Saltwood Paddles Hustle

I  first got the chance to try out a Hustle from Saltwood Paddles on a quick jaunt around Ross Island with some clients this spring, and I am very pleased to report that this elegant kayak paddle exceeded all of my expectations. New for 2013, the Hustle takes comfort and versatility to new heights while still delivering everything you’d expect from a Saltwood Paddle.  The mid sized blades on the Hustle are perfect for touring in a variety of conditions and feel incredibly smooth as they move through the water; perfectly balancing catch, power and resistance to create a blade that is at home on the flats and in turbulent water as well.  The Balsa mid core in the blades aid bracing and rolling, yet they still allow you to bury the paddle in the water and maximize your catch when a powerful stroke is required.  Beyond the balanced shape and feel of the Hustle, I really enjoyed the unique feeling and flexibility of the spruce shaft and the indexed hand grips that are prominently featured on all the offerings from the Saltwood Paddles line-up.  Some folks may be going for the smallest shaft possible, but I’ll take the extra control and comfortable feeling of an ergonomically designed hand grip any day (it helps me keep a light, loose grip, too!).  If you’re in the market for a versatile, elegant touring paddle, I highly recommend taking one of these locally crafted paddles out on your next paddling trip.

-Dave Trageser

Come into our Jantzen Beach location to check this paddle out!  It’s available in Straight Shaft and Bent Shaft.

Distance: 11.44 miles

Time: 3hrs 15mins

Who: Jeffrey Briley

Board: BIC Ace-Tec Wing

Paddle: Werner Spanker (2-piece adjustable)

So to get the season kicked off right, and to make use of a window of good weather, I decided to take on the island that Alder Creek has called home for the past 20+ years.  Hayden Island lies in the middle of the Columbia River bordering Portland, Oregon and Vancouver, Washington.  Spring tends to be a bit more challenging to make the almost 12 mile paddle due to the excess snow melt flowing into the river and additional currents it creates.

Leaving from the back dock of Alder Creek’s Jantzen Beach shop I paddled upstream to the east end of the island past the waking floating homes and moored vessels. Once I rounded the bend, I took relief in going with the flow of the mighty river and made better time on this more exposed ~6 mile section.  This south facing side of Hayden Island opens you up to the main shipping channel of the Columbia where barges, boaters, and any number of avian wildlife roam as they have for many year.

I continued to crank along, breaking every 30-40 minutes or so for water. The wild thing about Hayden Island is the contrast of activity you get between the east end and the more pristine west end. At my first rest stop, I decided to let the river carry me below to I-5 “Columbia Crossing” bridge. I tend to enjoy the more natural environs but going with the flow on a SUP below 6 lanes of highway is quite the experience.  Paddling on with the gentle current you come to the train bridge that connects North Portland with the industrial section of Vancouver, WA.

On to the best part of the paddle, the 800+ acres of wild land we call West Hayden Island.  You quickly arrive here once you pass the train bridge and just as quickly the sounds of nature take over again. With a smooth cadence, I drifted into a world, as I said before, of great contrast to that of our east end shop.  One that we should all hope stays this natural for years to come.

After about 7 miles of paddling, most of which was with the river, I prepare for the next ~6 miles of upstream SUPin’.  I did, however, have the perfect board for the job. The BIC Ace-Tec Wing is designed with a displacement touring bottom that did a good job with both tracking and speed as I took on the 2-3 knot current.  I spooked many birds in this quiet section of river as I paddled along and was happy that this chunk of island had not befallen the industrial fate it’s cross river bank had at the port.

Then it was crunch time. As the river bent back more toward true east the current picked up again…right about when the mobile homes, trains, highways and floating homes revived themselves upstream. Oh how I missed West Hayden Island about then.

After 2.5 hours of fairly easy paddling, it was time to get back to business and crank away.  I knew I had about 1.5 miles to go yet and the wind kicked up to add a little fun, so I tucked my head and finished up my trek aiming for the path of least resistance in amongst the floating homes and docks.  I arrived at the Alder Creek JB dock spent but smiling in the beautiful sunshine after a nice paddle.

Thanks for Reading

-Jeffrey Briley

Whitewater Classes, Tips, and Techniques: Full Immersion Whitewater 1; Photo by Andrew Romanelli

I took Alder Creek Kayak & Canoe’s introductory whitewater class, Full Immersion Whitewater 1, in the early spring of 2010.  Rivers will NEVER be the same for me.

Coming from a primarily flatwater paddling background, I understood the concept of current, but had no idea how to read the water.  This whitewater kayaking class covered basic river hydrology, opening my eyes to the creative power of water in motion.  I learned not only which river features were hazardous, but which features were FUN and PLAYFUL!  Suddenly, every bridge I drove over was a hazard, my eyes on the river searching for eddies to catch and waves and holes to surf!

Whitewater Classes, Tips, and Techniques: Full Immersion Whitewater 1; Photo by Andrew Romanelli

Exploring the bountiful wilderness of the Pacific Northwest, splashing down innumerable rivers, Alder Creek Kayak & Canoe’s instruction on whitewater kayaking classes equipped me with the skills and knowledge to safely pursue a recreation that has simply made my life better.  The safe and fun environment made learning much easier.  Instructors gave me new challenges as needed, catering to my ability, while covering and reinforcing the class content.

Eddying in and out, ferrying, and surfing are maneuvers that challenge and refine edge control, stroke selection and timing.  Both pool and river time provide ample practice for capsize prevention, basic assisted rescue, and simple self-rescue!

Whitewater Classes, Tips, and Techniques: Full Immersion Whitewater 1; Photo by Andrew Romanelli

This Portland whitewater kayaking skills instruction class is excellent for both whitewater AND sea paddlers!  Students will have a greater awareness of dynamic, moving water and the gear used in these environments.  This course made me a better paddler in ALL of my paddlesport disciplines: whitewater kayaking, sea kayaking, flatwater canoeing, and stand-up paddling.

Awareness of body position and connection with the water through your boat and paddle is one of the greatest benefits of this course!  This improved my understanding of how and why different strokes work.

Whitewater Classes, Tips, and Techniques: Full Immersion Whitewater 1; Photo by Andrew Romanelli

With 2 pool sessions and 2 days of moving water, I learned a LOT about controlling my boat that week!  And the Sunday of Full Immersion Whitewater 1 is spent running a Class II section of river!

If you are interested in paddling rivers or just want to become a better paddler, the Full Immersion Whitewater 1 class is EXCELLENT.  It has literally changed my life.  Now I have to figure out which river to paddle this week…

-Andrew Romanelli

Don't forget to look back upstream! Whitewater Classes, Tips, and Techniques: Full Immersion Whitewater 1; Photo by Andrew Romanelli

For more information about beginner kayaking classes and lessons, call Alder Creek at 503-285-0464 or visit the website at www.aldercreek.com!

The Medium Pyranha Nano was the perfect blend of the Jed’s loose and explosive freestyle hull, with the solid predictable “creekability” of the Shiva.  It’s business up top and party on the bottom.  Add some Burn characteristics in the stern with some chine releasers to the edges, and you have a Creeking, play boating do anything machine that will just about fit in your pocket.  I took it down some low volume steep creeks then cruised out to a favorite surf spot.  Huck the falls and then turn on all the best play waves in your favorite creek!  Get your “Freak-Style” on with the NEW Pyranha Nano in two sizes!  I certainly did!
-Paul Kuthe

Get specs on the Medium Pyranha Nano HERE!

Paul Kuthe freewheeling his Nano off Sunset Falls, East Fork of the Lewis River

What the hell is this Nano all about?
Well after paddling it today on the SG at a med juicy level i can say it is a blast to paddle. Just enough volume to make you stay on your toes in the big rapids. Surfing, Enders, Wave wheels, Yup it loves them. Boofing over big holes? Best have good body positioning!! Rolling? Well after paddling the Stomper for a while, I can say that it is almost too easy to roll, as I almost over rotated playing around a few times. Silly easy to roll. Silly I tells ya. Super fast for its size and great in even the funny water for a small boat. Awesome practice/training tool when you are comfortable on the run you are doing..

Great addition to the kayak quiver for those days when you are wanting to push your comfort level on those harder runs.

You were right Paul. This boat is a blast to paddle..
-Joey

Recently, I got my first chance to test out the LG Nano, one of the latest offerings from Pyranha Kayaks. As someone who’s paddled longer, displacement hull style creek boats for almost my whole whitewater career, I was a bit apprehensive about the aggressive edge and short waterline of the Nano, however I was also excited to try something a bit more playful than my current boat.  After just a couple of peel outs and ferries across the river, all my apprehension was washed away and replaced with a huge smile!  Despite the flat bottom and sharp, hard edges that extend the whole length of the Nano’s hull, I found it remarkably stable and forgiving, even in swirly and confused water.  As soon as I found a suitable wave and dropped in for a surf, I appreciated those edges even more as I carved back and forth with ease and was rewarded with some of the longest and most fun rides I’ve ever (intentionally) had on the river.  Small, shallow holes and waves were no problem to surf in thanks to the Nano’s short length and buoyant nose, and steeper waves were extremely easy to catch as well (I get the feeling that a more skilled boater than I could do all sorts of things on a steeper wave in this sporty little play machine).  Boofing was another strong suit for the Nano, thanks to ample bow rocker and its compact design.  Rolling the Nano was no problem at all, the puffy stern made it surprisingly forgiving and the cockpit ergonomics (comfortable and engaged knee position, low point by the hips) helped tremendously.  Speed is the only thing the Nano lacks, but that compromise allows it to surf and play as well as it does and it also compensates by being incredibly maneuverable and easy to drive and keep on line.  All in all, the Nano met every expectation I had for it and exceeded my expectations in several cases.  The Nano comes in two sizes currently (I am 6’2″ @225 lbs, felt like the upper end of the range for the LG), making it a great option for paddlers of almost any size.
-Dave Trageser

Get specs on the Large Pyranha Nano HERE!

Paddle on the Columbia

Sea Kayak Day Trips Near Portland, Oregon

1. Smith and Bybee Lakes, Portland
Why go? The nation’s largest urban freshwater wetland that doesn’t feel like it’s in a city. Lots of wildlife. Great birding, especially in winter and spring, and a lot of exploration of twisted jungly channels that change with the water level. Likely Conditions: Protected water. In winter, Smith lake can get a little windy. Notes: Sunrise and sunset paddles are great for wildlife–but be sure not to get locked in after legal sunset. And since there’s so much vegetation, remember how to get back to the put-in. Put-in/Take Out: Smith and Bybee Lakes Natural Area, N. Marine Drive. The put-in is 1/4 mile past the restrooms.

2. Miller Island, Columbia River
Why go? To soak up desert sun, paddle around a desert island, and maybe stop for some hiking to check out wildflowers, cliffs, or pictographs. And if it’s windy, to surf some wind waves. Likely Conditions: Can be calm, extremely windy, or anywhere in between. Notes: Miller Island is now closed to camping to protect Native American sites. There’s camping at both Deschutes River and Maryhill State Parks Put-in/Take Out: Deschutes River State Park. If it’s windy, take out at Maryhill State Park. Distance: 10 statute miles Chart: Columbia River Cruising Atlas, C25-26 3.Dalton Point to Chinook Landing Why go? To paddle under the cliff and waterfalls of Cape Horn, and ride the Columbia’s current and east wind. Likely Conditions: Depends on wind and current: can be flat or fairly rough. A strong east wind, most common in winter will create waves in the western Gorge. Keep an eye out for barge traffic. Notes: Best in the winter, when there’s lots of water in the waterfalls, strong westbound current, a (moderate) east wind, and often bald eagles at the mouth of the Sandy River. Distance: 14 SM Chart: Columbia River Cruising Atlas C16-15

4.The Columbia Gorge
Why go? To surf wind waves, paddle along cliffs and, in summer, wear shorts. Likely Conditions: Anywhere from calm to nuclear. Know how to calibrate your skills to conditions, and manage your boat in strong wind. Rock formations provide some rest areas and protection. Notes: Summer west winds create big waves the further east in the Gorge you go; Winter east winds create waves in the Western Gorge. Windsurfing web sites have good forecasts. In summer, enjoy the rare combination of surfing and wearing shorts. Walking Man Brewing in Stevenson opens at 3 PM. Put-in/Take out: Pick your run based on the wind strength you want. Shuttle required.

5.The Santiam and Willamette Rivers: Jefferson to Independence
Why go? The Willamette above the Newberg Pool provides clean water, a feeling of seclusion from nearby roads, and lots of current to zip you along. Likely Conditions: Expect moving water but no rapids; be able to ferry across current and avoid hazards like downed trees. Notes: Speed will change drastically based on river flow. Put-in/Take Out: Put in on the n Santiam River near Jefferson I-5 bridge, above confluence with Willamette at Mile 108; Take out at Independence, mile 95.5 Distance: 21 SM Chart: Willamette River Water Trail Guide, overlaps “Mainstem Willamette River RM 106-187” and “Buena Vista Ferry to the Columbia River”

6. Lewis & Clark Wildlife Refuge
Why go? To paddle among mazes of islands, soak up the wide expanse of the lower Columbia River, watch lots of birds, or cover long miles on extended trips. Likely Conditions: Highly variable based on tidal currents, river current, and wind. Expect afternoon winds on sunny days. Wind can be significant when during crossings. Notes: Lots of duck hunters during waterfowl season. Island channels appear and disappear at at different tide heights. Put-in/Take Out: Aldrich Point and return, or shuttle run to Astoria, Knappa, or Skamokawa Distance: Whatever your heart desires Chart: Columbia River Cruising Atlas C6, others depending on route.

7.Coastal Bays (Nehalem, Nestucca, Tillamook, Yaquina, Alsea, etc.)
Why go? To get your boat salty, explore the estuary, paddle with seals s, and maybe poke your nose out into the Pacific. Or ride the tide upstream until high tide, and then ride the ebb back. Likely Conditions: Variable with wind and tidal current. Expect northwest winds in the afternoons on sunny days. Notes: The mouth of the bays act like nozzles. Stay away from bay mouths during the ebb. Avoid spooking seals into the water. And expect large sections of the shallow bays to become dry at low tide: use the charts to find deep water.

8.Willamette Narrows
Why go? In summer, for a pretty paddle in a natural area close to Portland. In winter, for a play session with strong eddy lines, currents, and boils without the 7-hour drive to Deception Pass. Likely Conditions: When the water is above 58 feet on the Oregon City Upper gauge, expect strong current play conditions and bring a helmet. When it gets to 63 feet, stay away. Notes: Steer clear of wood hazards in current. Put-in/Take Out: For low-flow summer runs, Willamette Park in West Linn. When the current is strong, put in at Hebb Park and take out at Willamette Park. Distance: 6 miles Chart: Willamette River Cruising Atlas, W11-10

9. The Pacific Ocean
Why go? Some of the best paddling on earth: with sea caves, arches, rock gardens, cliffs, and secret coves you can’t get to with any other craft. Surf play. Likely Conditions: Entirely exposed. World-class paddlers and massive container ships have both gotten in trouble. Benign conditions, a trusted group and excellent skills and judgement conditions are all essential. Most days the ocean is closed. But when it’s good, it’s astounding. Notes: This is the pinnacle of sea kayaking. Expect to invest in a long-term process of building skills and judgement and finding paddlers you trust: it will be worth it.. Come to Lumpy Waters Symposium, October 18-20, 2013 to start the learning. (www.lumpywaters.com)

The Columbia Slough has an abundance of wildlife including 170 species of birds, Turtles, mammals and 26 species of fish. This 19 mile long urban wilderness is a water-trail of green beauty sliding through one of Portland’s most industrial areas.

This is a PDF version of the Paddler’s Access Guide: Columbia Slough

Don’t miss this opportunity to experience Rapid Media’s 8th Annual REEL PADDLING FILM FESTIVAL!

What: 2013 Reel Paddling Film Festival
When: Thursday, April 25th, doors @ 5:30pm, Live Music @ 6:00pm; films @ 7pm
Where: McMenamins Mission Theater & Pub, NW Glisan & 17th
Tickets: $6, advance ticket sales available at Alder Creek’s Jantzen Beach and Boathouse locations
Bonus: A benefit for Willamette Riverkeeper! Your ticket purchase can also be redeemed for FREE 1-year digital subscriptions to Rapid Media publications! Click HERE for those details.

Once again, Alder Creek Kayak & Canoe will host this thrilling fest which showcases the world’s best paddling films to audiences around the globe. The RPFF serves to inspire more people to explore rivers, lakes and oceans, push physical and emotional extremes, embrace the lifestyle and appreciate the heritage of the wild places we paddle. Best of all, proceeds will benefit Willamette Riverkeeper– so come out and join us already!

- A chance to WIN a trip on Paddle Oregon 2013!

- LIVE music by Lincoln’s Beard!

- Special footage from local filmamkers:
Andy Maser, National Geographic Explorer, Conservationist, and world class paddler
Ian McCluskey, Emmy Award Winning documentary filmmaker
Team OSOM, kayakers with a mission

Highlights include…

Best Sea Kayaking Film: “Tierra del Fuego”

Justine Curgenven and Barry Shaw aim to become the first kayakers to circumnavigate 1,000 miles around the remote and windswept waters of Tierra del Fuego at the southern tip of South America. Shipping delays, a stolen kayak, endless red tape, incessant winds and tendonitis threaten their safety and success. Share the highs and lows of this challenging world-first adventure while meeting some of the interesting people who survive in this harsh environment. Watch the trailer HERE!

Best Paddling Adventure Film: “Go Ganges”
Two friends on a quest to travel the ultimate river by any means possible. In a fish-out-of-water tale, Emmy-nominated filmmakers Josh Thomas and J.J. Kelly take their survival skills to a natural wonder, which hosts a population of 400-million. Enduring the impossible, they attempt to travel the length of the planet’s most populated, holy, and polluted river. Watch the trailer HERE! 

EXCLUSIVE PREMIER of “2600 Above 60″

See it here before it is featured in next years fest! Four friends embark on a trans-territorial canoe expedition, setting off in the snow-filled Alaskan Mountains to begin a canoe expedition that would bring them 2600-miles across the isolated regions of Canada’s northern territories, to the shores of the Hudson Bay. Watch the trailer HERE!

On Sunday, April 28th, there will be an opportunity for disabled veterans and their families to participate in a dragon boat race and try rowing! There will also be presentations for other water sports opportunities for disabled veterans including: whitewater kayaking and rafting, fly fishing and kayak fishing.

This event is hosted by Vancouver Crew, Double Fifth Dragon Boating, Team River Runner and Oregon Disability Sports at Alder Creek’s Spring Paddle Festival. Look for us at the north end of the beach.

Schedule:
Sunday, April 28th 

9:00-10:00 – Registration

10:00-10:30 – Presentation and Demonstration by Tony Davis, US Navy (Ret.) Paralympic/Adaptive National Rower

10:30-11:00 – Dragon Boating Lesson by Jeff Campbell, Double Fifth Dragon Boating

11:00-12:00 – Dragon Boat Races between Veterans

12:00-1:00 – Lunch provided by Dignity Memorial

1:00-4:00 – Dragon Boat and Rowing Team Members will be available to answer questions about their sport and offer demos.

See you on the water!!

Spring Sale Specials now to May 6th.

• Save 15% on Valley Kayaks, Current Designs, We-no-nah, Aire, P & H, Venture, Feelfree, Eddyline and Pyranha
• 15% off assorted accessories, paddles, PFD’s
• 20% off footwear, sprayskirts and drybags
• Tiderace Kayaks come with a free paddle of your choice
• Jackson kayaks come with a free Lightning paddle or Skagit/Tybee paddle or sprayskirt of choice.

Red Sale Tag Specials: look through the store for great deals on cosmetic blems,
2012 stock, used and demo products. Take an extra 10% off red tag and consignment boats!

Special orders OK!  Take 15% off!!!