Coiled Paddle Leash Keep a paddle close while paddling with the YakGear Coiled Paddle Leash. This new take on a traditional coiled cord leash solves the troubling problem of overstretched coil cord. Made from solid rubber with no wire inside, the leash features a full memory coil that will stretch from 24 inches to 60 inches.  The quick connection of the leash to the boat side is a 360-degree nylon swivel hook to any pad eye or accessible seat strap. The paddle is then connected with a durable, 1-½ inch-thick adjustable velcro strap. Paddle is not included. Features: One ounce, 24 in. full memory, coiled paddle leash Connect to a paddle with the fully adjustable velcro strap Connect to the boat with the nylon swivel hook Instructions included 1-year warranty

Coiled Fishing Rod Leash The nonabsorbent YakGear Coiled Fishing Rod Leash provides the ultimate peace of mind by guaranteeing that an expensive rod and reel return to shore every time. Made from solid rubber with no wire inside, the leash features a full memory coil that will stretch from 24 inches to 60 inches.  Quickly connecting the leash to the boat-side is done with a 360-degree nylon swivel hook to any pad eye or accessible seat strap. The connection to the fishing rod is through the use of an ultra-tight velcro strap, which can be easily detached from the leash via a second swivel hook for ease of use. Anglers catch the fish, and YakGear will catch the rod. Fishing rods are not included. Features: One ounce, 24 in. full memory, coiled paddle leash Detachable, ultra-tight Velcro strap for ease of use Instructions included 1-year warranty

36" Baja Paddle Leash - Black Never lose a paddle while paddling with the YakGear Baja Paddle Leash. The Baja Paddle Leash is composed of a base of flexible 1/4-inch nylon bungee that is overwrapped by a nylon sleeve for strength. Unlike many sleeve leashes, there are no large buckles to bang against the boat and scare away the fish. The 36-inch leash stretches from 36 to 47 inches, and the 48-inch leash stretches from 48 to 60 inches, giving users the perfect combination of leash flexibility and strength. The boat side of the leash connects by threading the oversized loop through a pad eye or any accessible seat strap, while the connection to the paddle is through the use of the velcro strap.  Features: Lightweight  Black leash  A hybrid leash between flexible nylon bungee leashes and strong nylon sleeve leashes 36-in. paddle leash  Ultra tight velcro strap is included for easy attachment to any paddle Paddle not included A hybrid leash between flexible nylon bungee leashes and strong nylon sleeve leashes 1-year warranty

Basic Paddle & Fishing Pole Leash Keep a paddle or rod secure while paddling with the YakGear UniLeash. Quickly connecting the leash to the boat side is done with a 360-degree nylon swivel hook to any pad eye or accessible seat strap. The connection to the paddle or rod is made through the upper-rope-loop-through method, which provides unrestricted movement while using a paddle or fishing rod. Perfect for one or two-piece paddles as well as one or two-piece rods. Paddle and rod are not included. Features: One-leash combo 1/2-ounce, 40-in. paddle leash Made from 3/16 in. nylon bungee and 1/8 in. polypro rope 360° Swivel Hook Instructions included 1-year warranty

Molded Paddle/Pole Clip Kit - 1-1/4" Clips  Add or replace paddle holders with the YakGear Molded Paddle Clip Kit. While there are many different ways to mount and store paddles on kayaks and canoes, molded rubber pole clips are by far the strongest and most reliable. With solid rubber construction, the molded clips promote the strength of a continued locking effect while in use. The 1-1/4 in. design fits most paddles and push-poles, ranging in circumference from 1-1/4 inch to 1-1/2 inch. This kit includes two molded rubber paddle clips, intended for combined, linear use on one paddle or mud anchor. As always, this complete kit comes with all stainless steel installation hardware, installation instructions, and rigging tips from YakGear. Waterproof silicone is recommended but not included. Features: Molded rubber paddle clips allow for easy paddle or mud anchor storage Two solid rubber-molded paddle clips are provided 1-1/4 clips fit paddles with a circumference ranging from 1-1/4 to 1-1/2 in. Installation instructions and hardware are included 1-year warranty Specifications: Size: 1-1/4 in. clips

 2 Leash Combo for Paddle & Pole Keep a paddle or rod secure while paddling with the YakGear UniLeash. Quickly connecting the leash to the boat-side is done with a 360-degree nylon swivel hook to any pad eye or accessible seat strap. The connection to the paddle or rod is made through the upper-rope-loop-through method, which provides unrestricted movement while using a paddle or fishing rod. Perfect for one or two-piece paddles as well as one or two-piece rods. Paddle and rod are not included. Features: Two-leash combo 1/2-ounce, 40-in. paddle leashes Made from 3/16 in. nylon bungee and 1/8 in. polypro rope 360° Swivel Hook Instructions included 1-year warranty

3 Leash Combo for Paddle & Pole Keep a paddle or rod secure while paddling with the YakGear UniLeash. Quickly connecting the leash to the boat side is done with a 360-degree nylon swivel hook to any pad eye or accessible seat strap. The connection to the paddle or rod is made through the upper-rope-loop-through method, which provides unrestricted movement while using a paddle or fishing rod. Perfect for one or two-piece paddles as well as one or two-piece rods. Paddle and rod are not included. Features: Three-leash combo 1/2-ounce, 40-in. paddle leashes Made from 3/16 in. nylon bungee and 1/8 in. polypro rope 360° Swivel Hook Instructions included 1-year warranty

Molded Stick Clip Kit - 3/4" Clips Add or replace paddle holders with the YakGear Molded Paddle Clip Kit. While there are many different ways to mount and store paddles on kayaks and canoes, molded rubber pole clips are by far the strongest and most reliable. With solid rubber construction, the molded clips promote the strength of a continued locking effect while in use. the 3/4 in. clip will fit paddles from 5/8 inch to 7/8 inch and is YakGear’s preferred method of securing the YakGear - Yakstick Mud Anchor. This kit includes two molded rubber paddle clips, intended for combined, linear use on one paddle or mud anchor. As always, this complete kit comes with all stainless steel installation hardware, installation instructions, and rigging tips from YakGear. Waterproof silicone is recommended but not included. Features: Molded rubber paddle clips allow for easy paddle or mud anchor storage Two solid rubber-molded paddle clips are provided 3/4 in. clips fit paddles and mud anchors ranging from 5/8 to 7/8 in. Installation instructions and hardware are included 1-year warranty Specifications: Size: 3/4 in. clips

 Performance Paddle Clip This one-piece Performance Paddle Clip allows for simple, one-handed storage of a paddle. Features an anti-snag ramp to prevent lines from getting stuck under the clip when not in use and leash attachment points for securing a paddle leash. Kit Includes: Paddle clip (1) 10-32 X 1” PH machine screws (2) 10-32 Nyloc nuts (2) #10 flat washers (2)  #10 well nuts (2) Features: Proudly constructed in the USA of UV-resistant injection molded nylon with stainless steel hardware Able to store a paddle with a diameter of 1-1/8 inches Specifications: Fastener: 1/4 in. PH Weight: 0.18 lbs

Nylon Boat Hook/Paddle Clip  UV stabilized injection molded nylon construction. One-piece boat hook/paddle clip allows for the simple one handed storage of your boat hook or paddle. Anti-snag ramps prevent line from getting stuck under the clip when not in use. Features leash attachment points for securing a paddle leash. WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals which are known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to P65Warnings.ca.gov.

Ampco Pumps P2GS101684 Outer Seal Wave Spring

By now, the skipper in your life has probably dropped a few hints about holiday gifts. Was it the note left on the coffee pot about Articulated ABS Barrel Hinge foldable Aluminum Tubing? At first glance, one would have thought that the message was a reminder about being out of coffee filters. Then it comes back to you that there was a conversation in the car about GemLock Assembled Folding Struts.    Foldable aluminum tubing is one of the hottest trends in stainless steel hardware for marine canvas and solar panel frames. The tubing offers versatility in styling, high quality, and ease of use. https://www.clrmarine.com/462m4/manufacturers/g/gemini-marine.html   Back to your captain's holiday gift list. Was there a subtle hint, while you both were swimming off the boat, and your skipper showed concern that the transom ladder seemed a little short by a few steps? She would find getting out of the lake sooooo much easier if she didn't have to reach her foot up so far to the lowest step. She had also mentioned a discussion with other boat captains about the Extend Your Step, an easy-to-use boat boarding ladder extension. Several of her sailing buddies already have them and raved about the ease and portability. .   All of the products mentioned above are available at CLR Marine.com. How confident are the folks at CLR Marine about the Extend Your Step regarding ease in boarding and extending the ladder length? This product reflects the confidence and integrity of CLR Marine's owner, Chuck Reed. He invented the Extend Your Step! When shopping for the extending ladder, be sure to check out the Extend Your Step Three – a longer and non-moving version of the Extend Your Step! https://www.clrmarine.com/Boat-Boarding-Ladder-Extension   It's possibly time for your captain to give the best seat in the house – on your boat- an upgrade. There is no better place to watch the glint of the sun on the waves than in a stern perch seat. Stern rail seats are now available for older model boats, even pre-1993, and the seats are removable. https://www.clrmarine.com/sternperch-seats.html     Stocking Stuffers   Floatable key rings. If you are old enough to have keys, then you are old enough to lose keys. House keys, boat keys, car keys – when these fall into the drink and aren't retrievable, your boat outing takes a turn for the worse. Car key fobs are expensive to replace. Neon colored strong straps or carabiner clips offer added security against key loss. DryCASE Smartphone Case   The DryCASE waterproof cell phone case keeps your electronics protected, whether surfing, paddle boarding, or canoeing. The DryCASE uses vacuum seal technology to ensure a watertight seal every time. Best of all, you'll still be able to use your touch screen to text or make calls, and the crystal clear covering makes taking pictures a cinch. When you purchase the DryCASE you will also receive a small hand pump, neoprene armband, and a lanyard  $36.92. https://www.clrmarine.com/m4/45443—drycase-smartphone-case.html   RAM Mount AQUA BOX Medium RAM AQUA BOX® cases provide sealed enclosure and protection for your handheld devices. The clear, touch through screen allows you to view your electronics and use their function keys while in place. There is even a place for a small lock to serve as a theft deterrent. The AMPS hole pattern on the back of the box allows this enclosure to be attached to many RAM mounting bases and kits. Ideally suited to Motorcycles and ATV's, the AQUA BOX keeps your portable devices safe, dry, and accessible $36.49.   Scotty 130 Paddle Safety Leash   Paddles, rods, nets, gaffs, and many other items can be secured while in use with the Scotty Safety Leash. Features include two extra strong Scotty 1009 swivel snaps; super-strong Flex Coil cord allows for maximum unrestricted movement and stretches to approx. 6'. Unit Includes two figure eight securing straps $11.99. https://www.clrmarine.com/m4/37811--scotty-130-paddle-safety-leash-black.html Gifts under $30.00   Don't forget about covers for your water toys. The Dallas Manufacturing Co – Pedal Boat Cover will keep your pedal boat dry, dirt free, and protected from the sun when not in use. Features include 150 Denier Silver Polyester, fits both 3 and 5 Person Pedal Boats and is backed by a one year warranty $13.19.  https://www.clrmarine.com/m4/36879—dallas-manufacturing-co-pedal-boat-polyester-cover.html   Mustang Lil' Legends 70 Youth Vest -  Fluorescent Yellow-Green/Gray   Have guests arrived on your boat with a small young family member who needs a life vest? The Mustang Lil's Legends is a quality youth vest, and it never hurts to have a spare on board. It fits a child 50-90 pounds  $21.59.  https://www.clrmarine.com/m4/49897—mustang-lil-legends-70-youth-vest-50-90lbs-fluorescent-yellow-green-gray.html     Be good—Santa's watching. Stay healthy. Fair Winds. 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     

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.

Paddle Keeper Kit Add or replace paddle holders with the YakGear Paddle Keeper Kit. While there are many ways to mount and store paddles on kayaks and canoes, bungee paddle keepers are by far the most versatile. A 1/4-inch bungee is mounted with terminal ends and a J-hook to form a pressure-based bungee clamp for paddles, fishing poles, and anchor sticks. This kit comes with two paddle keepers, so the versatility and practicality of the product will not be limited to one side of the kayak or canoe. As always, this complete kit comes with all stainless-steel installation hardware, installation instructions, and rigging tips from YakGear. Waterproof silicone is recommended but not included. Features: Paddle keepers can be used to store an assortment of items Made of 1/4-in. nylon bungee, it attaches to a vessel using terminal ends and sleeves Each kit comes with two paddle keepers Installation instructions and hardware are included 1-year warranty