We are only maybe 4 to 5 weeks away from open water here in the cities, official "ice out" on Calhoun last year was March 29th. Some of the smaller lakes may open a bit earlier, I'll be watching closely. Right now Lake Independence is still full of fish houses, cars, and trucks. This photo was from the front seat of the Jeep instead of what normally would've been from the Nordkapp.
This is a good time of year to check out your kayak gear for the new season, make a list of things needing repair, especially safety gear. Deck lines are a neglected piece of safety gear that should be replaced every few years. Bonnie did a real nice piece on deck lines last June. Adams "Seakayaking.net" has some great info on dry suits and many other related subjects. I had a neck gasket tear on a Lake Superior trip two years ago, this is a good time to inspect dry suit gaskets and make some repairs. I replaced my own neck gasket last time, next time I'll bring it to Midwest and have them do it ... it was a real pain. The one good thing about doing it yourself, if while on a trip, and have an issue with one your gaskets, you have the know how to fix it, if you brought along the materials for repairs in your kit.
This list of repairs, and items needed for those little repairs, you should bring with to Canoecopia in Madison. Only a couple weeks away!
7 comments:
Ron - did you get a new car - you mentioned in the blog that the picture of lake Independence was taken from a Jeep. If so how do you like it?
BRRRRRRRRRRRRR!!!!
Hi Courtney - I sold the old truck - Almost 300,000 miles on it. I've been plowing snow every Winter for around 30yrs, and with fuel prices ...
Ron,
I know were only 4 weeks or so away from open water but seeing it written in your blog helped lift my spirits, thanks.
I'm counting the days believe me!!!
MikeO
My guess is that you, me, and TheManFromSnowyLegs should plan another ice out paddle. I'd invite the VOR but I'm sure you remember what happened last year when she earned her monkier, TheVoiceOfReason. With luck our trio can stay dry this year.
I'm looking forward to it Dave! To have a video of the three of us making that landing in the wind and waves .. and all three of us end up in the drink, would be priceless!
Hey Mike, I'm counting the days too! Are you going to Canoecopia?
No I don't think so Ron. I'm saving any time off I have for the "real thing". As soon as the ice is off I want to get out and do some paddling/camping. ANYWHERE...
Mike
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