Up North Journal - Cold Weather Paddling with Mike Rudell of Paddling Michigan Lakes and Rivers

Tonight we talk with Mike Rudell of Paddling Michigan Lakes and Rivers. We cover the ins and outs of cold weather paddling.

 

Mike's  Beginnings of Kayaking

1. How he got into kayaking
2. His first trip with his own kayak
3. Where he cut his teeth paddling early on
4. His boats
5. Why the different lengths
6. What is a sea kayak

Double bulkhead boats

1. Why is it important to have one
2. How does it help it keep from sinking

Paddles

1. Lighter paddles helps with fatigue
2. Helps to paddle faster
3. The lighter the more expensive

PFD's

1. Most important piece of gear
2. Get one for kayaking
3. Why color is important
4. High visability

Durability of gear

Cold Weather Paddling

1. Cold weather magnifies the dangers
2. Go out with at least two other kayakers
3. Go out iwth extra warm closthes
4. Dry suits 
5. Dress for being in the water
6. How weather can affect your paddling 
7. How quickly weather can change
8. You need a good skill set for winter paddling
9. Wet exits and re-entry
10. Marine radios
11. Wet suit vs dry suit
12. Layering under a dry suit
13. Non cotton
14. Dry bag of clothes
15. Socks and gloves
16. Head gear
17. Worst paddling experience
18. Spray skirts
19. Dry storage
20. Mylar blankets
21. First aid kit
22. Deck lines
23. Cold water shock
24. How to warm up a cold water victim
25. Hand pump
26. Float plans
27. If Found Stickers
28. Don't rely only on a phone for safety
29. Dehydration
30. Kayak snacks
31. Facebook Group Paddling Michigan Lakes and Rivers
32. Mike's favorite place to paddle
33. Sharing the river with fishermen