Introduction to Currents - Tacoma - Deception Pass

Bowman Bay Boat Launch, ready to paddle at 9 AM.

This course is Introduction to Currents.  It will meet the requirements of the Intermediate Kayaker Badge requirement for taking a currents clinic.  It may not be enough for demonstration of "comfort and control" in currents for the badge.

No experience in current required.    This clinic is scheduled for the day after an incident managment (IM) clinic.  An IM clinic is required to take this currents clinic, and I highly recommend taking them as a 2-day event. I'm sarcastic.  Huh? What?

We will practice some strokes and rescues (refresher) in Bowman Bay, before heading around the corner to the swirling, snarling, sucking vortex to Poseidon (just kidding) of Canoe Pass.  Actually, we'll be entering the pass close to slack, and learning techniques as the currents build.  As per all my clinics, the exercises will be "challenge by choice" meaning you may opt out of anything you wish.

 The currents are forecast to build to 4.2 kt.  We will learn how to enter and exit current for maximum benefit, eddy hop, and ferry glide. Bracing skills will be covered including how to use a low brace in current. Assisted rescues will be practiced before entering current (and almost certainly after entering current). For those who desire to be challenged rolling, bow rescue and self-rescue in current are all possible.

Current is one of my favorite places to play.  Come see what all the fuss is about in a safe and supportive environment.

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.

Be sure to read over the required equipment list.