Show Guide - Canoecopia

Transcription

Show Guide - Canoecopia
PRESENTS
Canoecopia
Show Guide
WORLD’s LARGEST
CANOE, KAYAK, SUP and
OUTDOOR EXPO
March 8th-10th, 2013
Alliant Energy Center
Madison, Wisconsin
SHIFTING
T H E
GEARS
F U S E - I O N
MARCH 2013
Contents
n Welcome
4 Getting the Most out of the Show
5 Welcome to Canoecopia 2013
6 The Making of Canoecopia
7 Sierra Club
8 What’s New in Paddlesports
23 Stand up for Fun!
25 The Boat that Matches Your Life
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68
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Big City Mountaineers
New Water
Creeps and Jolts
The Social Water Dog
IN EVERY ISSUE
4 Getting the Most out of the Show
5 Welcome to Canoecopia
22 Presentations and Schedule
49 Rutabaga Outdoor Programs
58 Reflections
In Memory ...
Friends we lost in 2012
Dave Dickerson
n Odds and Ends
74 Exhibitor and Vendor Listing
76 Show Information
n Presentations and Schedule
Ralph Frese
26 Our Presentations for 2013
37 Schedule pull-out
n Outdoor Programs
49 Rutabaga Outdoor Programs
54 Door County Sea Kayak Symposium
n Reflections
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To Make a Paddle
A World in 18-Feet
Milestones
Blame the New Millenium
PUBLISHER
Rutabaga Paddlesports
Bob Weitzel
Darren Bush, owner
LAYOUT and GRAPHIC DESIGN
Annie Tereba
EDITORS
Nancy Saulsbury,
Jon Stackpole, Annie Tereba
PHOTOGRAPHY by
Jim Pippitt, Woody Osborne
COVER PHOTO by
Woody Osborne
copyright© 2013
For more information check our website at
www.canoecopia.com or call us at 1-800-I-PADDLE
Getting the most out of
Canoecopia
Walking into the World’s largest expo of canoes, kayaks, outdoor clothing, gear, and camping accessories can be daunting, especially
for newcomers. We’ve been doing this show for over 30 years, so we have helpful hints for you.
Plan ahead and walk the entire show floor
Read this publication thoroughly, it will give you a good idea of things
to see, people to talk to, and presentations to attend.
Buying A Boat?
Here’s a time-tested strategy for buying a boat at Canoecopia.
Attend all three days
Sit in a lot of boats
Canoecopia offers an opportunity to sit in hundreds of models under
one roof. Make sure to adjust the seat properly and take your time.
Ask a lot of questions
Think about how you’re getting your boat home.
If you’re taking a boat home, we can install your roof rack purchases.
There’s a reason we sell three-day passes.
Every major manufacturer in the paddlesports industry will be there.
They are eager to help! Ask them what makes their product best for
your needs.
Shop early for the best selections
We’ll have plenty of options, but just like Black Friday, show specials
go quickly.
Take care of your body!
Wear comfortable shoes and bring an extra pair of socks, bring a water
bottle and stay hydrated. Get a map from the info booth and highlight
your plan. Shoulders tired? Take advantage of our tote bag check
when you’re tired of carrying heavy items.
Ordering the things you didn’t find
If your heart is set on something special, no problem. Each vendor will
have special order forms to fill in the details. Present the form when
checking out, the Main Register for accessories or Boat Registers for
boats and trailers.
Didn’t plan on taking a boat home but want one anyway?
We’ll put your boat on Layaway and you can pick it up at the shop
until May 31st. We just need a third of the purchase price or $500,
whichever is greater.
Want a boat, but cannot decide by the close of Canoecopia?
Stop by a Boat Register before you leave. A $500 General Boat Deposit
will rain-check the Canoecopia pricing on a boat and paddle gear
accessories purchased the same day at Rutabaga through May 31st.
Trying out boats
Rutabaga’s Layaway or General Boat Deposit gives you an opportunity
to test paddle. Rutabaga’s test paddling begins around April 15th. Call
Rutabaga to confirm.
Used Boat trade-ins
Trade-in your boat at Canoecopia. Please ask for details at the Boat
Pick-up booth or call us at Rutabaga prior to Canoecopia.
P.S. If you’re not satisfied with something that happens during Canoecopia, we want to hear about
it (before you leave!). When something goes awry, we pledge to be honorable in how we fix the
problem. Please go to the customer service desk – we’re never too busy to listen.
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MARCH 2013 CANOECOPIA
Welcome to Canoecopia 2013
“Wilderness is a spiritual necessity. An antidote to the high
pressure of modern life, a means of regaining serenity and
equilibrium. I have found that people go to the wilderness
for many things. but the most important of these is perspective. They go to the wilderness for the good of their souls.”
~ Sigurd Olson
I
t’s a pleasure to introduce the Canoecopia Show Guide, published annually by the Rutabaga Staff. Many of you receiving
this are familiar with Canoecopia, the world’s largest consumer
expo for canoes, kayaks, paddle and camping gear.
If you have no idea what this magazine is, I’d like to inform
you what this wonderful event is all about.
Over 20 years ago, Canoecopia began as a hodge-podge of paddling and camping gear set out on folding tables. A dozen outfitters
came to advertise their services, and we had six or seven presentations. Canoecopia was a baby, and Rutabaga was the mother.
In 1995, Dane County opened the 255,000 square foot Alliant
Energy Center Exhibition Hall and Canoecopia was taken to a new
level. While you may still find a folding table amongst the professionally built displays, the massive expansion of space allowed the
event to quickly grow from humble beginnings to where it’s now
utilizing every nook and cranny the Exhibition Hall has to offer.
From six or seven presentations to nineteen pages of presenters,
even the educational offerings have grown exponentially.
I wish everyone who has been to a Canoecopia could help me
explain what Canoecopia is to those who haven’t. Canoecopia has
elements of a trade show, an educational symposium, a rendezvous,
and a family reunion. It really is like nothing else.
If you’re interested in the outdoors at all, then Canoecopia will
be a joy for you. You’ll find that cyclists, cross-country skiers, backpackers, birders, and photographers love the freedom and perspective paddling can offer.
So welcome to Canoecopia, novice or veteran. I hope you’ll
join our community and see why paddling is such an important part
of our lives.
See you soon,
Darren Bush, Owner and Chief Paddling Evangelist
Rutabaga and Canoecopia
W
e get a lot of questions about the
relationship between Rutabaga and
Canoecopia, and about Rutabaga in general.
The most common question is “Where’s
the Rutabaga booth?” The answer is simple:
it’s all the Rutabaga booth. For three days,
Canoecopia is just an expanded extension of
our shop, with great discounts on boats and
accessories, about two miles to the east at the
Alliant Energy Center.
People also ask us about the origins of
Canoecopia. About 25 years ago, Rutabaga
was in an old grocery store on Park Street
(if you drive past 820 South Park, you’ll
see Madison Church Supply. That’s the old
Rutabaga).
The original owner had a few of his friends
from a few canoe companies bring in a few
dozen boats to sell in the parking lot. From
the Dane County Fairgrounds to the Alliant
Follow us on Twitter at Rutabagapaddler and at www.facebook.com/rutabaga
Energy Center, Canoecopia has grown to the
world’s largest paddlesports expo.
Another common one: “Why the name
Rutabaga?” The original founder had an unexplained fondness for Frank Zappa. Google
“Call Any Vegetable.”
Last question: “How do I find what I
want? There’s so much to see ...”
Ask someone at Customer Service. We’ll
walk you through the process.
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MARCH 2013 CANOECOPIA
The Making of Canoecopia
W
e are often asked “Who plans
Canoecopia and when do you start?”
The answer – it’s a Rutabaga staff team effort
and a year-round process. Here’s an idea, let’s
backtrack:
The Day After Canoecopia
We sleep, paddle, or both. It’s an official
Rutabaga Holiday.
The Week After Canoecopia
The store is essentially emptied of everything
during Canoecopia, so it all has to be put
back together. It’s kind of like watching a
tornado in reverse. Reams of paperwork and
custom orders are processed. We debrief
and start reviewing feedback to make
improvements for next year.
April 15
Test paddle starts! All those Canoecopians
waiting to try out their boats descend upon
Rutabaga. By now, the store is ready for the
paddling season.
May – July
We take a break from show planning and
launch into our Summer season.
August
We attend the Outdoor Retailer Summer
Market where we work tirelessly to find
new products from the most innovative
companies. The meetings start. We begin to
invite vendors to return. With a full show, we
need to plan every square foot carefully.
We begin readying the Canoecopia website
and updating it with the latest information.
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September and October
We furiously write orders for product
delivery between January and March 1.
We invite exhibitors and newly discovered
manufacturers to attend. Speaker proposals
are received and reviewed to create the right
balance of returning/new speakers and a
wide range of topics.
Wednesday before Canoecopia
Rutabaga closes the shop for a week as
we pack final product and tear apart the
store. Darren Bush, the owner, chats about
paddling with Larry Meiller on Public
Radio. Rental trucks are loaded with fixtures,
carpeting, signs, and more. The computer
backbone is finally disassembled.
November
Time to iron out details. Security,
communication, and childcare is arranged.
The floor plan and speaker schedule are full
and we start a waiting list.
Thursday Before Canoecopia
Rutabaga moves to the AEC. Semi-trailers
are unloaded. Non-stop trailer loads of canoes
and kayaks arrive. Vendors begin setting up
their booths. By late afternoon the computer
network has awakened.
December
The Canoecopia Show Guide begins to take
shape. Our Graphics Designer places ads
and features with an artistic eye. We begin
recruiting workers for the weekend; we
couldn’t do Canoecopia without them.
January
Time for software updates and to make
sure the 40-plus Canoecopia computers still
function. We solidify details with the Alliant
Energy Center, down to the number of tables
and chairs. Orders are still being written.
February
Canoecopia Show Guide mails to 55,000
people. The Canoecopia website goes live
with content for vendors, exhibitors, and
speakers. Product streams in, via freight or
UPS to the store daily. We receive, tag and
repack product into two semi-trailers. We
confirm workers’ schedules.
Friday Morning of Canoecopia
The AEC is bustling with activity. Exhibitors
and vendors are checking in, misplaced boxes
are finally found, last-minute booth set up
is finished, and a crash course is given to
weekend workers.
Friday at 4:00pm thru Sunday at 5:00pm
It’s showtime! (this is the easy part.)
Sunday Night
We have ~5 hours to vacate the AEC. It’s
intense as we pack up the entire show.
Around 11:00 p.m., our planning staff meets
at Angelo’s to eat huge amounts of very good
pizza. Darren offers heart-felt thanks and
gratitude for his amazing staff.
After the celebration, with stiff legs, we
stagger home to dream about next year’s
show. That’s how it’s been done for 30 years,
and every year it seems easier.
SIERRA CLUB
“Rivers are roads which move, and which carry us whither we
desire to go.” - Blaise Pascal
O
nce again, Rutabaga Paddlesports and Canoecopia are
proud to welcome Sierra Magazine as a sponsor. Sierra
Magazine has been vital in getting the word out to
anyone who is involved with the Sierra Club; subscribers, clubs
and anyone else interested in protecting and preserving the spaces
where we all play. Sierra Magazine also helps us get out the word
about Canoecopia. We’re grateful for that.
We believe in getting everyone outside, and one of our charities for Canoecopia is Sierra Club’s Inner City Outings, a program
that brings inner city kids in touch with nature. If you’re reading
this you know the contribution that being outside has to your own
mental well-being, and you know that it’s very important for kids
to experience the outdoors.
Both Rutabaga Paddlesports and Sierra Inner City Outings
would like to issue you a challenge. In 2013, take one kid into
nature who otherwise wouldn’t be able to go. Teach him or her
to light a campfire and roast a marshmallow. As routine as that
might be for you, it’s an amazing experience for a kid who has
never done it. That simple act can change a life forever.
SIERRA READERS
LOVE TO PADDLE!
26% Own a canoe
17% Own a kayak
25% Whitewater
29% Tour
77% Recreation
35% Long Weekend
71% Local Day Trips
19% Expedition of 5
days or more
34% Wear paddling-specific clothing
45% Fish from a canoe or kayak
SIERRA is committed to help grow the paddling sport community.
The Sierra Club and its one million + members have been paddling, fishing and protecting our waterways for more
than 100 years. We encourage our members to explore and enjoy the waterways by providing paddling clinics and
trips nationwide through our Sierra Club Outings program. Sierra has regular paddling features, reviews the latest
in paddling gear, and publishes an Annual Paddling Issue every spring.
For more information contact
kristi.rummel@sierraclub.org
Stop by our booth for some free stuff!
· Copy of SIERRA’s Annual Outings Adventure Travel Issue.
· Wisconsin Sierra Club river touring trip listing.
· Daily raffle
WHAT’S NEW
If we tried to put everything new in the outdoor gear world in here, we’d need a phone book. We started with a list of hundreds of items and
narrowed it down. What shook out was what we decided to be the most interesting. As usual, there’s little that’s revolutionary, but rather a lot
that’s evolutionary. You’ll see incremental improvements in a lot of products.
You’ll see a lot of improvement in the world of kayak seats: a happy bum is a happy paddler. You’ll also notice better and more sophisticated outfitting and hardware, plus lighter and stronger materials. Designs continue to evolve with boats as well as paddles and other paddling gear. Clothing
shows more technical fabrics and cool features. Explore Canoecopia, we’ve found a lot of neat stuff this year!
As a small business supported by a community of paddlers, we thoughtfully support domestically
produced products. Look for the patriotic icon indicating products manufactured in the United States.
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1. GoPro
The standard in personal video has been raised yet another level with the new Hero3. Choose from the basic
White Edition, the upgraded Silver Edition, and the “I can’t believe this is real” Black Edition. The Black Edition
shoots super-hi-res at 60 frames per second. All three versions can be controlled via Wi-Fi remote (included in the
Black Edition) or via an app on your cell phone. Prepare to be mesmerized by the awesome videos.
2. Goal Zero
Solar power has been out of reach for a
lot of us…until now. Since last summer
we’ve been testing a Guide 10 Plus and
it is the bomb. It will charge any USB
chargeable item with 7 watts of power,
and comes with a battery pack to charge
AA’s included with the kit. The built-in
flashlight helps you find what you need
to hook things up.
4. Thermarest
Climbing Everest this year? How about
thru-hiking the Appalachian Trail? We’re
not either, which is why our toothbrushes are full
length and our Dutch ovens are cast iron. Thermarest
brings you the most comfortable night of rest
under the stars with the ultra-compact and
lightweight LuxeryLite Cots. Ouncecounters need not apply, but the
rest of us will be at the
Thermarest booth
catching some
Zzz’s.
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MARCH 2013 CANOECOPIA
3. Grower’s Cup
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A lot of paddlers like freshly-brewed
coffee but don’t want to carry all the
accoutrements. Grower’s Cup Single
Brew is a great solution. Think of it as
a coffee pot in a self-contained package.
Peel open, add hot water, and within a few
minutes you have hot coffee ready to go.
Not just a backcountry caffeine fix, but
a darned good cup o’ joe in any setting.
Found in the Sport Hansa Booth.
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6. Pyranha
5. Liberty Bottleworks
In our never-ending quest for
things made in the USA, we
found this awesome bottle
company. We liked the product
so much we emblazed them with
our 20 year-old Jolly ‘Baga logo
(the one that was on our Grand
Opening t-shirt) imprinted on
the bottles. They’re made in the
Pacific Northwest from recycled
aluminum and they’re gorgeous.
Found in the Rutabaga booth.
The fusion family is now complete: Small,
Medium, and Large. The mega Fusion is the same
design as her two smaller sisters, but now the
big guys can have the same fun as the
rest of the gang. When you’re
not running rapids, drop
the skeg to keep pointed
where you want to go.
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7. Sea-Lect
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We could write a review for
the new Performance Hatch
Covers with only two words:
they float. Yes, hatch covers that
float, that are rot-resistant, and
are easier to put on and take off
than the factory hatches. Hatch
covers may not be your priority
... that is until one fails. Plan
ahead!
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8. Wetterlings Axes
What’s old is new! We’ve become connoisseurs of Swedish
Axes at Rutabaga. Wetterlings are the second line of fine axes we
carry. Their workmanship and dependability justify the cost over
the typical “sharp for a season” hardware store special. They’re
worth every penny. Find them in the Sport Hansa booth.
9. Instafire
Okay, this stuff is cool. Imagine a biodegrable
firestarter that comes in pellets, is non-toxic,
and can burn while floating in a bucket of
water. Imagine carrying a little baggie of this
in your kit and starting a fire in the rain with
damp twigs. Purists would rather discuss
firestarting theory, but in the meantime, your
dinner is ready first.
Found in the
Rutabaga Booth.
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11. Kokatat
The Icon Drysuit was developed
in cooperation with EJ and Dane
Jackson with an eye toward
whitewater, but anyone who is hard
on their gear will appreciate the extra
abrasion resistance built into the
legs, shoulders, and arms. The rearentry zipper eliminates the mobility
hampering stiffness of a traditional
drysuit and improves the fit. There’s
nothing subtle about the Icon.
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10. Sawyer
A total re-do, the
Ranger features a
smaller blade and
grip for smaller folks
(women will love
this paddle), the
Ranger series has two
variations: the Ranger
LT, a nice, light cedar
laminate paddle with a
grip for smaller hands,
and the Ranger XD,
same shape but tough
and heavy duty, with
carbon reinforcing. The
Stingray has a large
blade and grip, slight
scoop to the blade, and
available in LT and XD
versions. If you’re a
raft guide, a Stingray
XD will be passed on to
your children.
Every pack is made
by hand in Duluth, MN.
Crazy, isn’t it?
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WATCH US AT WORK
IN OUR BOOTH
IN BOOTH #4
Old No. 7 Canoe Pack
AUTHENTIC WAXED CANVAS CANOE PACKS, BAGS & GIFTS
FIND US ON
FACEBOOK
Shop at FROSTRIVER.COM
www.BuildMyCanoe.com
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12. Aquabound
Not a new paddle, but a new way of putting a kayak paddle
together. The Posi-Lok ferrule clicks positively into position
featuring strong, corrosion-free composites. It’s bright, making
it easy to see and adjust, which is awesome.
13. BIC
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Wood-art rafter ornaments
Hardly Explore cedar strip canoes
BIC has a new family of boards designed for flatwater touring and recreational racing using its
popular Ace-Tec construction, the Wing 11’ and
Wing 12’6”. The Wings are built with recessed
fittings for tying down a deck bag or adding bungee
cord to strap a pack on your board for touring.
NorthWest Canoe, Saint Paul, Minnesota
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14. Level Six
15. Astral Buoyancy
Water shoes that can
actually function well
and look cool at the
same time; Astral
Buoyancy’s new
watershoes are quick
dry, super sticky on
the sole and look, dare
we say, stylish. Wear
them from river to
supermarket and no
one will notice. The
Brewer is shown here,
but Astral’s offering
a total of four models
with different features.
The Jasper and Pelee
are men’s and women’s
versions of the same
jacket; a recreational
paddling jacket that can
double as a raincoat.
Lower priced than many
waterproof/breathable
jackets, these jackets
are great additions to
value-minded paddlers.
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16. Seals Sprayskirts
We turned this piece of safety gear up to 11!
We’re having Seals Sprayskirts make this
custom Rutabaga Paddle Float with a HiVis Yellow-Green. Compared to standard
yellow, this color assaults your retinas.
Safety gear can never be too visible. Found
in Rutabaga Booth.
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17. Underwater Kinetics
We’ve broken our share of hangers and had PFDs slide
off them onto the floor. No more. Your gear will dry
easier, retain its shape, and not fall off the hanger. The
Super Accessory Hanger is the ultimate gear hanger,
with bonus hooks to dry your hand and footwear too.
Found in Rutabaga Booth.
18. Badger Paddle
A new addition to Canoecopia last year, Badger
Paddles proved that people still love traditional
paddles. We all loved the Tripper but Badger Paddle
wasn’t satisfied; they tweaked a great design to make
it even greater. The blade has been reshaped and is
just a tad larger. The paddle looks awesome.
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19. E-Case
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SUPERIOR
ONE
20. Whispbar
There are some pretty cool smart
phone apps for outdoor lovers; guide
books, navigation apps, and so on.
With the advent of inexpensive
solar technology, there are good
reasons to keep your gadgets with
you, and keep them dry. E-Case
are individually tested to withstand
30 minutes under three feet of
water, and they’re made in Seattle,
Washington. Cool.
The sexy new kayak mounts from Whispbar are
designed to seamlessly merge with the Whisbar system,
with Quickdock attachment points making for easy on
and off, while also morphing into “quiet mode” when
not carrying a kayak. Choose from the upright Saddle
Mount WB401 or the folding J-Cradle Mount WB400.
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23. Sawyer
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Kids paddles should be functional and
stylish too! The Sawyer Tales feature a
cool graphic on one side (your choice of
dragonfly, trout, beaver or otter) and a place
to record their favorite trip tales and dates.
21. Native Watercraft
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You’d expect a boat like the Slayer from the folks who practically
invented the fishing kayak. Bow and stern self-bailing hatches, First
Class High Low seating for comfort, visibility, stability, and a tagalong wheel to help you get it from the car to the water. Groove track
system comes standard allowing for a ton of customization options.
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22. MTI
The Voyager is the premium
high-back PFD from MTI,
and the design is lovely. Big
pockets for eyeglasses, ID
patch, fleece-lined pockets,
extra-long zipper pulls; it’s a
great vest for people whose
hands are always cold or not as
dexterous as they once were.
capitalbrewery.com
24. Chota
The Caney Fork Boot has a facelift! Already
a favorite for those long portages in the northwoods, the Caney Fork Boot now has heel wedge
making it easier to remove and a new cut for
improved fit. Whether this is your first portage
boot or a replacement, you’ll love these boots.
Middleton, WI
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25. Seaward Kayaks
Constructed in British Columbia,
Seaward is a new brand to
Canoecopia and Rutabaga
Paddlesports. Known for their
bomb-proof construction with
composite bulkheads, doubletaped seams and reinforced decks,
Seaward kayaks are in demand
by outfitters who like their
dependability.
Their kayaks offer a nice array
of choices, from the sleek gearswallowing Tyee, to the versatile
smaller-paddler specific Luna.
Another hot kayak from Seaward
is the Passat G3 tandem. Fast
and seaworthy, the Passat G3
regularly wins long-distance races
and takes expedition paddlers on
epic journeys.
26. Current Designs
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There’s a new recreational boat
family in town. Three sizes and
in durable plastic or in Current
Design’s lightweight Hybrid
construction. The Solara series
offers extra stability, roomy
cockpit, and their “adjust
everything” comfy seat.
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27. NRS
A favorite already, the Chinook PFD has enjoyed
a facelift, new colors and pockets that hold a little
more but are still unobtrusive. It’s now optimized
for gear retractors so no more lost pliers.
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28. Delta
The Delta 15 is
sporty little kayak
that’ll handle waters
big and small.
Think of it as the
sports car coupe
of kayaks. Room
enough to trip, fun
to paddle empty, and
lightweight enough
to load up on the
car solo; weighing
around 10 pounds
less than similar
boats. A center day
hatch in front of
the cockpit is the
finishing touch; a
convenient place for
a camera or Clif bar
(or a Slim Jim if you
coil it up).
29. Kokatat
A low-profile whitewater vest, the Maximus (and the rescue
version, the Maximus Prime) features Kokatat’s new Dynamic
Suspension system that hugs the body and moves with your
torso. This is an extremely comfortable high-performance PFD.
30. Hurricane Aquasports
www.CanoeSkidPlate.com
Savvy paddlers see
Protection for
Less than a Pound
Tons of
The Skimmer 116 is the lightest sit-on-top kayak we’ve ever
sold at 40 pounds. The Skimmer 128 is a little longer but also
narrower to make it an easy paddle. The news from Hurricane
isn’t just a few new kayaks; it’s a new seat! The AireStream
Seatback is a really nice upgrade; ventilated and super-adjustable.
The seat adds to an already awesome line-up of kayaks.
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31. Perception
The Expression 11.5 comes in at just under 12 feet long, and it packs a lot of features into a
smaller kayak. A drop skeg will aide tracking ability, and the roomy cockpit and comfortable
Perception Zone Seating makes it a winner. Did we mention it’s light? 44 pounds!
Don’t ever spill your
drink again!
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Mix and match to make
your favorite colors!
32. Old Town
Old Town has done a great job here. A true kid’s boat, the Heron Jr is a nimble, lightweight,
and comfortable kayak, and the tag-along built-in tow-rope is brilliant if the kids get pooped
out; the price is low enough that kids can get started early with gear that fits them.
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Tailgating, Camping,
Backyard games,
or anywhere you go!
www.drinkinpartner.com
Handcrafted • Hand Tinted • Hand Rubbed
33. NRS
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Our most popular
paddling bootie, the
Paddle Wetshoe, has
been totally redesigned for
2013 with an improved
fit and cozy fleece-like
lining. The Freestyle is
a redesign and rename of
the venerable Desperado
Sock. The super-soft sole
fits into low-volume boats
and is perfect for SUP
minimalists.
WaterColours ™
For Kids ‘n Cubs Too!
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Every Badger® Paddle includes*
a re-usable Badger® Paddle Sock
*Adult lengths only
34. Jackson Kayak
The Cuda 14-footer was a huge hit from the get-go, and the smaller Cuda 12
makes a lot of sense for smaller waterways. Same Elite hi/lo seat and center
hatch for lots of storage, rod holders everywhere, a new and improved rod tip
protector. Jackson Kayaks are now GoPro camera and RAM Mount ready!
35. Lendal
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Lendal’s line expands this year with
the addition of new low-angle blades
Ocean Spirit and smaller Sea Breeze.
Taking a cue from the aerospace industry,
Lendal’s replaced composite ferrules with
titanium for a more dependable, durable,
bombproof improvement. We wouldn’t
expect anything less from Lendal. The
long absent Lendal Whitewater paddle
range also returns this year. Their booth
is the one flanked by the
puddles of drool.
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36. Venture Kayaks
We expected the Islay 14 last Spring, but it was delayed. It was worth the
wait as it’s an awesome little boat, maneuverable in moving water and surfing
waves, but stable and predictable enough for a beginner. If your favorite water
is a mixture of flat, moving and white, consider the Islay a front-runner.
www.LENDALNA.com
37. Malone Autoracks
The original HandiRack is great
for canoes and kayaks, but for
loads lighter than 50 lbs, the
HR20 works equally well. It’s
a perfect solution for a SUP
board on a rack-less car
that’s both economical
and easy to use.
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39. Shred Ready
38
38. LifeProof
Seems like iPhones are pretty
much standard issue, even for the
outdoorsy folks. More than anyone,
we need a phone case that will take
the abuse that only we can hand out.
Waterproof and shock resistance,
LifeProof cases add peace of mind to
the connected paddler. Found in the
Rutabaga Booth.
Shred Ready makes some of the sharpest
looking helmets in the industry. This year’s
crop of Limited Edition offerings are as
snazzy as they are safe. Last year they sold
out completely so make sure to find your
favorite early.
39
MTI-Canoecopia ad_MTI-Canecopia ad 11/13/12 1:49 PM Page 1
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40. Yakima
Do you already have a factory car rack and all
you carry is a canoe? Problem solved. The new
KeelOver clamps to any crossbar: factory, round,
square, or any other shape within reason. Includes
straps and bow/stern tie-downs. Thanks Yakima.
42. Werner Paddles
Werner didn’t feel it necessary
to improve their already great
paddles this year. So instead,
they gave us a splash of
color. The new patterns
definitely look sharp.
42
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41. Nova Craft
43. Surftech
The venerable
Bark Dominator
has been around
for a while and
wins more than
its share of
races. The Bark
Competitor’s
design is rooted
in that of the
Dominator,
but in a more
recreational,
user-friendly
shape that’s still
lightening fast.
A classic river running canoe is rediscovered in the Moisee. Strongly reminiscent of the
venerable Blue Hole Sunburst, the Moisee is perfect for running Class I-III whitewater,
and maybe some bigger stuff if you have the skills. The Moisee isn’t as versatile as the
Prospector series, but it’s an amazingly fun canoe in its element.
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43
Boat Materials
are our Specialty
Lumber
African Mahogany
Sitka Spruce (V.G.)
Douglas Fir
Western Red Cedar
White Oak
Plywood
Okoume - marine
Meranti - marine
Finnish Birch
BS1088 - Lloyd’s Register
Certified selections
Adhesives
Full line of West System Epoxy
3156 Milwaukee Street
Madison, Wisconsin 53714
(608) 244-4741
mccormicklumber.com
46. Wind Paddle
44. ZEM
ZEM’s H2O line of footwear offers protection and barefoot sensation in a snug
fitting, grippy outsole. Designed as a lowprofile footwear specifically for paddlers
thats perfect for kayaking and SUPing.
44
The sun is your friend except when it isn’t. The
Kayak Bimini is a great addition for the kayaker
who wants to love the sun but on his or her own
terms. Want a little warmth? Pop it down in
seconds. Feeling a little red around the neck?
Deploy the bimini faster than you can reach for the
sunblock. The bimini will safely collapse in case
of a strong gust of wind ... it won’t turn you upside
down. Cool, eh?
45. YakAttack Outfitting
YakAttack products are innovative solutions for the paddler and fishing gurus
in us all. Their Screwball mounts offer quick mounting with most track systems. Don’t have accessory tracks on your boat? GearTracs can be installed
on any nearly flat surface. If creating your own paddling video is your desire,
add the PanFish Camera Pole to your arsenal for those great over-the-shoulder shots. Yak Attack can be found in the Harmony Gear booth.
45
46
time - a simpler place.
We know; we lived it with you.
It was a simpler
Rediscover the joy, the excitement, the feeling
of being on the water.
A young family enjoys an afternoon
on Lake Winona in the then newly
released Sundowner; ca. 1979.
Today Wenonah Canoes are enjoyed
by families the world over.
47. Malone Autoracks
Some of the most common questions we hear from customers is about storage. Malone’s FS Rack System takes care
of storage, whether it’s in the garage or toolshed, under the
porch at the cabin, or even bolted to your dock. You won’t
believe how inexpensive organizing your boat can be!
47
49. Ram Mounts
48. Sandbar MFG
The Sandbar Flatfire Charcoal
Chimney is cool. Charcoal
chimneys are the best to get your
dinner started and this one folds!
Sure, backpackers will leave this
behind, but river trippers will love
it. A 30 liter dry bag holds charcoal
nicely…and your Dutch oven
cooking just went to a gourmet
level. Find it and other great sand
camping items at the NRS booth.
48
Stop by and visit us at our display
and see all the new models!
2012 Subaru
Subaru Forester
2013
Forester
Start salivating now, boat
geeks. If you want to attach
anything to your boat, Ram
Mounts are awesome. The
defining RAM feature is a
ball joint, which means
universal adjustment: tweak
your GPS or fish finder’s
mount until the glare is gone.
Ram Mounts have been
around for years and are
bombproof. Found in the
Harmony Gear booth.
49
Proud Automotive
Sponsor of the
Canoecopia 2013
2012
2012 Subaru
2013
Subaru Outback
Outback
Two Locations to Serve You!
5339 Wayne Terrace
Madison • 608-258-3636
SALES: Mon. - Thurs. 9am-8pm; Fri. 9am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm
SERVICE: Mon. - Fri. 7am-5:30pm; Sat. 8am-1pm
5822 Odana Road
(at Tokay Blvd.) • 608-442-3232
SALES: Mon. - Thurs. 9am-8pm; Fri. 9am-6pm; Sat. 9am-5pm
SERVICE: Mon. - Fri. 7am-5:30pm; Sat. 8am-1pm
www.donmiller.com
50. Wilderness Systems
The Wilderness Systems Phase 3 Air
Pro is a cooool seat ... the vents in
both the back rest pad and the seat pad
allow air to flow to your back and bum
keeping you cool and comfy all day.
They have also upgraded the previous
under thigh adjustments, seat reclining
strap, and seat back height adjuster to
a centralized point just in front of the
seat between your legs making on the
water adjustments safe and simple to
perform.
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51. Cooke Custom Sewing
51
If you want the creme de la creme of barrel packs, this one is gorgeous. Available
in 30 and 60 liter sizes, the Barrel Pack
features two side pockets and a spacious
top pocket in addition to the cavernous
space inside the barrel. You’ll appreciate
this Boundary Waters tested, Minnesotan
made, evolution in pack design.
Canoecopia 2013.indd 1
www.WildernessSystems.com
11/30/2012 10:20:32 AM
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52. C4 Waterman X-Wing Paddles
C4’s Bic paddles are light, strong, and designed to transfer all your
energy to the water. Carbon fiber makes the paddle shaft stiff, and a
dihedral blade means less flutter and slipping.
P.S. You can make your own Star Wars joke now.
53. Thule
If you have an open-bed pickup truck and need a burly rack system, the Xsporter Pro rocks. With a capacity of 450 pounds and
the ability to adjust infinitely up and down to match your need
makes the Xsporter perfect for any truck. It locks to the truck
using a single key and sports aerodynamic bars to keep things
quiet. Rutabaga has an earlier version of this rack on their store
truck and the staff loves it!
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54. C4 Waterman
Interested in Stand-UpPaddling but you want a
more flatwater-friendly
board? The Switchblade and
Wahine Cruiser are two
SUPs from C4 Waterman
designed for more stability
while still paddling as
straight as a race board.
Satisfying beginnings
to intermediate paddlers
planning to spend the most
time on Midwest waters, i.e.,
not surfing. Switchblade’s
the board for a larger person;
the Wahine (Hawaiian for
“woman”) is for…wait for
it ... women!
54
Coming to Canoecopia 2013
ST ONE
ver wish you had that California feeling—wind, sand, surf, board shorts, and flip
flops—that you were in a tropical place, with the bluest of waters all around you?
You can almost feel that way on a SUP (Stand Up Paddleboard), even on our local
chain of lakes. Yes it’s far reaching, turning Lake Monona into the Caribbean Sea, anything
is possible!
Stand Up Paddleboarding has taken off in the Midwest and we are poised at Rutabaga
Paddlesports to ride this wave. If you can sit, kneel, stand, and occasionally balance on one
leg, you can SUP! You can explore all types of waterways—just flip through the pages of
SUP Magazine to see the amazing places one can venture. What’s great about these boards
is that they are minimalist in nature. One only needs the board, a paddle, and lifevest. (You
might think that’s all that you need for canoeing and kayaking as well, until you realize
that there are places to put more gear and so you bring more gear!) Most boards stocked
at Rutabaga are lightweight (under 35lbs) and with a little practice, an easy load onto your
vehicle’s factory rack or an inflatable roof rack.
SUP boards are used to surf, and for flat water racing and cruising. Some enthusiasts
practice yoga on the board, for the best balance and body awareness you can find. You can
even rig out the board with fishing accessories. The benefit to stand up paddling is that while
you are having fun exploring your favorite waterways, the paddle stroke engages the large
muscles groups of your shoulders and back, strengthens your core, tightens your gluts, and
improves your posture. We all want to be fit without feeling like it’s work, SUP provides that
fun workout.
Providing opportunities for kids to get outdoors is one of our priorities. SUP is great for
family outings on the water. Jumping off the board on a hot summer day and climbing back
on is the best feeling. There are multiple boards that can be shared, and adjustable paddles
are available to make the experience more fun and enjoyable. Demo boards, rentals, and
classes are available in season at Rutabaga, come see what all the SUP fuss is about!
Ranger X
SASHA
Kids Tales - Dragonfly
E
FUN!
ANNIVERSARY
Sting Ray XD
STAND
UP
FOR
Stand Up Paddle Days at Rutabaga
June 21st, 22nd and 23rd, 2013
Discover the fun & excitement of SUP!
n A full day of SUP classes
on Saturday
n Fun races, contests & obstacle
course – Prizes!
n Demo a variety of boards
n Door Prizes, discounts & more!
Call Rutabaga for more information
Paddles and Oars.com
whitewater the Moisie will get you through
and keep your heart pounding!
The Moisie 16'6"
Named after one of the most beautiful wild
Length 16' 6"
Beam 34"
Weight 78 lbs.
Capacity 1100 lbs.
rivers of North America, this exciting canoe will
Shallow Arch
High Volume Ends
Symmetrical
Moderate Rocker
appeal to seasoned paddlers with a taste for
whitewater. Extremely responsive under the
toughest conditions, the Moisie is perfect for
turn-on-a-dime action... even when carrying
a big load!
novacraft.com
866 88 CANOE
B
THE
BOAT
THAT MATCHES YOUR LIFE
KEVIN CALLAN
uying a canoe has a similar feel to purchasing a vehicle.
You become somewhat obsessed by it. You’re life quickly
becomes fixated, overwhelmed by the various brands,
design, price, practicality, and popularity. It’s not long before you
begin bombarding your friends with questions of what boat they
would recommend and you browse on-line blogs and chat forums
until your eyes become blurred.
Parents with a mini-van usually end up with a seventeen foot plus
canoe with extra storage capacity; sports car drivers buy a bananashaped whitewater boat with incredible rocker; and middle-aged
couples owning SUVs end up with a traditional prospector canoe.
Then there’s the “cream puff” buyers—those looking for
something used but in mint condition. This isn’t a bad choice overall;
especially if you’re only going to find yourself paddling a week or
two a year. It’s important, however, to go to a reputable dealer. They
usually sell off their good used stock in hopes to have you return for a
brand-new model. It’s a tactic that you could use in your favour.
Car-sharing is also a growing fad—and so is joining an outdoor
club and borrowing their boats, gear and, expertise. It’s cost effective
and convenient—not to mention a great way to meet people.
In the end, the canoe you eventually buy, rent, or borrow is the
one that matches your lifestyle and your pocket book. Again, it’s
similar to purchasing a vehicle, except for one major difference—to
most people a vehicle is a necessity of life; an indispensable item
that would be difficult to live without. A canoe isn’t (but it should
be). That’s why I think the most crucial element when looking for
your next canoe is that you make sure you end up using it. Lately
I’ve seen way too many boats stored in backyards sheds without a
single scratch on them. The average paddler these days spends under
40 hours on the water each season. My average is 60 days a year—
and each of my half-dozen canoes in my backyard have multiple
scratches—including the one I used years ago while researching my
very first guide book on Ontario canoe routes. I picked it out of the
dump. It was heavy, cracked, and made of fiberglass with no brand
name or apparent design. But it’s what I could afford at time—and
I’ve paddled the heck out of it ever since.
Photo: Gail Shields
WHITEWATER OC1 The Ocoee is the most popular solo whitewater canoe ever produced. Revered by advanced
and expert boaters alike, it’s also a great choice for entry level paddlers. The Ocoee’s flexibility
is remarkable for creeking and general river running and it is an outstanding OC1 for slalom.
The pronounced rocker and flat bottom will let it make radical moves in style. The boat
holds its momentum and angle, carves effortlessly, loves to surf and runs with unmatched
dryness. With practice the Ocoee is definitely a canoe that anyone can handle.
The hard chine gives the hull solid secondary stability when leaned on its edge which
makes for tighter turns and lets you snap it in and out of eddies with ease. The Ocoee is
quite predictable, while still able to accomplish dynamic and aggressive maneuvers in
the most challenging whitewater.
The Ocoee still remains
at the head of its class.
novacraft.com
866 88 CANOE
PRESENTATIONS
Our Presentations for
2013
= Ontario, Canada Presenters
John Bates
Paddling Northwoods Gems:
A Naturalist’s Guide
Paddling wild lakes and rivers offers the
chance to experience remarkable beauty and
silence. Northern Wisconsin offers many
smaller places to paddle that can satisfy
one’s soul. We’ll offer a sampling, from a
naturalist’s perspective, of the best lakes and
rivers that we know to paddle.
2013 has produced an abundant crop of
presentations that we hope will inform,
entertain, and inspire you. With over 100
topics, the hard part may be deciding
which to see! For more information and
speaker bios, please see our website at:
www.canoecopia.com
= Pool demos, Clarion Hotel
seen through the lens of Far Side, Calvin and
Hobbes, and other comics. Laugh your way
to knowing more about wildlife while you’re
paddling.
lakes and 244 campsites. You will learn how
to plan your trip for maximum enjoyment of
Isle Royale’s extensive wilderness.
Darryl Blazino
Top 20 Places to visit in Quetico Park
Discover 20 sites to visit within the
world’s premier canoeing park. Quetico.
Breathtaking photographs and video of
fascinating locales, moose encounters, giant
walleye and all of Quetico’s finest scenery
will spark a wide variety of ideas for your
next canoe trip.
Alec & Sharon Bloyd-Peshkin
The scramble demystified
The scramble self-rescue is essential, quick
and useful in most conditions, yet many sea
kayakers view it as advanced or difficult. In
this presentation, we will demonstrate and
troubleshoot the scramble, offering tips,
activities and exercises to make you more
successful.
John Bates
Greg Blust
The Farthest Side of Wildlife Ecology
The Big Bang, evolution, natural selection,
population dynamics, adaptations,
reproductive strategies, animal behavior,
migration, wildlife management - here’s
Wildlife Ecology 101 in less than an hour,
26
n
MARCH 2013 CANOECOPIA
Exploring an Island Wilderness Isle Royale National Park
Isle Royale offers unparalleled opportunities
for canoe and kayak enthusiasts. The main
island is crisscrossed with over 165 miles of
trails, 9 miles of canoe portages, 50 inland
Todd Bradley
Todd Bradley
Brought to you by C4 Waterman
SUP: Its Roots, Culture and Its Future
SUP (Stand Up Paddling) has exploded in
popularity. With roots in Hawaii’s waterman
culture and Aloha spirit, the sport transcends
its Beachboy tradition and comes to inland
waters. Todd will teach you to recognize the
differences in types of equipment and offer
hints for quicker learning and better health.
Mahalo!
Stephen Brede
Solo Canoe around Lake Michigan
Stephen Brede paddled his canoe around
Lake Michigan in 2010. Traveling
counterclockwise from Petoskey, Mich., he
island hopped from Michigan’s remote Upper
Peninsula to Wisconsin’s Door Peninsula,
dodged vessels of all kinds in the ports of
Milwaukee and Chicago, and marveled at the
endless sand dunes of Michigan’s west coast.
Julie Brown
Too Hot, Too Cold - Make it Just Right
It’s usually too hot, or too cold and hardly
ever “just right.” Most of us are adept at
dressing for the conditions, but what if it’s
not enough? Using real life incidents, we will
examine signs, symptoms, and treatment for
a continuum of cold and heat related injuries.
John Browning
Chart Prep and Navigational Tools
A key part of planning any sea kayaking
trip is the preparation of your navigational
charts. Learn about and practice with some
of the tools of the trade. There will also be a
discussion on interpreting weather maps.
Reading a Navigational Chart
In this hands-on workshop you’ll practice the
basics of using a navigational chart. You’ll
begin to learn what all those symbols, colors
and numbers mean, and where to go to learn
more. You’ll learn what some of the key
points are for sea kayakers to recognize.
Wilderness First Aid
Do you know what to do when faced with an
illness or injury away from “civilization?”
Get some tips for being prepared, and most
importantly on prevention of wilderness
injuries and illnesses. This is not a substitute
for a wilderness first aid course.
Nigel Dennis
40 Years of Expeditions
Nigel Dennis has thousands of miles under
his hull. Well-known for the first circumnavigation of the British isles in 1980, Nigel
continues to paddle into remote and sometimes treacherous locations. Nigel can share
a wealth of knowledge on how to prepare
for trips, even if yours are just a few days.
There’s always something to learn from
Nigel!
HEAD TURNING AESTHETICS,
SECOND-TO-NONE PERFORMANCE
Tips for Enjoying
Canoecopia Speakers
● Read the presentation descriptions to
decide who and what to see. The Exhibition Hall is large; plan enough walking
time to not be late, especially on Saturday
when the aisles can be crowded.
● Some presentations are only offered on
Friday and Sunday. Many presentations are
standing room only on Saturday; try seeing
those speakers on Friday or Sunday for
better seats.
● The pool sessions have a limit of 99
attendees for each time slot. Please arrive
early to assure your spot.
● Strategically use speaker presentations
as an opportunity to sit down and rest.
Your feet will appreciate the break!
Changes to the Speaker Schedule will be
posted at the Canoecopia Information
Booth and in the Speaker Room area. Also
check the Canoecopia website for updates.
WB400
KAYAK J CRADLE
PREMIER J CRADLES AND SADDLES
WB401
KAYAK SADDLE
The new line of boat products built with the same cutting edge design, aesthetics and performance
you have come to expect from the worlds most elegant roof rack system. Come see the new Whispbar
boat accessories at the Yakima booth. whispbar.com
Kevin Callan
Cascade Designs Service Team
Looking for Ghosts in Woodland Caribou
Author and film maker Kevin Callan and
his buddy Andy embarked on a wild (and
humorous) two week canoe trip across
Woodland Caribou Provincial Park. Through
film and photos he’ll show how this park is a
unique prairie boreal forest, a chunk of vast
wilderness that’s like no other place.
How to Clean & Maintain an MSR Stove
How often should you clean your stove? How
should you best maintain it? What if it stops
working while camping? Come learn how
to clean and maintain your MSR stove to
prevent problems on the trail. Learn tips from
an MSR expert.
2013 marks the tenth season in which
volunteer paddlers of The Wabakimi Project
will explore and map the canoe routes of
Northwestern Ontario within Wabakimi
Provincial Park and on the adjacent Crown
lands. In doing so, they help promote the
Wabakimi area as a world-class wilderness
canoeing destination.
John Chase
Christopher Crowhurst
Functional Fitness: Exercises to Improve
your Paddling
Join this fun hands-on session where you’ll
learn functional exercises to help you
paddle longer, faster, and stronger! Learn
simple exercises targeting crucial muscles
to be a better paddler, build endurance and
prevent injury. You’ll improve your outdoor
experience and become the best paddler you
can be!
Rolling with Sticks
Greenland style kayak rolling is a
tremendously valuable rescue technique,
steeped in the history of the Inuit people,
whose very survival depended upon their
ability to roll. Come and learn the two main
types of rolls lay-back and forward finishing.
See how to apply those skills to more
advanced rolls.
Kevin Callan
Jessie Conaway
Denny Caneff
Paddling the Concrete Jungle: The
Adventure of Urban Rivers
Explore undiscovered urban river gems
and find out more about Midwestern cities
that have embraced paddling and water
sports. Learn why urban rivers matter and
the challenges they face. Get tips on what to
look for when paddling through the concrete
jungle.
Paddlers Love Water!
As paddling guides and instructors, we
directly influence how our clients and
students care for the waterways we enjoy.
In this workshop, you’ll get hands-on
experience with the tools involved for
facilitating effective water stewardship while
teaching paddling to people of all ages.
Phil Cotton & Barry Simon
Exploring Wabakimi - A Decade of
Discovery
Christopher
Cunningham
Christopher Cunningham
Reading a Kayak Review: Keys to Kayak
Performance
Sea Kayaker Magazine’s kayak reviews
have the subjective assessments of skilled
paddlers as well as objective data generated
by a computer analysis of the kayak’s form.
Understanding stability graphs, hydrostatics
and section drawings can help you predict
how well a kayak will work for you.
Justine Curgenven
Highlights from “This is the Sea 5”
Come see some highlights from the awardwinning DVD “This is the Sea 5” which is
being launched here at Canoecopia. Film
maker Justine Curgenven will introduce the
film which is shot in Patagonia, Sardinia,
Sicily, Spain, London, Wales, Russia, Japan
and Wales.
Justine Curgenven
Sea Kayaking Around Tierra Del Fuego
Award-winning film maker Justine
Curgenven shows video and photographs
from her 1,000 miles sea kayaking adventure
around the windswept, glacier ridden island
of ‘Tierra del Fuego’ with her partner Barry
Shaw. Shipping delays, a stolen kayak, red
tape, incessant winds and injury threatened
their safety and success.
Katina Daanen & Kevin Mack
A Journey: 740 Miles on the Northern
Forest Canoe Trail
Beginning in the New York Adirondacks
and ending at Fort Kent, Maine, this 740mile paddling trail traverses 22 rivers and
streams, 56 lakes and ponds, goes through
45 towns and villages, and requires 62
portages. Katina will share stories and
pictures about her 53-day trip following the
trail.
George Desort
Fifty Lakes One Island
“Fifty Lakes One Island” is a film exploring
the inland waters of Isle Royale while
celebrating the importance of connecting
with a wild place. The island and its
inhabitants are featured while Desort builds
a relationship with the landscape unfettered
by the constraints of civilization.
Lynn Dominguez & Robin Cook
Four Women, Eleven Days, Pukaskwa
National Park
In July of 2011 four women launched
their loaded kayaks into Lake Superior at
Pukaskwa National Park and pointed the
bows toward Wawa, Ontario. This is the
story of their amazing wilderness journey
along a spectacular, rugged coastline and the
planning it required to get there.
Small Spaces, Little Hatches: The Science
of Packing Your Kayak
How will I ever fit all this gear into that little
kayak? Take the mystery out of organizing
and packing all the gear you need for
kayaking trips. Lynn and Robin have tripped
out of small, Greenland-style kayaks and
will show you how to get the most out of
small spaces! Handouts included!
Don Easley (Cap’n Redbeard)
Fishin’ the Boundary Waters for
Dummies
Learn how to catch walleye, small mouth
bass, and northern pike with minimal tackle.
Find where to look for active fish, the best
bait to use, and which color of bait is most
effective. Discover how to land fish when
it’s windy and determine how deep the fish
are without a locator.
Lyn Elliott
Pukaskwa National Park: How to Plan
Your Trip
Planning a trip to Pukaskwa National Park?
.com
See Lyn. She has paddled it, hiked it, and
written the books on it. You’ll laugh, cry, and
learn everything you need to know to plan a
trip to Ontario’s largest national park.
the pink granite. Remarkable Spring tides rise
over 40 feet! Steeped in Celtic history, this
area is a Mecca for sea kayakers, hikers and
those with a palette for French cheese and
wine!
Alan Fairfield & Marsha Kray
Discover Sylvania
Sylvania is a paddler’s paradise with a
rich history, fragile ecology, scenic beauty,
and unique fishery. A mini version of the
BWCAW, Sylvania is easily accessible and
close enough for a weekend adventure. Let
Alan help you plan your visit to Sylvania as
he shares one of his favorite places.
Cliff Fawcett
Drew Gregory
Brought to you by Sperry and Jackson Kayak
Kayak Fishing for Beginner to Advanced
Anglers
Drew wants you to learn to fish better
from a kayak. His presentation will feature
information on equipment with tips and tricks
about outfitting your kayak for maximum
performance. He’ll also provide a little info
on what goes into designing a fishing kayak.
Understanding Cold Water Immersion for
Paddlers
Cold water immersion is a topic familiar
to most paddlers, but what is the science
behind it? What is ‘cold’ water? What is true
hypothermia? What happens when you fall
into cold water and how can you survive?
This lecture will explore essential concepts of
cold water immersion and survival.
How To Choose The Kayak That Works
Best For You
Trying to choose a kayak can be
overwhelming from the seemingly endless
variety of boats available in the marketplace.
If you want a step-by-step approach to
finding the kayak that fits your needs and
budget, then join Wayne Horodowich for a
dynamic and detailed discussion.
Cliff Jacobson
Bear-Proofing Your Camp
Learn how to protect yourself from
aggressive bears. What to do if you meet a
bear on the trail. Why “treeing” food seldom
works. Cliff commonly challenges accepted
beliefs; new research suggests he’s right on
track!
Cliff Jacobson
Jim Gallagher
East to the Bay: Six Rivers, Six Big Lakes,
and 600 Miles of Paddling
This 2012 canoe expedition connected six
rivers and six big lakes to cover about 600
miles of the Canadian Subarctic from the
headwaters of the Thelon River to Whale
Cove on Hudson Bay. They encountered long
portages, vicious bugs, thousands of caribou,
many muskoxen, big lake trout, and trophy
grayling.
Keith Gelhar
Salmon/Trout Fishing Lake Michigan
Kayak fishing guide and Native Watercraft
Pro-staffer, Keith Gelhar will show what it
takes to safely catch salmon and trout on
Lake Michigan. He will cover rigging, tackle
and equipment, where and when to go, and
what to use in this video presentation.
Gail Green
Paddling the North Brittany Coast of France
The northern coast of Brittany is renowned
for the spectacular ruggedness and color of
30
n
MARCH 2013 CANOECOPIA
Drew Gregory
Peter Grubb
Winter Paddling in Baja: Whales, Cacti
and Tequila
Baja California, Mexico is one of the best
winter paddling destinations in North
America. Images of red-hued desert colors,
azure-blue water and magical land forms are
so inviting you’ll want to grab the next flight
to Mexico. Learn how to undertake a sea
kayaking journey in this desert wilderness.
Camping’s Top Secrets
Based on Cliff’s 2013 revised “Camping’s
Top Secrets,” this whirlwind show details
tricks that only the experts know: choose
insect repellents and nets, dry clothes in the
rain, purify silty river water, make a one
match fire, cook with “cozies,” waterproof
packs, storm-proof tents, desert river
concerns and more!
David Johnston
Wayne Horodowich
Essential Equipment For Paddling
Whether you go out for a day, a week or a
month, there are skills and equipment that a
paddler needs to make the most out of their
trip. Join Wayne Horodowich as he shares his
35+ years of outdoor guiding experience to
help you make the best equipment choices.
Kayak Georgian Bay
With over 30,000 islands and 212
shipwrecks, Georgian Bay is one of the most
beautiful and interesting places to kayak on
the Great Lakes. If you have ever dreamed
of planning a kayak trip in that area, this is
your chance to learn about its many paddling
routes, secret campsites and rich history.
The Search and Rescue Machine
There’s been a paddling accident and you
need to call the Coast Guard for help. What
do you do? David Johnston will look at the
world of search and rescue and what happens
after the call comes in. We will also explore
wilderness technology including GPS, SPOT
and Personal Locator Beacons.
Rob Kesselring & Stu Osthoff
Tips from 900 Trips: A Potluck
of Canoe Camping Wisdom
At Canoecopia with standing-room-only
crowds, Rob and Stu have debated their
different approaches to wilderness canoe
camping. Listen as they stand side-by-side,
sharing and demonstrating specific strategies,
skills and tricks they have learned in a lifetime
of canoeing, camping, exploring and fishing.
Trey Knight
A Paddlesport Perspective: Effective
Paddlesports Risk Management
This presentation will look at clubs and other
outing groups to help break down how to
identify and address risk management issues
for on water paddling programs. If you are
part of a club, paddling council, or just a group
of friends than this presentation is for you.
Stand Up Paddling: The Final Frontier
Where is the sport of Stand Up Paddling
(SUP) heading next? Learn about the
biggest waves, river rapids and long distance
journeys being accomplished by paddlers.
This presentation will help you with
resources for education from the ACA to get
you where you want to go on your SUP.
Marty Koch
Paddling Gems of the Ozarks
Over 6,000 miles of rivers course through the
Ozark mountains. Famous streams like the
Current, Elevenpoint, Buffalo and the Jack’s
Fork get most of the attention, but there are
dozens more. Discover eight of the best
streams, plus planning your trip, and other
tips for paddling the Ozarks.
Mors Kochanski
Knots and Ropework for Canoeists and
Survivalists
Mors Kochanski
Not your standard “how to tie a bowline”
program, join Mors to learn about powerful
one-person winches for boats caught in log
jams, the most powerful means of lashing
(using the jam knot with paracord), dealing
with long fractures in paddle, thwart or
gunwale, and much more.
Land Survival (on River Bank
and Lake Shore)
In this presentation, Mors will talk about
tools for survival, both physical gear and
www.point65.com
A new level
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The brand new modular Mercury from Point 65
kayaks is a rigid high-performance touring kayak that
you can carry with a smile on your face, easily stow
on your boat and transport in the trunk of your car.
Go Solo, Go Tandem, Go Triple!
The Mercury snaps apart and re-assembles in
seconds. Snap in the mid-section and your Solo
transforms into a performance Tandem kayak. Add
another mid-section and it’s a Triple!
The Mercury also features a completely new rudder
system including a deployable skeg, all of which is
integrated into the hull design, making it extremely
easy and quick to maneuver.
mental preparation. He will discuss some
fundamental gear choices, the choice and use
of clothing and the importance of practicing
all skills, especially making fire.
The Knife
The knife is a critical piece of gear for
wilderness travelers and other outdoor lovers,
especially in survival situations. Mors will
show you how to select a knife, how to
sharpen your knife quickly and inexpensively,
and how to eliminate many common injuries
resulting from incorrect use.
Joe Kochevar
Treasures of the Apostle Islands
The Apostle Islands have a long and vibrant
history, and many people have enjoyed their
historic shipwrecks, sand dunes, lighthouses
and breathtaking sea caves. Joe will take you
on a virtual tour of the treasures found in this
Lake Superior national lakeshore.
Pete Kuhn
Making your Kayak Fit You
Learn to make adjustments to the inside of
can take to create the perfect trip for you and
your group! Detailed lists and resources will
be provided.
Mary and Nathaniel Langlie
Pete Kuhn
a kayak cockpit for a perfect fit. We’ll cover
seat and foot peg adjustments/modifications,
followed by customizing thigh braces. Pete
will use a cut-a-way kayak to show possible
placement of modifications. Materials and
shaping technics will also be discussed.
Mary Langlie
Canoe Tripping for Women
A trip to the Boundary Waters can be one of
the most satisfying experiences in life. The
key to a successful trip is the planning and
preparation. Focus on specific steps that you
It’s Not About the Boat: Tips for
Successful Family Paddling
Paddling with your family can be a wonderful
experience, but it doesn’t just happen. Learn
tips, tales and techniques to improve your
experiences and help your family grow
together on the water. This is an interactive
session so don’t be shy!
Ben Lawry
4 P’s of Paddling
Four of the main components of successful
paddling are interactively played with in this
session. Join Ben to discover how sitting and
balance will effect your paddling and your
boat choice. Look at power, where it comes
from and how it is transmitted to your kayak.
Dry Land Rolling
Rolling is a skill that most people would
benefit from mastering for reasons of safety,
Ben Lawry
confidence and sheer fun of it. Join Ben for a
look at a couple of dependable rolls that will
work in all situations and get you quickly
paddling again in a strong, safe position.
How Do I Put on That Dry Suit?
Dress for immersion! Ben will teach how to
correctly use a sprayskirt and paddling attire.
What is the correct fit and size of a lifejacket?
How do you put on and take off a drysuit
without being a contortionist? What should I
wear underneath it? Ben will tell you.
Anna Levesque
Kayaking Tips for Women
Women have their own unique strengths
and weaknesses when it comes to paddling,
lifting, carrying and loading their kayaks.
Anna is all about getting women in tune with
their strengths and using tools available to
them to make their paddling experience fun
and empowering.
Stretching for Paddling Longevity
Sitting in a kayak can lead to stiffness,
reduced range of motion and even injuries
such as bulging disks. Anna shares her indepth knowledge of kayaking and yoga as
physical therapy to help you reduce injuries
and keep your body strong, balanced, aligned
and pain-free.
Kevin Lehner
Kayak Certification: It’s Not Just For
Instructors
Professional instruction can greatly improve
paddling skills and safety on the water. The
American Canoe Association and the British
Canoe Union offer skill improvement courses
and certifications for all levels of paddlers.
Learn about skill enhancement resources
available for those seeking instruction to
become a safer and more competent paddler.
SECURE YOUR KAYAK
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Secure Your Kayak with the TieYak Cable System!
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Kayak Forward Stroke
Most of your time is spent paddling forward,
so why not make it more efficient? Ben will
discuss how to draw power from your paddle
and put it into your kayak. Learn where and
how you can apply power, plus more about
grip width, paddle length and blade shape.
Kayak Rolling
Rolling is a skill that most people would
benefit from mastering for reasons of safety,
confidence and sheer fun of it. See Ben’s Dry
Land Rolling tips put into practice in the pool.
Sleep better knowing your kayak is protected by the TieYak
Security Cable. It’s a simple but effective way of keeping your
boat in your possession. There’s a fit for any kayak or canoe!
Tie Yak.indd 1
12/27/2012 4:34:58 PM
Yoga for Paddlers
Anna leads you through a yoga class that is
designed to specifically target the muscles we
use most in paddling. Her clear, gentle and
comprehensive guidance allows students to
stretch, balance and strengthen their bodies for
injury free, comfortable paddling longevity.
Friends of the Lower
Wisconsin Riverway (FLOW)
The Lower Wisconsin Riverway
FLOW will be presenting a photographic
journey down one of our best-known and
best-loved regional rivers. They will be
discussing the history, geology and natural
features of the Lower Wisconsin. Mark Cupp
of the Lower Wisconsin River State Riverway
Board and Department of Natural Resources
Call: 1-800-295-0042
www.maloneautoracks.com
CAR RACK ACCESSORIES
SPORT TRAILERS
Malone Auto Racks, 81 County Road, Westbrook, Maine 04092
Warden Dave Youngquest will lead the
discussion.
Amy Lukas & Mary Catterlin
adventure of a lifetime will be shared through
conversation, video, and photographs.
Scott MacGregor
Lake Michigan in a Dugout
Amy and Mary brought to you by MTI
When Mary Catterlin started hand-carving a
cottonwood tree into a dugout canoe, Amy
Lukas knew they were in for an adventure.
These two women circumnavigated Lake
Michigan in their small boat in 93 days. This
Pete Marshall
Trans-Territorial Canoe Expedition
In May 2012, a four man team set out from
Alaska to canoe 2600-miles across northern
Canada to the Hudson Bay. Their journey
took them through mountain passes, over
frozen lakes, up the Continental Divide,
and explored the possibilities and limits of
expedition canoeing.
Kim McCluskey
Amy Lukas & Mary Catterlin
Scott MacGregor
Trips Stories That (Don’t) Suck: The Art
of Great Adventure Writing
Step inside an editor’s office to learn the
simple rules of great adventure writing, better
blogging, sizzling slideshows, and journals
that jump off the page. What’s a Nut Graf?
The importance of photos. Why nobody cares
about blueberry pancakes. Six adventure
writing pitfalls. How to avoid the cliche
adventure story.
Argentina Sea Safari
Paddle among southern right whales
and their new calves in Gulfo San Jose,
Argentina. On the beaches, bull elephant
seals battle over harems, and furry sea lion
Kim McCluskey
Ashland, Wisconsin
Think differently. Live differently.
Meet us at
Canoecopia to
learn more about
our liberal arts &
sciences programs!
northland.edu
pups sunbathe. We eat fresh gourmet food,
hike to see the guanaco, and fall asleep to
the whoosh of whales blowing.
Richard McFadden
Knots for Paddlers and Campers
Through demonstration and discussion, we
will cover ropes, knot terminology and knot
tying. The focus will be on selecting the
best knots to use for paddling and camping.
Whatever your skill level, you will be
provided resources to take your knot tying
ability to the next level.
Reggie McLeod
Paddling the Upper Mississippi River
There are many great opportunities for
paddling and camping on the Mississippi
River. Learn how to plan your trip, where
to go and how to safely enjoy the river. See
how the river works, including locks, levees
and floods. Reggie will bring maps and
magazines to share.
Sherri Mertz
Florida Paddling for Everyone
When the snow and cold has you down, there
is fun aplenty to be had on the waterways
of Florida. You can paddle lazy rivers, surf
ocean waves, or watch wildlife. Sherri will
share her experiences and give you ideas to
plan your own paddling getaway in Florida!
Lake Michigan Watertrail Panel
America’s Greatest LakeTrail
The Appalachian Trail of water trails
is coming to the Lake Michigan! Lake
Michigan Water Trail Association presents
the trail around the lake, describing the
newly-won National Recreational Trail
designation, and reports on the four state
Lake Michigan Water Trails Conference held
last fall in Michigan.
paddle from St. Paul, Minnesota to Madeline
Island, Wisconsin. For canoe enthusiasts,
history buffs and equipment fans.
Corey Mohan
Danny Mongno
Paddlin’ to Madeline: A Canoe Journey
Du Luth, Schoolcraft, Nicollet, Mohan....
wait...Mohan? The stunning St. Croix River
anchors this challenging, historic river trail
that offers something for everyone; flatwater,
whitewater, and Lake Superior. Paddlin’ to
Madeline follows Corey’s twenty-six day
Brought to you by Werner Paddles
Corey Mohan
Choosing the Perfect Kayak Paddle
The best way to guarantee fun while paddling
is to use less energy. A paddle that is properly
fitted will help you do this more effeciently.
Join Danny Mongno to define your paddling
style and look at fit options which will help
Dry Bags
Dry Sacks
Packs & Duffles
Protective Cases
you select the perfect paddle.
again? It’s a combination of proper equipment
and more importantly, the skills to use it.
Dave will show examples and give specific
techniques you can use on your next trip.
Top 9 Tips for Easier Stand Up Paddling
Simplicity is one of the reasons that Stand Up
Paddling (SUP) has become so popular. A
few tips can make your time on your board
even more enjoyable. Danny and Jimmy will
teach you the top nine tips to get started.
There is a tenth tip, but they challenge you
to discover it yourself.
Mark & Merri Morrall
Danny Mongno &
Mike Simpson
Nancy Moore
Danny brought to you by Werner
Mike brought to you by BIC
SUP - Essential Skills for Fun Paddling
Stand Up Paddling (SUP) is easy to learn, but
a few skills means less fatigue and have more
fun. Come to the pool as Danny and Jimmy
show you some of the not-so-obvious skills
for Stand Up Paddling.
Greenland as the Inuit’s do: from a kayak!
For two months each year, the ice breaks and
the wildflowers burst with color. With lots
of daylight and mild air temperatures, it’s
the perfect time for experienced paddlers to
explore the Tasiiliq/Sermilik fjord complex.
Getting Started Canoe Camping
Thinking about canoe camping? After
viewing portions of the Morrall’s latest
how-to video, you’re sure to be inspired and
motivated to take the plunge! This program
covers why, where, how, and getting started.
Not just for beginners, veteran trippers will
also enjoy the stunning videography, and
humor.
David Morlock
Nancy Moore
Paddling the Arctic Riviera: Southeast
Greenland
See the stunning coastal wilderness of
How to Make Better Photos
on your Paddling Trips
Wouldn’t you love to come back from a trip,
look at pictures and feel like you were back
David Morlock
SPEAKERS CONTINUE on PAGE 41
Presentations and Events
at Canoecopia
Canoecopia is jammed-packed with things to do and see! Use this 4-page pull-out
section to keep track of speakers and events happening throughout the weekend.
Aluminum Chef Competition
Saturday, 4:30 pm, Quetico Room
Here come the Chefs! In this Canoecopia
crowd-pleaser, our three chefs will again
test their camp culinary skills against each other in true outdoor style.
Using MSR stoves and cook kits, plus a pantry of simple ingredients
you might have on your next camping trip, outdoorsmen Marty
Koch and Kevin Callan will compete against our local Chef Joey
Dunscombe of Madison’s Weary Traveler Freehouse. Come join the
fun – you could be one of the judges from the audience who will
determine the winner of each course! Food donated by Whole Foods.
Kids’ Paddle Fest
Friday, 5:30-7:00 pm, Atrium (Upstairs)
For Kids in K-6th Grades
Kids – have a blast and learn about paddling!
n Games
n Art projects
n Nature activities n Face painting
Parents – drop off your kids and enjoy the show while
they’re having fun with Rutabaga’s Youth Instructors.
4th Annual Paddle Club Rendezvous
Saturday, 4:45-6:00 pm, Atrium (Upstairs)
Don’t miss the 4th Annual Paddle Club Rendezvous – an opportunity for
paddle club members and potential members from all over the Midwest to: n network with other paddlers in your community and region
n share favorite paddling destinations
n plan joint activities
n recruit new members
Light refreshments! Cash Bar! Drawings for great prizes! Drawing at
5:45pm—must be present to win.
If your paddling club would like to participate, contact Tom Lindblade of
the Illinois Paddling Council by March 1st at lindbladet@sbcglobal.net.
37
n
MARCH 2013 CANOECOPIA
M. & M. Morrall
Get Started Canoe
Camping
M. & N. Langlie
It’s Not About the Boat:
Tips for Successful
Family Paddling
9:30
10:30
M. Langlie
Canoe Tripping for
Women
B. Schultz
K. McCluskey
Kayaking for Monster Argentina Sea Safari
Door County Smallies
L. Ricker
Woodland Caribou
Provincial Park
T. Knight
G. Stroud
Stand Up Paddling: The A Canadian Heritage
Final Frontier
River Odyssey
Caribou - upstairs
B. Lawry
Dry Land Rolling
Bear - upstairs
Algonquin
C. Wright
R. Kesselring &
Experiencing America’s S. Osthoff
Everglades with Day
Tips from 900 Trips:
Paddles
A Potluck of Canoe
Camping Wisdom
M. Simpson
J. Curgenven
Jaunts to Journeys on Sea Kayaking Around
Stand Up Paddleboards Tierra Del Fuego
Friends of the Lower D. Easley
Wisconsin Riverway Fishin’ the Boundary
The Lower Wisconsin Waters for Dummies
Riverway
Sylvania
C. Jacobson
Bear-Proofing Your
Camp
J. Turk
Crocodiles and Ice: The
First Circumnavigation
of Ellesmere Island
Quetico
D. Morlock
How to Make Better
Photos on Your
Paddling Trips
J. Bates
Paddling Northwoods
Gems: A Naturalist’s
Guide
Superior
D. Morlock
How to Make Better
Photos on Your
Paddling Trips
G. Blust
Exploring an Island
Wilderness: Isle Royale
National Park
C. Jacobson
Camping’s Top Secrets
(repeat of Sat 9:30
presentation)
C. Jacobson
Camping’s Top Secrets
Quetico
K. Callan
Looking for Ghosts in
Woodland Caribou
D. Stewart
J. Curgenven
Four Rivers: Retracing Highlights from “This
the Trail of Tears Water is the Sea 5”
Route
J. Bates
Paddling Northwoods
Gems: A Naturalist’s
Guide
J. Van Den Brandt
“How’d you get that
shot?” Tips, Tales and
Lessons Learned
Superior
W. Horodowich
J. Kochevar
Treasures of the
How to Choose the
Kayak that Works Best Apostle Islands
for You
A. Fairfield &
M. Kray
Discover Sylvania
M. Koch
Paddling Gems of the
Ozarks
BWCA
G. Desort
D. Sproule
Fifty Lakes One Island The Missinaibi River:
Paddling to the
Northern Sea
W. Horodowich
A. Levesque
J. Pfitzer
How to Choose the
Stretching for Paddling Aldo Leopold: A
Kayak that Works Best Longevity
Standard of Change
for You
M. Kochanski
Knots and Ropework
for Canoeists and
Survivalists
Lake Michigan
Watertrail Panel
America’s Greatest
LakeTrail
Killarney - Clarion
SATURDAY
S. Brede
Solo Canoe Circumnavigation of Lake
Michigan
J. Vandiver &
One Match Band
True and Deep - Songs
for the Paddler
B. Perry
D. Johnston
B. Lawry
N. Dennis
M. Kochanski
What Really Matters: A The Search and Rescue Kayak Forward Stroke 40 Years of Expeditions Knots and Ropework
Spirituality of Paddling Machine
for Canoeists and
Survivalists
K. Gelhar
M. Kochanski
Salmon & Trout
The Knife
Fishing Lake Michigan
B. Paulsen
A Yukon Odyssey
7:30
A. Lukas &
M. Catterlin
Lake Michigan in a
Dugout
6:30
L. Elliott
Pukaskwa National
Park: How to Plan Your
Trip
T. Bradley
Stand Up Paddling:
Its Roots, Culture and
Future
BWCA
D. Caneff & Panel
Paddling the Concrete
Jungle: The Adventure
of Urban Rivers
Algonquin
P. Grubb
D. Gregory
Winter Paddling in
Kayak Fishing for
Baja: Whales, Cacti and Beginner to Advanced
Tequila
Anglers
Sylvania
C. Scherrer
Paddle Like a Girl
Caribou - upstairs
Bear - upstairs
Killarney - Clarion
FRIDAY
Presentation Schedule
Canoecopia
Presented by
5:30
4:30
11:30
W. Horodowich
M. Kochanski
Essential Equipment for Land Survival (on
Paddling
River Bank and Lake
Shore)
B. Ness & C. Rose
Kayak Camping: Tips
and Tricks
S. Nelson
Unique BWCA Sites
to Visit
A. Lukas &
M. Catterlin
Lk Michigan in a
Dugout
10:30
J. Thomson
B. Schultz
D. Stewart
M. & M. Morrall
Value the Small Experi- Kayaking for Monster Four Rivers: Retracing Get Started Canoe
ences in a BIG Park
Door County Smallies the Trail of Tears Water Camping
Route
A. Levesque
Kayaking Tips for
Women
12:30
1:30
2:30
M. & M. Morrall
Paddling Wisconsin’s
Rivers: Part Two
K. Salwey
Mississippi: Tales of the
Last River Rat
K. Callan
Looking for Ghosts in
Woodland Caribou
J. Turk
Crocodiles & Ice:
The First Circm. of
Ellesmere Island
Superior
L. Ricker
Boundary Waters for
Newbies
K. McCluskey
Argentina Sea Safari
J. Kochevar
Treasures of the
Apostle Islands
J. Vandiver &
A. Fairfield &
One Match Band
M. Kray
True and Deep - Songs Discover Sylvania
for the Paddler
J. Curgenven
Sea Kayaking Around
Tierra Del Fuego
J. Curgenven
R. Kesselring &
Highlights from “This S. Osthoff
is the Sea 5”
Tips from 900 Trips:
A Potluck of Canoe
Camping Wisdom
T. Pflieger
M. & M. Morrall
Kayaking Door County Paddling Wisconsin’s
Rivers: Part Two
BWCA
P. Marshall
L. Ricker
Trans-Territorial Canoe Boundary Waters for
Expedition
Newbies
C. Jacobson
Bear-Proofing Your
Camp
G. Blust
Exploring an Island
Wilderness: Isle Royale
National Park
K. Salwey
Stories from an Old
Time River Rat
J. Turk
Crocodiles and Ice: The
First Circumnavigation
of Ellesmere Island
K. Callan
Looking for Ghosts in
Woodland Caribou
Quetico
Aluminum Chef
Competition
J. Vandiver &
T. Pflieger
K. Salwey
One Match Band
Kayaking Door County continued until 4:00pm
True and Deep - Songs
for the Paddler
J. Van Den Brandt
D. Blazino
“How’d you get that
Top 20 Places to Visit
shot?” Tips, Tales and in Quetico Park
Lessons Learned
J. Gallagher
J. Bates
East to the Bay: Six
The Farthest Side of
Rivers, Six Big Lakes, Wildlife Ecology
& 600 Mile
D. Sproule
The Missinaibi R:
Paddling to Northern
Sea
Please see the following page for additional presentation schedules.
Friends of the Lower K. Gelhar
M. Simpson
B. Paulsen
Wisconsin Riverway Salmon & Trout
Jaunts to Journeys on A Yukon Odyssey
The Lower Wisconsin Fishing Lake Michigan Stand Up Paddleboards
Riverway
P. Grubb
W. Horodowich
M. Koch
Winter Paddling in
Essential Equipment for Paddling Gems of the
Baja: Whales, Cacti and Paddling
Ozarks
Tequila
D. Easley
Fishin’ the Boundary
Waters for Dummies
L. Sobota
Overcoming Fear: A
Work in Progress
11:30
K. Lehner
G. Stroud
Kayak Certification: It’s A Canadian Heritage
Not Just for Instructors River Odyssey
S. Nelson
Unique BWCA Sites
to Visit
T. Bradley
Stand Up Paddling:
Its Roots, Culture and
Future
D. Johnston
Kayak Georgian Bay
B. Ness & C. Rose
Kayak Camping: Tips
and Tricks
Algonquin
C. Wright
M. Kochanski
Experiencing America’s Land Survival (on
Everglades with Day
River Bank and Lake
Paddles
Shore)
Sylvania
T. Knight
N. Dennis
B. Lawry
Effective Paddlesports 40 Years of Expeditions Dry Land Rolling
Risk Management
Killarney - Clarion
Caribou - upstairs
4:30
Bear - upstairs
3:30
SUNDAY
B. Lawry
J. Thomson
J. Pfitzer
Kayak Forward Stroke Value the Small Experi- Aldo Leopold: A
ences in a BIG Park
Standard of Change
G. Green
Paddling the North
Brittany Coast of
France
D. Patterson
D. York
A Woman’s Solo Paddle Kayaking the Grand
to Quetico
Canyon
C. Cunningham
Reading a Kayak
Review: Keys to Kayak
Performance
J. Timmerman
Far Distant Echo: A
Canoe Trip from Lake
Superior to Hudson’s
Bay
2:30
R. McFadden
M. Wenholz &
Knots for Paddlers and C. Widstrand
Campers
Regenerating Forests
in the BWCA After
Wildfires
C. Mohan
J. Browning
Paddlin’ to Madeline: A Wilderness First Aid
Canoe Journey
S. Scherrer
Understanding Boat
Design
N. Moore
Paddling the Arctic
Riviera: Southeast
Greenland
L. Elliott
Pukaskwa National
Park: How to Plan Your
Trip
1:30
R. McLeod
Paddling the Upper
Mississippi River
D. Gregory
M. Schroeder-Beers A. Levesque
Kayak Fishing for
The Unpacking of Mr. Kayaking Tips for
Beginner to Advanced Food
Women
Anglers
K. Daanen & K. Mack
740 Miles on the
Northern Forest Canoe
Trail
12:30
Atrium (Upstairs)
Join us in the Atrium, located upstairs at the Alliant Energy Center, for hands-on skill development and demonstrations that will help you gain knowledge and skill on a
wide range of subjects.
Friday
4:30
D. Mongno – Choosing the Perfect Kayak Paddle
5:30-7 Rutabaga’s Youth Instructors – Kids’ Paddle Fest
7:30
B. Lawry – 4 P’s of Paddling
Voyageur (Clarion Hotel)
The Voyageur Room will wear two hats this weekend. On Friday we’ll set
it up with workstations where you can develop new skills in these hands-on
workshops. Saturday and Sunday it will be a lecture room like all the others.
Friday Workshops
4:30
5:30
6:30
7:30
J. Browning – Reading a Navigational Chart
J. Browning – Chart Prep and Navigational Tools
Cascade Designs Service Team – How to Clean &
Maintain Your MSR Stove
J. Conaway – Paddlers Love Water!
Saturday
Saturday Lectures
9:30
A. Levesque – Yoga for Kayaking
10:30 B. Lawry – How Do I Put On that Dry Suit?
11:30 D. Mongno – Choosing the Perfect Kayak Paddle
12:30 L. Domininquez & R. Cook – Small Spaces, Little Hatches: The Science of Packing Your Kayak
1:30
J. Chase – Functional Fitness: Exercises to
Improve Your Paddling
2:30
B. Lawry – 4 P’s of Paddling
3:30
D. Mongno – Top 9 Tips for Easier Stand
Up Paddling
4:45-6 Paddle Club Rendezvous
Sunday Workshops
Sunday
10:30
11:30
12:30
1:30
2:30
A. Levesque – Yoga for Paddlers
D. Mongno – Choosing the Perfect Kayak Paddle
D. Mongno – Top 9 Tips forEasier Stand
Up Paddling
B. Lawry – How Do I Put On that Dry Suit?
P. Kuhn – Making Your Kayak Fit You
Canoecopia
Supports
Please consider donating
a non-perishable food item
at the show. Look for
collection barrels near
the Info Booth.
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MARCH 2013 CANOECOPIA
9:30
L. Dominquez & R. Cook – Four Women, Eleven Days,
Pukaskwa National Park
10:30 B. Perry – Chasing the BCU 5 Star: A Mere Mortal’s Quest
11:30 J. Brown – Too Hot, Too Cold: How to Make It Just Right
12:30 S. Mertz – Florida Paddling for Everyone
1:30
S. MacGregor – Trip Stories That (Don’t) Suck: The Art
of Great Adventure Writing
2:30
C. Fawcett – Understanding Cold Water Immersion for Paddlers
3:30
C. Scherrer – Paddle Like a Girl
4:30
P. Cotton & B. Simon – Exploring Wabakimi: A Decade
of Discovery
10:30
11:30
12:30
1:30
2:30
M. Schroeder-Beers – The Unpacking of Mr. Food
M. Schroeder-Beers – The Unpacking of the Group Pack
S. Scherrer – Understanding Boat Design
D. Patterson – A Woman’s Solo Paddle to Quetico
M. Kochanski – The Knife
Pool Demos (Clarion Hotel)
These fun and lively demos have become so popular that we are asking
everyone to vacate the pool area after each program. This allows us to more
easily regulate the number of spectators and gives those in line the opportunity to enjoy the next demonstration. Thanks for your cooperation!
Saturday
12:00 K. Wikle – Power and Stability through Linked Strokes
12:30 B. Lawry – Kayak Rolling
1:00
B. Lawry – Kayak Rolling (repeat of 12:30 program)
1:30
D. Mongno & M. Simpson – Stand Up Paddling: Essential
Skills for Fun Paddling
2:00
C. Crowhurst – Rolling with Sticks
2:30
S. & A. Bloyd-Peshkin – Save Yourself! The Scramble Demystified
Sunday
12:00
12:30
1:00
1:30
2:00
S. & A. Bloyd-Peshkin – Save Yourself! The Scramble Demystified
B. Lawry – Kayak Rolling
K. Wikle – Power and Stability through Linked Strokes
C. Crowhurst – Rolling with Sticks
D. Mongno – Top 9 Tips for Easier Stand Up Paddling
SPEAKERS CONTINUE from PAGE 36
Paddling Wisconsin’s Rivers Part Two
Mark and Merri are back to show you even
more paddling possibilities, with a few
surprises. They’ll draw upon their years of
paddling and filming Wisconsin’s rivers
to bring you a glimpse of what’s out there
waiting to be explored. They’ll present wideranging possibilities, from peaceful streams
to intense whitewater.
and techniques they’ve learned while taking
trips with youth that will help make your
kayak camping trip an enjoyable experience.
Bear Paulsen
A Yukon Odyssey
Bear Paulsen and two others paddled the
Wind and Peel Rivers. They saw grizzlies,
sheep, and caribou, and paddled through
amazing mountain scenery. Bear hitchhiked
the 500-mile shuttle. They started home, only
to experience ‘Epic Car Troubles.’ Listen to
the stories from a 3-week trip that became a
5-week adventure.
Steven Nelson
Unique BWCA Sites You Should Visit
Enhance your next Boundary Waters
wilderness experience by visiting unique
historical and natural sites. Descriptions and
map locations identified with photos that will
spark your curiosity. Bring your knowledge
of the area to share a specific site others
might enjoy too.
Darlene Patterson
Bill Ness & Chuck Rose
Kayak Camping: Tips and Tricks
How does kayak camping differ from canoe
camping? What fits in those kayak hatches?
What about portaging? What can you bring
and leave behind? Bill and Chuck share tips
a solo female poses its own challenges. Join
Darlene as she shares her images and story of
the 2012 paddling adventure in the BWCA/
Quetico (and up Warrior Hill).
Darlene Patterson
A Woman’s Solo Paddle To Quetico
A trip to the BWCAW/Quetico is
monumental for most people. Traveling
solo is even more daring, and travelling as
Bonnie Perry
Chasing the BCU 5 Star:
A Mere Mortal’s Quest
How does a middle-aged, Midwestern,
woman with a non-kayaking day job, earn
the coveted British Canoe Union 5 Star SeaLeader award? Spend time in conversation
with Bonnie Perry as she talks about her
quest to paddle at this level and the amazing
people she worked with along the way.
What Really Matters: A Spirituality of
Paddling
The Celts believed there are places in this
world that are so “thin” we can see through
them and experience the Holy. Paddling is
a means by which we can experience these
moments. Call these events sacred, Holy or
God: whatever we choose to call them they
really matter.
Jim Pfitzer
Jim Pfitzer
Aldo Leopold - A Standard of Change
Set in one evening in and around the famous
Wisconsin Shack that informed much of
his writing, this one-man play about the life
and legacy of Aldo Leopold explores the
influences and challenges that led Leopold
to pen his best-selling book “A Sand County
Almanac.”
Tim Pflieger
Kayaking Door County
With over 315 miles of coastline, 13
lighthouses, tall cliffs, sandy beaches and
state parks and natural areas, Door County
is a kayaker’s paradise. Join Tim Pflieger
of DC Adventures on a visual coastline
tour of lighthouses, launches and his recent
circumnavigation of Door County.
Patrick Powers, Tim Lesar & Bill
Kalscheur
Canoe Tripping in the BWCAW
for People with Disabilities
Learn strategies for planning a canoe tripping
experience in the Boundary Waters for
people with disabilities. We’ll emphasize
considerations for the able-bodied canoeist
accompanying the disabled paddler and
engage in dialogue among able-bodied and
disabled paddlers about their experiences
with integrated canoe tripping in the BWCA.
Larry Ricker
Boundary Waters for Newbies
Nuts to bolts info you need to know before
venturing forth on a Boundary Waters trip.
Topics include route planning, permits, what
to bring, portages and safety tips. Updated
with the latest rules and regulations and
plenty of new photos from Larry’s 2012 trips.
Woodland Caribou Provincial Park
Join Larry for a slide show of his 10-day trip
to Canada’s Woodland Caribou Provincial
Park. The presentation will include a few
tips for planning your own adventure to this
remote and beautiful paddling gem located in
western Ontario.
Kenny Salwey
Mississippi: Tales of the Last River Rat
Erin and Eric paddle a pair of rotomold Solaras on a sun filled summers day. Photo: Jake Greseth
We look forward to
seeing old friends and
making new ones at
Canoecopia 2013!
Perfect for warm days of exploration and
enjoyment on your favorite waters. The
Solaras offer top of the line safety, security,
and paddling fun for the whole family.
Visit our website to learn more
and join the Current Designs social
network for news, updates, special
promotions, giveaways and more!
10’
12’
12’
13’6”
13’6”
Kenny Salwey is a traditional backwoodsmen
whose life has been bound to the Mississippi
River. Come enjoy the award-winning BBC
documentary based on Kenny’s book “The
Last River Rat: Kenny Salwey’s Life in the
Wild.” Kenny will introduce the film and
answer questions about his life along the river.
Kenny Salwey
the rhythms of nature. You’re sure to enjoy
his signature brand of storytelling, rife with
insight, laughter, and woods lore.
Cindy Scherrer
Paddle like a Girl
Brought to you by Wilderness Systems
Paddling is a journey. From the moment
you’ve wondered what it would be like to
paddle a kayak or a canoe you’ve taken the
first step. Do we as women have specific
challenges? Maybe, but with a little guidance
and ingenuity we can access the watery trails
we’ve imagined.
Steve Scherrer
Understanding Boat Design
Brought to you by Wilderness Systems
Stories from an Old Time River Rat
Join Kenny for some old-fashioned
storytelling as he spins yarns of his days
along the Mississippi. Hear about the
mighty river and what it takes to live with
VEGA
Understanding how boats are shaped can
help anyone become a much better paddler!
Come learn how different hull shapes are
designed for different purposes and how
the environment where we paddle and the
conditions we choose can contribute to
paddling frustration (a bad thing) or pure
bliss (a good thing).
Hurricane Warning.
Listen, we thought it only fair to give you a
heads-up. Hurricane Kayaks have arrived.
We’ve put more than a century of kayak
experience under one roof, and the result
is the best-designed, best-performing,
best-looking kayaks on the water.
170 Watertank Road
Warsaw, NC 28398
910-293-2941
Leaders in Lightweight
hurricaneaquasports.com
The Best New Four Season
Canister Stove Available
www.optimusstoves.com
for a chance to
Come visit the
Sea Kayaker booth
to enter the raffle
To subscribe prior to the show, visit www.seakayakermag.com*
DISCOUNTS & ONLINE CODES
$3 off a digital subscription (online code: CC13D)
$4 off a print subscription (online code: CC13P)
$5 off print + digital subscription (online code: CC13B)
Accepting Checks, Visa, Mastercard, Discover and Cash at show
Raffle sign up is at Canoecopia, Sea Kayaker magazine’s booth. Proof of Subscription purchase required to enter raffle.
*If subscribing prior to the show, print out your receipt showing you have subscribed online and present this receipt to the Sea
Kayaker magazine booth for your Raffle Ticket, or subscribe at the Sea Kayaker magazine booth at Canoecopia 2013.
Winner does not need to be present to win. Drawing to be held at the Werner Paddle Booth (R5) on Sunday, March 10, 2013 at 2 p.m.
Subscription promotion open February 1, 2013 until March 10, 2013.
Mona Schroeder-Beers
Lenore Sobota
The Unpacking of Mr. Food
Mr. Food dutifully carries food and food prep
items on BWCAW canoe trips. Years of tips
and tricks will be unpacked as Mona shares
the secrets of a well-planned wilderness
menu. If you’re looking to pack food that is
lightweight, nutritious, affordable and easy to
prepare, attend this session.
Overcoming Fear: A Work in Progress
Wind. Waves. Wet exits. Sometimes the
biggest challenges in paddling are mental
more than physical. We might not be able
to eliminate our fears, but we can learn to
keep them from paralyzing us. Hear some
strategies for moving beyond fear—and share
ideas on what has worked for you.
The Unpacking of the Group Pack
This session is a sequel to “The Unpacking of
Mr. Food.” The “Group Pack” carries items
shared by group members and eliminates
duplication. If the goal is a one trip portage
on your next canoe trip, Mona will share her
packing strategies.
Dave Sproule
Mona Schroeder-Beers
The Missinaibi River: Paddling
to the Northern Sea
The Missinaibi flows more than 300 miles to
the saltwater of James Bay in the far north,
and has been a travel and trade route for
aboriginal people, explorers and fur traders
for thousands of years. Through stories and
images, you’ll paddle with Dave down this
fantastic route past waterfalls, through rapids,
and even with celebrities.
Dale Stewart
Four Rivers: One Man’s Journey
Retracing the Trail of Tears Water Route
Brought to you by Wenonah
Bill Schultz
Kayaking for Monster Smallies
Door County, Wisconsin is a kayaker’s
paradise and has world class smallmouth
bass fishing. Wilderness Systems Pro Staffer
and outdoor writer, Bill Schultz, has caught
thousands and will share his fishing hotspots,
best launches, what lures produce, how to
use them and best tackle.
on the far reaches of North America. This
is a place like no other with incredible
beauty, massive waterfalls and a special kind
remoteness that is worthy of a Canadian
Heritage River Odyssey.
John Thomson
Value the Small Experiences in a BIG Park
Sometimes wilderness tripping in Wabakimi
becomes more about miles per day than
wilderness. Discover what a group of
students learned when they were asked to
slow down. Trace their trip through the park
and pick up tips on planning and getting the
most out of your own Wabakimi Adventure.
Jay Timmerman
Far Distant Echo: The Story of a Canoe
Trip from Lake Superior to Hudson’s Bay
This voyage in 2008 covered historic
waterways between Lake Superior and York
Factory, Manitoba. Seven crew members
started the trip – four quit along the way and
and the two oldest compled the trip. There
was conflict and challenge along the way. A
adventurous, awe-inspiring 1400 mile trip.
During the Summer of 2012, Dale paddled
over 1300 miles down the Tennessee, Ohio
and Mississippi Rivers, then up the Arkansas
River following the water route of the Trail of
Tears. Dale will discuss his planning process,
logistics, equipment selection and balancing
safety and adventure.
Greg Stroud
A Canadian Heritage River Odyssey
Join Greg for a 10-day solo kayak adventure
across the rugged island of Newfoundland
Mike Simpson
Jon Turk
Mike Simpson
Jon Turk
Jaunts to Journeys on
Stand Up Paddleboards
Crocodiles and Ice:The First
Circumnavigation of Ellesmere Island
National Geographic nominated Jon Turk
and Erik Boomer one of ten “Adventurers
of the Year” for their bold and audacious
circumnavigation of Ellesmere Island. From
the jungles of the Solomon Islands to frozen
Polar Seas, Jon explores adventure and our
place in this oil-soaked, internet-crazed world.
Brought to you by BIC
Stand Up Paddleboards are an excellent way
to travel on journeys long and short. Mike
will share stories and images of his 2000-mile
trip from Key West to Maine; and his Hudson
River trip. Learn how to pack a SUP for a day
or multi-day adventures.
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MARCH 2013 CANOECOPIA
John Van Den Brandt
“How’d you get that shot?” Tips, Tales
and Lessons Learned Afield
Wildlife photographer John Van Den Brandt
of Wild Wind Images answers the question
he’s most asked: “How’d you get that shot?!”
John tells the story behind the shots, sharing
the tips and strategies employed in capturing
his amazing wildlife photographs, many
of which have appeared in his nationallydistributed calendars.
Jerry Vandiver &
The One Match Band
True and Deep - Songs for the Heart of the
Paddler
Songwriter Jerry Vandiver has songs on over
15 million records and paddling credits on
countless rivers, streams, and lakes. He’ll be
performing songs from his CD - “True And
Deep - Songs For The Heart Of The Paddler”
with his acoustic band for a back by popular
demand Canoecopia experience.
Mike Wenholz & Christopher
Widstrand
From Black to Beauty: Regenerating in the
dynamic and challenging environments. This
session will demonstrate practical exercises
to link strokes and move with precision and
confidence.
Jerry Vandiver
Charles Wright
BWCAW Following Wildfires
Following several large forest fires in recent
years, much forest in the eastern BWCAW
is in various stages of regeneration. Canoe
trips through these areas have revealed many
fascinating and beautiful discoveries. Learn
about these, as well as the role of forest fires
and fighting them in the BWCAW.
Keith Wikle &
Alec Bloyd-Peshkin
Power & Stability Through Linked Strokes
Individual strokes allow you to power your
kayak. As you learn more strokes, the next
rung on the ladder is linking strokes. Linking
strokes grants power, control, and stability in
Experiencing America’s Everglades with
Day Paddles
America’s Everglades are a paddler’s and
wildlife lover’s paradise. Cypress swamps,
tidal creeks and rivers, slough and strands,
estuary bays, mangrove tunnels, prairies
and the open Gulf offer a vast diversity of
paddling and wildlife experiences. Learn the
where, the when and the how-to of the area’s
unique, hidden away places.
Dan York
Kayaking the Grand Canyon
Paddling the Grand Canyon is an
incomparable wilderness experience. The
legendary big rapids, spectacular vistas and
magical side hikes make this a river trip like
no other. In March 2012 Dan York and 15
other river enthusiasts kayaked and rafted
the Grand Canyon for 21 days—a paddler’s
dream trip.
701 East Washington Ave.
Madison, WI. (608) 268-1122
$8 cover / 21 & up
Canoecopia Party & Charity Fundraiser
Saturday, March 9, 8:30 p.m.
S
K
Featuring
n Film clips from Justine
Curgenven’s “This is the Sea 5”
n Music by the Madpolecats
R
A
U
S
N
T
K
A
G
B
R
i
A
L
S
L
S
Y
A benefit for Big City
Mountaineers, Sierra
Club Inner City Outings,
and Rutabaga’s Josh
Kestelman Scholarship
Fund; organizations
that focus on getting
inner city youth into the
outdoors.
Lighter, stronger with
higher endurance
From short local trips on easy winding rivers to extreme expedition on
raging torrents, Twaron supplies the power of aramid. “Nova Craft Canoe
has been using aramid fabrics to build safer, stronger, lightweight canoes
for more than three decades. We’ve found Twaron to be an excellent
partner in helping us bring that power of aramid to our customers,”
states Tim Miller, President of Nova Craft. Twaron is engineered with
speed, strength and endurance in mind. Canoes and kayaks reinforced
with Twaron are extremely rugged, and afford a built-in comfort zone for
safe, reliable paddle sports performance. Navigate the waterways with
the proven power of aramid… Twaron.
TEIJIN ARAMID USA, INC.
801-F Blacklawn Road
Conyers, GA 30012
800-451-6586
usainfo@teijinaramid.com
www.teijinaramid.com
OUTDOOR
PROGRAMS
Rutabaga Outdoor
Programs
I
’ve been paddling canoes almost all of my life. From Girl Scout
river trips in Pennsylvania as a kid to summers on USFS portage
crews in the BWCA, I felt proficient and knowledgeable about
how to handle myself in a canoe. I was less confident about kayaking, which I’d picked up while living in Chicago, but still felt that I
understood the basics. My adult learning had been primarily informal
with tips from friends and hours in my boats.
Then in 2001, I started my new job at Rutabaga as the Director of
Outdoor Programs. That summer, I took part in ACA instructor certification courses in canoe and kayak, my first formal training in decades.
What an eye-opening experience! Although I’d been paddling for
years, I realized there was still a lot to learn that would help me more
fully enjoy my paddling. Humbling, to say the least, but also energizing as I began to realize just what the possibilities were.
Twelve years later, I’ve certainly improved my skills and have a
lot more confidence on the water. I know from my own experiences
that informal, on-the-fly learning has it’s limitations—there is simply
no substitute for formal training by qualified instructors!
We strongly believe that no matter how long you’ve been paddling there is still more to learn, perhaps more then you’ve ever been
aware of. And if you are new to paddling, why not start your journey
by learning efficient and safe technique with formal instruction?
Soon it will be paddling season again. You can enjoy your paddling more as you develop your skills and confidence. Whether you’re
new to paddling or a seasoned veteran, we invite you to join us this
season to improve the quality and enjoyment of your paddling experiences. We hope to see you on the water!
Nancy Saulsbury
Director, Rutabaga Outdoor Programs
Simon Cecil
Youth Programs Coordinator
See our complete list of courses and details at http://learn.rutabaga.com
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Your Summer
Can Be Funner
Kids ... get off the couch and on the water!
You’ll have a blast at Rutabaga Outdoor Programs kids camps!
Energy, Excitement, Education Rutabaga HAS IT ALL
Make new friends, learn new skills,
get outside, and have a blast!
Canoeing, Kayaking, & SUP camps
and classes for kids 3rd to 8th grade.
n Half-day, full-day and week-long day
camps for beginners to advanced paddlers.
n Family canoe & kayak classes, too.
n
“My son LOVED it and has been talking about
next year’s classes Rutabaga ever since!” -Jolene I.
Parents!
Rutabaga’s Instructors love
having fun as much as your kids
and value safety as much as you
do. Your kids will have a ball!
“When my children were in grade school they attended Rutabaga’s
kids’ camps. Now they are twenty and sixteen years old. We were on a
family vacation this summer and the three of us went out in kayaks. My
daughter flipped and came up laughing. As I watched both kids went into
t-rescue mode. It was great to see them so easily display the skills that
they first learned so long ago. Thanks for giving them not only skills but
confidence and a life long passion for water sports.” – Amy S.
Find out more at www.learn.rutabaga.com,
or call us at 608-223-9300 for more info.
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http://learn.rutabaga.com
Help Kids Enjoy Paddling
Junior Leadership
Development Program
Community Organizations,
Scouts, Youth Programs
Josh Kestelman
Scholarship Fund
Have a positive influence on young
people and enjoy a fun and rewarding summer as a Junior Leader.
For teens entering 9th-12th grade.
Applications due by April 15th.
Whether you want to add excitement and
team-building to your Summer programming, or prepare for an extended wilderness
trip, Rutabaga can help create a program to
get your kids out on the water.
Rutabaga provides scholarships
to help community agencies
and individual kids attend our
summer programs. Donations
gladly accepted.
For more information on our youth programs, contact Simon at simonc@rutabaga.com
A Little Baga Grows Up
I
t began at Canoecopia in 1990. My mom was six months
pregnant when my parents bought the smallest children’s PFD
they could find. That July a four-week old me was loaded into
their cedar strip canoe for my first canoe ride down the Wisconsin
River, a trip I’d repeat multiple times every summer of my life. Memories of my childhood are
fashioned around days like this on Wisconsin’s
rivers and lakes.
In 2006, a 16 year-old me saw an announcement for Rutabaga’s Junior Leader Program.
Wondering if I was outgoing enough for the job, I
frantically filled out the application and sent it in.
That June I sheepishly walked to the back lawn
of Rutabaga for the first time, a walk I would
come to repeat hundreds of times.
That first summer I felt like I had found a
home and spent two summers as a Junior Leader,
honing skills and gaining self-confidence. In 2008
a dream came true – I was hired as a Rutabaga youth instructor!
Four summers passed as I spent every day sharing my life-long
Elyse Rylander
passion with area youth.
These summers at Rutabaga changed my life. They took me
from a shy teenager to a woman confident leading a group of kids
or adults. But Rutabaga’s ability to change my life didn’t stop
there. During my instructor certification course
I expressed my desire to leave the Midwest after
I graduated from the UW. A fellow instructor
enthusiastically suggested I go to Alaska and
guide for a company she had worked for. The following May I was packing up my paddling gear
and boarding a plane for Valdez, Alaska where I
would spend a summer paddling around glacier
faces, icebergs, and humpback whales.
To sum it up: Rutabaga has been the catalyst
for the trajectory of my adult life. It has instilled
values, created opportunities for me to travel
and work in places people dream about, and has
brought so many amazing people into my life. As
I stand at the threshold of the next chapter of my life, this little
‘Baga will never forget her roots.
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Adult Instruction
Getting Started
Get off to a great start as you learn to canoe or kayak! Rutabaga Outdoor Programs offers
several options to help you maximize your enjoyment as you begin your paddling journey.
Top Ten Great Things
about Rutabaga’s
Beginner Classes
Beginner classes in:
n Solo Canoe
n Tandem Canoe
n Recreational Kayak
n Sea Kayak
● Small classes with individual attention
But don’t just take it from us. Here’s what a student
had to say about the benefit of her first class …
Dear Rutabaga,
A few weeks ago I took Rutabaga’s
Recreational Kayak 1 class in anticipation
of a trip to Florida where I would go kayaking. I’d never been in a kayak before, and
I promised that I’d report back on my trip.
All I can say is that my trip was
AMAZING! We saw many birds and
watched dolphins hunting. But the most
incredible part was the manatees – particularly when they started playing with
my kayak! One pushed me around a little
then had a really good back scratch, which
made for a bit of a bumpy boat! Then
along came a baby who snuffled my boat
from stem to stern. We were all astonished,
and the marine biologist among us thought
we’d encountered some particularly curious youngsters. Our experience could have
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● Starting on dry land and learning
how to enter and exit the boat
● Positive attitude of instructors
only been possible in kayaks – I can see
why people get addicted!
I would never have had the courage
to go on this amazing adventure if I hadn’t
taken a class from Rutabaga. I learned the
basics and gained the confidence I needed
for the easy paddling we were doing that
day. And believe me, it helped to know
what a normally balanced boat feels like
when a huge animal started gently pushing me around. I knew not to panic – and
I knew that even if I did dump my boat, I
could get back into it.
I had a great time in the class and an
even better time applying what I learned.
I’m not done with this adventure. I will
certainly go kayaking again.
~ Elaine K.
● High quality equipment
● Relaxed atmosphere
● Emphasis on safety
● Great feedback on technique instructors helpful and informative
● Supportive place to challenge oneself
and get more comfortable
● Paddling on the lakes
● FUN!
http://learn.rutabaga.com
Developing your Skills
L
ike many activities, paddling is a progression. You begin by
learning basic skills and safety considerations, then putting
them into practice in controlled conditions. As you spend
time using these skills you develop confidence in your ability to
handle your boat.
Then you’re ready to add new skills to your toolkit and learn to
safely handle more challenging conditions, including waves, wind
and other environmental factors. Whether your goal is a canoe trip
into the Boundary Waters Canoe Area or a kayak adventure in the
Apostle Islands, Rutabaga can help you gain the skills you need to
more fully enjoy your experience. And whether you’re just moving
past beginner stage or are already a more advanced paddler, we offer
opportunities for you to expand your skill set and experience increasingly complex conditions.
Check out our website for complete information on classes that
will help you move along this progression and take your paddling to
the next level.
Private Lessons
“I took an individual lesson with an instructor. I highly
recommend the attention and flexibility of a private lesson!”
As you develop as a paddler, you’re likely to have specific skills
you want to hone and refine. A private lesson with Rutabaga is
an effective way to learn what YOU want to learn at a time that
is convenient for you. Private lessons are a great way to work on
skills such as:
n Combining strokes for more efficient paddling
n Forward stroke
n Braces/recovery strokes
n Using edging for effective turns
n Rescues and towing
n Kayak rolling
n River Canoeing or Kayaking
For private lessons, email us at classes@rutabaga.com
Canoecopia Special!*
Purchase your class at Canoecopia
and recieve a 15% discount
*does not apply to Wilderness First Aid or ACA Instructor Certification courses.
53
n
MARCH 2013 CANOECOPIA
10th Anniversary!
Door County
Sea Kayak
Symposium
July 12-14, 2013
Rowleys Bay Resort
Door County, WI
It’s our 10th Anniversary! Come be a part of the celebration and help us make this our best symposium yet!
J
oin us as we celebrate our 10th Anniversary in beautiful Door County!
Whatever your experience level, from beginner paddler to seasoned veteran, the Door County Sea Kayak
Symposium is a weekend of fun and learning for everyone. Become a part of the kayaking community
as you learn, grow, enjoy, and smile!
Discover the joys of kayaking along some of the most scenic shoreline in the world - Door County.
n Quality on-water classes and land-based workshops that will help develop and improve your sea kayaking skills.
n Guided trips with experienced instructors to the rocky coves, rugged cliffs, and sandy beaches of Door County.
n Build community with other paddlers around the beer wagon, nightly dinners and evening campfires.
n Experienced and dedicated instructors from all over the country. Come learn from the pros!
n Paddling classes for kids and guided tours for the entire family.
“The time we spent here was magnificent It was our first
experience with a symposium and we were happy to see how
easily we could participate.”
“Love the easy can do culture. We enjoyed the generous help
of instructors – they were happy to help us get better at everything
we wanted to try.”
“Every year I learn new tips and tricks. This year I learned about
timing my strokes in waves for greater efficiency”
– 9th year at DCSKS
54
n
MARCH 2013 CANOECOPIA
And featuring special DCSKS 10th
Anniversary activities and surprises!
You don’t want to miss it!
Space is limited. Register now at
www.everyonepaddles.com
http://learn.rutabaga.com
Stand Up Paddling
“What fun to learn something new and get exercise! I gained
confidence and skills with stand up paddle-boarding.”
Discover why Stand Up Paddling (SUP) is an ideal craft for our
Midwestern waters. SUP is perfect for exploring area lakes, cruising
down rivers, and getting the ultimate core workout. It’s also a great
way to add challenge to your yoga practice.
n Introduction to Stand Up Paddling
n SUP Days – a day of special SUP classes on Sat., June 22
n SUP Yoga
n SUP for Teens
M S R ® C O O K WA R E
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out of options, not ideas. That’s why
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When it comes to function, durability
and performance on the trail, we
simply refuse to compromise.
KENNAN HARVEY
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The new ultralight, compact
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and Much More ...
“This was a great experience and it increased my confidence greatly. I would recommend the class to anyone!”
Customized Courses & Adventures
Let us create an adventure for you! Whether you’re looking to spice
up a company outing, host a family reunion, or get your neighborhood
kids out on the water, we’re here and we’re game! Give us a call.
n Adaptive Paddling for People with Disabilities
n Birthday parties
n Group Outings
Leadership Training & Certifications
n Wilderness First Aid (WFA)
n Out of the Classroom: Canoeing and
Kayaking Adventures for Teachers.
n BCU 3 Star Training & Assessment
n American Canoe Association Instructor
Certification in Canoe, Kayak and SUP
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TO MAKE
A Paddle
DARREN
BUSH
There is no logical reason for me to make a paddle.
I can get a really nice paddle from any number of paddle
makers, all of whom can make a better paddle than I can,
and do so in an hour or so. For me, it takes hours, even days.
The only way this makes sense is to ignore economics, even
assuming my time is worth five bucks an hour. The only way
this makes sense is to consider it an exercise in patience, a
skill builder, a way for hands to teach my brain how to think
differently.
I like elemental materials; wood, metal, and stone. Working
in each media is totally different, and that appeals to me.
That said, since 2005 or so I’ve spent precious little time
woodworking. The table saw accident convinced me that
powered, rotating blades and Darren’s hands don’t mix. But a
pretty piece of cedar a friend gave me called my name, and I
decided to make a paddle: all by hand. No power tools.
I hadn’t used a hand saw for twenty years. A brace and bit?
Wood shop in eighth grade. I’ve used planes here and there,
but as far as muscle memory goes, hand tools were new to
me. My index finger on my right hand squeezes and wood is
magically cut, drilled or smoothed. This is different.
58
n
MARCH 2013 CANOECOPIA
I laid out a paddle I liked, started tracing and dug in. I had
no instructions, I didn’t want any. I wanted to see if my brain
could teach my hands how to work the wood.
The physical result is decent enough. Scraped, sanded and
oiled, I wouldn’t be embarrassed to use it in front of my
paddling friends.
The important result was a change in the way I think.
___________________________________________
In his book “Shop Class as Soulcraft,” Matthew Crawford
talks about the spiritual value of working with your hands
and laments our generation’s distain for manual labor. Shop
classes have been systematically removed from schools, and
the almost universal philosophy is a successful student is a
college-bound student. “A gifted young person who chooses
to become a mechanic rather than accumulate academic
credentials is viewed as eccentric, if not self-destructive,” he
says.
The truth is that most of the work I do is between my ears.
Writing this with a word processor, calculating figures in
spreadsheets and working with various computer programs
to organize my time and figuring out how to best reach out
to you and tell our story occupies 90% of my time. The other
10% is loading and unloading semis full of canoes and kayaks,
doing a little repair work in our shop, or sweeping a floor here
and there.
I have no gripe against college. My wife and I put ourselves
through school and I spent a lot of years there, and I very
much value my education. That said, I think the value of
working with your hands is valuable if not critical, especially
to people who are between-the-ears workers.
My paddle brought me back to myself. The meditative aspect
of handwork is as satisfying as any work I’ve ever done. The
sound of a sharp plane running over a piece of clear cedar is
musical, and holding a good tool in your hands is always a
thrill.
The part of my garage that isn’t full of canoes and kayaks is
slowly becoming a real, live workshop. I could put a car there,
but last I checked, my truck is waterproof; my tools, not so
much. My time out there is becoming a necessary weight,
counterbalancing my work at Rutabaga Paddlesports. And I
think I’m better at it because I made a paddle.
Where Will a
Jackson kayak
take you?
anyWhere you
Want to go.
play
fish
explore
jacksonkayak.com
SILBERMAN
A World in 18-feet
DICK
It was 8 years ago when that little piece of disc broke off and cut the
nerve to part of my left quadriceps muscle. In an instant, my life was
changed. Suddenly I was unable to do all of my old
sports. No judo, no sailing.
I tried all the exercise devises and was on a
rowing machine when I got the idea to surf. Not the
ocean, the internet. Karma and my willingness to
try something new conspired; and I found myself
in Madison behind a place called Rutabaga with
4 other (much, much younger) students, staring at
a guy named John Browning. I had signed up for
beginning sea kayak lessons. As things turned out,
it changed my life.
Compared to my sailboat, those kayak thingies
were small, but I have to tell you that I took to
those little suckers like a duck takes to weedinfested water. I fell in love. I had found a home. I
had found a new way to exercise and, best of all, be
out on the water.
I was old enough and wise enough to know what I didn’t know,
so I sought out the Milwaukee paddlers on Sunday mornings and
made a pest of myself until they decided it was better to give me some
instructions than to wait until they had to put a toe tag on me.
I improved slowly, made some wonderful friends and found a
mentor in John (same guy who first taught me)
who happens to live in my old neighborhood in
Milwaukee. I sought out new challenges, took
the IDW and ICE and became a level 3 certified
instructor. About a year later I was promoted to
level 4. John was still my teacher along with Sam
Crawley who also had helped me hone my skills.
Today, at age 71, I am active in Greenland
kayaking and sea kayaking (have two of each, much
to my wife’s dismay). I get to all the symposiums
around here, teach, and often paddle 3-4 times a
week. Not one to remain stagnant, I am training to
be an instructor trainer.
What I eventually achieve in this sport is not as
important as showing up and taking part. Whether
it is sitting quietly and feeling a “calm” Lake
Michigan breathing or riding the crest of a huge wave, it’s all good.
So is coffee afterwards with fellow paddlers each of whom brings
unique histories, sets of skills and personalities. Sea kayaking is a
huge part of my life. It gives to me, and I try to give back to it.
www.perceptionkayaks.com
Milestones
ELIZABETH
W
e pull up behind Rutabaga Paddlesports, two
minivans and a Subaru, but we hop out solo—no
kids in tow this evening. Hugs are exchanged,
gear is piled on the lawn, and we heft kayaks off racks and pull
them from the back of the van.
It’s Girls’ Night Out for me and two of my best friends.
We’ve been getting together for nine years—since our oldest
sons were tiny babies. We were there to share growth and
milestones, and as we added more babies and they grew into
kids, we morphed from playdates to playgrounds to kid-less
nights with pitchers of hoppy ale. An evening of kayaking was
our latest iteration.
The vast majority of my paddling over the last decade has
been from the bow of a boy-filled canoe with my time equally
split between paddling, retrieving child-sized paddles from the
water, and Goldfish distribution. I love our family paddles, but
they are illustrative of the rest of life in this phase of raising
young kids—splitting ourselves between work, parenting, and
life obligations. I’ve been craving time alone on the water,
paddling at my own pace, no one to care for but myself—and
that’s symbolic of what I need overall: a break, time off work,
off kid-duty, time with my girlfriends, time to just be. This
Girls’ Night Paddle offered me what I longed for.
We’re all shedding the stresses of our day as we strap on our
PFDs and launch the boats—work obligations, deadlines, and
shadows of the day’s clients linger in our minds; guilt over a
rushed dinner with the kids or a too-snappy response to the
husband as we flew out the door creep in—but as soon as
we glide into the water and pull a few strokes, it dissipates.
Our shoulders lower and loosen, and we’re laughing our way
upstream.
62
n
MARCH 2013 CANOECOPIA
KATT-REINDERS
We alternate between conversation—a flotilla of three, so close
we can pass water bottles and cameras back and forth – and
silence. We spread out, take our space and our quiet. It starts
to drizzle for a minute, but it’s a warm summer evening and
we don’t mind. We paddle out into Lake Monona, the Madison
skyline in front of us, when one friend looks back over her
shoulder and sees it – a double rainbow.
We laugh at the perfection of it all. Can you believe this? It’s
just us out here – this sky, these clouds, this friendship, that
rainbow! We’ve been friends for so long – we know each
other’s joys and heartaches, shared over years getting together
over diapers and playgrounds and pitchers of beer, and those
ups and downs are here with us even without being spoken,
making these moments of calm and peace and beauty all the
more poignant.
We paddle along the shoreline, the bluffs and the big houses,
and head out into the middle of the lake. The sun is setting
and we need to be heading back. We’re smiling and a little
windswept, but it’s a good look, we decide.
We load up, together. I’ll help you carry your heavy load,
just like in parenting and friendship. Boats back in or on our
vehicles, PFDs stored, and wet sandals still on, we hop in our
grocery-getters and drive the couple of miles to our regular
spot.
Still laughing, we head in, smelling faintly of the lake and
the evening air. We sit down and order our standard pitcher
of hoppy ale, finishing out the night with beer and dessert.
We’re calm, we’re happy, we’re renewed. We’re growing, just
like our kids, and the Girls’ Night Paddle is a milestone worth
marking.
WIN THE NORTHWEST
CARIBOU QUEST
ADVENTURE!
Artery Lake, Woodland Caribou Provincial Park
You’ll go in search of the elusive
woodland caribou in Woodland
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This dynamic Arctic watershed promises
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The contest is valued at approximately $12,900 CAN.
To find out more, come visit the Ontario Tourism booth
FOR FULL CONTEST DETAILS AND TO ENTER ONLINE
ontariotravel.net/outdoor
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ALLIANT ENERGY CENTER Building
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BLAME
MILLENIUM
O
n the eve of Y2K, other people were
stocking up on survival supplies
and worrying about crashing
computers and plummeting jets. I decided to
show my belief that the world would not end
by making a list of “21 Things to Do in the
21st Century.”
Tucked among the short term goals—to
be achieved in the next year, not the next
999—was “Learn to Kayak.”
As an outdoors lover—a hiker, a skier,
a climber—it was something I had thought
about for a long time, but hadn’t got around
to doing. Until I put it on the list.
Kayaks should come with the warning
label “slippery when wet,” not because of
the obvious risk, that they can, indeed, be
slippery, but because of the slippery slope
they represent.
A little red recreational kayak became my
gateway drug. It led to the hard-core stuff,
first sea kayak symposiums, then my own 16-
THE
NEW
foot fiberglass beauty. But it didn’t stop there.
After a trip with a university group when
a potentially dangerous situation occurred
involving another paddler, I decided to
become a certified instructor. This was quite
a leap for a person who almost gave up the
whole kayaking idea after her first wet exit,
even though it was in a nice clean swimming
pool with two instructors next to her.
In the process, I’ve met some great
people who share my passion not only for
paddling but for the outdoors, adventure, and
living life to the fullest.
The line between passion and obsession
can be a slim and not always obvious
one—like the sometimes subtle horizon line
warning of a low-head dam.
The New Year’s Eve when I was
paddling on a recently thawed river (well,
parts of it were thawed) so I could say I
had paddled each month that year probably
crossed the line. Especially after I got caught
LENORE
SOBO TA
in a thunderstorm. And I found out a tornado
warning—not watch—was in effect. Who
expects tornadoes on Dec. 31 in Illinois?!
More than a decade after my Y2K list,
I still find pleasure in challenging myself
paddling with more experienced paddlers
or introducing the sport to a group of
new people. I want to learn the skills of
the former, but I never want to lose the
excitement of the latter. There’s nothing like
seeing old things through new eyes to truly
appreciate its wonder.
I’ve seen incredible sunrises and sunsets,
shaded my eyes against the brightness of a
full moon, watched eagles and ospreys catch
fish in front of me, and listened to the call of
a loon and the roar of ocean surf.
One of the great things about kayaking
is that there are always old skills to improve
and new skills to learn. I’ve learned to never
say never, but sometimes say “maybe later.”
Whitewater, anyone?
65
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MARCH 2013 CANOECOPIA
Big City Mountaineers
I
Expanding trips to BWCAW for 2013
t’s been an amazing year for Team
Rutabaga, Canoecopia, and Big City
Mountaineers!
We’ve all worked together for many
years now, to change the lives of underresourced urban youth in the Midwest. This
year, we’re working with more youth than
ever before, inspiring our kids to gain the
critical life skills needed to live successful
lives and positively impact our world.
We do this through wilderness mentoring
expeditions, paddling in the Boundary Waters
in weeklong programs and in partnership
with Midwest youth agencies. Our kids learn
about integrity, responsibility, decisionmaking, and conflict resolution skills and are
more likely to stay in school, off drugs and
away from violence.
Thank you for making this happen by
attending Canoecopia! We’ve nearly doubled
LISA
in youth, with more than 1,800 young people,
400 volunteer mentors, 40 community-based
youth agencies, and delivering 62 expeditions.
In the Midwest, that’s 300 kids, 12 youth
agencies, and 22 expeditions that get kids
outdoors and paddling. We’re now working
with Cross Plains Middleton district middle
and high school kids and expanding spring
and fall programs getting kids outdoors with
canoeing, rock climbing, and backpacking.
By dropping by our booth, there are three
ways you can help BCM!
Mentor! Our kids go into the field paired
up with adult mentors for a week—five
adults, five kids, intense learning. Would you
give a week of your time for our kids? Heck,
you can mentor for a day or an overnight
expedition, too.
Climb! Challenge yourself to climb on
one of the biggest peaks in the country and
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It’s called Summit For Someone, and it’s an
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Give! Five bucks ... $10 ... $25, heck the
change in your pocket, to support BCM kids.
Help us ensure we can continue to work with
more Midwestern kids!
68
“Rooted in the outdoors since 1976”
NEW
Water
WOODY
T
he paw print was as broad as my booted-foot and
almost half the length. The soft sand bank had
taken the print beautifully: the marks of the claws
were clearly visible. The grasses and sedges rattled in the
strengthening wind. Above us, a wall of dark clouds ramified,
the reason we had beached the canoes in the first place. To
the west, the sky was still the bright, crystalline blue that had
heralded the chilly dawn. I pulled on my raincoat and got out
the camera to document the print. There was little other sign
that a large black bear had strolled past: just the one perfect
print, obviously fresh. I drew in a deep lungful of cold air,
taking in the tang of river, distant pine and a hint of snow. Just two days before we had loaded and launched our
canoes onto this clear, northern river beneath a warm sun. The
wind promised a weather change and added to the challenge of
navigating the serpentine course through the marsh valley. It
didn’t take long for the spirit of the river to seize us. A heady
mix of anticipation and nervous energy coursed through me,
making it hard for me to keep centered and balanced in my
eager solo canoe. I relaxed into the boat soon enough, but
the excitement didn’t diminish. We all felt it; our grins were
contagious.
Down in the river valley, sight lines were curtailed. The
marsh vegetation waved above us, leaving us to guess at the
configuration of the land about us. Periodically, tree-covered
ridges would hem it in or emerge as islands or points, adding
contour and color. Several of these contained campsites,
usually high above the river, hidden in the pines. After a few
hours of paddling we picked a site, expansively open under
tall white pines. Tents and bear rig went up quickly, hot meals
soon followed. Below us, the river chuckled and murmured to
itself.
The pleasure of exploring new waters is substantial. It is
easy for me to get in a rut, returning to a favorite place because
it is easy and known. On a hot summer evening, feeding old
oak flooring to a fire pit in a vain attempt at mitigating the
68
n
MARCH 2013 CANOECOPIA
OSBORNE
swarming mosquitoes, a plan was hatched. My old friend,
Erik, had an opportunity to do some paddling, sans kids, and
we kicked around various destinations, weighing them for
feasibility. We were looking for something within striking
distance; something low-key but fun, preferably new to all
of us. Ideas were submitted and rejected until we finally hit
on this river, one we had eyeballed every time we passed
it heading further North. Emails and phone calls to likely
participants went out immediately.
In the end, it was just the three of us, Erik, Myles and
I, veterans of several other canoe outings together. Each
would paddle his own boat, responsible for his own gear and
food, leaving our options open for splitting up or staying
together. The river imposed its will on us, forcing us to make
independent decisions continuously while drawing us together
through common experience. The weather did what it usually
does in the fall in the North, offering sun and wind and rain,
seemingly at whim. From the river bottom, we could rarely see
it coming before it was on us.
Thus, on the third day, when a glance over the shoulder
revealed a mass of purple clouds overtaking us out of the
northeast, we quickly found a sand bank and pulled off.
Myles’s sharp eyes picked out the bear print. We all looked
around, realizing that just about anything could be lurking
nearby, hidden by the marsh. The sharpening wind hastened us
back into our boats; we still had a fair bit of paddling ahead of
us before stopping for the night. As we launched, the tick and
rattle of sleet on raingear filled our ears.
“At least it’s not raining,” said Myles. Laughing, we
continued on down the river, content and snug within our
layers, eyes brightened by the flaming maples, elms and
birches occasionally leaning over the river and limning the far
edges of the marsh. This new water, this lovely northern river,
had welcomed us, sharing its mysteries, enlivening our spirits,
reminding us why we paddle. Hearts light, we made for the
next bend, to see what we could see.
Creeps and Jolts
JOHN
O
ne of the joys of parenting is
watching your child master
a critical skill. Whether it’s
combing her hair or tying his shoes,
watching your child master something
provides a jolt of satisfaction that yes, we
are doing something right. Sometimes
that jolt can come in a sudden revelation
like, “Wow, Billy is crawling!” and
sometimes it creeps in on you like, “I
can’t believe little Suzie’s reading Harry
Potter!”
I have three boys between the ages
of 4 and 9. I’ve had my share of jolts
and creeps and sometimes jolting-creeps.
Watching my oldest son bloom into a
paddler has been that combination of
slow progress mixed in with “holy cow”
REINDERS
moments.
I remember the first short family
paddles on the pond behind the shop. My
wife Elizabeth and I would take a canoe
out for a ten or twenty minute paddle
with our youngest cuddling in her lap.
We didn’t go far or long, but it was a
start. We continued with the short trips,
adding length and children to the mix.
As with any growing family, we grew
as parents while they grew as humans.
And the creeping to becoming a paddling
family was already there, but almost
impossible to perceive.
Riding in the bow with Elizabeth
turned into “helping” Mom paddle.
Helping turned into splashing around
with his own paddle. Gradually splashing
Last night I had a dream I was paddling effortlessly
across the most beautiful waters…
Check out our new paddles at their first
consumer show! Hurry – limited quantities available!
© Banches, 2013
Proudly crafted in Wisconsin.
turned into lily-dipping, and then into actual
paddling.
I can remember the exact moment when I
realized my oldest was a paddler. He had taken
a Kayak Camp class at Rutabaga, and we went
camping at Hartman Creek State Park the weekend
after camp. I wanted to go fishing on the lake, and
my son wanted to come along. We hopped in the
canoe and he turned around and asked me, “Do you
want to see a draw?” He then proceeded to paddle
me around the small lake, from the bow of the canoe,
while I fished. (Cue angelic chorus and beam from
above) I was in heaven.
This past summer my son accompanied me to
the Door County Sea Kayak Symposium for the first
time as a participant. Listening to him talk about
capsizing and rescues with his fellow young paddlers
was music to my ears. Even with three boys I wasn’t
sure I’d get another paddling partner, but so far, I’ve
got at least one. You can’t force someone to love
paddling, but in exposing my boys to it I’ve stacked
the deck as best I can. We’re still at the creeping
stages with the other two, but I’m optimistic that I
may end up with a paddling family in the end—and
what a wonderful jolt that will be.
www.atpaddles.com
The Social Water Dog
O
ur vet suggested that our dog Rosie could use a
“sister.” We could see her point. Rosie’s neuroses
were growing (ceiling fans, reflected lights, etc.).
We found a rescue dog that seemed
to fit the bill. When we met Cici
(a chocolate Lab mix), she was as
advertised: social, gentle, and in
need of a good home.
She is also a natural,
inquisitive, friendly water dog.
We discovered this when she
forded a river bordering a dog
park, investigated the nearby
dump, and then was picked up at
a “gentlemen’s club” a mile away,
getting ‘scritches from “gentlemen”
and dancers.
In retrospect, that episode
should have been on our mind when we took her to the river.
She was (mostly) okay with getting in the canoe. We bribed
her with all sorts of tasty morsels and took off. We quickly
—and intentionally—stopped at the first sandbar so the dogs
JIM
PIPPITT
could play. Cici and Rosie tore off, raising rooster tails of
sand.
Then Cici saw another family land on our sandbar, a
quarter-mile away. They also had
a dog. Boom! She was gone, off
to meet her new best friends. We
called and called, but her ears had
turned off. In the distance we could
see her tearing up the sand with the
other dog, until she dropped low to
the ground and disappeared from
sight. The happy family around her
disbursed.
Trudge, trudge, splash,
grumble. We finally met up with
the family, extended our apologies
and clipped on her leash. Cici
showed zero remorse. I swore she
was smiling — Ugh! — and fragrant. Whatever thing she
rolled in was oily, scaly, and still decomposing. We consoled
ourselves that Cici learned that canoeing was fun, but it was
a Pyrrhic victory. Especially in the car as we drove home.
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Boater’s Gloves
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Canoecopia Price: $35.95
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cVest
Chinook
Clearwater
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Exhibitor & Vendor Listing
Vendors - Main Hall
adidas Outdoor
Aquabound
Astral Designs
AT Paddles
Badger Paddles
Bending Branches
BIC SPORT
C4 Waterman
Cache Lake Camping Foods
Cascade Creek Company
Chaco
Chosen Valley Canoe Accessories
Chota Gear
Cooke Custom Sewing
Current Designs
Dagger
Danuu, LLC
Delta Kayaks Ltd.
Drinkin’ Partner
Eagles Nest Hammocks
Esquif Canoes Inc.
Exped LLC
Filson
FITS Sock Co.
Frost River
Goal Zero
GoPro
Granite Gear
Grower’s Cup Coffee
Harken, Inc.
Harmony Gear
Helle Knives
Hurricane Aquasports
Icebreaker Nature Clothing
Innova
Jackson Kayak
Jetboil, Inc.
Katadyn North America
KEEN footwear
Kokatat
Lendal North America
Level Six
Liquid Logic
Mad River Canoe
Malone Auto Racks
MSR
MTI Adventurewear
Native Watercraft
Necky Kayaks
North Water
NorthWest Canoe
Nova Craft Canoe
NRS
Ocean Kayak
Old Scout Outdoor Products
Old Town
Ostrom Outdoors
Outdoor Research
P&H Sea Kayaks
Perception
Platypus
Point 65 /Wynit Distribution
Princeton Tec
Pyranha Kayaks
74
n
MARCH 2013 CANOECOPIA
Quantum Engineering
Sawyer Paddles and Oars
Sea Kayaking UK
Sea to Summit
SEA-LECT Designs
Seal Line
Seals Sprayskirts
Seaward Kayaks
Shred Ready Inc
Slatgrills.com LLC
SmartWool
Snap Dragon Design
Sperry Top-Sider
SteriPEN
Stohlquist Waterware
Summit Distribution
Superior Portage Pads
Surftech SUP
tasc Performance Bamboo Apparel
Teva Footwear
The Original Bug Shirt Company
Thermarest
Thule
TieYak
Tilley Endurables
Venture Kayaks
Vibram FiveFingers
Wenonah Canoe
Werner Paddles
Wetterlings Axes
Wilderness Systems
WindPaddle Sails
Yakima, Whispbar, Rack N Roll
ZEM gear Footwear
Exhibitors - Main Hall
Adirondack Guideboat
Adventure Sherpas
American Canoe Association
American Traders
Balance Solutions, LLC
Beaches of Fort Myers & Sanibel
Bear Paw Outdoor Adventure Resort
Bearskin Lodge and Wilderness Outfitters
Bellyak, Inc.
Big City Mountaineers
Boundary Waters Journal
BoundaryWatersCanoeArea.com
Camp Manito-wish YMCA
Canoe and Kayak Magazine
Canoeing.com
Capital Brewery
Cap’n Redbeards
Capsurz - Windproof Your Cap
Cedar Falls Tourism and Visitors Bureau
Charles City WhiteWater
Chesapeake Light Craft
Clearwater Historic Lodge
Conserve School
Door County’s Adventure Center
Downstream Services
Eagle Optics
Family Tent Camping - OzTent USA
Four Dog Stove Co
Girls at Play LLC
Golden Hawk Canoes
Grand Portage Isle Royale Lines
Great Rivers Ch, Wooden Canoe Heritage
Assoc.
Green Lake Country Visitors Bureau
Hayward Lakes Visitors Bureau
Hayward Outfitters
Jay Timmerman
Kayak Chicago
Lightweights
Living Adventure Inc.
Madawaska Kanu Centre
McCormick Lumber & Cabinetry, Inc.
Mercer Area Chamber of Commerce
Minocqua Area Chamber of Commerce
Naples Marco Island CVS
National Outdoor Leadership School
Naturally Superior Adventures
New Vision Wilderness
North Central Wisconsin ITBEC
North House Folk School
Northeastern Ontario
Northern Highland-American Legion State
Forest
Northern Lakes Girl Scout Canoe Base
Northern Tier High Adventure Programs
Northland College
NorthPoint Paddles
Novorca and Qajaq Rolls
Old Indian Secret Fruit & Nut
Ontario Parks
Ontario Tourism
Ontario’s Algoma Country
Paddling.net
Pakboats/ScanSport, Iinc.
Parks Canada - Northern Ontario
Piragis Northwoods Company
Piragis Northwoods Company
Price County Tourism Department
Pygmy Boats
Rapid Media
Red Lake Outfitters
River Alliance of Wisconsin
Rivers North Outfitters of Minnesota
RiverSport Adventures
Road Warrior Sports
Rock Art in Watercolors, LLC
Rustic Wolf Inn
Rutabaga Outdoor Programs
Savage River Works
Sea Kayak Adventures
Sea Kayaker Magazine
Seven Treasures
Sierra magazine
Silent Sports Magazine & Website
Silverwaves Jewelry LLC
SkiPulk.com
Spirit of the Wilderness Outfitters
Spring Creek
Stone Harbor Wilderness Supply
Superior Outdoors Inc.
Suspenz Storage & Transport
SylvanSport
Tahquamenon Scenic Byway/Northern
Initiatives
Tarka’s Whitewater Journey LLC
TCTeardrops LLC
tera’swhey
The Natural Gait
The Paddle House
The Squid Anchor
Tourism Thunder Bay
TRAK Kayaks
Trek & Trail
Uncle Ducky Outdoors
University of Sea Kayaking
Voyageur North
Voyageur Outward Bound School
Voyageur Wilderness Programme
Wabakimi Canoeing & Fishing Outfitters
Washington Island Chamber of Commerce
waubrey
Wausau Kayak Canoe Corporation
Whitecap Kayak
Wild River Academy
Wild Rivers Interpretive Center
Williams & Hall Outfitters
Wisconsin Canoe Heritage Museum
Wisconsin DNR
Wisconsin State Park System
Wooden Waters
Lobby
Aldo Leopold Nature Center
American Hiking Society
Badgerland Girl Scout Council
Bureau of Land Management
Callie Rohr Memorial Canoe & Kayak Race
Chicago Adventure Therapy
Chicago Area Sea Kayakers Assoc.
Four Rivers Environment Coalition
Fox-Wisconsin Heritage Parkway
Friends of the Apostle Islands
Friends of the Lower WI Riverway
Ice Age Trail Alliance
Illinois Paddling Council
Ironman Wisconsin
Isle Royale National Park
Isthmus Paddle & Portage
Jefferson County Parks Department
Kiwanis Club of Downtown Madison
Ladies of the Lake Symposium
Lafayette Development Corp.
Mad City Paddlers
Madison Audubon Society
North Country Trail Association
Northwest Indiana Paddling Assoc.
Portage Area Kiwanis
Prairie State Canoeists
Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance
St. Croix River Association
St. Croix National Scenic Riverway
TEAMSurvivor Madison
The Gales Storm Gathering
The Wabakimi Project
U S Coast Guard Auxiliary
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
United City of Yorkville
Upper Mississippi River NFW Refuge
Upper Sugar River Watershed Assoc.
Final
Eric and Dane Jackson
Professional Freestyle Kayakers
© Sperry Top-Sider® A Passion For The Sea™ 2013
sperrytopsider.com
Canoecopia 2013 Information
Where: Exhibition Hall at the Alliant Energy Center
1919 Alliant Energy Center Way Madison, WI. 53713
When: March 8: 4 p.m. - 9 p.m.
March 9: 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
March 10: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Help support our Canoecopia Charities
*Admission: $15/day, $25/3-day pass.
Ages 17 and under are free
Host: Canoecopia is presented annually
by Rutabaga Paddlesports.
Parking: $6/day
Information: Call 608-223-9300 or check our
website at www.canoecopia.com
*Pre-sale Wristband
passes for Canoecopia
are available through Feb. 25th
at www.Rutabaga.com
$12/day $22/3-day pass
n Donate $1 when you check
out at the registers
n Purchase a glass, t-shirt or
hat from Capital Brewery
n Come to the Canoecopia
Party at the High Noon
on Saturday night
Go to www.canoecopia.com for a full list of exhibitors,
and to find information on our free childcare.
Rutabaga Paddlesports will close
Wednesday, March 6th
and re-open Thursday, March 14th.
We thank you for your patience while
we put the shop back together.