Re: [Paddlewise] Need tip for Horn Island, Mississipi

> From: Brian Curtiss <bc_at_asdi.com>

> While this island is about 6-7 miles off shore, it is not really an 

Actually, Horn Island is about ten miles directly south of the 
Mississippi coastline.  You can make a stop-over along the way on 
Round Island.


> "open ocean" crossing.  One suggestion would be to get a copy of the 

Not exactly but open ocean experience is a good idea simply because it
is not a continuous barrier island and the miles in between islands
as well as island to shore can get "interesting."  You will be dealing
with very large ships as the route takes you right through the ICW.
Not sure I'd want to paddle the distance in an inflatable.  I'd look
for a kayak to rent if you can't take one with you.  Also, just an
fyi, there are alligators (which should come as no surprise
with anyone familiar with paddling the Gulf coast area).  They are
quite shy.

I wrote a story about a trip Bob and I took out there seven years ago.
It may be useful or not.  But you can find it along with some photos at

http://www.gasp-seakayak.net/hornIs.html

The Round Island light house is no more.  It was taken out by hurricane
George.  Too bad as it was an interesting landmark.  Check recent 
charts because the barrier islands can change shape and/or location after
hurricanes.

> NOAA chart for the area.  You should be able to plan a fairly direct 
> route from the Pascagoula waterfront to Horn Island that keeps you in 
> shallow (less than 6' deep) water almost the entire time.  You'll

Huh?  I wouldn't count on that.
 
> also need to investigate tidal currents.  Be sure you wear good 
> sturdy shoes as the bottom is likely covered with oysters.  Also, 

Horn Island was sandy as I recall.  Very fine quartz.  But there 
are plenty of oyster beds in the area.  Be sure to take a *good* 
patch kit.  We ended the very short life of an inflatable when
it blew onto a just-below-the-water oyster bed at Goose island on
another trip.  Fortunately, it was just a few feet from shore. 
Oyster beds are hard enough on plastic kayaks.  I will never again
take an inflatable out there.  But that's just me.  

Except for the bugs, it was a great trip.  Would do it again but 
would wait until later in the year and after hurricane season.

Jackie

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