Comments and Discussion
Narrative: We'll launch from Hunter Bay County Dock at 9am paddling northeast passing alongside some small islands as we move towards Lopez Pass. At about 2 miles we'll enter the pass moving past Sperry Point towards the southern tip of Decatur Island. From there it will be another 3 miles heading north along Decatur's eastern shoreline to reach James Island Marine State Park. It is less than a quarter mile off Decatur's eastern edge. Once there we can lunch in the West Cove and then circumnavigate the Island before heading back to our launch via the same route we arrived. Total distance will be about 11 miles. Parking at the launch is free and should be ample. I will know more about restrooms at the event. Meeting Time: 8:30:00 AM Launch Time: 9:00:00 AM Type of activity: Paddle Trip Put in: Hunter Bay County Dock Take out: Same Route Alternative for bad weather: TBD Required equipment: Minimum Immersion protection: Drysuit Primary Organizer: David Smith Assistant Organizer(s): Bob Freshman Has organizer paddled here before? No Has organizer led an OOPS paddle here before? No Organizer's first aid and CPR current? Yes First Aid /CPR Person: Maximum number of paddlers: 0 I certify that I understand and will conduct this activity in accordance with the OOPS Activity Policy: Yes Estimated Air Temperature: 67° Estimated Water Temperature: 53° Estimated Water Time (including breaks/lunch): 5 hours Tide times & heights: Low at 4:25am; High at 12:14pm (+5.9'); low at 5:27pm (-1.5') Current information: less than 2 knots Hazards: Wind strength: Level 2: 7-12 knots (14 mph) – wind noticeably effects movement of paddle Swell/Surf size: Level 2: Waves up to 2', no breaking waves Sea state: Level 2: Waves up to armpit; light to moderate chop, scattered whitecaps Landing types: Level 2: Frequent landing opportunities including docks or moderate sloping banks, brush or overhanging trees Currents: Level 2: Mild currents (up to 2 knots): current increases / decreases group speed by half Total distance: Level 2: 6 to 11 miles Open crossing: Level 2: Less than 1 mile Paddling Environment: Overall rating: Level 2 Rating Comments: This is a solid level 2 trip, but could become a level 3 if winds pick up unexpectedly. Bring a tow belt if you have one. Location (Optional): 24 Crab Island Rd, Lopez Island, WA