Beginners Paddle
Jason Hogeboom hosted a beginners paddle. Concerned about
conditions I first drove by kiddy beach before going to the Ventura Harbor boat
launch. Kiddie beach was very calm with no noticeable debris."Yes! The surf
forecast was right!", I thought. So I ventured to meet Linda and her son, Aaron.
I did manage to get a little lost trying to find the boat launch but still made
it by 09:50. Linda and Aaron were already there ready to paddle, so I got ready
as quickly as possible.
Just as we launched in the water two other kayakers paddled up to us. It
was Blake (I thought his name was Wayne?) and Janet. They had choose to
launch from a different place so they could avoid the parking fee.
The water was calm and the sun was out. We ventured all around the harbor.
We did manage to see one seal (or sea lion?). We went down the channels to
see the houses and wondered "how much?".
It was a lot of fun. There was much laughter and joking. Janet suggested
perhaps we have a group name for us beginners. I suggested "The squids" and
"Fried Calamari", Janet suggested "The Sea Turtles", and there were a few
more I don't recall. Needless to say, we are still thinking of a name.
Janet also suggested to have post kayaking picnics or BBQ's. Sounds good to
me!
Towards the end of our paddle Blake and Janet wanted to head out to the
entrance of the harbor. I decided to join and Linda and Aaron decided to
head back. We paddled out to just the opening of the harbor, but did not
pass the break wall. It was a little choppy there, but nothing too bad.
We paddled over to a gentleman fishing off his kayak who had a very interesting
set up for his pools. He introduced himself as Jeff and then told us that he
designed his pool rig. He handed me a card via his paddle. Turns out he's Jeff
"Rhino" Krieger of Rhino's Kayak Fishing. His Internet home page is www.rhynobar.net
if anyone is interested. Looks like he gives fishing guides or lessons or something.
I have not checked it out yet.
After the paddle I decided to check out the kayak surf contest. It was very
cool. However, I knew my dog was at home anxiously waiting for a walk so I
could not stay long.
Until next week, Happy Paddling!
Jason Hogeboom
Submitted on January 13, 2001