[Paddlewise] Self Rescue Practice in Kleppers

Thanks for the responses Elaine & Ralph,

Re stowing the paddle - I should think it would be OK stowed at the rear.
The two obstructions that we found awkward were i) the paddle float bag
which is quite a large foam block and ii) a fishing net. I also had a tow
bag stashed there which didn't get in the way, so if its fairly smooth and
fairly low profile it doesnt seem to matter . May be best to try first in
calm water with a friend and see how it go's.

Re tether issues. Actually I should have said that I always tether my paddle
to the kayak with the intention of holding on when capsized. Its so
instinctive that I forgot to mention it. I don't normally tether myself to
the boat, the personal tether is something I've been thinking about since
starting to kayak - I know its controversial but I intend to use it when
faced with unexpected and extreme conditions away from surf. i.e the sort of
situation Lone Madsen found herself in. I note several very well known long
distance paddlers use them.

Re towing. The dive belt was worn by the tower and attached to the bow of
the towee. I think the bungee shock absorber between two figure 8 knot loops
in the tether was a very good technique, we felt no untoward jolts it felt
just like paddling a more heavily loaded kayak.

Elaine, re the rudder. I should ask Peter Rattenbury what he thinks but it
wasn't a huge nuisance and didn't prevent us towing - just a bit of a
nuisance - I don't think I'ld worry too much about it. Ralph, would the
flagpole support get in the way of the cowboy self rescue? I note you said
it was on a flexible base. Also thanks for all the information about spray
decks.

Re length of the tow line - I'll check on this at home and with Peter
Rattenbury but am going on another training session this arvo so won't get
back until Monday.

All the best, PeterO
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