Dolphins Isla San Francisco Neil Symington photo
Sunrise, Isla San Francisco
Choppy Seas
Self Rescue Practice on Lake Whatcom
Ted Paddling Sea of Cortez
Getting Ready to Load Kayaks Jami McMannes Photo
Isla Coyote Fishing Colony, View to Baja Mainland
Olympic Peninsula WA
Ted, Lake Whatcom
Although there aren’t any classes scheduled for the next few months (new calendar should be published in mid-to-late March), learning opportunities continue to exist. So, if you or someone you know, would like to get some instruction, please don’t hesitate to to get in touch.
This past year was a bit of a challenge, as I recuperated from my shoulder surgery. Classes went well and, actually, helped with strengthening the shoulder, and made me emphasize even more how important good paddling technique is for long-term AND immediate comfort and enjoyment of sea kayaking.
As is my want in the “off season,” I was able to spend a week paddling in the Sea of Cortez, around the waters surrounding Isla San Jose, northeast of La Paz. Air and water were very warm, and the paddling group and guides very congenial. Unfortunately, due to an abnormally wet summer, the biting bugs were out in force; and we all got pretty chewed up. It was good the bugs didn’t follow us when on the water, and the longest crossing (3+ miles) saw dead calm seas.
Highlights of the trip included a half hour watching a pod of over 25 bottle nosed dolphins (think “Flipper”) frolicking nearby: leaping into the air, lob-tailing, spy hopping, and chattering away; paddling lazily through a mangrove forest; visiting an isolated, island fishing colony; and terrific scenery.
Thanks for reading, and Happy Paddling!
Ted