RE: [Paddlewise] I knew better, but look what happened !

If I didn't regularly go out alone, I wouldn't get very much paddling in.  I paddle as a regular fitness routine, usually 3 or 4 times a week, and the great majority of the time I'm alone.  I do feel I'm safe, however, having practiced rolling and especially self-rescue in rough conditions.  Part of my enjoyment of kayaking is to go out in challenging conditions.  By doing so when the conditions present themselves, I have improved my skills and my comfort level.  I paddle in Skagit Bay, which is a relatively small body of water with some islands.  The Bay in places is as little as 1.5 miles across, but has a long fetch in a North/South direction (perhaps 20 miles).  In very windy conditions, I can rest in the lee of an Island, then go out into more exposed areas where there may be longer fetches, accelerated winds, or tide rips.  I feel I can control the risk and still do some very challenging (and fun) kayaking by myself.  

-----Original Message-----
From:	WILAX_at_aol.com [SMTP:WILAX_at_aol.com]
Sent:	Tuesday, July 07, 1998 10:48 AM
To:	phollerb_at_mail.burlco.lib.nj.us; paddlewise_at_lists.intelenet.net
Subject:	Re: [Paddlewise] I knew better, but look what happened !

Great trip report!
So now folks, lets take a poll... How many of you go out alone?  I know I do.
I am ultra careful to do the "right thing" and have the "right stuff" but
everyone thinks I'm a nut.  I don't think so, well, yeah a nut but not a nut
with a death wish.  Can paddling alone safely ever be regarded as safe?  OR,
if a great white gets me will people always say "too bad, he had a knife, pfd,
float plan, flares, vhf, kitchen sink etc. but he broke the rule, he went out
alone".
Comments?
  
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