kayakers swamped ! - Kayak Fishing Adventures on Big Water’s Edge

Matt · 12-24-2009, 12:35 PM

I wasn't involved but have heard some of the events thatbwent down!

The gentleman who went to the hospital started having some healthnproblems which then turned into some kayak issues and he flipped and lost his boat. A different Matt than I was with the two other gentleman and immediately used his VHF and sent a mayday call! All involved weremwearing real life jackets and they were all on tight! It is very fortunate that we didn't lose anyone!

Always, always, always carry your VHF within reach and always watch out for those around you! The Matt in this story is quite an accomplished waterman and knows his shit, I'm guessing it was a case of YT fever! It is easy to sitback and second guess as hindsight is 20 20 always.

According to the firsthand accounts that inhave heard the swell was up but not unmakeable although several guys flipped launching, the wind was blowing but not as bad as it ultimately got up to 40 mph gusts out there. I think the important part of this is we are very fortunate that we didn't lose anymof our brothers in arms! And that proper safety equipment is an absolute must! Even if you store it in the boat for the just in case moment and you need to don it, at least you have it with you.

Also always check the forecast and use common sense as to how far your skills as a waterman will enable you to deal with the conditions! And listen to what the voice in your head is telling you!

12-24-2009, 12:35 PM	#18
Matt Support your local pangas Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: Lj Posts: 976	I wasn't involved but have heard some of the events thatbwent down! The gentleman who went to the hospital started having some healthnproblems which then turned into some kayak issues and he flipped and lost his boat. A different Matt than I was with the two other gentleman and immediately used his VHF and sent a mayday call! All involved weremwearing real life jackets and they were all on tight! It is very fortunate that we didn't lose anyone! Always, always, always carry your VHF within reach and always watch out for those around you! The Matt in this story is quite an accomplished waterman and knows his shit, I'm guessing it was a case of YT fever! It is easy to sitback and second guess as hindsight is 20 20 always. According to the firsthand accounts that inhave heard the swell was up but not unmakeable although several guys flipped launching, the wind was blowing but not as bad as it ultimately got up to 40 mph gusts out there. I think the important part of this is we are very fortunate that we didn't lose anymof our brothers in arms! And that proper safety equipment is an absolute must! Even if you store it in the boat for the just in case moment and you need to don it, at least you have it with you. Also always check the forecast and use common sense as to how far your skills as a waterman will enable you to deal with the conditions! And listen to what the voice in your head is telling you! __________________ Thanks Matt F.