Recent content by ScottS

Diablo does maintain a jolly 50F water temperature all summer long. Ross tops out in the lower 60's.. We got surprised by 30mph winds on Diablo that came up with no warning - steep 2-1/2 ft waves, it was a struggle to get to shore right side up. The NPS campground registration system for Ross...

In general, an artifact has a cultural context. Time is irrelevant in whether or not the item is an artifact. Field archaeologists will collect and document modern trash found at an ancient site. When an artifact is removed from its context without proper documentation, it becomes a relic...

Mason is referring to the Snohomish River Estuary. I used to live in that area. I have 4 entries in my blog. It is a great spot. https://canoepost.blogspot.com/search?q=snohomish You'll find entries in my blog for all of the stuff below. I would also recommend the Yakima Canyon for a day...

It's pronounced, "ooof"

Type 5 PFDs are "special use". The addition of a rescue belt to the design can change a Type 3 into a Type 5 without any other mods.

I don't know the mechanics of your shoulder issue, but with an ottertail, the power comes on slow and steady as you progress through the stroke. It's a favorite of mine for smooth water canoeing

No. I don't have a gps, I don't have an inreach. I paddle alone most of the time. I carry my basic flip phone in a waterproof box. I don't carry a gun. I'm not afraid of bears and wolves. I like maps and compasses and the idea that I am on my own to solve my own problems... it keeps me honest.

I use Watco. My canoe is canoe is 16 years old, and I've owned it for 12 years. I paddle 80-90 days a year and store the canoe inside. I see my canoe is a work boat and the gunwhales aren't pretty, but there is not a spot of rot anywhere, and that's all I care about. Maybe once a month, I...

The season here in southern CT is 12 months long. So, I do put it away.... but it it is definitely scratchier than most.

I got in 131 days in 2024. All day trips, almost all solo, all out-n-back, but I got into a few new-to-me rivers. I really like what I've been paddling in western Rhode Island, it's worth the drive.

Wenonah Solo Plus. 16-6 long, a little wider than most pure solos, reasonably fast and stable. Catches a little wind when empty, but plenty of volume to carry weight. I took the bow and stern seats out of mine. mine is kevlar/flexcore with gelcoat - 50 lbs true. I have about 900 days in mine.

They'll get hung on a wall, and the new owners will call it an oar...ha! When I make a paddle for someone, I always take it out and use it before giving it to them, even if only for a hundred yards, because then it becomes a "canoe paddle". And by all means, the dress flannel shirt...and DEET...

I love when the SOT crowd gets to the first beaver dam. That's where you find out the "why" to a canoe.

Rudyard Kipling's "Captains Courageous"

Excellent writeup. Thanks.