Re: [Paddlewise] Launching in dumping surf

----- Original Message -----
From: "Bob Volin" <bobvolin_at_optonline.net>
> ------Returning to a previous point: it should be relatively easy to
"punch
> through" 4-foot surf if you have a strong forward stroke, a good brace,
and
> some flexibility at the waist.  In essence, get some forward speed as you
> and the wave approach one another. As you meet the wave, duck forward and
> tuck the paddle to one side next to the deck, in line with the boat (so
that
> the wave doesn't catch it). Be ready to brace and paddle like heck when
you
> come out the other side.  And please wear a helmet.

Niels,

Bob's advice is right on. You should also remember that surf launching
involves more finesse than strength. First look for a rip--that's the water
heading back out to sea. It will usually cut a deeper channel making the
waves a little smaller--but more importantly, the rip will increase your
speed out through the surf.

Also, watch the waves for a pattern before you launch and try to launch
right after the largest waves in the set have finished. Careful,--- they
usually travel in pairs or three's. Then don't be afraid to stop your
forward motion in the soup in order to prevent a wave from breaking on top
of you---then paddle like hell, using Bob's techniques of punching through
any other waves and you should be ok. Make sure you have practiced your
braces so they are reflexive. I have had breaking waves slap me so hard in
the chest that all forward motion is stopped. At that time, you will need to
brace to prevent a capsize while being surfed backwards.

But please don't try to swim the kayak out.Any kind of a tow line is a
disaster waiting to happen.

Steve Holtzman
Southern, CA.


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