The high water on the Des Plaines reminded me of hitting the Fishnet Rapids a few years ago. The fishnet is located in Lockport, just north of the old Division Street Bridge. As you can see in the pics you have to hike, hit the rapids, repeat. It’s not class V, but it’s a lot […]
Any day is a good day to get on the water — even more so in the Spring when Get Out Fever sets in ! We had sun, and plenty of wind as well, to the tune of 20-25 mph out of the west. The wind was strong enough to make going up stream incredibly easy […]
Its time to get over stage fright. I think I was more nervous about speaking publicly than battling 4′ waves on Lake Michigan but just like surviving those waves, I survived my first public appearance. Actually, just like getting over those waves and looking forward to more — I’m looking forward to the next opportunity to […]
Outstanding day paddling the Des Plaines with friends. The water was high from a week of rain which allowed us to really explore the backwaters. We had five folks in our flotilla. From the landing we headed east and upstream with the wind at our backs. The marsh was also accessible because of the high […]
Another great day on the Des Plaines River in Lemont ! On this trip we made a new friend, Rich. We’re always happy to meet fellow outdoors enthusiasts, especially when they’re from Lemont ! We put in at a familiar spot, we even spent a little time afterwards doing some garbage clean-up and trimming back […]
Finally on the water and finding some solitude kayaking in Illinois ! Great day on the water as always. The river is a bit low but not as bad as last year though we really couldn’t get into the basin. Wind out of the east so we paddle up stream with a head wind which […]
The wooden canoe restoration is in motion ! The hull is now sanded and I need to get some materials from Chesapeake Light Craft. I’m going to fiberglass the exterior and then add a layer of epoxy on the outside and the inside. The boat has seen some rough days, yes, there’s a hole in the hull, […]
Unseasonably warm weather in November allowed for a comfortable trip down the river, or should I say up and then back down. The warmth brought a really interesting wind to the party, sustained 20 mph and gust of 30. Luckily it was out of the south so the shoreline protected progress. I can’t complain, I’m […]
Canoecopia was awesome ! There’s no better event to learn about the paddle sports than canoecopia. Friendly vendors and visitors sharing knowledge. Now I can’t wait to hit the water !