December 2011 -

Creating a custom saddle system for open canoeing.

Triple saddle in an open canoe

Post published:December 29, 2011
Post category:Outfitting

A triple saddle can be very advantageous in the right boat. It allows you to paddle the canoe solo by sitting in the middle, or tandem by sitting in the bow and stern. These photos show a Blue Hole Sunburst that is around 14 1/2 feet long. Anything larger would be a chore to paddle solo and too much smaller would be a squeeze for two people. All saddles make for a comfortable and high performance seat. This example shows a system that features a removable front saddle, one that is clipped and strapped in. You can easily take the front saddle out for the solo setup and then have more room and workspace in front of you. See the Esquif Blast Triple Saddle Post HERE! This is nice for bailing water out, as well you will then still have space to lean forward to set up for a roll…

Ankle support for C-1

Foam Ankle Supports for C-1

Post published:December 29, 2011
Post category:Outfitting

Anyone who has spent time in a C-1 knows that a bit of extra comfort can go a long way. Using minicell foam and a few basic tools, these ankle supports can be created. The tools used for this are a saw to cut the blocks to size. A rasp to create a bit of a contour in the foam. Some sandpaper to clean up the foam. Contact cement works well for the adhesion. I like to use a respirator when working with the contact cement. Tools for the custom job. Once you have the supports made to your liking, place them in the boat and get in it to see where to place them. Use a pencil to mark the right spot for your body. These block greatly improved my comfort level in this boat. Here’s the finished product before the glue-in. Close up on the shaping.

Half the paddle, twice the fun!

C-1

Post published:December 20, 2011
Post category:Curious Craft

This is a Dagger Atom C-1. It is basically a river kayak that has a foam saddle inside of it where you might expect there to be a seat. So the paddler is actually on his/her knees, not their butt. As you might have guessed this has advantages and disadvantages. In a C-1 you are higher up in your boat and have better vision of your surroundings. Also, you have more leverage with your paddle stroke. The challenge lies in the fact that you are paddling with a canoe paddle and are sacrificing a blade. Another canoe outfitting concept! This photo is taken at the bottom of Martin's Rapids on the McKenzie river.

Campout on the river's edge!

Willamette River Camping Tour

Post published:December 17, 2011
Post category:Tour Blog

Paddling the Willamette River below Eugene can be very rewarding. Especially during the blackberry season, when the banks are full of the sweet and juicy morsels. On a recent trip from Alton Baker Park to Harrisburg we did some picking, taking care not to get pricked too badly. Carefully picking blackberries while afloat Once our bucket was full enough, we continued downstream through the swift current and eventually made it to our camp site, one of many lovely cobble bars. The next morning we went decided to make some blackberry pancakes. Bon appetit!

Catacanoe: a boat full of potential!

Catacanoe

Post published:December 17, 2011
Post category:Curious Craft

Catacanoe on the Willamette River. There’s no better way to share in the experience of paddling then on a catacanoe. This craft is steady and comfortable, yet easy to maneuver. The best part is being in the same boat as the rest of your friends. We have often floated along some nice waterway with a gang of six people on this boat! This one easily comes together with 8 bolts. The 2 canoes can be separated for individual use. The deck folds up nicely and doesn't take up much room for storage. A catacanoe may be the only way for certain people to feel stable on the water. It's also a great platform to fish from and even collect garbage from while cleaning up your local waterway! 6 people on the Catacanoe! After a big cleanup.