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Introduction to Currents - Tacoma - Deception Pass

Clinic

Introduction to Currents - Tacoma - Deception Pass

Introduction to currents clinic. We will start on slack, and practice paddling with, against, and across currents as the current builds. We will also practice rescues in dynamic conditions.

Contacts

Michael Everett
Michael Everett
Primary Leader
  • Sea Kayak IV
  • Moderate
  • Mileage: 6.0 nm
  • Maximum Wind: 15 kts
  • Maximum Waves: 3 ft
  • Maximum Currents: 5 kts
  • Pace: Brisk

Bowman bay, ready to paddle at 8 AM.

First year students are welcome if they have completed at least 6 previous paddles, are physically fit to  paddle in brisk to strenuous conditions, and wish to fast-track their learning.

We will start in deception pass at slack current.  As the current builds we will practice maneuvering our boats with it, against it and across it.  We will learn how to enter and exit current for maximum benefit.  We will learn how to "eddy hop" upstream utilizing eddies to our bennefit.  Bracing skills will be covered including how to use a low brace in current. Assisted rescues will be practiced frequently.   All exercises are “challenge by choice”. 

Participants should do their best self-assessment.  Participants should feel they are ready to paddle in SK IV conditions, should be willing to get wet, practice skills, try new things, push limits and be safety support for others. Let’s all support each other in developing skills and stretching limits, where ever they are.

An incident management clinic is required prior to taking this clinic.

Clinic is open to mountaineers members only.

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

  • It is imperative that your boat has flotation in both ends, and has complete perimeter deck lines.  Rudders must be secured out of the water at all times. 
  • Required equipment:
  •                Drysuit
  •                Helmet
  •                Extra Clothes
  •                Lunch
  •                Snacks accessible
  •               Short and long tow
  • Recommended:
  •                Skull cap
  •                Nose plugs
  •                Goggles
  •                Gloves     
  •                Radio (if you have one)
  •                Go Pro?   😊
  •  

Minimize “deck furniture”. All equipment on the boat and on your person should be firmly attached.

Glasses and sunglasses should be equipped with floating straps in a bright/visible color.

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