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WaveLength

L
Everything kayaking, everything coastal

MAGAZINE
Volume 20, Issue 3
Fall 2010
FREE at select outlets
or by subscription

Aleutian images
Man and ecology collide
in remote Alaska

Photography
PM 41687515

Twenty years of pictures Night paddling


from around the world A look at the dark
by Michael Powers side of kayaking
2 Wavelength Magazine Fall 2010
Contents

this month's features: Regular items:


8 Aleutian images 6 News
Heading far west into the Aleutians
8
23 Instruction
16 Portfolio
Images from Michael Powers 26 Tours and Services
22 Into the Night 36 Kayak-friendly
Rainforest Chronicles accommodation
by Dan Lewis 16
38 Skillset
24 The dark side of paddling by Alex Matthews
Kayaking at night
by Adam Bolonsky 40 Paddle Meals
by Hilary Masson
28 Nutrition strategies
Health and Fitness 42 Fishing Angles
by Rob Stevenson 34
by Dan Armitage
34 Elephants of the sea 44 New Gear
Wildlife
by Chuck Graham 46 Books and Videos

Fall 2010 Wavelength Magazine 3


the First Word by John Kimantas

WaveLength Marking the first of two milestones


magazine
I had a family celebration of sorts on the weekend as I write this, with a good old-
Fall 2010 Volume 20, Number 3 fashioned British pub roast beef dinner and a Kilkenny to wash it down (the Kilkenny
PM No. 41687515
was appropriate – knock on wood – as I will be in Ireland at about the time you read this,
Editor John Kimantas possibly hoisting one near where it is made). The celebration was to mark the two year
anniversary of taking over at Wavelength Magazine. Talk about no regrets.
Copy Editing Darrell Bellaart
It really wasn’t that long ago that I took a beginner’s self-rescue course from Bud
Writing not otherwise credited is by Wavelength. Bell at Sealegs in Ladysmith, then rented a kayak and headed
out to some islands just north of Nanaimo, eerily aware of
how much water was below me. It was a little disconcerting, as
Cover Photo:
Michael Powers captured his I recall. When was that? About 2002, give or take a year. Not
wife Nani in a reflective moment long ago at all.
during a sunset in Baja. Powers, Back in 2005 I quit my job to go kayaking up the BC coast,
a member of the Tsunami
Rangers, presents highlights of not really sure what was ahead but sure there was something
his photography portfolio on better than spending my life in a dreary office (with due
page 16.
apologies to my coworkers, but let’s face it, we didn’t call it a
hamster cage just because we had no windows. And let me tell
WavElEngth is an independent magazine available free at you, there is nothing worse than being in an office with no windows on the sunniest
hundreds of print distribution sites (paddling shops, outdoor days of the summer). Paddling off into the wild blue yonder probably had a few
stores, paddling clubs, marinas, events, etc.), and globally on
the web. Also available by subscription. people shaking their heads wondering what would come of it all, and even I didn’t
Articles, photos, events, news are all welcome. know. But I had an idea, no matter how vague, that I could carry it forward somehow.
Magazines might not be a blue chip investment for the new millennium, considering
Find back issues, articles, events, writers guidelines and
advertising information online at wavelengthmagazine.com what’s happening in the larger picture of the industry (ie. crashing industry-wide
magazine subscription numbers and overall dropping readership). But if there’s a
subscribe bright spot, Wavelength is at the epicenter. Consider: our free distribution model
$20 for 1 year – 4 issues allows us to mirror our content online without restriction, and as we all know online
$35 for 2 years – 8 issues readership is exploding. When I first started at Wavelength we had PDF versions of
the magazine available on our website for download, which was sort of a novelty, and
While Wavelength Magazine is made available
free, subscriptions ensure the magazine is delivered helped add a bit of extra readership. We now have a very slick online page-flip format
to your home and that you will never miss an issue. that we are making available on a variety of host sites such as Yudu.com and
To subscribe, visit
www.wavelengthmagazine.com/Subscribe.html
Scribd.com, where their millions of online magazine readers can search us out. Plus
or call 1-866-984-6437. we have a new Embed Program where any kayaking-related site can host our magazine
online, adding content and traffic for our hosts – very much a win-win situation. From
all this we have the very realistic goal to be the best-read kayaking magazine in the
Advertising rates and submission guidelines world, and we’re not that far away as it is right now. Not bad for what was considered a
available at www.wavelengthmagazine.com
small regional player in the paddlesports publishing world.
ISSUE AD DEADLINE DISTRIBUTION Not only are we making the online magazine more available to the world at
Winter 2010 Oct. 1 Nov. 8 large, we’re developing new online capabilities. If you haven’t visited our website
Spring 2011 Feb. 3 March 8 lately, please take a look at the demos we have. My favorite: a static magazine article,
Summer 2011 April 4 May 11 and suddenly the kayaks in the photograph start paddling away... It’s very cool, but
Fall 2011 July 1 Aug. 1 very soon we will be layering in so much extra content in the online version (video,

A product of: slideshows, etc.) you’ll want to read both the print and online copies.

Wild Coast Publishing
Wavelength Magazine turns 20 next year, which is a chance to celebrate another
milestone. We’ll be looking at the past and to the future. And it’s a wonderfully bright
#6 10 Commercial St.
Nanaimo, B.C., Canada, V9R 5G2 past, and future, indeed.
Ph: 1-866-984-6437 • Fax: 1-866-654-1937 - John Kimantas
Email: kayak@wavelengthmagazine.com
Website: www.wavelengthmagazine.com
© 2010. Copyright is retained on all material (text, photos and graphics) in this magazine.
No reproduction is allowed of any material in any form, print or electronic, for any purpose,
except with the permission of Wild Coast Publishing.

Some elements in maps in this magazine are reproduced with


the permission of Natural Resources Canada 2010, courtesy
of the Atlas of Canada. Also, our thanks to Geobase for some
elements that may appear on Wavelength maps.

Wavelength Magazine is dedicated to making self-propelled


coastal exploration fun and accessible. Safety and travel
information is provided to augment pre-existing safety Vancouver Island
and knowledge. A safety course and proper equipment are
advised before any exploration on water. See a list of paddling
shoreline near Yellow Point,
instruction locations at www.wavelengthmagazine.com not far from our Nanaimo office.

4 Wavelength Magazine Fall 2010


Fall 2010 Wavelength Magazine 5
news

Great Island Race attempts delayed


It had all the trappings of a classic event: information on the Great Island Race and
two separate but simultaneous attempts to previous attempts, see the Great Island
set the speed record for circumnavigating Race page at wavelengthmagazine.com/
Vancouver Island. islandrace.html
Colin Angus was set to depart from Port
Hardy in mid-June, with Joe O’Blenis to
start roughly the same date from Comox.
there’s still time to
Colin was rowing a specially built expedition Clean up the Coast
rowboat; Joe was to recapture the solo
There’s still time to register for
speed record he set in 2007 in a kayak.
Wavelength Magazine’s 2010 Clean
The goal is to be the fastest to complete
Up the Coast contest to win a great
the 1,150-km circuit of Vancouver Island,
selection of prizes, from paddles and
which means beating Sean Morley’s current rescue equipment to a scale model
record of 17 days, 4 hours and 49 minutes. kayak and a Desolation Sound kayak
Sean set that in 2008. tour. Prizes will be awarded this fall
However, training difficulties plagued to individuals, club event participants
both Joe and Colin. Due to a persistent and retail event participants who help
back problem, Colin is postponing his remove trash from beaches.
attempt for a year, with a planned start in The event was created to raise
mid-June, 2011. Joe has now pushed back awareness of the opportunity for
his start date to mid-August of this year, kayakers to take part in coastal
meaning he could be underway as you read stewardship. To see a full list of
this, if all goes according to plan. prizes and to register, please visit
Wavelength Magazine will be posting wavelengthmagazine.com/clean.
updates of Joe’s attempt online. For more

6 Wavelength Magazine Fall 2010


news

Fall 2010 Wavelength Magazine 7


adventure Kayaking story and images by Rob avery

Aleutian images
“The habitations are holes dug in the earth, covered with a roof, over
which the earth is thrown; when they have stood for some time they
become overgrown with grass, so that a village has the appearance of an
European church-yard full of graves.”
– Remarks and Observations on a Voyage Around the World from 1803 to
1807 by Georg Heinrich von Langsdorff.
photo by Stan Chladek

88 Wavelength
WavelengthMagazine
Magazine FallFall
2010
2010
the aleutian islands

U
PoN mY arrIVal on adak Island, I found the town adak for over 9,000 years. But the population slowly declined
was not so much a churchyard but a ghost town being throughout the russian occupation and then, in 1942, the U.S.
relentlessly eaten away by the constant and fierce wind military relocated all remaining inhabitants. Soon after the
and weather. Ironically, half the sign at the airport was also USa’s involvement in World War Two, a new air base strategically
blown away. It once read “Welcome. adak alaska, Birthplace of positioned on adak to fight the Japanese threat on the nearby
the wind,” but now just “adak, alaska the wind.” We were warned islands of attu and Kiska ballooned the population to over
about the wind before we departed and the message given at 4,500. During the height of the cold war, the headcount on
our arrival was loud and clear. adak peaked at about 6,000 Navy, Coast Guard and air Force
according to the russian priest Ivan Veniaminov in his Notes personnel. In the late 1980s the base was rebuilt to house 5,000
on the Islands of the Unalashka District, published in 1840, the people. Just a few years later the base was decommissioned,
population for adak Island in the early 1800s was 198 native totally abandoned and turned over to The aleut Corporation
aleut. archeological evidence shows that people have lived on under the alaska Native Claims Settlement act. u

moody weather is the backdrop for a


makeshift campsite at monroe Bay on
Kanaga Island before an early morning
crossing to Tanaga Island; insets: a
conglomerate sea stack on the south
shore of Tanaga Island, one of the
many rock formations caused by the
aleutian Island’s violent past; and
loading on the first day with a view
of Kanaga Volcano and adak Strait in
the background at Shagak Bay, adak
Island.

Fall
Fall2010
2010 Wavelength
WavelengthMagazine
Magazine 99
adventure Kayaking

a difficult and kelp-obstructed


launch in Bay of Island. Even with
only a four-foot tide, launching
and landing is challenging with
loaded expedition kayaks.

Adak and the entire Aleutian Island Museum and Archeological Repository
archipelago form the 1.3-million-acre in Kodiak. He is a driving force behind
Aleutian Island Wilderness, part of the alaska the revitalization of indigenous language,
vast Alaska Maritime National Wildlife anchorage culture and customs, including kayaking,
Refuge. Today there are about 60 year- attu Tanaga Volcano . in this isolated region. Prior to our course
round residents and some seasonal visitors he was in Europe negotiating for the
mostly involved in environmental clean- Dutch Harbor
repatriation of artifacts and so was unable
up activities (the town of Adak is an adak to register in advance.
EPA Superfund Site and on the National Kiska He invited the other coach, Tom Pogson,
Priorities List). and I back to the museum and we had
Today everything – the schools, Kayak Symposium on Kodiak Island in the privilege of going into the back room
hospital, recreation facilities, power plants, Alaska. As the five-day kayak skills camp where all the good stuff is kept. Donning
warehouses, deep-water harbor, the runway got underway a young man, dressed in white gloves, we curiously and carefully
(one of the widest and longest in Alaska), jeans and a cotton shirt, asked if he could inspected artifacts from a forgotten past.
the ski and hunting lodge and a complete join in and learn how to kayak. We took With its organic materials and lack of
housing subdivision – all lie empty, decaying him in and very quickly we saw how quick written language, this remote culture
and battered by the relentless wind. Would and keen he was to learn. After a day or has left little trace of its rich history. My
Langsdorff recognize Adak in its stark two into the camp, we taught him to roll profound experience with Sven prompted
contrast? I don’t think so. in those frigid waters and I demonstrated me to learn more about Kodiak and the
And so we came with the odd goal to some single-blade rolling techniques (the Aleutian Islands, the people who inhabited
kayak the western Aleutian Islands and native Alutiiq of Kodiak used both single them and the skills that enabled them to
farther west than any modern sea kayaker. and double-blade paddles). survive in such a hostile environment.
Kayaking has been a passion of mine since It turned out the young man was Earlier that summer I had visited the
my dad and I built and launched our first Dr. Sven Haarkanson, an Alutiiq native, headquarters for the Alaska Maritime
kayak in 1968. Over the years I have built born and raised in Old Harbor, a small National Wildlife Refuge in Homer,
many more kayaks, including skin-on-frame village on the southwest coast of Kodiak. Alaska, where I daydreamed away an
craft, in an attempt to learn more about the Sven received his PhD from Harvard, is afternoon imagining a visit to this stunning
origin of my fascination. In 2009 I was a a MacArthur Fellow and the executive archipelago. The NOAA US Coast Pilot
guest coach for the Summer Festival and director of the award-winning Alutiiq u

10 Wavelength Magazine Fall 2010


the aleutian islands

Fall 2010 Wavelength Magazine 11


adventure Kayaking

Vol. 9 states: “The weather of the Aleutian


Islands is characterized by persistent
overcast skies, high winds and violent
storms. No other area in the world is
recognized as having worse weather in
general than that which the Aleutian Islands
experience.” It piqued my interest and
motivated me to find a way to travel farther
into the Aleutians.
A few months later I was contacted
by Stan Chladek, a veteran kayaker and
explorer, to supply Valley Nordkapp kayaks
for his upcoming kayak expedition to the
Andreanof Islands in the western Aleutians.
I jokingly said, “I may stowaway in one of
the hatches so I can come along.” And so
I became the fourth member of the team
and was given this incredible opportunity
to paddle and experience, first-hand, the
birthplace of kayaking. We wanted to Above: contamination is still very much in
discover for ourselves who the Aleut were, evidence from oil drums abandoned at a
World War Two era radio outpost on Adak
how they lived and learn a little of the
Island; right: orange sea cucumbers in the
region’s history. rich Aleutian Islands intertidal zone.
Launching from Shagak Bay on the
northwest coast of Adak, we looked found during the voyage (for example, the
across Adak Strait 12 miles to the island of Steller’s Jay, Steller sea lion, gumboot chiton
Kanaga and had a clear view of Kanaga (Cryptochiton stelleri), and the now extinct
volcano at 1,307 metres (4,288 feet). The Steller’s sea cow). Many of the surviving
Coast Pilot for the region states, “Kanaga sailors of the expedition brought back sea
Volcano could be utilized as a means for otter pelts for trade and thus started the
forecasting bad weather. The volcano peak gold rush for otter furs. Later, with the sea trappers were successful and the ravished
is seldom absolutely clear of clouds. During otter population at near-extinction levels, bird population has rebounded. However,
April 1934, it was observed that invariably the Russians introduced Arctic foxes to 18 years ago on the neighboring island of
the day or night before a gale the peak some of the islands with the intent of Kanaga the program was not successful.
made its appearance, shorn of all clouds also harvesting them for their luxurious While the US Fish and Wildlife Service
and with wisps of steam around the crater.” fur. In 1867, when the U.S. purchased attempted to eradicate the foxes, some
The volcano is a magnificent sight, but also Alaska from Russia, the foxes and native survived and they continue to breed today.
a harbinger of the contrasts we were to Aleut population were largely forgotten. We saw several dens and foxes at every
encounter during our three-week sojourn However, the foxes flourished and have beach we camped at on Kanaga. The bird
into new waters exploring the west coast had a significant detrimental impact on the life and bird count is markedly different
of Adak Island and those of Kanaga and nesting bird population (with no natural between Tanaga and Kanaga, illustrating
Tanaga Islands. mammals, no trees or predators on the the impact that an introduced species
We were not the first white explorers islands, the birds nest on the ground and can have on native fauna, even if just
to visit the western Aleutians. In 1741 the are extremely vulnerable). miles apart. Other islands, like Adak and
Russian government commissioned the Halfway through our journey we made Kiska, also have rats, introduced via ships,
Danish captain Vitus Jonassen Bering for camp at Hot Spring Bay on Tanaga Island which now prey on the nesting birds and
“a voyage of discovery” in two ships, the next to an abandoned fox trapper’s cabin. these predators are extremely difficult to
St. Peter and St. Paul, to chart the Northern Our intent was to explore the surrounding eradicate.
Pacific. This expedition landed very briefly area to search for the site of an Aleut It was a rather sobering realization that
on a few islands, including Adak, and village and have a bath in the hot spring. the eradication of foxes from the Aleutian
claimed Alaska for Russia. The German The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service built Islands marks the true end of the Russian
naturalist, George Wilhelm Steller, who was this cabin in 2004, next to the ruin of a influence in the area. While nature is slowly
a member of the expedition, kept extensive Russian-era camp, as a summer residence recovering, sadly, the Aleut population and
journals of the voyage and gave his name for modern fox trappers employed to the culture of this hardy race are gone.
to many plants, animals and landmarks he eradicate the feral foxes from Tanaga. The u

12 Wavelength Magazine Fall 2010


the aleutian islands

For kayakers by kayakers


Recreation maps that bring
the BC coast to life.

Each map rendered


in full color both
sides on 22x36”
heavy stock and
comes in a handy
resealable slip bag.

New for 2010! Broughtons/Johnstone

others in the series:


• Clayoquot Sound
• Broken Group Islands/
Barkley Sound
• Desolation Sound and
the Discovery Islands
• The North Coast Trail
and north Vancouver
Island.
New for 2010! The Gulf Islands
at better kayaking/outdoor stores everywhere or
order online: wavelengthmagazine.com/orderonline

Fall 2010 Wavelength Magazine 13


adventure Kayaking

During our trip, color was everywhere. Exploring the intriguing


The contrasting hues of spring were columnar basalt
bursting through winter’s grays and volcanic shoreline at
browns as the birds and flowers made their Naga Point
individual displays in an effort to survive. on Kanaga Island.
The hills were turning green before our eyes
and the sky was a constantly shifting pattern
of blues, grays and white. Below the water,
the ocean was also displaying its range of
colors with sea stars, crabs, anemones,
kelp and sponges. Every beach, nook and
cranny in the rocks and even the uplands
above the tide line were dotted with bright
colors too, but these were not the hues
of spring. These were man-made colors.
Modern man’s impact was everywhere and
very evident; even in this, one of the most
remote refuges anywhere. While the Bering the commercial international fishing nets. The sea otter, harbor and fur seal,
Sea and North Pacific are giving up their fleet in this remote but not so pristine and countless whales live and traverse this
harvest to an uneducated consumer market, area in order to solicit funds for cleanup coastline and are also vulnerable to injury
the fishing fleet is giving back in its own operations. As we paddled around the and drowning by the nets and lines. I wish I
unique way. Fishing debris in the form of coastline, I was snapping pictures of both had not seen all this color, but hopefully my
neon buoys of all sizes, nets and lines were the natural wonders of the Aleutians report to MCAF will make a difference and
on every beach. While the large, soft buoys and the thoughtlessness of man. With will make the coastline a little less colorful
made wonderful beach chairs (deflate them the Aleutian Islands lying between the and safer in the future.
a little and they are just like beanbags!), rich marine environments of the North Toward the end of our trip, we camped
they should not have been there. We would Pacific and Bering Sea, the tide constantly in The Bay of Islands on Adak and poked
have gladly done without the comfort in flows back and forth between the islands’ around the area, again looking for old Aleut
exchange for a more pristine environment. narrow passes. The islands form a natural village sites. We headed over to a nearby
Part of the reason for my trip, and sieve between these giant bodies of water, cove where a site once existed. On a low
also my own way of giving back to the which not only traps nutrients for marine bluff above the cove we saw what looked
environment, was to conduct a beach life but catches any flotsam and jetsam like rusty oil drums, so we landed to take a
survey for the Marine Conservation that passes by. This area is one of the few look. Hundreds of 55-gallon drums were
Alliance Foundation (www.mcafoundation. breeding grounds for the Steller sea lion completely rusted through and had long
org/marine.html). This will enable the and fishing debris creates the real danger discharged their diesel fuel into the earth.
foundation to document the impact of of entanglement by discarded and broken This was an abandoned World War Two

14 Wavelength Magazine Fall 2010


For more information:
Getting there: Alaska Airlines offers (weather
permitting) twice weekly service from
Anchorage to Adak.
alaska maritime National Wildlife refuge:
alaska.fws.gov/nwr/akmar/index.htm
Fox and other invasive species program:
alaskamaritime.fws.gov/whatwedo/bioprojects/
restorebiodiversity/restoremain.htm
aleutian Islands Biosphere reserve:
alaskamaritime.fws.gov/wildlife-wildlands/
wildlands/biosphere.htm
alaskan area weather:
www.arh.noaa.gov/
For direct links: Visit the online version of
Wavelength Magazine at
www.wavelengthmagazine.com and click on
the text above to save typing.

radio site, complete with the radio, antenna


array, generator and fuel tanks. The buildings
have collapsed and been blown away by the
Aleutian winds, but the leftovers and the
contamination remain.
Just over the bluff, we found the Aleutian
village site comprised of a series of small
depressions in the ground where their
“barabaras” had once been. What a stark
contrast from the U.S. military site, left only 60
years ago, to this ancient Aleut village. It is a sad
reminder of what we have become.
There is so much to learn from this remote
region. It is an area full of contrasts: it has
a rich environment; fauna and flora; active
volcanoes; an interesting history and extreme
weather. I spent only three weeks in this
amazing place: visiting Aleut village sites;
observing the wildlife hunted by the Aleut for
clothing and food; paddling the same water
they paddled in their skin-on-frame “iqak”;
making the same crossings they made; dealing
with the same environment in which they
lived. I have gained a deep appreciation for
the Aleut but I have only the beginnings of an
understanding of these people. I hope to go
back…
I plan to go back… I will go back.
<
Rob Avery spends as much of his time as he can
messing around in boats. He has paddled on
many expeditions and visited faraway places.
Rob owns and operates a kayak and canoe
coaching service based on Bainbridge Island,
WA. He can be reached at rob@kayakkraft.com.

Fall 2010 Wavelength Magazine 15


Photography by Michael Powers

hen a rare tranquil day like today New Zealand to paddle with the Rangers. We follow
comes to the often tempestuous Strait the others on a slalom course through the rock gardens
of Juan de Fuca, it becomes magical. that line the rugged shoreline, searching for a protected
The bow of our sleek double kayak campsite for the night. Sasha’s enchantment with the
slices smoothly across the mirror-like surface of the other-worldly panorama of storm-weathered stone and
water, and long ripples radiate out in all directions to serpentine kelp forests unfolding before us is palpable,
undulate hypnotically beneath the light of the summer and I strive to capture the magic of the scene with my
sun. Our sea kayaking team from California, the little waterproof digital camera.
Tsunami Rangers, paddles languidly westward towards Sea kayaking and watersports in general evolved from
historic Cape Flattery on the distant horizon. the most basic of human needs: hunger. Millennia ago,
Riding with me today in the front cockpit of my ingenious stone-age hunter/gatherers began to craft
open-deck Tsunami X-2 double kayak is a young kayak vessels from driftwood, animal skin and bone so they
guide named Sasha, who has traveled all the way from could pursue the game they could see abounding in the

16 Wavelength Magazine Fall


Fall2010
2010
Michael Powers portfolio

sea. Today those traditions still endure, although


fortunately for the animals our objectives have
evolved somewhat. Now most homo sapien paddlus
are out on the water purely for adventure and
exercise, and the hunter/gatherer instincts have
been moderated to collect images rather than fresh
protein from the sea.
Fortunately too for modern paddlers, an
astounding array of gear has become available with
which to venture out beyond the shore in relative
safety and comfort. Along with kevlar and carbon
fibre have come quantum leaps in image gathering
equipment for watersport photography. Many
different waterproof digital cameras are available
today, ranging from lightweight little disposables
to high-quality professional level models.
Here are some images and commentary from
many rewarding years of hunting and gathering
around our water world with a paddle and a
camera, which I hope will inspire and empower
you to better document your own watersport
adventures – good luck!

Fall
Fall2010
2010 Wavelength Magazine 17
Photography

Kayaker
sea arch
Shooting from shore
with a (non-waterproof)
Slr camera and
different length lenses
allows for different
perspectives of
watersports and the
sometimes unique
environments where
they are taking place.
Here an extremely
wide-angle fisheye lens
allowed me to frame the
paddler dramatically in
a sea arch as he paddled
in a rocky cove on the
northern California
coast.

Kayaks
antarctica
On rare occasions where there are
no other options, we may have to
compromise and make use of smelly,
fossil fuel burning watercraft to
approach and photograph watersport
activities. For a single day off South
Georgia Island in Antarctica I gave up
paddling to photograph my kayaking
expedition teammates from a Zodiac
powerboat, driven at high speed by a
young crewman from our mothership
Russian icebreaker as the kayakers
were approaching historic Drygalski
Fiord, located near the usually stormy
southernmost tip of South Georgia
Island.

18 Wavelength Magazine Fall 2010


Michael Powers portfolio

To capture this
image I mounted
a small waterproof
camera on the bow Self
of my kayak pointed
back towards me,
portrait
oriented to shoot
vertically with the
camera on self-timer.
I paddled out into
the surf zone, and
whenever I saw a
nice wave building
up outside I would
quickly reach
forward with my
paddle and press
the shutter button.
Then I would paddle
hard to catch the
wave. Occasionally it
worked!

Fall2010 Wavelength Magazine 19


Photography

Oregon The Tsunami Rangers are known for close-up, action-packed photos and videos of kayakers crashing through waves and
over rocks, but sometimes it is refreshing to step back and take a more contemplative, wide angle shot that places your
Coast subject in the context of a scenic environment. Here in a beautiful and well-hidden little cove on the southern Oregon coast,
surrounded by high cliffs and inaccessible except from the water, I disembarked from my kayak and climbed up on a rock
promontory to capture a wide angle shot of Ranger Tim Sullivan as he prepared to re-enter the sea.

20 Wavelength Magazine Fall 2010


Michael Powers portfolio

Baidarka
sunset
On a summer paddling adventure among the San Juan Islands, we arrived
at tiny Patos Island just before sunset. I landed and ran to set up my camera,
equipped with a 300mm telephoto lens on a tripod, while my companions
continued to paddle their baidarka-style double kayak as the sun was setting. I
knew from experience that shooting from shore with a long lens would make
the sun appear large in relationship to the kayak in the foreground and add a
dramatic mood to the photograph.

Sunset dance
Sometimes the photo magic
lingers long after the paddling is
done for the day. At a well-hidden
micro-beach on the southern
Oregon coast, the sky continued
to grow even more vivid after
sunset, inspiring the Tsunami
Rangers to break into a martial
arts reverie. I mounted my SLR on
a tripod and shot the after-glow.

about Michael Powers


Michael Powers is a professional adventure photojournalist, widely published,
and a commander in the Tsunami Rangers, an “extreme condition” sea kayaking
team. He and fellow Ranger commander Eric Soares wrote the book Extreme Sea
Kayaking, published by McGraw-Hill.

Fall 2010 Wavelength Magazine 21


Rainforest Chronicles By Dan lewis

W Drifting in the dark listening to wolves


olves began hoWling
as we kayaked home from a
dinner date with friends who
live up the inlet. It was close to midnight,
and the waxing gibbous moon had the
howl or viewing the unforgettable
scene lit up like a film shoot. Bonny and I
had stopped to talk quietly when we heard
universe of bioluminescence: it opens
them start. We sat drifting for a while
with the ebb current, lost in the primeval up a whole new world for paddlers
sound of wolves communicating over a
large wilderness landscape. When they had
finished, we heard an owl puncture the
who are willing to take the chance
silence in response. Thrilled, we turned our thing is to have a flashlight, on your body piercing the surface with your paddle to
kayaks and paddled on home. in case you are ever separated from the reveal another universe of bioluminescent
I’ve been night paddling since the third kayak (example: while hiking in the woods). stars swirling around your blade as you pull
day I owned a kayak. I’d paddled from I carry a very small waterproof flashlight in it through the water – few will ever forget
downtown Vancouver to the Museum of my lifejacket, which I test and have ready such an experience.
Anthropology at UBC. As I paddled back whenever I’m paddling after dark. Sea kayaking at night opens your
late that afternoon, I realized I would never Night paddling opens up a whole new senses in a way that day paddling cannot.
make it home before dark. So I kept on world for the kayaker who dares. Is it safe? Everything familiar seems foreign. Smells
paddling, staying close to shore, and made Absolutely not, but neither is driving. If can overwhelm – from the sulfuric stench
my one crossing at the narrowest point, you are smart the risks can be managed in of a mudflat exposed at low tide to the rich
sprinting frantically after scoping and a way that is acceptable. The big issues are earthy aroma wafting down from an old-
listening a long time to be sure no boats finding your way in the dark and not getting growth rainforest.
were coming. run over by other boats. Encounters with wildlife can be thrilling.
I learned a lot from that adventure and But the joys of night paddling are many. My heart still practically leaps out of my
now I prepare for night paddling every time It can be so quiet, and there are fewer chest when I spook a blue heron fishing
I leave shore, no matter how confident I motorboats to worry about. Seeing a starry along shore in the dark. My heart pounds as
am of returning before sunset. The key summer sky reflected on still waters, then they ponderously flap away, screeching like

22 Wavelength Magazine Fall 2010


night paddling

I imagine pterodactyls must have sounded contact – glow sticks are handy. Counting catch favourable conditions with an alpine-
way back when. River otters come up to eat off can be helpful with a larger group, but style pre-dawn start. If you feel called by
crabs they’ve caught, floating on the surface inevitably someone forgets their number the night spirits, proceed cautiously and you
making a delicate crunching noise not and the rest of the group has to chime in – may find you’ve opened up another world
unlike humans at a crab bar. “Dave, you’re number four!” of paddling opportunities.
Some of the scariest paddling I’ve ever There are many reasons to find yourself <
done has been on the open coast at night. paddling in the dark, whether a bold Dan Lewis and Bonny Glambeck operate
During an expedition down the Washington adventure in a controlled setting, a scary Rainforest Kayak Adventures out of
Coast in November one year, we were trying misadventure, or an expedient attempt to Clayoquot Sound.
to make it to an archaeological dig at Ozette.
Headwinds delayed our progress, and it was Instruction
pitch black at suppertime when we arrived.
Our friends were staying with the
archaeologists, and we could see the lights
in their cabin, so we headed in toward
the light. We could hear surf crashing all
around us in the dark, but what choice Kayak Academy (Seattle)
Experience IS Necessary! Since 1991, the Kayak
did we have? In the morning we woke Academy has been providing the best sea kayak
to see the low tide exposing a ledge of experience you can get. Count on us for all your
rocks covered in boulders. A canoe run to paddling gear.
the village had been cleared through the Phone: 206.527.1825 or toll-free 866.306.1825
Web: www.kayakacademy.com
boulders centuries earlier, and by heading Email: info@kayakacademy.com
for the light we had come right in on the
correct line! I’ve made a point since then
of getting off the water before dark when
paddling open coast.
If you want to enter the world of Hooksum Outdoor School
kayaking at night, my advice is to wait until West Coast outdoor leadership Training. Quality
skills training and Hesquiaht traditional knowledge
you are an experienced paddler, familiar for those pursuing a career or employment in the
with the gear and kayaking in general. Pick a outdoors. Certification courses include: Paddle Canada
location without wind, waves, current, surf, Sea Kayaking Levels I & II, Advanced Wilderness First
fog, or traffic. Preferably choose a place you Aid, Lifesaving, BOAT & ROC(M). Visiting Kayak & Hiking
Groups: Base your Hesquiaht Harbour adventures from
paddle a lot, so you are very familiar with our Longhouse. Meals and overnight stays available
the topography. Choose paddling partners in 2010.
with similar or greater skill levels. Stay close Phone: 250.670.1120
together and maintain audio and visual Web: www.hooksumschool.com
Email: info@hooksumschool.com

Fall 2010 Wavelength Magazine 23


Safety and Planning By adam Bolonsky

The dark side of


E
paddling
qUIPPING YoUrSElF with the
skills and equipment you need
to paddle at night has many
advantages, not the least of which is
the chance to lengthen your paddling
days as the approach of winter brings
shorter days. You can stay out after dark
if you want. If you’re a miles burner who
needs to make miles on a daily basis,
you can comfortably push on after
sunset, or leave before dawn, in regions
around the world where late afternoon Extend your
sea breezes or conditions after sunrise
may be daunting. and if you’re a fisher, kayaking season
becoming comfortable paddling at night
will give you a leg up on the season’s by paddling in the
best migratory pelagic fishing – those 36
inch-plus bluefish and striped bass that, dark but play it
here on the east coast at least, are at their
most active at night. smart – follow a
one skill is important: the ability to
keep your hips loose for better balance few simple rules for
and mobility in waves, chop and swell. By
learning to paddle with loose hips and night paddling fun
knees pressed against the underside of
the foredeck or splayed out against either
to invest in a few pieces of specialized
side of the cockpit, the more readily
gear. First off, to be legal on the water
the kayak sways and dips beneath your
between sunset and sunrise, you need
upper body. meanwhile, keep your upper
to be able to show a white light visible in
torso upright and balanced. Paddle with
a 360° circumference. although lighting
loose hips and your kayak will absorb
regulations in local jurisdictions like
the motions of rough water, leaving
lakes and ponds, municipal harbors, etc.
your upper body level. You can paddle
often fall under the jurisprudence of
more efficiently and have your arms and
local rather than federal law enforcement
shoulders in position to lay down a brace.
and so may require different lighting
and with that kinesthetic sense of where
schemes, in most cases you’re legal
your body lies in relation to the horizon,
on water at night with an inexpensive
you’re less prone to seasickness.
C-light. Typically powered by aa
loose hips means you’re relaxed in the
batteries, the velcro-strapped C-light
cockpit and better equipped to deal with
is about the size and diameter of a felt
nighttime paddling’s challenges, among
tip marker, and small enough to strap
them a reduced ability to judge the speed
to the shoulder of a PFD. manufactured
and height of swell and waves. Paddle
with waterproof gaskets, they include
with your eyes closed for a few hundred
a plump, bulbous lens which magnifies
yards every once in a while and you’ll find
their low watt glow into a distinct, hard
that your hips will loosen, and that your
shard of bright light.
balance and confidence while paddling in
That will cover the federal lighting
darkness will increase steadily.
requirement for boats under 18 feet in
Night paddling means you’ll also need

24 Wavelength Magazine Fall


Fall 2010
2010
night Paddling

length. Just keep in mind that lighting and more likely to encounter local law or other source of light.
regulations for waters under local enforcement with their own versions of To add more visibility to yourself
jurisdiction can be quirky. Not infrequent what’s legal at night. and your boat, it’s also a good idea to
has been the night when a sea kayaker lit Now that you’re as legal as can be consider retrofitting your deck lines
to federal standards with a white C-light expected in most waters, other lights with the reflective dacron line used as
has been stopped and cited by local law you’ll want to carry are a matter of stakeout lines on mountaineering tents.
enforcement. In violation of local if not additional convenience and safety. also be sure to buy a PFD with sewn-in
simply misinformed versions of lighting among them are glosticks, lED lamps reflective bands which make you easier to
schemes, some kayakers have found and a red night vision light. Together they spot should you become separated from
themselves stopped at night for not make for better group cohesion, faster your kayak after a capsize. With SolaS
carrying green lights to starboard, red navigation and easier landings at night tape on your boat and reflective strips
lights to port. So be sure to check local come time to drag your kayak above on your PFD, you’ll be that much more
regulations by making a phone call to the high water mark. It’s a good idea to visible to the powerboats, ferries and
the local harbormaster if you anticipate buy an lED headlamp that you can use fishing vessels that run at night. Everyone
paddling at night in waters where you are hands-free. landing will be easier if you in your group will be visible.
less likely to encounter the Coast Guard can see what you’re hauling your kayak Finally, it’s good practice to carry
over, and setting up camp for the night an emergency strobe light. Universally
will go faster if you can see what you’re recognized as a distress signal, strobe
doing. lED headlamps are a particularly lights emit short bursts of high intensity
good choice; most have very long battery light readily seen by overflying aircraft
lives and multiple brightnesses. The best and nearby boaters. activate the strobe
for kayakers are submersible, waterproof after you make contact with rescue
and of rugged durability. personnel via VHF Channel 16, or, in
as for group cohesion, and to ensure more dire consequences, rocket flares
that members of a group can keep track if you need to signal an emergency.
of each other, it’s a good idea to buy a Don’t be tempted to use a strobe as a
dozen or so chemlights, also known as nightlight though – they’re meant only
glosticks. They’re inexpensive. activate for emergency signaling.
a couple of chemlights with a snap or a If you’re looking for lights that meet
shake and tie one to your bow toggle, many night paddling needs at the same
the other to the stern. The two faint dabs time, many companies sell multi-function
of yellowish light are just enough bright lights. The Hydrostar lights, for example,
for everyone in a group to keep tabs on from Seattle Sports, use lED bulbs
each other. Just don’t make the mistake and a twisting base switch to switch
of using green or red glosticks which can between strobe functions, flashlights of
be mistaken for port and starboard lights. varying intensities, and red night-vision
They will mislead other boaters, and may lights handy for illuminating charts and
get you cited for improper light use. compasses (or fishing gear) at night.
another piece of night paddling The roughly 6.5-inch tall lights have
gear handy to have is a night compass. suction cups for attaching to the fore or
Seattle Sports makes a pretty decent aft deck, and include spring clips and
if somewhat delicately made night lanyards for attaching to PFDs. They’re
compass, called the Nightquest, which reasonably well made if rather bulky. The
houses a red night vision binnacle only caveat is to choose a multi-function
light. You’ll also want a short-burst light carefully. For example, of Seattle
emergency strobe and eight strips of Sports’ three multi-function lights, only
SolaS retroreflective tape. SolaS tape, two emit strobe bursts both vertically
an acronym for the Safety of life at and horizontally, making the remaining
Sea treaty signed worldwide after the model useful only for vertical hand-held
Titanic disaster, is rugged, durable and signaling.
waterproof. apply a strip to each side of <
your paddle blade and to the starboard adam Bolonsky is a New England sea
The last rays of the day in Nuchatlitz and port sides of your bow and stern. all kayaking instructor and sea kayak
Provincial Park, Vancouver Island. will reflect back bright, distinct flashes of fishing guide based in Gloucester,
John Kimantas photo if illuminated by moonlight, a flashlight massachusetts.

Fall
Fall2010
2010 Wavelength Magazine 25
tours and Services

Tours and Services: British Columbia

Relax and travel with the experts


The best way to enjoy the coast is by tour. Let the professionals take care of the details, take
you to the best locations and provide you with the luxuries not possible on a self-guided tour.
Plus you don’t have to worry about transporting your kayak and gear. Please say you saw the
listing in Wavelength Magazine when you contact a tour operator. Thank you!

Wilderness Sea Kayaking


Family sea kayaking tours with wilderness retreat
camping comforts, spectacular kayaking options,
diverse wildlife, cultural activities, and professional
guides. Sharing the remote Kyuquot area, Northwest
Vancouver Island since 1972!
Phone: 1.800.665.3040 or 250.338.2511
Web: www.westcoastexpeditions.com
Email: info@westcoastexpeditions.com

Kayak Haida Gwaii


Among the world's top paddling destinations, Gwaii
Haanas is an awe-inspiring oasis of wilderness at the
southern tip of Haida Gwaii. Enjoy memorable, safe
Lund Kayak Tours & Rentals and affordable multi-day kayak adventures.
Kayak tours, lessons, rentals & marine delivery. Web: www.gckayaking.com
Desolation Sound, Mitlenatch Island, Copeland Islands Email: paddle@gckayaking.com
marine parks. Personalized service, stunning scenery, Phone: 250-559-4682
fascinating history, delicious organic lunches. Family /
child friendly programs.
Phone: 1.888.552.5558 OR 604.483.7900
Web: www.terracentricadventures.com
Email: fun@terracentricadventures.com

Gabriola Sea Kayaking


Kayaking adventures in the Broken Group, Clayoquot
Sound , Broughton Archipelago, Kyuquot Sound ,
Nootka Island and the Gulf Islands. Unforgettable
paddling and great people since 1995. See you on
the water!
Phone: 250-247-0189
Web: www.kayaktoursbc.com

26 Wavelength Magazine Fall 2010


tours and Services

Tours and Services: British Columbia

Odyssey Kayaking
BC Ferries port; Gateway to Northern and Central
BC Coast destinations. Sales, Rentals, Lessons, Trip
planning, and Custom Tours. 8625 Shipley Street
(across from the Post Office) Port Hardy.
Phone: 250-949-7392 or cell 250-230-8318
Email: odyssey@island.net
Web: www.odysseykayaking.com

Kayak Desolation Sound


Rent kayaks from waterfront locations in Lund or Elements Women's Travel
Okeover Inlet. Try the Famous Aquarium Kayak Tour or Adventure tours for women. Unique day and multi-day
snorkel at Urchin Alley. All-inclusive multi-day trips into tours in the coastal waters of BC. Custom itineraries for
Desolation & Mountains. women, all designed to 'get into your element'!
Phone: Toll free 1-866-617-4444 Phone: 250-245-9580
Web: www.bcseakayak.com Web: www.elementstravel.com
Email: info@bcseakayak.com Email: info@elementstravel.com

Paddle with sea otters


Kayak transport between Zeballos and Nootka Island,
Nuchatlitz Park and Friendly Cove. Kayak rentals. Tours and Services: East Canada
CEDarS INN rooms and restaurant in a historic
Zeballos lodge. Good food, friendly service.
Phone: 1-866-222-2235
Web: www. zeballosexpeditions.com
Email: info@zeballosexpeditions.com

Tours and Services: Alaska


Sealegs Kayaking Adventures
Sealegs’ Eco-Adventure Centre offers waterfront access
at Transfer Beach Ladysmith. Guided wilderness tours,
rentals, lessons and sales from our pro shop. Multi-day Tours and Services: Tropical
adventures, FREE lessons with tours and rentals.
Phone: 250-245-4096 or 1-877-KAYAK BC (529-2522)
Web: www.sealegskayaking.com
Email: info@sealegskayaking.com

Tours and Services: Yukon

Kayak Transport Co.


Kanoe People Ltd. a mothership Serving SE alaska. Kayaking from
Explore Yukon's great rivers and lakes! Rentals, sales, the comforts of a mothership for a week. Paddling
guided tours and logistic services. Cabin rentals our boats and exploring fantastic scenery and wildlife.
summer and winter on the scenic Lake Laberge. Eating fresh caught Alaskan seafood. How good does
Outfitting on the Yukon for over 35 years. it get?!
Web: www.kanoepeople.com Email: staff@kayaktransport.com
Email: info@kanoepeople.com Web: www.kayaktransport.com
Phone: 867-668-4899 Phone: (206) 719-0976

Fall 2010 Wavelength Magazine 27


health and Fitness By Roy Stevenson

Nutrition strategies
Whether training to race, or to just paddle longer, careful
attention to your diet can vastly improve your recovery time

s
ports nutrition has come a long way, and is easily radical formation in our cells.
one of the most researched disciplines in exercise science. But the devil is in the details. You can pop vitamin pills, drink
Literally thousands of research papers have been written on protein powder shakes, guzzle sports drinks, and eat all the
recovery nutrition. carbohydrates you can stomach, but if you don’t eat and drink the
We need to pay attention to recovering properly from our kayak right kinds of food, drink and supplements at the right time, you’ll
training simply because the human body is not designed for the be wasting your time and money. It’s not just what you eat but when
extended, rigorous, high-intensity workouts that we put ourselves you eat it that counts in your recovery. Here’s how to use recovery
through. It’s a wonder we don’t break down more often than we do. nutrition to get the most out of yourself after your hard training
The benefits of recovering properly from these hard training and long kayaking efforts.
efforts are clear. The kayaker who recovers quickly can train hard Post-training rehydration: replace water, electrolytes
again with a shorter recovery time, add more quality training in Your first priority is to fully replace muscle and plasma fluid and
his schedule, suffer fewer injuries and gain an enhanced immune electrolyte losses immediately after kayaking. Weigh yourself before
system. All this translates into a fitter, faster and healthier paddler. and after your training effort and make sure you drink the lost
The strategies we use to speed up our post training recovery weight back within an hour or two of finishing. In fact, aim to drink
are rehydration, glycogen resynthesis and protein and antioxidant 125 percent of the weight you lost from sweating because you still
supplementation. These techniques replenish our muscle fuel continue to sweat while you are rehydrating.
supplies, hasten the repair of muscle damage and combat free

28 Wavelength Magazine Fall


Fall2010
2010
Proper training nutrition

Recent research shows that we absorb more fluid when in disguise, with excess amounts of sugar and caffeine. Select fruit
electrolytes are added to water, thus achieving better restoration of juices or reputable sports drinks according to your preference – and
body water. Sodium in particular helps retain water and stimulates there’s no rule that says you can’t drink both.
thirst. You’ll know you’re rehydrating adequately when you start
Use carbohydrates to replenish glycogen stores urinating again, which can be several hours after training. Urine
Carbohydrates consumed immediately after and from two to five should be clear and pale. Despite the refreshing taste, beer (or any
hours after exercise other alcohol) is counterproductive to good recovery because its
enhance muscle diuretic effect prevents you from rehydrating properly at a critical
The Goals of Nutritional Recovery:
glycogen restoration. time.
• Replace fluids and electrolytes
This is most effective a carbohydrate/protein mix replenishes glycogen faster
• Replenish energy stores (glycogen,
if ingested from Researchers have discovered that carbohydrate-rich fluids, when
ATP, etc)
fluid, because fluid mixed with protein, have an important benefit. They’ve found that
• Hasten muscle, tendon and ligament
absorption is faster a mixture of protein and carbohydrate taken immediately after
tissue repair
than digestion of exercise tops up our glycogen and amino acid stores much faster
• Reduce residual delayed onset
solid foods. Edward than a carbohydrate solution alone.
muscle soreness and pain (DOMS)
Coyle, Ph.D., exercise The general consensus is that carbohydrate-protein mixes double
• Return immune system to healthy
physiologist at the the insulin response and increases the rate of glycogen synthesis
status
University of Texas by 30 percent. Since insulin is the hormone that takes up sugar
in Austin, says the and deposits it into our muscle cells, it follows that a solution
first two hours after your workout are the most crucial for getting that creates a high insulin response will build high intramuscular
glycogen into your system. glycogen levels, and do this quickly.
“The muscles absorb glycogen like a sponge,” he says, but “four How much protein is needed for this synergistic glycogen
to six hours after training the absorption rate starts to decline.” building effect? We recommend that athletes ingest 0.4 grams of
Choose carbohydrate-rich fluids to replace your water losses, protein per kilogram of body weight immediately after training and
electrolytes and muscle glycogen. Reading the labels of sports again two hours later.
drinks is important because many of them are simply soft drinks The protein is best absorbed in the form of whey or casein
u

race day at Deep Cove Kayaks, North Vancouver / photo by Viviane Nishikiori

Main background image modified with stylized filter.

Fall
Fall2010
2010 Wavelength Magazine 29
health and Fitness

This new research on carbohydrate/protein


Some examples of high glycemic
index foods:
synergy has great implications for athletes. Some key definitions:
You should be taking on board a mixture Electrolyte – These substances
Bagels • Baked potatoes • Bread
• Crackers • Honey • Maple syrup of protein and carbohydrates (preferably in play a role in maintaining blood pH,
• Raisins • White rice • Sports drinks fluid form) in a 4:1 ratio, immediately after nerve and muscle function. Ideally
(with sugar) • Jelly beans • Dates training or extended kayaking efforts. electrolyte replenishment should
(dried) • Pineapple • Apricot (canned) the kayaker’s need for protein include sodium chloride, potassium,
The paddler’s need for extra protein is magnesium and calcium.
powder. These powders come in several well documented and we may even require Glycogen – This molecule plays a
flavors and can be found in nutrition or more protein than bodybuilders relative to role in energy storage, particularly for
sports nutrition stores. our body weight. After all, kayakers need to quick release as glucose.
There’s also been a big fuss lately about compensate for the physiological demands Insulin response – After we eat,
how low-fat chocolate milk is an ideal post that paddling places on our bodies: carbohydrates are broken down into
exercise fluid for enhancing glycogen stores increased breakdown of muscle contractile the base sugars. To combat the blood
because of the good ratio of carbohydrates proteins, increased production of red sugar level increase, insulin is
to protein. If you like chocolate milk, then blood cells, increased mitochondrial protein released in response. It moves
by all means have at it! content, faster replacement of glycogen glucose (sugar) from the blood into
As for the carbohydrates we should be stores and increased oxidation and use of the muscles and fat cells for storage.
ingesting after training, some carbohydrates amino acids as fuel when muscle glycogen The more sugar, the higher the insulin
cause rapid rises in blood sugar levels is low. response.
(high glycemic index), while others the role of vitamins and antioxidants Antioxidants – Oxidation is a
promote a slower release of sugars into in muscle repair chemical reaction that can create
the bloodstream (low glycemic index). We The downside to strenuous aerobic free radicals that can damage cells.
should aim to eat and drink high glycemic activity is the increased stress on our body’s Antioxidants stops this process.
index foods immediately after training to cells caused by the huge amount of oxygen Free radicals – Free radicals will
boost our blood glucose levels quickly, thus we process while training. This process, attack a stable molecule, taking an
causing a faster release of insulin, which in called oxidation, damages the muscle cell’s electron. The stable molecule then
turn drives more glycogen into the muscle membrane and internal structure, impairing becomes a free radical itself, causing a
cells. their function. The result: muscle soreness, chain reaction. The result can damage
How much carbohydrate should we inflammation and fatigue – all done by nasty cells.
take in? The recommended dose is 0.5 little molecules called free radicals. Blood cortisol – Cortisol increases
to 0.75 grams of carbohydrate for every Vitamins assist in growth, tissue damage blood sugar and stores of sugar in the
pound of body weight. And a second dose repair and disarming free radical damage liver as glycogen. It counters insulin.
of high glycemic index carbohydrates is from stressful environments such as Epinephrine levels – Epinephrine,
recommended from one to four hours post- pollution and extreme cold. A strong case also known as adrenaline, increases
exercise. can be presented in favor of antioxidant heart rate, contracts blood vessels,
There’s an important dosage requirement vitamins being taken to hasten recovery dilates air passages and plays a role in
for this carbohydrate/protein mix to be of free radical damage, damaged muscle the fight-or-flight response.
effective. The ratio of carbohydrate to and connective tissue, immune system
protein is most effective at four to one. u

30 Wavelength Magazine Fall 2010


u

Fall 2010 Wavelength Magazine 31


health and Fitness

suppression and oxidative stress caused by Proteins also play an important role
kayaking. guidelines for vitamin in helping our body fight off infection,
Antioxidants, produced naturally in the supplements especially in the two hours or so
body, or obtained from our food, block • Take your multivitamin supplement after exercise when we’re particularly
with a meal to enhance absorption.
most free radical reactions. Evidence susceptible to catching upper respiratory
• Choose a supplement in which the
exists that certain antioxidant supplements majority of vitamin A is actually beta-
tract infections. As proteins make up the
reduce free radical damage in athletes. One carotene. Vitamin A, or retinol, should infection-fighting agents like macrophages,
study found that five months of vitamin E not exceed 3,000 IU daily. immunoglobins and white blood cells,
supplementation in racing cyclists reduced • A blend of synthetic and natural ingesting proteins after strenuous exercise
markers of oxidative stress induced by supplements is fine. Look for a mix will in all probability help us fight any
extreme endurance exercise. of vitamin E from tocopherols and intruding infections and bacteria.
Some studies show that Vitamin E can tocotrienols. Don’t pay more for “time- I’d suggest that you adopt a holistic
reduce leakage of cell membranes to result release” or “chelated” products. approach when devising your nutritional
in less creatine kinase (an inflammatory • If you take antioxidant supplements, recovery program, and attempt to use
enzyme) and several other indicators of keep doses to 100 to 200 IU of carbohydrate/protein sports drinks, fluids
vitamin E and 250 milligrams of
oxidative stress. Another study found with adequate electrolytes, and antioxidant
vitamin C.
that three grams a day of Vitamin C • Choose a multiple vitamin in
supplements as indicated. If you persist
administered for two weeks before and two which the vitamin D source is D3, or with this program you should find that
weeks after damaging eccentric exercise cholecalciferol, the type that is best your health is improved and your kayaking
significantly reduced onset muscle soreness absorbed. performance is significantly improved after
and pain in their subjects. a few months.
Monique Ryan, in her excellent book
Sports Nutrition for Endurance Athletes, Vitamins and minerals also play a role in <
reducing the oxidative stress that is brought Roy Stevenson has a master’s degree in
summarizes: “For endurance athletes they
on by endurance training.” exercise physiology and coaching from
(supplements) are crucially important.
Immune system recovery Ohio University. He teaches exercise science
Because of your training and stress it
Only one nutritional substance has been at Seattle University in Washington State.
imposes on your body, you may need higher
shown to enhance the immune system in As a freelance writer, Roy has over 200
amounts of vitamins and minerals than
athletes. That is drinking a carbohydrate articles on sports conditioning, running,
sedentary people. And, as an athlete, you
solution during and after endurance triathlons, fitness and health published in
have a highly vested interest in keeping your
exercise. Drinking one litre per hour of over sixty regional, national and international
immune system healthy so that illness does
typical sports drinks has been shown to magazines in the U.S.A, Canada, England,
not put a halt to your training.”
lower blood cortisol and epinephrine levels, Scotland, Ireland, South Africa, Australia
She continues, “Vitamins and minerals
reduce adverse changes in blood immune and New Zealand. To view more of Roy
are essential for metabolizing energy,
cells and lower anti-inflammatories such as Stevenson’s articles go to
building body tissue, maintaining fluid
cytokine. www.roy-stevenson.com
balance and carrying oxygen in the body.

32 Wavelength Magazine Fall 2010


Fall 2010 Wavelength Magazine 33
Wildlife By Chuck Graham

This growing colony of northern elephant seals along the


central California coast began in November 1990 with
just a dozen animals. Today there are over 12,000. From
Vancouver Island down to Baja, California, there are 17
northern elephant seal rookeries.

Elephants of the sea


t Once considered extinct, northern elephant seals
he beach at Seal Point on San
Miguel Island was standing room
only. Make that wallowing room
only. Every inch of sand was covered by
are finding new life in Mexico and California
northern elephant seals. As I paddled by for the safe haven of the sea. However, attention to other marine mammals.
the crowded, craggy cove, I came upon a this only played into the hands of the However, fishermen found a small rookery
swirling submerged rock. Or so I thought. whalers, saving them the trouble of having of between 20 to 100 elephant seals
Suddenly, two bull elephant seals broke the to transport the heavy carcasses from the on faraway Guadalupe Island off Baja
surface on either side of my kayak, their big beach to their ships. Many helpless pups California.
bloodshot eyes rolling back in their heads, were trampled while the adults tried to The Mexican government was the first
their floppy snouts snorting saltwater before escape. to provide protection for the massive
submerging once again. By 1892, elephant seals were believed pinnipeds on the desolate islet. As the
Encounters with elephant seals were to be extinct, so seal hunters turned their colony grew at an estimated six to eight
nearly non-existent 200 years ago. From percent per year, elephant seals colonized
1818 to 1860, elephant seals were hunted new sites and expanded their rookeries
by whalers to the brink of extinction. Their northward into California. However, it
blubber was coveted for its high-quality oil, took until 1972 for the United States
which was used for lubricating machinery, government to pass the Marine Mammal
lamp oil and for paint, soap and waterproof Protection Act to protect seals from
clothing. One 4,000 pound bull elephant hunting and harassment. With the addition
seal could yield nearly 25 gallons of oil. of the Elephant Seal Closure Law, the seals
Entire rookeries were easily slaughtered are ensured protection. It also protects
because of the elephant seal’s awkwardness significant waters securing much-needed
on the beach. Whalers used boat hooks habitat for aquatic species. Its mission is to
to herd the pinnipeds to shore where they The size differential between the male and manage marine areas to protect current and
were beaten with heavy clubs. Stricken with female. Sometimes pups get crushed by future generations of all marine mammals.
fear, the elephant seals instinctively headed bulls looking to mate with females. u

34 Wavelength Magazine Fall 2010


elephant seals

an alpha male rearing back displaying


its dominance within its territory. Note
the raw, scarred neck from countless
battles with other bulls.

SuMMeR
Fall 2010 Wavelength Magazine 35
Wildlife

One example of this is the recently


established National Marine Sanctuary
surrounding the Channel Islands National
Park. It protects a six-mile radius of ocean
extending away from the archipelago,
limiting fishing and diving to a few select
species like sea urchins, and protecting
threatened species and the impact on
marine mammals.
Northern elephant seal populations
have made a dramatic recovery. Their
numbers are currently 120,000 and 150,000
and are on the increase. New breeding
sites like the one in San Simeon Bay in
central California are being established
(for an article on kayaking day trips in San
A wide-eyed northern elephant seal pup stays close to its mother. They wean their pups 32 Simeon Bay, see the Spring 2010 issue of
days after giving birth. Wavelength Magazine). Unfortunately, even

Kayak-Friendly
Accommodation
explore the BC coast by
day, enjoy luxury by night, at
these resorts that specialize
in catering to kayakers.

Paddle in and paddle out


Deluxe beachfront house by the wharf. Two-bedroom
luxury cottage, floor-to-ceiling windows, living
room with gas fireplace, full kitchen, two bathrooms
including jetted tub, wrap around deck, bbq.
Phone: 250-285-2042
Web: www.capemudgeresort.bc.ca
Email: info@capemudgeresort.bc.ca

E-Den Bed & Breakfast


Escape to Lasqueti’s new B&B, nearby to Jedediah Island
Marine Park. Features tandem kayak rentals, kitchenette
and bathroom, wood fired hot tub, yoga studio, solar
power, organic farm and orchard.
Phone: 250-240-8246
Web: www.e-den.ca
Email: kayak@e-den.ca

36 Wavelength Magazine Fall 2010


elephant seals

with stiffer laws, the seals are still subject central and northern California coastline, deeper. They’re able to do this by collapsing
to harassment. Humans still get too close, most of their life remains a mystery. Each 95 percent of their lungs while storing
putting stress on females raising their year they embark on one of nature’s longest their oxygen in their massive muscles. Their
hungry pups. migrations, a distance of about 12,000 lungs are designed to collapse progressively
Although these unique animals have miles. From the frigid Bering Sea off the as they sink to the bottom. Their heart rate
made an extraordinary comeback, the Alaskan coast to remote islands off Baja decreases from 120 beats per minute to six
population bottleneck that they experienced California, the northern elephant seal is beats per minute. Their kidneys, liver and
in the late 1800s and early 1900s is still the only mammal that completes a double digestive system virtually halt operation
a delicate issue. Since all of the current migration in a single year. The first one lasts during their deep descents.
population of northern elephant seals from 73 to 124 days, and the second one Once they reach their established
are descendants of the same 20 to 100 lasts 126 to 234 days. Eighty percent of rookeries they can rest, wallow and flip
individual animals, the lack of genetic their lives are spent at sea. sand on their broad backs, giving onlookers
diversity makes them extremely vulnerable During those arduous migrations, like myself a chance to marvel at one of the
to new diseases. How vulnerable isn’t elephant seals swim, dive and feed on greatest marathoners of the deep blue.
known; scientists are currently studying squid, fish and octopus, reaching depths of <
how a new disease would affect the largest 5,000 feet. The longest recorded dive is 119 A guide at the Channel Islands National Park,
of the pinnipeds. minutes, and the average dive duration is 20 Chuck Graham is also a freelance writer and
As visible as they are today along the minutes. Males dive longer but females go photographer in Carpinteria, CA.

On the road to a B&B Marine Trail


Wavelength Magazine is dedicated to promoting accommodation services with “kayak friendly” capabilities. Our eventual hope is a “B&B
Marine Trail” where entire regions can be paddled using fixed roof accommodation. If you know of accommodation that would be ideal for
inclusion on such a trail, or is simply “kayak friendly,” please email us at kayak@wavelengthmagazine.com

Fall 2010 Wavelength Magazine 37


Skillset By alex Matthews

Rochelle Relyea photo


The mathematics
of
W
hen kayakers talk about
“conditions,” our primary
concern is usually wind. Because
more often than not, it is wind that will Chart A
dictate when and where we can paddle and
when we must stay ashore. And sometimes Wind Headwind Tailwind
the most pertinent question is not “can we Speed Resistance Assistance
paddle in this wind?” but rather “how long
0 knots 0 knots 0 knots
can we paddle before exhaustion sets in?”
Wind has a profound effect on kayaks. 5 knots -0.5 knots 0 knots
Obviously, a tailwind is going to help push 10 knots -1 knots +1 knots
a kayak on its way, while a headwind is
15 knots -1.5 knots +1.5 knots
going to slow it down. Chart A to the right
offers rough estimates of the effects that 20 knots -2 knots +2 knots
wind will have on the forward progress of 25 knots -3 knots +2.5 knots
a sea kayak.
Just as we’ve always suspected, a slowing down a mere ½ knot to “conserve paddle aggressively for three, put up a tent,
headwind slows us down more that a energy” will slow us down quite a bit. With have a meal, and maybe even take a little
tailwind pushes us forward. Some things 15 knots of headwind, if we slow down nap before the first paddler even arrives.
just aren’t fair! But bear in mind that a from three knots to 2.5 knots, our actual You decide – plug in different numbers
tailwind will generally also generate waves speed across the water (or “speed made to the table and see what kind of times
that will allow an experienced paddler to good”) will be approximately one nautical will be generated by putting in different
pick up surf rides, speeding him or her mile per hour. That means that to cover six distances, winds and cruising speeds. You’ll
faster on their way than the push from the miles, it will take six hours. Conversely, if find that when the wind blows in your face,
wind alone could generate. we paddle at 3.5 knots, speeding up a half it is almost always better to respond by
Different paddlers counsel different knot from three, we’ll achieve a speed made paddling aggressively, rather than slowing
strategies for dealing with a headwind. One good closer to two knots. This will put us down. The same is true for currents, or
old chestnut is to slow down and “conserve in camp in three hours, or exactly half the any other conditions that may slow your
energy” for what will be a long arduous time it took paddling at 2.5 knots. progress.
slog. Let’s do a little math and see what So the question posed is: who has Clearly, you don’t want to exhaust
numbers we get. conserved more energy? One paddler will yourself, but an increase, or decrease in
If you look at Chart B, you can see poke along for six hours. The other will speed of a mere half knot will make a very

38 Wavelength Magazine Fall 2010


the mathematics of wind
Chart B
Speed Made Time Speed Made Time Speed Made Time
Headwind Good Paddling Good Paddling Good Paddling
Speed Based on To cover 6 Based on To cover 6 Based on To cover 6
2.5 knot nautical miles 3 knot paddling nautical miles 3.5 knot nautical miles
paddling speed speed paddling speed
0 knots 2.5-0= 2.4 hrs 3-0= 2 hrs 3.5-0= 1.72 hrs
2.5 knots 3 knots 3.5 knots
5 knots 2.5-0.5= 3 hrs 3-0.5= 2.4 hrs 3.5-0.5= 2 hrs
2 knots 2.5 knots 3 knots
10 knots 2.5-1= 4 hrs 3-1= 3 hrs 3.5-1= 2 hrs
1.5 knots 2 knots 2.5 knots
15 knots 2.5-1.5= 6 hrs 3-1.5= 4 hrs 3.5-1.5= 3 hrs
1 knots 1.5 knots 2 knots
20 knots 2.5-2= 12 hrs 3-2= 6 hrs 3.5-2= 4 hrs
0.5 knots 1 knots 1.5 knots

big difference to the overall time you spend speed. We almost always guess that the wind idea of true wind speeds and their effects
on the water. So sometimes you’ll want to speed is far higher than what it actually on the water. I’ve recently acquired a hand-
work harder in order to save energy in the is. Get into the habit of looking up wind held anemometer and the ability to record
long term. Other times, a little math may speed after a day on the water. The internet wind speeds in my exact location, and in
quickly convince you that avoiding strong is great for this. It’s often easy to consult real time, has greatly improved my accuracy
headwinds altogether (in favour of staying several automated lighthouse reports, so in gauging the power of the wind.
ashore or modifying your planned route) is you can get a good “real world” idea of <
by far your best option. what wind speed you actually encountered. Adapted from “Sea Kayaking Rough Waters”
Finally, in my experience, kayakers are By doing this post-paddling research on a by Alex Matthews available at
very inaccurate when estimating wind regular basis, you’ll start to have a far better www.helipress.com.

Fall 2010 Wavelength Magazine 39


Paddle Meals
by Hilary Masson

the Silva Bay Solstice Paddle and Pot


luck is proof once again that food
tastes better outdoors.

Summer Solstice
Pot Luck
o n gabriola island the
maritime culture is multigenerational and
large crowds are drawn to events like the
potluck recipes for such occasions: a
grilled eggplant parmesan appetizer and a
vegetarian stuffed portobello mushroom
Marinade
2 cloves of garlic crushed
Silva Bay Solstice Paddle and Potluck. It is dish. Both of these two dishes work well ¼ cup olive oil
so nice, as a young person myself, to live together because the same marinade can 4 tablespoons of balsamic vinegar
in a community where kayakers of all ages be used on both the eggplant and the 1 teaspoon tamari or soy sauce
and skill levels get together to celebrate portobello, and they can be grilled together Ground black pepper
summer and be on the water together for over a fire, in an outback or Dutch oven or Spice to taste with chili powder
sunset. Sharing food on the beach is one even barbequed. grilled Eggplant Parmesan
of my favorite parts of being an expedition 1 medium eggplant sliced
kayak guide for the past eight years. It is grilled Eggplant Parmesan 2 medium tomatoes sliced
well known that food always tastes better I look for the smaller in diameter ¼ cup of fresh basil leaves
outside, but it tastes even better when eggplants to make bite-sized rounds for this 1 cup mozzarella cheese
you’ve paddled with a group to an amazing appetizer. Wash the eggplant and slice in
location in nature! 1cm-thick slices. Let them soak in marinade eat as finger food for a great appetizer over
The solstice paddle, an average Monday for at least 15 minutes before grilling. a small fire, or on a hibachi barbeque. Try
night on Gabriola, had a phenomenal While the eggplant rounds are grilling, these also in a sandwich with your favorite
turnout with about 35 people kayaking slice tomatoes in thin rounds, and grate one bread.
and three motorboats full of other friends cup of mozzarella cheese. Bring fresh basil
who joined in the festivities. We paddled in a plastic bag with the stem wrapped in vegetarian Stuffed Portobello
about 45 minutes outside of Silva Bay to a moist paper towel so that the basil lasts Mushrooms
a crescent shaped bay with sunset views, during the transport by kayak. Each of the portobello mushrooms
unloaded the picnic blankets, small cooler When the eggplant is cooked and tender needs to be cleaned and prepared by
bags and mesh market bags full of tasty all the way through, place the tomatoes and removing the stem and all the gills. Then
treats. There was an eclectic array of cheese stacked on top, sprinkle with chili marinate the mushroom caps for at least 15
food, just like the mixed age range of the powder for garnish, and continue grilling minutes before placing them on a grill clean
community! until the cheese melts. Remove from heat side facing down. The stuffing can be made
Here are some of my favorite vegetarian and place a basil leaf on top. Let cool, then in a frying pan separately, starting with the

40 Wavelength Magazine Fall 2010


Paddle Meals

grilled eggplant parmesan; below:


vegetarian Stuffed Portobello vegetarian stuffed portobello
Mushrooms mushrooms.
4 large Portobello Mushrooms
Marinade (see previous recipe)
1 teaspoon olive oil
2 cloves of garlic crushed
½ onion diced
1 small zucchini diced
¼ cup of fresh parsley chopped
1 cup panko bread crumbs
1 cup of grated mozzarella cheese
Salt and pepper to taste

olive oil, garlic and onion. Once golden add


diced zucchini. When this is tender, add
parsley, and panko bread crumbs (which is
a course Japanese bread crumb great for
frying oysters and fish. It is also good to
carry in your kayak for spontaneous seafood
moments). Then stir in the cheese. Flip over
the portobello mushroom and stuff with
the vegetarian mix. Grill until the cheese long paddle.
is melted in the stuffing, remove from <
heat, and enjoy. I normally like to cut the vegetarian main dish with a knife, fork and Hilary Masson is part-owner and guide at
mushrooms in half or quarters to share as a plate. Try adding canned crabmeat to the Baja Kayak Adventure Tours and Silva Bay
an appetizer, or this can be eaten as a fancy stuffing if you’re looking for protein after a Kayak Adventures.

Fall 2010 Wavelength Magazine 41


Fishing angles by Dan armitage

Fall’s fishing frenzy


r
ivers come into their own after the dog days of summer,
making autumn a great time to wet a line on your next Fall Concerns
paddle trip. With cooler air temperatures come more The same factors that make kayak fishing fun in the fall also
comfortable conditions under the water – for fish anyway – and make it a bit riskier. Water temperatures can be shockingly
many gamefish species in both lakes and rivers that were lethargic cold even when air temps feel comfortable, so use a PFD and
through the hot summer months sort of “wake up” and put on the take extra care to make sure you don’t end up in the water
feedbag in anticipation of winter. accidentally. Also, keep in mind the wonderful solitude you’ll
In addition, some migrating salmonid species that frequented find this time of year translates into fewer fellow boaters
lakes, reservoirs and even the ocean will make an autumn assault up around to lend a hand if you need assistance. Fish and paddle
feeder streams to spawn; other river species that spend the summer conservatively and be prepared to get yourself out of – or off
months in moving water make the swim downstream to hole up in of – any jam you might confront!
the deep, still waters of lakes and bays for the colder winter months.
Both actions make rivers the place to be fishing come fall. onto a small jig or a plain hook and fished under a bobber. The
Perhaps the most popular target of autumn river anglers across same is true of salmon eggs, either out of a jar or from a fresh-
their range these days is the steelhead, a rainbow trout that is caught female, placed in mesh bags and hung from a hook. By using
hatched on stream-fed gravel bars and swims downstream to spend split shot and experimenting, find just the right amount of line
a season or two in lakes or the ocean under the float to allow the bag to tick along the bottom
fed by the tributary. Once in the open Steelhead through chutes and below riffles. If done right this simple
water, the steelhead feeds on forage from rig is downright deadly. Because the baits are fragile and at
species and grows quickly to sizes Conneaut times it can be important to keep the line between the rod
larger than their inland, stream-locked Creek, tip and the bobber off the water for a natural, drag-free
ohio
brethren. After a few seasons in open drift, these baits are often tossed with long, limber spinning
water, when the steelhead mature, rods that may measure up to 14 feet. However, just about
they return to their home stream as any tackle you can cast can catch these lake-run rainbows
the spawning urge arrives. There are once they enter the rivers each autumn. You can also toss
“fall run” and “spring run” steelhead, spinners and flies at steelhead, either blind fishing or tossing
so named for when they make their annual migratory move out the lures above fish you can see tailing in the current.
of the lakes and into the tributary streams in preparation for the Because you can often find them far up streams where the water
spawning ritual. There is even some movement up streams this time is small for fish that may weigh a dozen pounds or more, I like to
of year by spring run steelhead that hope to feed on the eggs of beach the kayak and wade for steelhead. I don waders to sneak
another popular river fish, the Chinook salmon, which spawn in the up to pools and runs that hold fish. I may use spinning gear or fly
autumn. tackle, but no matter what I have in hand when I hook the trout
Once you find water containing steelhead, you can tempt these I know I’m in for a show. The fish will often charge up riffles so
famous fighters in a variety of ways with a variety of baits. Speaking shallow that the steelhead’s back is out of the water and the frantic
of bait, one of the best is maggots or other larval baits bunched thrashing leaves a rooster tail in its wake, and some jump clear of
the water to try to shake the hook free.
In addition to steelhead, many popular gamefish get – and
remain – active in rivers between now and the Christmas holidays.
As water temperatures cool the fish will congregate in the deeper
pools; that’s where the prey fish are likely to be found, followed by
the predators that anglers are after. Riffle areas continue to offer
the oxygen and aquatic life that baitfish and predators require, and
are among the last areas to freeze, so be sure to angle in the pools
below whitewater this time of year.
<
Dan Armitage is a boating, fishing and travel writer based in
the Midwest. He is a licensed (USCG Master) captain, hosts a
syndicated radio show, and presents kayak fishing seminars at
boat shows.

42 Wavelength Magazine Fall 2010


Wavelength’s guide to a better world:
1. Cycle to work. Or better
yet, kayak to work. 2. Run like a three-year-old.

3. Always have an
adventure on the
horizon.

4. Never change plans because


of rain. Just pack proper 5. Laugh and love as
clothing and a love of nature, you paddle: wherever
then enjoy. you can, whenever you
can.

We’re here to inspire!


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Fall 2010 Wavelength Magazine 43


new gear

Current Designs
If you’re like us, and painfully
aware that a good kayak can move
down the ranks as an option if the
seat isn’t comfortable enough, you’ll Kayak Kaboose
be happy to hear what’s in store from Here’s something for the kayaker who
Current Designs. New for 2011 is the has everything, and wants to take it along.
“Revolution Seating System, ” an axis You can either A) buy a bigger kayak with
rotating seat that may be the best thing more storage space or B) attach a Kayak
since bucket seats for cars. It is quickly the bottom and sides. The Revolution Kaboose to the back end.
adjustable with a lever-lock system so Seating System will be available in all CD’s This aquatic cargo carrier weighs in at
you can customize the seat position recreational and transitional models for 15 pounds and boasts a 138-litre carrying
to your personal preference, while the 2011. www.cdkayaks.com/ capacity in a tidy six-foot long waterproof
Dimension Adjustable Seat Back is container that looks a bit like a cross
fully articulated for height and angle.
Contoured plush foam padding cover Aerobed between a baby kayak, a pontoon and a
miniature submarine. An articulated hitch
If you’re a fan of nifty dual function allows unhindered rolls of either the kayak
products, this new Pakmat is worth a or the Kaboose for safety, and the Kaboose
look. The carrying case doubles as the can be detached mid-trip to retrieve items.
pump! When It’s clearly a niche product that will
done, deflate appeal mostly to lake trippers and
and stuff recreational paddlers, or maybe the
back inside occasional expedition kayaker. But be
the pump/ warned: you’ll have to drill into your kayak
case. The setup if you want to tow the Kaboose, so no
time is about lending it out for casual use.
60 seconds, a www.kayakkaboose.com/
claim verified You can win your own Kaboose in
in our test. Wavelength’s Clean Up the Coast contest at
Made of phthalate-free polyester wavelengthmagazine.com/clean/
material. www.aerobed.com

44 Wavelength Magazine Fall 2010


new gear

Delta Kayaks pod under the front deck. An added attraction is the “Sea View”
New from Delta Kayaks this year is the Delta 10, a new window nestled between the two extruding hull segments in the
recreational kayak with some extras that will appeal to the Delta 10’s catamaran hull configuration. www.deltakayaks.com/
discerning short and stubby kayak fans out there. At 37 pounds, it
features a large rear storage compartment and a front dry storage

Peregrine Kayaks
Every so often it’s like Christmas around the Wavelength office
as we unravel a test product. And Santa might have been extra good
to us early had not this sample from Peregrine Kayaks ultimately
been destined for a Wavelength reader instead of our gear closet.
The source for our interest: the Peregrine C2 paddle. Entirely of
carbon construction, its continuous carbon weave is designed for an
optimum strength-to-weight ratio. Built in a medium-sized touring-
style blade, a nice touch is the shaft adjusts from 215-225cm in
length thanks to a sliding connector. Just choose the length, choose
your feather, lock and you’re on your way.
You can win this finely crafted paddled from Wavelength in our
Clean Up the Coast contest at www.wavelengthmagazine.com/

Embed us!
looking for ways to build
traffic to your kayaking
website? Embed the
current issue Wavelength
magazine. See our embedding
add fresh web content. instructions and options online
Give visitors reason at wavelengthmagazine.com/
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Earn a free online directory listing in return for embedding us!

Fall 2010 Wavelength Magazine 45


Books and videos

berries and kelp, you may want to try some and humor that helps make this a charming
traditional recipes. The Nuu-chah-nulth adventure. Available for sale online as well as
navigation: Tribal Council has put together a selection for view at film fests across North America.
Sea State and of traditional food recipes in camus, with
Weather proceeds benefiting Uu-a-thluk, a First
Freedom of the Seas Nations organization for sustainable
Vol. 1 Sea Kayaking
management and development of ocean
www.skils.ca From
resources. Interesting and possibly yummy.
Mountains to
Ocean
Dan Baharav
Murrelet Publishing
this is
A few select how-to manuals have Canoeing
helped shape modern sea kayaking, and it is 12 Adventure Films by
Justine Curgenven
hard to ignore the contributions of the likes
www.cackletv.com Everyone who kayaks enough will no
of John Dowd, David Burch and Doug
doubt eventually have enough content
Alderson, to name a few. But assuming the
for a decent book; add the discriminating
need to update, repackage and reformulate
eye of an ecologist and a whole new
our collective expertise in sea kayak skills,
perspective opens up. Such is the case with
the experts at Skils have perhaps nailed
Dan Baharav’s narrative of trips through
the formula in terms of presentation and Fans of This is the Sea and its three
the North Cascades, San Juan Islands
scope. followup titles will find the celebration
and the Olympic coast. Dan combines
The first volume in their new how- continues with a focus on canoeing
his experiences kayaking with nuggets
to series tackles Navigation: Sea State and some of the sport’s most talented
about the various coastal watersheds,
and Weather with a level of technical paddlers, whether it’s wilderness touring
adding another layer of interpretation
information sure to appeal to both or challenging whitewater. The two-disc
for those traveling the waters of the
beginners and veterans. Clouds, currents, DVD has about three hours of video in 12
Pacific Northwest. The blend of trips
clapoitis – very little is missing from this films. Follow a 1,000-mile birchbark canoe
and ecological/hydrological insight makes
soon-to-be sea kayaking bible. The Skils journey, northern wilderness expeditions,
it quite different from a guidebook, but
team of Michael Pardy, JF Marleau, Andrew a voyageur adventure and awe-inspiring
possibly just as useful. You can find not
Woodford and Piper Harris have combined whitewater.
only great destinations, but probably
their collective experience and knowledge Filmed by Justine Curgeven it features
information you didn’t know, even if you
base in a presentation augmented with a Karen Knight, Kevin Callan, Becky
are a regular paddler of these areas.
myriad of illustrations and photographs. Mason, Mark Scriver, Paul Mason, Andrew
Westwood, Bob Foote, Ray Goodwin, Employment
^Hailey Thompson, John Kaz, Wendy
Grater. Winter Guiding in Belize ‘10/’11
camus: Island Expeditions is looking for professional guides
(chum-us) to work winters in Belize. Sea kayak, river experience,
adj. marine biology or strong naturalist background.
Very satisfying, when Paddle to Minimum two seasons multi-day guiding experience.
Seattle Email resume: tim@islandexpeditions.com or call
you’ve been well fed 604-452-3212.
www.nuuchahnulth.org Josh Thomas
and J.J. Kelley Assistant Retail Manager
paddletoseattle.com A North Vancouver based kayak and cross country ski
retail store is recruiting for the position of Assistant
Retail Manager.
The successful candidate must have retail sales
experience in Ocean Kayaking, Cross-Country
Already a favorite of viewers at paddle Skiing and snowshoeing. Extensive knowledge of
Point of Sales systems, inventory control, product
If you’ve kayaked the west coast of film fests where it has picked up a myriad merchandising and customer service through superior
Vancouver Island, chances are you’ve of awards, Paddle to Seattle follows friends product knowledge. Must have reliable transportation
wittingly or otherwise paddled Nuu-chah- Josh Thomas and J.J. Kelley as they build and be flexible and able to work weekends. Diploma
from an Outdoor Recreation Management Program
nulth territory. So if you’re tempted to their own Pygmy kayaks and paddle them
required. Wage Range is $16 - $20/hr based on
try some local food, which could range for 97 days from Alaska to Seattle 1,300 experience and qualifications.
from the more common salmon to salal miles through the Inside Passage. It is the wit Please respond by fax to 604 987 2255

46 Wavelength Magazine Fall 2010


Fall 2010 Wavelength Magazine 47
48 Wavelength Magazine Fall 2010

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