Paddled boats can go where other vessels cannot.
With gasoline prices soaring, people might look for more economical ways to enjoy the outdoors. With paddle-powered craft, sportsmen can fish, observe wildlife, shoot photos, and explore nature all day without spending a penny on fuel, except getting to the launch site and back.
Some “dugout” boats made from hollowed out logs, date back more than 10,000 years. Native Americans made canoes from tree bark. In the Arctic, indigenous peoples stretched seal skins over bone or ivory frames. The word “kayak” comes from the native word “qajaq,” meaning “surface top.”
Today, people can buy sturdy canoes or kayaks made of modern materials for less than $300. Paddlers would also need at least two paddles, one to use and a spare if a paddle gets away from the boat or breaks. They also need personal floatation devices for each person who might go in the boat.
If the boat doesn’t come with one, invest in a dry box, preferably one that floats, to store food, water, and other supplies. Also buy a floating waterproof bag to hold wallets, cameras, phones, keys, and other valuables.
Not confined to concrete ramps, paddlers can drop light kayaks or canoes practically anywhere the boat floats and get into many places large powerboats would never attempt to enter. Paddlers find unlimited places to explore and fish or just observe nature across the Magnolia State.
Some companies sell kayaks specifically designed for fishing. They come with rod holders. Put the rods in holders, drag baits behind the boat while paddling to catch fish. Some fishing kayaks come with comfortable seats, bait wells, enclosed storage compartments, and other features.
Often, the biggest fish live in the smallest, most inaccessible waters. Anglers in small boats could visit ponds, sloughs, creeks, and other places. Many nature preserves, wildlife management areas, and national wildlife refuges offer excellent paddling opportunities.
Even on the biggest lakes and reservoirs, like Ross Barnett, paddlers can explore protected coves and backwaters. Sometimes, tiny ditches too narrow or shallow for larger boats to traverse lead to seldom seen “lost” lakes where monster fish rarely see lures.
Across Mississippi, numerous rivers and smaller streams provide outstanding paddling experiences. Small boat enthusiasts can even fish or explore salty coastal waters. The state established several artificial reefs within easy paddling distance from the coastline.
On bigger rivers, consider planning a drift adventure. First, prep a vehicle downstream at a take-out point. Then, drive a second vehicle upstream to launch the boat. Along the way, people could possibly catch enough fish for a delicious shore lunch.
Some outfitters rent canoes or kayaks and arrange paddling excursions. They pick their customers up at the designated take-out spot. Then, the outfitter recovers the boats and takes the paddlers back to their vehicles. Some even provide guides to take paddlers on the water.
Adventurers interested in serious paddling might considering joining a canoeing club. Such clubs usually arrange outings to visit different waters throughout the year. Do an internet search for clubs near home.
