Sea Kayak Trip Report

Open Water Skills Camp July 9-11, 2021

South Haven Michigan/ Van Buren State Park

Submitted by: Linda Decker

We had a great training and paddling weekend in South Haven. Our instructors were Nate Strong and Martha Gitt, both from Michigan. The 12 participants included paddlers with a wide range of paddling experience and knowledge, allowing lots of sharing of information and paddling tips.

The purpose of the skills camp was to increase skills and comfort in paddling in waves, surf and wind. We were fortunate to have good conditions in which to practice.

Day 1    1-2 ft waves with lots of confused and reflecting waves around the jetty

Exercises included:

• ·       Approaching the shore in surf with boat control
• ·       Launching and landing in surf
• ·       Boat control in waves using bracing & edging
• ·       Skeg use in the wind
• ·       Turning brace & stern rudder

Day 2    Calm conditions with few waves

8 Mile round trip Launching from Pilgrim Haven to Covert Township Park for lunch 

Exercises with continues focus on boat control included:

• ·       Edging and paddling backwards
• ·       Draws, sculling draw & side slip
• ·       Practices self and assisted rescues

Day 3    1-2 ft waves with lots of confused and reflecting waves around the jetty

Focus for the day was to continue to gain confidence in paddling in the surf zone

• ·       Surfing
• ·       Bracing on waves