It's time to bring out the kayaks.


I have enjoyed paddling sports for over 30 years.  I started out with a 12' canoe that was really only good for one person.  Although it wasn't much, it gave me some idea of what was needed to take the next step.  We bought a 17' canoe when the kids were young and fit the whole family inside, everyone with a paddle.  When they were older, we switched to kayaks because they wanted control over their own boats, not under the control of mom and dad.  

Our first kayaks were made by Necky.  They were rotomolded plastic units, about 10' long, and very stable.  We had two of them, and we bought a used tandem made by Current Designs.  The Neckys were great for the kids (top left image) or my wife (bottom right image), or both of us (middle left).  The tandem allowed for longer trips and hauling supplies.  Plus, if someone came with us that could not paddle, they could ride "shotgun."  These boats were great for small trips but were not the kind of craft you would take on a river with rapids or out on the ocean.  For that, we needed something much better.  

We bought three polypropylene kayaks made by Delta, two 17' ocean-going boats and one smaller one that was just under 13' long.  I have made numerous long trips on the longer of the two boats; they both come with rudders and make paddling so much easier.  Later on, my buddy and I bought a Delta tandem, a 20' long beast that we took to the Broken Islands.  Great boat, well balanced, and can carry a ton of gear.

It's time to bring out the boats again.  We will be out camping shortly and will bring a pair of boats with us.  I am looking forward to getting on the water again.

Thanks for reading.

Eric Svendsen     www.ericspix.com

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