[Paddlewise] Solo paddling and Rough water practice group

"So, I am wondering:  how often do others paddle solo, and why?

Here's my profile:

30 % solo

nobody suitable to go with"


I like paddling solo and also with others.  Sometimes I want to paddle
in rough seas by myself. I am happy paddling alone, but more cautious.
On other days I want to paddle in a flat calm in the middle of a city
with a large number of chatterboxes.  I  often paddle with others on
organized club outings.  I paddle alone 80% to 90% of the time because I
go on the spur of the moment and because when I sometimes do ask others
to go along they often say no.  The only time I am disapointed because I
cannot find a companion is when I want to got out and practice rolls,
rescues, towing and fancy paddling in very rough conditions.  I yearn
for more practice of this sort, but have not found people I can count on
to go out frequently, at short notice, when the right weather comes to
town.  I have participated in organised club practice sessions durring
the winter, but the weather is never bad enough on the scheduled day.

Are there any paddlers in the Seattle area who want to try regular rough
water practice with me?  I have a strong roll, but need to practice it
in rough water.  I would like to practice multi-boat rescues, paddling
skills, towing, etc. with others who are gung-ho without being idiots.
I often practice at Shilshole because it is a sandy beach which is often
a lee shore, and it is near home, but I am willing to travel elsewhere
in the area.  I might be willing to teach a less experienced (but
ambitious) paddler what I have learned so far.  I am self employed, so I
have a flexible schedule.   It would be great to develop a group of
people who train and travel together regularly.  I would settle for a
few practice sessions now and then though.

Nick Lyle

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