NSSKA

It wasn’t until attempt number three this season that NSSKA was able to pull together a float trip down through the Skagit Rivers Wildlife Area. As always, it was well worth the effort. With five paddlers in sea kayaks and another two in a canoe, we launch from the Mt Baker-Snoqualmie National Forest launch site in Marblemount. The Skagit River was running at about 7,500 CFS and the weather couldn’t have been better. Overcast and cool. After a fast 15 miles in under three hours, we took out at the Department of Fish and Wildlife site at the end of Farber Ferry Road. The eagles, no not the rock and roll band, were not out for us to see on this trip. The migrants have long since headed back up north and the residence must have been fishing in another valley somewhere. There were ducks galore, hawks, and herons about. At our lunch stop by Rocky Creek, we were treated with dueling cookie makers. Never underestimate the value of a good cookie bake off. After shuttling everyone an

Coronet Bay, WA, Weather conditions: slight overcast skies, low 50's temp and 10K winds On the beach we discussed the days goals and objectives, on water safety, weather conditions, current speed and rotating leadership roles. Seven NSSKA members took part in the day's activities. Once on the water two of our team lead the group from the beach out to Ben Ure Island then onto Strawberry Island using our extensive leadership skills all made it without incurring the wrath of the hoards of rare Canadian geese nesting on Strawberry. From that point to moved to Miller Bay to practice wet exits, towing, T and scoop rescues, solo rescues, paddle float solo and assisted rescues. As we waited for the 6.4 K flood current to build we took a quick lunch break before crossing back to Strawberry to practice our rescues in the significant current, up wellings, and whirlpools in and around the island. At the end of our class everyone had gone for a swim or two, honed their rescue skills i