Re: [Paddlewise] Deck/Underdeck storage?

----- Original Message -----
From: "Tom LeTourneau" <tletourn_at_maine.rr.com>
To: "PaddleWise" <PaddleWise_at_paddlewise.net>

> So far I can't seem to find anything that I like. I used to think I wanted
> something "waterproof." But my feeling now is, if it is "water resistant"
> to rain and deck spray, then it would be sufficient.  For quick access I
> don't think I'd want to store anything too valuable. For those items a dry
> bag or waterproof case is the solution.
>
> Please let me know your experiences with deck bags. If anyone has
> particular experience with "underdeck" bags (like Current Designs Pica Boo
> Bag), I'd value your opinion. What works best that is high quality,
> attractive, and easy to use?

Coming from a background of folding kayaks, there have always been good
underdeck bags available.  Kleppers came with a small one that you placed
alongside you in the cockpit on a special primitive fitting.  So folding
kayakers are attuned to using them.  Baidarka Boats in Alaska used to offer
great ones for the same location but I believe no longer do.  The bags were
not waterproof, just water resistant and worked well.  What such bags
have/had in common were straps to attach them slung between crossribs
alongside you.

Later with Feathercrafts, I have used underdeck bags in a different
location, out under the front deck.  This is possible using the top frame
bar just under the peak decked.  You strap one end webbing strap to the bar.
The strap acts like a shower curtain ring allowing you to push the bag
forward and bring it into your lap when you need to grab something.  It
otherwise rests between your legs (make certain to test that this will not
entrap you in a capsize).  Of late, I have switched to something similar but
smaller.  I use the sidepockets available in the aftermarket to attach to
the sides of backpacks.  Mine is from Gregory.  I pre attach it to the top
deck bar when assembling the Feathercraft K-Light or Kahuna.  It forms a
small glove compartment capable of hold lunch, energy bars, binoculars,
sunglasses, etc.  I believe the volumen is in the 250 cu in range.  One can
also use a fanny pack.

With a hardshell you could glass in some rings and attach such a side pocket
to these.  This way you can take the whole underdeck bag with you as a fanny
pack.  Multiple usages is nice to have.

ralph diaz
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