[Paddlewise] Tangled Up In Blue

Regarding experiences with tether lines:

1. Paddle Tethers
I've been playing around with these things for years. During winter storm
paddling, the loss of my main paddle would be tantamount to disaster when
solo in the rougher stuff. Yes, I do carry a spare set of paddles on the
rear deck, but does anyone really think even one half could be retrieved
off the rear deck 100% of the time, while upside down?

I did dump one time in high winds/seas; yes, it is true that I was out
there on purpose, but it is entirely possible that someone could be caught
in rough stuff accidently. I rolled so many times in the frigid waters
without success, that by the time I wet exited and surfaced and regained
composure, my paddle had separated from my kayak, with me half way between
each item. I stupidly went for the paddle, and lost my boat and means of
immediate return to land. It was a long, cold swim. I've used tether ever
since.

The 3 foot bungy line that Matt Broze describes on his web sight works
well, and does double duty as a paddle float rescue tether. Of the systems
I've experimented with, this has been my favorite. However, a couple of
years ago, North Water came out with a coiled model leash, so I had to buy
the new toy. Other versions are available from different companies, I
believe. It works well, and my slim deck bag helps absorb the clack-clack
on deck. What I don't like about the leash is that during hard maneuvers in
tide rips, eddies, etc,  the velcro does not have enough circumferential
bind, and the leash refuses to stay in the middle of the shaft, as it
slingshots back and forth, hitting each hand alternatively. The guys I
rough water paddle with all use wrist tethers. They also carry them, ready
to use, on the open coast, if the wind picks up, etc. 

During the Storm Island rescue in April, we had a number of occasions where
we rafted up in extremely exhausted, dehydrated states. After rehydrating
about the third time, we separated, attempting to get the bows back into
the wind. Was I ever surprised to see my paddle floating away, having come
undone due to the jostling of boats. I was able to grab the paddle and do a
half put across roll. I never mentioned this is my narrative I gave Matt
for the upcoming Sea Kayaker Magazine article, as I figured it was not too
important, and that the leash failure was a remote happening. But, as I
talk to others, I'm finding out that velcro suffers many problems when used
in a water environment under pressure. Sorry to keep bringing up this Storm
Island stuff, but it did test some of our gear to the max. Anyway, I heard
via the grape vine that Nigel Foster may be doing an article on tethers,
which should prove interesting.

2. Personal Tethers
Audrey Sutherlands decision to use a boat to person tether simply
highlights the highly inherent risks associated with solo paddling. There
are a number of long crossings on the Alaskan routes, where winds can come
up well before finishing the crossing. I also use a tether line for all
long crossings. I also use it for all high wind paddling. Though I never
use one while playing in surf or rock gardens, playing in moving water is
still a dilemma, especially where tidal effects are mixed with high wind
hazards.

My article in Sea Kayaker described how I was entangled in my personal
tether line, preventing me from swimming to my back-eddy refuge. I wished I
had not put the line on that day, yet, if I had lost the kayak, it could
have been a different outcome. Unlike my previous incident, this was not a
lee shore beach situation. What's the answer? Don't paddle challenging
conditions alone? What if you are separated from your friend or buddies?
I'll continue to keep mine. 

I did get rid of my old tether line after the Trial Island thing. I now
simply use my short river equipment rescue tow line, which has a bit of
slack in it. I clip it to my deck, and can undo the harness if needed with
the front buckle release. The short tow line is made from bright yellow web
strap, which I feel is far superior to rope (my previous tether line). I
also try to avoid wind/tide combinations if too rough, these days.

As an aside, I was speaking to the president of a large kayaking
association the other day, seeking his permission about an upcoming article
on clubs for Wavelegth Magazine. He mentioned he had been "following" my
writings, and said that the Trial Island story had caused him to think,
"Doug sure can spin a good yarn". You know, I really did not want to see
that story published, because it was so unbelievable -- so many things went
wrong, *I* almost think it was made up reading it from a disassociative
perspective. I did call Matt Broze about the incident. He felt it should be
retold, as there were some good lessons to be learned, even if it wasn't
normal touring kayaking. 

Well, you all have better things to do than listen to my dribble...so, kept
your dogs leashed, but as far as paddles and kayaks, that's a totally
individual choice with no right or wrong.

BC'in Ya
Doug Lloyd   
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