The days are getting shorter, the leaves are mostly gone, and the water is getting colder. The Osprey have moved on and geese have arrived. As the temperature drops, many paddlers are hanging up their paddles until spring returns. However, for the dedicated members of our sea kayaking community, winter offers unique opportunities to be on the water. While winter paddling presents its own special rewards, crisp air, dramatic skies, quieter coastlines, it also demands respect for the conditions and thorough preparation. As always, we remind paddlers to dress as if you were going to swim. Paddle with a group, not alone. And finally, stay within your skill limits.
Some of us will continue paddling, some may find pool sessions. Some of us will continue to get together for hikes and bike rides. Some of us will travel to warmer climates. CPA will continue to be active over the winter months.
SK101 is Back!
SK 101 is a comprehensive one-day indoor event designed to introduce participants to the fundamentals of sea kayaking. Whether you’re considering taking up the sport, recently purchased your first kayak, or simply want to deepen your understanding of equipment and safety, this event is perfect for you.
The day will begin with an interactive exploration of kayaks themselves. We’ll examine different types of sea kayaks, from nimble day-trippers to fully-loaded expedition boats, discussing how length, width, and volume affect performance and stability. We will have multiple kayaks on display so you can see and touch the differences we’re discussing.
What about the paddles? Not all paddles are created equal, and understanding your options can significantly impact your paddling efficiency and enjoyment. We’ll cover touring paddles, traditional Greenland paddles, Euro blades, and specialized wing paddles used for racing. You’ll learn about blade shapes, shaft materials, feathering angles, and how to choose the right paddle length for your body and paddling style.
Safety is paramount in sea kayaking, so we’ll discuss fundamental safety concepts including the buddy system, essential safety gear, basic rescue techniques, and how to assess conditions before launching. This foundation will help you make informed decisions every time you head out on the water.
The highlight of the day is our famous fashion show! Club members will model everything from summer paddling gear to full winter immersion protection. You’ll see drysuits, wetsuits, layering systems, and proper footwear in action, complete with honest reviews and practical advice. This entertaining presentation combines humor with life-saving information about dressing for water temperature, not air temperature.
The event is scheduled for February 28th. Registration and event details will be posted on the CPA meetup site.
Announcing the Return of SK102
SK 102 is being reinvented. Since we no longer have access to the warm waters of Lake Anna, the event is now scheduled for June 6th at Conquest Beach in Centerville MD. We have made this a one day event and there will not be on site camping. Participants who want to extend the weekend will need to be responsible for their own lodging. This is an on water event designed for those who are relatively new to paddling. We will be covering the basics of strokes, wet exits, and basic assisted and self rescues.
Look for a call for volunteers for instructors and for managing the event that will go out in January.
Navigation Workshop
We are looking for a new location for the Navigation Workshop. The workshop has been held at Cult Classic
Brewery, but the room tends to be dark and it is difficult for participants to work on the charts. The date has not been confirmed. Look for an announcement on the CPA Meetup site.
In Summary
Chesapeake Paddlers Association (CPA) remains active during the winter active with programs and events for dedicated members. For those who continue paddling in cold weather, remember safety, dress for immersion, paddle in groups, and stay within skill limits. We thank our volunteers for bringing back SK101, a comprehensive indoor introduction to sea kayaking scheduled for February 28th and reinventing SK102 as a one-day on-water skills with a new venue, Conquest Beach in Maryland, focusing on basic strokes and rescue techniques. Without our volunteers, CPA would not exist.
Happy Paddling.
Paula Hubbard
CPA Coordinator
