Inflatable Paddle Board: Tips to float and fish in windy conditions
Here in Calgary, Canada, at the foot of the Canadian Rockies, paddle boards have risen in popularity. A great addition to an active, outdoor lifestyle, you can use your paddle board year-round to access spectacular remote locations, drift scenic glacial rivers, or fly-fish idyllic alpine lakes. Many enthusiasts relish the portability and carrying utility of these boards. Others enjoy the stunning views and the feeling of "walking on water" amongst soaring peaks and glassy mountain tarns.
It's important to note that mountain weather is incredibly varied and notoriously nasty. Temperatures plummet to well below -30F (-35C) in the winter and soar above 90F (35C) in the summer. Summer days in the alpine region can begin calm and tranquil, then quickly develop into monstrous thunderstorms, with raging winds and lightning. It's rare to have a day where conditions don't change, and therefore it's a good practice to get used to paddling in various weather, including rain, snow, and wind.
UNDERSTANDING HOW WIND AFFECTS YOUR INFLATABLE PADDLEBOARD EXPERIENCE
Something many first-time paddlers will notice is that inflatable paddle boards are very susceptible to wind. When standing, the paddler essentially becomes a sail, which can significantly affect where, how quickly, and how confidently you can travel. The effect of the wind can be diminished noticeably by shifting to a kneeling or sitting position. But like any wise sailor, it is better to go with the flow than fight against it!
1. START YOUR PADDLE BY HEADING INTO THE WIND
This is perhaps the most helpful advice for first-time paddlers who haven't yet developed the confidence to put the power down and move swiftly across the water in high-wind conditions. If you are paddling on a large body of water and intend to return to your starting location, it is best to begin your float by paddling directly into the wind.
2. KNOW WHAT TO EXPECT
In the Rockies, we have a saying, "If you don't like the weather, just wait an hour." Conditions in the mountains change rapidly. I've experienced sweltering heat and snow-showers in the same afternoon and temperature swings of over 30C (90F).
In the summer, pay particularly close attention to the chance of storms, prevailing winds, and UV indices. Typically, the hotter the day, the more convective energy to drive currents and build thunderstorms. All these factors are intensified at higher elevations, and it can make the difference between a relaxing paddle and an "old-man-versus-the-angry-seas" sort of a day.
3. PLAN TO DRIFT FACING DOWNWIND
Inflatable paddle boards are fantastic platforms for fishing, providing better visibility into the water than kayaks or canoes. This is due to the higher angle of refraction and a comfortable standing position for casting on your SUP. However, they can be tough to manage in the wind, as your hands will likely be occupied fishing and only sporadically available to work the paddle.
EQUIPMENT THAT MIGHT BE HELPFUL:
Are you paddleboarding in windy conditions or trying to fish in a current? The iROCKER SUP Anchor will keep you pinned down and secured so that you can get the great catch without the hassle!
Source URL : https://irockersup.ca/blogs/stories/inflatable-paddle-board-tips-to-float-and-fish-in-windy-conditions