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Lake Whatcom Slop Test
Slop Tests - For evaluation of skill as well as a way to practice in confused/technical wave conditions.
From DJ Jacobson Whatcom Paddlers Post:
“Dawid Mocke crashed in our basement for a week this summer and we had several fruitful conversations regarding how to evaluate yourself and your skills when it come to cold open water paddling. To summarize, it's important for individuals to practice and become proficient in paddling well in challenging conditions that don't have huge consequences. He liked what I call THE SLOP TEST ….
The final sections of the Wednesday Night Race Course between the condos and the final turn has plenty of rebound when it's blowing 20 plus from the south - nice & sloppy. Folks ready to step it up to our less forgiving play pen - Bham bay when it's cold & blowing - then come prove you're ready in the SLOP TEST - certify yourself. Do loops between the last turn marker and one of the buoys off the condos. If a person can paddle well, catch some of the angle rides, and feel balanced in the slop, then this might be a good indicator you're ready for the bay. Maybe if you can handle the slop test when it's blowing 30 from the south, take in down ten notches and maybe 20 in a good upper mark for the windy/cold bay? Thoughts??”
Lake Whatcom North End - Bloedel Donovan Park and Boat Ramps in Left Corner
Drive over to Bloedel Donovan and check to see if the waves are working something like the direction of the long arrows right to left and basically into the northwest shore. Voila…. SE winds will definitely push the waves this way and some range of wind between S and E will probably work also.
You can also practice beam paddling a very short distance from your launch by the boat ramps. SE waves get bigger as SE winds increase providing a range of beam challenge - as you are ready. You can also vary your beam practice with short downwind runs in line with the waves, all a short distance from the shoreline with wind and waves that will push you to shore if you go for a swim.
One very important cautionary note about the relatively greater safety of Lake Whatcom vs. Bellingham Bay: As winter progresses into January and February the water in the lake will get colder than the Bay's water - ultimately reaching the mid-30's °F (1-3 °C) or colder (as happens with all of the local lakes). Practice in such water temperatures is unwise unless you really know what you are doing. It should only be done with proven immersion clothing protection for such conditions. Do you know how long/far you can swim in such conditions? How long your hands will continue to function once you are in the water? etc., etc. No rescue boats available in the colder months - you have to be able to get to shore on your own if you have a problem.
