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 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.

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

16' Maori Giant Inflatable Stand-Up Paddleboard with Leash and 4 Paddles 16' x 50" x 6" Maori iSUP was designed as a way to share the joy of paddling with friends and family-accommodating 1-6 paddlers at one time. With over 1,000+lb capacity & an extremely wide frame, this iSUP is incredibly stable allowing your group to focus on teamwork and enjoying your time together on the water. The Maori MEGA iSUP was designed as a way to share the joy of paddling with friends and family. Accommodating 2-6 paddlers, the board’s extremely wide frame makes the Maori incredibly stable, allowing your group to focus on teamwork and enjoying your time together on the water. When you’re done paddling, use it as a floating recreation platform to hang out on and relax together under the sun. Despite the paddleboard's grandiose nature, our state-of-the-art drop-stitch technology allows the Maori to compress down into a carry bag, ensuring that the party goes wherever you go.  EVA non-skid traction pad - The EVA non-Skid traction deck pad material allows for extra comfort while standing. In addition to the non-skid material, it's diamond-grooved texture creates increased grip while paddling.   Double-layer PVC material - The exterior construction is double-layered, 1000 Denier, 3-Ply PVC material. This premium grade material is highly durable, UV resistant & puncture resistant, and tough enough to withstand marine environments.  Drop-stitch core - Drop-Stitch Technology is constructed of thousands of polyester threads that connect the top and bottom PVC layers together. This allows for high-pressure inflation, creating that flat, board-like shape with a solid feel as you paddle.  Fabric-reinforced PVC rail - The rails of our inflatable SUPs are double-layered to ensure seam durability and toughness. This reinforced exterior layer is designed to absorb impact and protect the iSUP so you can confidently take your board anywhere.  Features: Bungee system to store your PFD-life vests, dry bags, coolers, and other gear Non-slip tract pad designed with ultra-cushioned, non-slip traction pad material 3 removable 9" skegs create seamless tracking Double reinforced, UV-resistant D-ring attachment point for leash Universal bow mounts to attach Go-Pros, speakers, cameras, cup holders, etc. Double pad-eye for anchoring, docking, and securing 13 reinforced soft neoprene comfort grip handles Halkey-Roberts (HR) valve for inflating and deflating with push-pin function and screw cap Technical Specifications: Recommended pressure - 15 PSI Backpack dimensions - 60" x 18" x 12" Weight - 69 lbs Weight Capacity - 1000+ lbs In the Box: SUP Heavy-duty carry bag (4) Adjustable paddles Ankle leash (3) Removable skegs Pump with gauge Repair kit

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

RAM® Roller-Ball™ Paddle & Accessory Holder With the RAM® Roller-Ball™ Clip for Tracks, easily secure your net, paddle, gaff hooks, stakeout/push poles, or BogaGrip®. Its three-point security design means there are always three points of tension keeping your net, paddle or other items attached, while also ensuring quiet placement and removal. The T-Bolt adapter is compatible with the RAM® Tough-Track™ and most other kayak track systems, and holds paddles and poles 1” - 1 5/16” in diameter. Note: This product consists of one single RAM® Roller-Ball™ Clip. For larger paddles and heavy duty applications, a second RAM® Roller-Ball™ may be required. Specifications: Material: Rubber and High Strength Composite Note: Part number reflects product packaged in retail bag for store shelf display Weight: 0.3 lbs. T-Bolt Dimensions: .48" x .95"

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

Double Paddle Trim System Double paddle kit including two paddles and the brackets to attach it to a tilt or to a front mount helm. For complete control of engine trim and tilt, trim tabs, jackplates, PowerPole(R) and other on board systems, the innovative Paddle Trim system is the answer. Adaptable to existing front mount hydraulic and tilt helms, the Paddle Trim is ergonomically designed to allow the driver to make precise adjustments to the attitude of the boat or other systems without removing his hand from the steering wheel. Available both in single and dual versions (for either two equal or two different outputs) Both single or dual paddle can be positioned at various angles for the most confortable choice Equipped with one water proof “MOM.ON-OFF-MOM.ON switch ( 2 switches on dual version) Max load 5 Amp @ 12VDC For loads exceeding 5 Amp we recommend the use of the KTR - 42860S kit relay Uflex® trim tabs require the use of the KTR - 42860S kit relay Suitable for any kind of steering wheel dish. Max wheel dia. 400 mm (15.7”) Easy to install on the following Ultraflex® steering systems: - front and tilt mount hydraulic helms - tilt mount mechanical helms Wiring harness, labels and mounting hardware kit are included. The mounting plate, which differs between front and tilt mount. Installation, is ordered separately

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

 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

Paddle Clips Attwood's Paddle Clips keep your paddle secure to your boat for freeing up both hands or resting from paddling and fits 1" diameter shafts. Features: Fits paddles 1" diameter Color: Black Set of 2 Comes with stainless steel mounting hardware

2-Pack RAM® Roller-Ball™ Paddle & Accessory Holder With the 2-Pack RAM® Roller-Ball™ holder for tracks, easily secure your heavy-duty net, paddle, gaff hooks, stakeout / push poles, or BogaGrip®. Its three-point security design on each RAM® Roller-Ball™ means there are always three points of tension keeping your net, paddle or other items attached, while also ensuring quiet placement and removal. The T-Bolt adapter is compatible with the RAM® Tough-Track™ and most other kayak track systems, and holds paddles and poles 1” - 1 5/16” in diameter.  Specifications: Material: Rubber and High Strength Composite Note: Part number reflects product packaged in retail bag for store shelf display Weight: 0.5 lbs. T-Bolt Dimensions: .48" x .95"

RAM® Tough-Clip™ Paddle Cradle with Track and Drill-Down Mounting Hardware The RAM Tough-Clip™ Paddle Cradle allows you to mount a paddle to your canoe, kayak or paddle board. With its universal design, the Tough-Clip™ will hold most paddles with a handle of 1”-1.31” in circumference. This kit includes hardware and instructions for both a drill-down installation option and a track mounting option that’s compatible with the RAM Tough-Track™. Material: High Strength Composite Note: Part number reflects product packaged in retail bag for store shelf display.