Skook

July 18, 2006

By Colin Kemp

Photos

Hey Everyone, Hope and I are done gallivanting around the country. We are back in Reno and getting set up. I only have to go back east to put our stuff on a truck and drive Hope’s car to Reno. Lets get on to more important things! I was sad to miss my first Potomac Fest in a very long time, however, I was not to upset because of the wonders of umchuck. For those of you who have not had the chance to visit “Strong Water” it should be up towards the top of your list. This was my second time there and Hope’s first time. We could not have had a better session. We only had a few folks out there to share it with us. No lines but just enough boaters to let you catch your breath. Words can’t describe how cool this place is. You get to paddle in salt water with seals, starfish, and tons of other cool sea creatures. To get to the wave you can paddle down the bay or walk the beautiful trail that conveniently passes one of the best bakeries that I have ever been to. Not only is the food great but the bakery is nestled into the old growth forest. The wave itself is great. It forms as the bay starts to fill on a flood tide. You can watch the wave grow from flat water to a big foamy wave, to a big green face. It is one of the smoothest waves that you will ever surf. The wave forms when the flood tide is between 12.5 and 17 knots. In order to surf the wave you need to have a solid roll and be comfy in big pushy 3+ – 4- size water. If you hustle back to the eddy you can avoid the tour. The tour is not as big when the current is on the lower side. If you are a first timer give it a go up to 14 knots for your first day. After you are comfy, give er!!!

Later ; Colin
Team JK