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Eddies and Currents

Field trip: Paddler Development Weekend

Eddies and Currents - Deception Pass

Introduction to tidal currents, back eddies, eddy hopping, whirlpools and boils

Info
COVID-19: Learn about our most up-to-date guidance for participants and leaders on our COVID-19 Response page. All participants and leaders must agree to the COVID-19 Code of Conduct before participating in this Mountaineers activity.

Contacts

Charlie Michel
Charlie Michel
Primary Leader
  • Sea Kayak IV
  • Moderate
  • Mileage: 5.0 nm
  • Maximum Waves: 2 ft
  • Maximum Currents: 4 kts
  • Pace: 2.5 kts

8:30am at Bowman Bay boat launch. Launch time 9:15am. Plan to be back to launch around 3:30pm.

Discover Pass required.

In this introductory course, learn how to understand tidal currents, “back” eddies, eddy hopping, whirlpools and boils. We will practice maneuvers while crossing eddylines, ferrying and eddy-hopping. Participants should have comfort in up to 2 knot currents waves up to 2 feet (SK-III) and be ready for practice in stronger currents (SK-IV) and be efficient with T-rescues, forward, reverse, bracing, and sweep strokes.

Route/Place

Deception Pass


  • Sea Trails Deception Pass and Skagit Bay WA101
    NOAA Bellingham to Everett No. 18423
    NOAA Anacortes to Skagit Bay No. 18427
  • See full route/place details.
Roster
Required Equipment

Required Equipment

The Mountaineers' essentials and sea kayaking essentials. Immersion clothing, gloves, and helmet required.

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