Re: [Paddlewise] Clapotis

Peter,
Thanks for your always great summary statements that amalgamate the
various rejoiners after you have posted a question. The short clapotis
thread highlighted most of the major considerations. May I add a few
extra thoughts? (I should get on with some SK Mag. articles on the go,
so I can buy a new drysuit, but this subject is close to my heart).

Clapotis conditions, while subject to many consistent characteristics,
still needs to be viewed on a case-by-case basis. To the outside
observer (one who has avoided said conditions) it may appear that the
various replies suggested different approaches and therefore, different
advice -- all from paddlers claiming experience in this field. It is
important to remember that each individual's understanding and strategy
of dealing with clapotis varies to some degree. Also, the individual
topography, shoreline shallows, superimposed swell, tidal currents, and
variable angularity of wave direction, etc., all create different
circumstances within the area of concern being transited.

Kevin said:
<snip>
Next time you are in clapotis, stop paddling, and close your eyes. Keep
your
paddle ready for a brace if needed.  Try to feel it out, and be stable.
<snip>

Kevin's observation has some merit. Just make sure you do this in
controlled conditions at first. I prefer to use this "eyes shut"
approach to eddyline crossings at first, then move on to more
challenging initiations into different hazards. And don't feel obligated
to actually go out and try this. Sensory deprivation is a great skill
builder for sure, but if you want the "Force to be with you" young Luke,
especially in more erratic conditions, visual clues ultimately negate
timing errors and the resultant "air brace". However, some good advice
as usual from "Yodo", nevertheless.

Jedi Master Kevin also said:
Clapotis really isn't as scary as it looks.  When I first paddled in
huge clapotis off the 520 bridge on Lake Washington, I was disappointed
at how "boring" it was.  The motion is clapotis is entirely
"up-and-down" with no sideways component.
<snip>

True enough usually. But clapotis caused by reflected waves striking a
breakwater or other more natural obstruction at an angle do often
reflect back and superimpose on the original pattern of wave direction.
And while the trough can be balanced level by the crest of another, when
the crests do coincide together the wave can be considerably higher and
the bow or stern can slide off course a fair bit. Wind waves on top of
swell doing this can really make it interesting.

Waves striking dead perpendicular to an object, as you know, reflect
back out and can cause very high verticality
where the breaking wave can seemingly launch you upwards leaving you
with nothing to brace on. This is where you need to let the kayak do its
thing while you maintain a ready port or starboard brace -- or as often
the case with me, just put your paddle far above your hear, horizontally
on plane, and wait for your inner cues to suggest the next move.
Clapotis can also form by waves refracting around a small island or
drying reef/rocks. Add some non-beach type breaking surf (boomers, etc.)
into the equation and you had better have a reliable roll. Kevin is
correct however, in that the more regular haystacking conditions
encountered by most paddlers look far worse than it really is.

I've also been off Cape Beale (entrance to Barkley Sound) with an
outgoing current and a 4-5 meter swell reflecting off the headland with
added afternoon wind waves. Trying to stay relaxed and reflecitive was
as much a mental challenge as a physical one. Throw in heaps of thick
kelp forrests, and you have some ultimately challenging conditions. Even
in that stuff, Robert Livingstons advice still holds true: <snip> "I
think that the key is to relax and NOT overcorrect." I tend to always
overcorrect. Then again, I like to be in control always, holding the
course that _I set_, often in order to navigate other hazards nearby. In
more open expanses, maybe I'll try to take a bit of advice from others
on the list. I'm also always willing to learn and readjust my
thinking/techniques from others.

Doug Lloyd (okay, back to weightlifting and more serious writing)



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