[Paddlewise] Who Got me Started Canoe/Kayaks

From: Windwalker <windwalker_at_fastmail.fm>
Date: Wed, 23 Apr 2003 10:50:57 +0100
Years ago.. {almost 60+} I got started in Canoes.. given advise
by a olf friend. He was Calvin Rutstrum. He was a true woodsman
and Canoe person. I learned alot those years so long ago.
Trumplines, Duluth packs. Canoes and Outdoors was a lifestyle then.
Phil Cotton Sr got me started in Folbots and Kleppers. Which was more 
seaworthy for Coastal work. All in all I like them for longer trips.
Later when Lee Moyer formed Pacific Water Sports he had me convinced
to try the narrow boats. I did so and loved them for general work.
My first "regular boat was a Sea Otter by PWS.
But still, I loved the Wider Boats for their payload carrying.
I still prefer wood/canvas canoes for the workhorse boats. But love the
Kayaks. Or general "Touring Boats" I should say.
Having made 4 major trips all over 2000 miles in them.
The best way for me to go now, is in the larger boats. Where one can be 
gone a month, if he so desires and not worry of sea conditions  or what to 
leave home, but all within reason...
So many I've met over the years, Angier, Rutstrum, LaBastille, Mason.. All 
had a secret love for Kayaks, though not for the narrow beam ones.
Myself I credit Folbot with getting the average person into Kayaks. 
Although some will not say the craft is a true Yak. Never the less It I 
believe is the father of the Sport.
Although the boon of the whitewater paddlers of the 60,s evolved the sport.
Prior to 1940,s there was little if any interest in Kayaks... they were a 
thing of the northern lands. Not suited to lower states use..
Even now in my view a narrow boat is good for getting someplace fast, from
point A to point B...Seaworthy yes... But for extended trips... no...
Just my thoughts Ive seen over the years....
W




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Received on Wed Apr 23 2003 - 09:07:27 PDT

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