking about a faster boat. On class V, you REALLY need to make your ferries. So, when I got back, I started trying out new boats.

WOW! Is this boat fast! That was my thought when I attempted my first tough ferry in the Remix. I had been demoing boats at the USNWC since that is a great place to try out different boats making the same moves over and over. My group was playing a game of “PIG”, testing everyone’s skills at eddy catching and ferrying. When Trevyn caught the last eddy before the big drop on the comp side and challenged me to ferry to the last eddy on the right, I never thought it was possible. Sure, he could make it, but he was paddling a Hurricane. A Hurricane might be an old design, but it is also 10′2″.

Well, I didn’t want to get my “G” and lose the game, so I had to try. I never thought I would make it, after all, I was handpaddling a “regular” boat and he was in the plastic slalom rocketship. Out of the eddy I went, next thing I knew I was snapping into the eddy on the other side and screaming in celebration. Ha, take that! I was SOLD! I ordered a new Remix 69 the next day.

Since then I have taken the Remix 69 on every tough run I’ve done. The biggest test came on our annual trip to Beaverfest in NY. Big class V creeking. At first I was a little worried about subbing out on the holes, especially “The Tubs”, a tough double falls that drops 20 feet into a nasty hydrolic. I should have never doubted. Once I moved the seat back a touch, the boat began skimming over everything and anything. The speed makes this a great boofing boat too. When you are going that fast, there is nothing the boat can do but fly.

Although this boat was designed as a river runner, and does great on big water runs like the Gauley, some of those river running features make it a great creekboat too. If you do happen to find yourself in a giant hole, you can often work your way to one edge, and slice the stern into the hole and get endered out. Sometimes I go for a hole ride on purpose, just for the crowd’s entertainment.

When we got down to “Particle Accelerator” I started wondering about stability. A few years ago I had an interesting ride upside down through the rapid in my gus. Since Shane at Liquidlogic designed the Remix for beginners, the stability is outstanding. I breezed through the “Accelerator” with barely a stroke. No bleeding this year! It is so stable, I ran a few rapids with my bare hands!

Overall the Remix has everything I need a creekboat to have, speed, stability, and great resurfacing.

I love it!

Have Questions?

Email Edgar: edgar@getoutdoors.us