The joys of on-the-water paddle sports are many. Paddling your own canoe, kayak, paddleboard, or  surfboard takes individual skill, where you set your own pace and experience a sense of calm and quiet serenity as you glide across the pristine waters. You will encounter fewer & wild parties with large, raft-up boat flotillas crowding the waterways. Stand Up Paddle Boarding Stand-up paddleboarding originated in Hawaii, and while it is a recent addition to the list of paddle sports, some believe that it has been around for longer. Experts say it has existed for decades but came to prominence in the 2000s, evolving into the recognized sport today. Its earliest roots trace it back to the 18th century when native Hawaiians paddled along the Pacific from island to island. The modern applications of stand-up paddle boarding, or SUP as some call it, emerged in the mid-20th century with the extreme popularity of surf culture in the 1960s. The shores of California first welcomed SUP in 2005, where it caught on instantly among the locals. Today, SUP has spread across the country, with more than 22 million Americans participating in stand-up paddleboarding.   Simply put, stand-up paddleboarding involves getting on a surf-like board with a long SUP paddle which you will use to propel the board while standing up straight. This paddle sport is excellent for photographers as they can get a much better view while standing up. There is more than one way on how to paddle a stand-up paddleboard. You can race, tour, and surf. Many marinas have partnered with yoga instructors to offer on-the-water stand-up paddleboard yoga classes. It is refreshing to watch a class of yogis as they attempt perfect balance in a headstand on an unanchored, less than steady paddleboard! You can even turn your SUP into a kayak. More recent is white water paddle boarding for the thrill-seekers. Kayaking may have been the fastest-growing paddle sport, but stand-up paddleboarding has taken over this title. New variations of stand-up paddleboards have hit the market. Some boards are inflatable, some can be folded up into thirds with hinged sections, and newer paddleboards include tall seats and pedals. For SUP equipment information, click this link at CLR Marine. https://www.clrmarine.com/462m4/paddlesports.html.   SAFETY FIRST and WEATHER ALERTS WHEN PADDLE BOARDING While enjoying any paddle sport, such as paddle boarding, canoeing, or kayaking, be aware that weather can change in an instant. A calm stream can suddenly become a raging river if weather conditions suddenly change higher up at the stream's headwaters.    PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICE (PFD) Wearing or carrying a PFD on-board is essential to paddleboard safety. Stand-up Paddleboards are considered "vessels" under the United States Coast Guard regulations when used out of designated swimming, surfing, or bathing areas. Individuals 13 years of age and older must have a PFD on board, and those 12 years of age and younger are required to wear a PFD at all times on the water. Not only can a PFD save your life, but it can also make it easier for you to climb back aboard after falling or jumping in the water. https://www.clrmarine.com/462m4/marine-safety/personal-flotation-devices.html   WHISTLE A whistle can be a simple, inexpensive item to carry that can make a huge difference in an emergency. You can use a whistle to alert motorized boats to your presence if needed or to get help from the shore if you have trouble on the water. A whistle can also be heard in the fog when visibility is at a minimum. https://www.clrmarine.com/m4/10020--acr-survival-res-q-whistle-w-18-lanyard.html   PERSONAL LOCATOR BEACON Personal locator beacons are handheld devices that signal 406 MHz, the same frequency used for newer emergency locator transmitters. Activate a PLB—in most cases, simply by extending the antenna and pressing the On button—and it transmits a powerful distress signal with a unique digital code. https://www.clrmarine.com/462m4/paddlesports/personal-locator-beacons.html   LEASH If you fall off your SUP while in the water, the leash will keep your board easily accessible. Wind, currents, and waves can quickly sweep your SUP away from you. Fasten the cord securely & around your ankle.   WETSUIT If you plan on going out on cold water, you should consider a suit to keep you warm. Hypothermia escalates rapidly. An accidental fall into a cold mountain lake or cold ocean water would ruin your trip. Remember that you won't have a stack of warm blankets or warm, dry clothing with you.   HELMET If you're going to take your SUP down a river, you should consider a helmet for the trip. Kayakers wear them, and their heads are much closer to the water than someone standing on a paddleboard. Falling onto hidden or exposed rocks from a standing position could cause a devastating impact. Protect your brain. Wear a helmet.   WEATHER Always be aware of the current weather conditions for your SUP outing and pay attention to the forecast for the day. Weather conditions can change rapidly in some locations, and getting caught in bad weather can be very dangerous. The wind is always a threat. The wind can quickly unbalance a paddle boarder, make it difficult to paddle, or even carry the board quickly away from a dismounted paddler. Have a weather app on your phone, and hopefully a signal will transmit while you are on the water. PADDLE with a PARTNER The best way to enjoy your SUP is with a friend. It is also one of the best ways to stay safe on the water. Paddling buddies can double-check gear before heading out and watch out for each other while out on the water. Let friends know where you will be. Leave your itinerary with someone on land. If you don't return at your designated time, your land buddy will start the search. Should your itinerary change, get in touch with your person on shore. Cell service may be limited on the water. Don't count on your cell phone to be your lifeline.   SUNSCREEN The sun is known to cause cancer in all states, not just California. Protect any exposed skin.    KNOW YOUR LIMITS Remember that you have that same distance on your return trip for every mile that you have traveled out. While the wind may be at your back on the way out, a headwind at the return will be a challenge as your energy is diminishing. Paddleboarding is an excellent way for you to blend in with your surroundings and slide from one area to another. Be safe. Know the distance to your destination or how much exertion you want to make at each outing. In addition, to stand-up paddleboarding, other paddle sports to enjoy are kayaking, surfing, and canoeing. We will explore these paddle sports in a future blog. Fair winds and smooth sailing.   To obtain more information about the products and services mentioned in this article, please contact CLR Marine https://www.clrmarine.com/. ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________    Award-winning author Cheryl Kuba has been at the helm for more than 30 years sailing the Great Lakes, with side trips to the British Virgin Islands and St. Maarten. She has served as past- Commodore of Great Lakes Fleet 21 -Chicago region. 3happycampers.com ©Copyright Cheryl Kuba, 3happycampers.com, 2021.

Paddle your own Canoe   The history of canoes dates back 10,000 years to our forefathers, who launched dugout canoes made with animal skin and a skeleton frame of tree branches. More recently, there has been a discovery of a well-preserved birch bark canoe dating back 250 years.   Canoe rides are calm as you glide on rivers, altering your speed with your paddle as you are propelled along. Canoe rides are pristine. Of late, white water canoeing as a sport has become very popular and more challenging. Ocean canoeing falls under the white water category.   Tandem Canoeing   Canoeing with a buddy gives you someone to talk to, and gives you more paddle power for your vessel. These tips, provided by Voyageur Outward Bound School, will make your canoeing experience easier and safer.   Paddle on opposite sides of the boat-    To keep your craft from pitching back and forth and make the boat more stable under motion. For added stability, kneel if you’re in rough water or trying to gain ground in a headwind. Paddle in sync with your partner. Find your rhythm. It is the bow (front) paddler’s job to set the pace, and it is the role of the stern (back) paddler to match that tempo. The bow is where the speed comes in. Maximize your forward momentum. Call a “switch” regularly to change sides, which will help keep your boat going in a straight line. Keep your paddle shaft vertical.   The alternative is called “lily-dipping” – if you’ve got an itinerary to keep and miles to make, a vertical paddle shaft will ensure that the blade of your paddle is vertical during the power phase of your stroke – maximizing forward propulsion each time.   Wear your PFD.   Safety first in all boating activities. Canoes are very unstable, especially getting in and getting out.  Seventy-five percent of paddle sport-related drownings were found with no personal flotation device on. Twenty percent of paddlesport fatalities had alcohol as a contributing factor. Invest in a comfortable PFD, so you’re more likely to wear it. It won’t save your life if you don’t wear it. Dress for the water temperature, not the air temperature. A person dressed in street clothes has a 50% chance of swimming 50 yards in 50-degree water. Hypothermia is the natural killer.   Know your limits.   Measure before you go. Novice paddlers typically cover about two mph on flat water. Experienced paddlers looking for a workout can cover 3-3.5 mph. Anticipate what river current might do to your speed and itinerary.   Check out the CLR Marine Ritchie K-TD.2 Tie Down f/Kayaker Compass S-59 - Black  for better navigation. Sunscreen in all the right places.   Sun reflected off the water will burn in some unlikely places –  under your nose and back of your ears. In an aluminum canoe, there is added reflection off metal surfaces. Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses. Both need to be attached with a keeper string.    Practice getting back in your boat.   If you are paddling solo, the best advice is to paddle close to shore and in the lee. Don’t be farther away from the beach than what you know you can swim with your boat full of water. The Canadian re-entry technique works well for the less-athletic and in choppy waters. Once you’ve T-rescued the capsized boat, have the swimmer get to one end of two boats held side by side by a rescuer. Put a hand on each gunwale, float on your back, and hook a leg over a gunwale of each boat. Then, arch your back and drop your bottom into one of the boats.   Beware of flat river-wide horizon lines.   These are often low head dams. They may look benign, with a modest 2-4 foot drop, but given how water hydraulics work, underwater currents trap and hold boats and humans. Learn to recognize these hazards and portage around them.   Pack good snacks.   In addition to ample water, consider packing power snacks or a picnic lunch, fishing poles, binoculars, extra chocolate.   Kayaking   Like canoeing, Kayaking allows the boater to glide across pristine lake waters and rivers. Most kayaks are made of roto-molded polyethylene resins. Kayaks have become very advanced, not only for the water but for ease of transporting, durability, and skill level. In 2021, you will find sit on top kayaks, folding kayaks, and inflatables.   Many of the same techniques used in canoeing apply in Kayaking as well. When going tandem in Kayaking, follow the same guidelines as canoeing tandem. Check out https://www.clrmarine.com/462m4/paddlesports.html   Surfing   Movies and television shows have popularized surfing over the years with the likes of Hawaii 5-0, Gidget Goes Hawaiian, and more recently Rip Tide, Momentum and Take Every Wave. Whether this is your first opportunity to catch a wave, or you have been practicing, studying and surfing around the globe, there is a surfboard with your name on it. And, there is a price range for boards from inexpensive to custom-made just for you.   There are three specifications for beginning and intermediate surfers when looking for a good board: Length (easy paddling and making speed, helps to catch smaller waves) Buoyancy (the thicker the board, the better it floats, the more waves you catch) Width (a wide board gives you more stability and will help you stand up consistently)   Getting started   If you are a beginner, the best way to learn is to be taught by an experienced surfer. Plan to get a wide board, and know that you will spend more time sitting and kneeling on the board, than standing. There are surfing classes at various resorts and beaches. They are worth the time and money.   Always think of safety first. Find a beach that is perfect for beginners with small waves. Be aware of your surroundings. Spot landmarks that you can see from the water. Spend time on the beach before you enter the water. Take the time to check your leash and your board. Watch other surfers and see what they do. Their successes or failure are good teaching moments for you. Pace yourself. Don’t rush to catch the biggest wave.   Paddlesports are meant to be relaxing, fun, and a terrific opportunity to commune with nature. Enjoy.   Fair winds and smooth sailing.   To obtain more information about the products and services mentioned in this article, please get in touch with CLR Marine https://www.clrmarine.com/. _________________________________________________________________________ Award-winning author Cheryl Kuba has been at the helm for more than 30 years sailing the Great Lakes, with side trips to the British Virgin Islands and St. Maarten. She has served as past- Commodore of Great Lakes Fleet 21 -Chicago region. 3happycampers.com ©Copyright Cheryl Kuba, 3happycampers.com, 2021.

As the Fall months creep into our calendars, boat owners in cooler climates acknowledge, with sadness, that it’s time to put the boat away. Outside Storage? It’s a thought and an option but consider that you may be threatened by snow build up, tornadoes or hurricanes. The success of storing your boat outside depends on how well your boat is protected from the conditions outdoors.                          Rinse/Flush Rinsing the outside of your boat and trailer thoroughly with fresh water will remove excess salt. Pay particular attention to your trailer’s leaf springs, wheel hubs and brakes that are constantly submerged during launching and retrieval of your boat. Flush your engine's cooling system with fresh water in line with your engine manufacturer’s salt removal recommendations. This will minimize corrosion and overheating issues come spring. Drain your boat of all water – bilge, head, sink lines, water tanks, sea-cocks, and pipes. If you are in an area with extended periods of freezing, put antifreeze in the low parts if there is still some water present. Salt Watch out for salt. Buy a good salt remover to minimize corrosion. Add fuel stabilizer to top off your fuel tanks. Here is one recommended by CLR Marine. Diesel Formula Fuel Stabilizer & Performance Improver - 32oz *Case of 4* STA-BIL Diesel Formula Fuel Stabilizer is a diesel additive that keeps fuel fresh for quick, easy starts and maximized for engine performance. Designed for use with all diesel engines, and all diesel fuels, Sta-Bil Fuel Stabilizer Diesel formula prevents sludge and sediment formation, cleans and lubricates fuel injectors to improve performance and helps remove water. It is safe to use and recommended for use at every fill up, with the 32 ounce bottle treating up to 320 gallons of fuel. Batteries Remove the batteries from your boat and store in your garage or basement. Batteries should be connected to a battery charger that will give them a good charge and one that w automatically switches to a float/trickle charge to keep your batteries topped up. Match your charger to the type of battery you are charging. Using a charger manufactured for lead acid batteries to charge an AGM (absorbent glass mat) battery will cause damage to the battery. If you choose to keep your batteries in the boat, connect a solar trickle charger. These chargers will keep your batteries topped off without the hassle of removing heavy batteries from your boat. Cleaning Clean the exterior with the proper fiber glass or wood cleaner needed for your boat. Bright work can be cleaned by removing the wood or cleaning it as it is - installed. Be careful to not get the wood cleaner onto the deck surfaces. The exterior should be dried with a chamois cloth. Vinyl seat cushions and backs should be cleaned with vinyl cleaner. Hard surfaces inside the vessel can be wiped with all purpose cleaners. End your cleaning with a coat of wax to the exterior and polish. Don’t forget the bottom paint. Before you store, spend the time to give your boat a thorough cleaning. CLR Marine has many products by trusted brands such as Powerhouse, Davis Instruments, Jabsco, Shurhold, and Swobbit, to help winterize and clean. You will be grateful in the spring during launch time that your boat is already clean as the new boating season begins. Cover Up If you store outside in your yard, driveway, or a boat yard, a boat cover is a must to prevent damage from winter conditions. Leaving your boat in the water is not recommended. The boat is exposed to rough weather, and has a greater possibility of sinking if you aren’t monitoring it often. https://www.clrmarine.com/462m4/boat-outfitting/winter-covers.html and https://www.clrmarine.com/462m4/winterizing.html Circle May 21, 2022, on your calendar. The date is almost ten days before Memorial Day, next year when most harbors open for the season. Start your prep work, tune-ups, sanding, and painting to get out on the water and a great boating season. In the meantime, during the cold winter months, cozy up to the fire and read your boating manuals, new safety regulations and weather information. Fair winds and smooth sailing.   To obtain more information about the products and services mentioned in this article, please get in touch with CLR Marine https://www.clrmarine.com/. _________________________________________________________________________ Award-winning author Cheryl Kuba has been at the helm for more than 30 years sailing the Great Lakes, with side trips to the British Virgin Islands and St. Maarten. She has served as past- Commodore of Great Lakes Fleet 21 -Chicago region. 3happycampers.com ©Copyright Cheryl Kuba, 3happycampers.com, 2021.  

Paddle Sports Supplies and Equipment Paddlesports can be a great way to have fun on the water, but you want to make sure you have the right supplies and accessories to get started, enjoy your time, and be safe. From inflatable kayaks to sunglasses, we have what you need to really enjoy the experience. We also offer personal locator beacons, so you can be found if you happen to drift off course. Depending on where you are spending your paddlesport time, it is possible to get lost. With a locator beacon, the people who are concerned for your safety can find you more easily. That can provide some great peace of mind for your trip.   You will also want to make sure you have the proper anchoring options, carts for your items, compasses to find your way, and life vests for safety and security. We can also provide you with medical kits, navigation lights, and rod holders so you can do some fishing while you are out on your adventures. Of course, you will need paddles, and we have plenty of those to choose from. Roof rack systems for storage on your vehicle are a great idea, too, and be sure to pick up waterproof bags & cases for anything you need to carry with you, along with a VHF - Handheld so you can keep communicating when you need to.

Padded Grill and Accessory Carrying/Storage Case for Marine Kettle® Grilles Conveniently store and transport your Marine Kettle Grill and accessories in Magma's luggage quality padded carrying/storage case.  Designed to conveniently organize, transport, store and protect all of your grilling gear.  This case is outfitted with a large main storage compartment for a grill with additional pockets for storing a griddle, fish & veggie grill tray, grill tools, control valve/regulators and up to (4) disposable 1 lb. propane fuel canisters.  Additional features like a heavy duty shoulder strap and handles allow for easy use.  While the thick padding provides maximum protection of both the grill and boat during transportation and storage, making this convenient case a must have for every grilling enthusiast. Compatible With: Marine Kettle Grills Technical Specifications: Material - Padded Polyester Fabric  Dimensions (L x W x H) - 16-1/2" x 12-1/4" x 18-3/8" (419.1 x 311.2 x 460.4 cm) Weight - 5.47 lb (2.49 kg) *Sold as an Individual

Padded Grill and Accessory Carrying/Storage Case for 9" x 12" Grills  Conveniently store and transport your grill and accessories in Magma's luggage quality Padded Storage and Carrying Case that is designed to store all of your grilling gear in one space saving location. This case is outfitted with a large storage compartment, to fit Magma and most rectangular grills with a 9”x12” grilling surface, and a separate internal pocket for storing a serving shelf and/or grilling utensils.  The external storage compartment is large enough for carrying up to (3) 1lb. propane canisters and includes an internal mesh pocket for storing the grill’s control valve/regulator, LED grill light, and other small accessories.  Constructed from heavy duty polyester nylon, this case has thick internal padding for maximum protection, reinforced stitching, heavy duty zippers, convenient carrying handles, and shoulder strap.  With the same quality and craftsmanship you've come to expect, this is a must have addition for every grilling enthusiast.  Once again Magma has just what you've been looking for.  Compatible With: Magma Rectangular Grills with a 9” x 12” Grilling Surface Features: 100% Heavy Duty Polyester Nylon Construction with Thick Padding for Maximum Protection Heavy Duty Carrying Handles and Shoulder Strap Reinforced Stitching and Heavy Duty Zipper Large Main Compartment for Grill Main Compartments Internal Pocket Stores Serving Shelf and/or Grilling Utensils Large External Compartment Stores up to (3) Disposable 1-lb. Fuel Canisters External Compartment Includes Internal Mesh Pocket for Storing Control/Valve Regulator, LED Grill Light, and Other Small Accessories *Sold as an Individual 

Deep Emergency Dry Storage Supply Box w/Tray - Orange Plano's Emergency Supply Box is water-resistant with an O-ring seal. A deep lift-out tray and top access storage provide plenty of room for all your supplies. Features: Water Resistant O-Ring Seal Comfortable Oversized Handle Top-Access Storage Large Lift-Out Tray Dimensions: 15"L x 8"W x 10"H

Padded Grill and Accessory Carrying/Storage Case for 12" x 24" Grills  Conveniently store and transport your grill and accessories in one of Magma's luggage quality Padded Carrying/Storage Cases.   This case is outfitted with a large storage compartment for a grill, with a separate side pocket for storing a serving shelf, griddle, fish/veggie tray, and/or grilling utensils.  Includes removable internal section in the main compartment for carrying up to (3) 1lb. propane canisters and upper mesh pocket for up to (2) control valve/regulators.  Additional features like thick padding for maximum protection and heavy duty carrying handles and strap make this a must have for every grilling enthusiast.  With the same quality and craftsmanship you've come to expect, once again Magma has just what you've been looking for. *Sold as an Individual

Padded Grill and Accessory Carrying/Storage Case for 12" x 18" Grills  Conveniently store and transport your grill and accessories in one of Magma's luggage quality Padded Carrying/Storage Cases.   This case is outfitted with a large storage compartment for a grill, with a separate side pocket for storing a serving shelf, griddle, fish/veggie tray, and/or grilling utensils.  Includes removable internal section in the main compartment for carrying up to (3) 1lb. propane canisters and upper mesh pocket for up to (2) control valve/regulators.  Additional features like thick padding for maximum protection and heavy duty carrying handles and strap make this a must have for every grilling enthusiast.  With the same quality and craftsmanship you've come to expect, once again Magma has just what you've been looking for. *Sold as an Individual

Grilling Tools Storage Case This Padded Luggage Quality Storage/Carry Case for Magma's Telescoping Grill Tools is the perfect addition for any grilling enthusiast.  Safely store and transport your grilling tools in one space saving location.  Features include heavy duty polyester construction with thick padding for maximum protection and heavy duty carrying handles. *Sold as an Individual 

TraxMount™ Paddlesport Mount TheTraxMount™ Paddlesport Mount is designed for use in kayaks, canoes, and small boats. Its high strength and corrosion-resistant composite materials can take the punishment of the water and will give you years of faithful service. It's compact and convenient, telescoping from 11.5" to a full 18" ensures that you will be able to take it on every adventure.    Compatible With: HawkEye® FishTrax™ Series HawkEye® FishPod® 5X What's Included? ABS Plastic Transducer Arm Locking Combination Side/Deck Mount Slip Discs for Micro Adjustments. Mounting Hardware *FishTrax 1C Fishfinder  or FishPod Not Included * FishPod Phone Holder Not Included

Teak Lock-In Four-Rod Storage Rack Stainless steel and brass hardware 24"L x 1-3/16"H x 3-5/8"D

Teak Four-Rod Storage Rack 15-1/2"L x 2-7/8"H x 3/4"D Sold in pairs

Teak Six-Rod Storage Rack 22-1/2"L x 2-7/8"H x 3/4"D Sold in pairs

Neptune II Leaning Post w/Tackle Storage Bag Anodized Aluminum Taco Marine's Neptune II Leaning Post is designed for smaller center console boats, backed by a 3-year warranty. The Neptune II Leaning Post is constructed of Anodized Aluminum, engineered and built to last. Equipped with an attractive patented soft pack that is easy to remove and provides a convenient tote for fishing gear. Footprint dimension: 14" x 35". Features: Ideal for boats under 25' Anodized Aluminum frame with grab-rail Four adjustable Aluminum rod holders Convenient removable soft side under seat storage (also sold separately as Neptune Tackle Storage Bag L10-1003BAG) Folding foot rest with heavy-duty design supports up to 300 lbs Full length mounting pads Cooler storage with convenient strap Easy Do-It-Yourself assembly Comfortable cushion seat 72qt cooler storage area with strap Cooler storage area: 24-1/2" H x 29-1/4" W Polished anodized Aluminum frame Marine-grade vinyl upholstered cushion Accommodates a Universal Leaning Post Backrest for additional comfort (sold separately as L10-1002-1) Footprint = 14" x 35" 3 year limitied warranty