Introduction to Currents - Tacoma - Deception Pass

This course is BEGINNING Currents. Beginners and early learners welcome, no experience in current required.  We start by reviewing some strokes in calm waters, then head to the pass and arrive at slack.  As the current builds, so will your comfort level.  It is scary at first, but you'll quickly figure out there isn't a reason to be scared.  Deception pass has a bad reputation, mostly by boaters who don't know how to motor through it.  For kayakers...it is a play zone!

First year students are welcome if:

1. Stable in boat.
2. At least 2 student paddles are done.
3. Conditioned enough for moderately active paddle.
4. Have taken an Incident Management clinic (one is offered the previous day).

We will learn how to enter and exit current for maximum benefit, eddy hop, ferry glide, paddle across boils, and paddle through and around whirlpools. We will practice rescues (self and assisted) in dynamic conditions.  This clinic is required for most paddles in the San Juans, and will meet the requirements for an eddies and currents clinic for the Intermediate Sea Kayaker badge.  Bracing skills will be covered including how to use a low brace in current.  For those who desire to be challenged rolling, bow rescue and self-rescue in current are all possible. All exercises are “challenge by choice”.  Some people learn well watching, others by trying and learning by their mistakes.

 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.

Bowman Bay Boat launch, ready to launch at 9 AM.