Surfski Knowledge Base

Paul Reavley 11/10/21 #30448
I imagine that new paddlers in our area are getting the idea from recent posts about the unpredictable nature of much of our local weather and the caution that it merits on water (and on land - several boats have been blown off of cars and out of folks hands already this fall).

We usually have some posts in the fall specifically to remind folks about gearing up with their immersion clothing; downwind paddling rescue skills, precautions, and tech; and extra caution on unsettled days when the wind can change direction and strength on a swivel (and which no app perfectly predicts). Not meaning to preempt the ample creativity on this board for delivering messages of caution about all of this, but here are a few past (fall) discussions that some newer B. Bay paddlers may find worthwhile:

Storm Paddling Season Is Here 2010
To Downwind or Not & SE Wind 2012
Wind Changes 2014
Pre Winter Safety Roundup 2016
Cold Weather Safety 2019

Paul Reavley 11/11/21 #30452

I created a webpage to attempt to show where to “slop” test/practice as DJ Jacobson describes. Corrections and additions are welcome:

https://www.surfski.wiki/sloptest

Rick Lingbloom 11/11/21 #30456

Also … besides the lower water temperature on the lake, be aware that there is no Coast Guard or any other rescue boats on the lake during the late fall and winter months. You will be totally on your own. Enjoy!

Rick