how far?

[saab463]

Hey Guys
When your out fishing, how far would you normally paddle. I have been trying to get out as often as possible, which obviously isnt enough. I paddle for about 15 to 20 minutes (I guess thats a couple of kays and am absolutely stuffed) :D So if I am to go out with you guys how far do I need to be able to paddle. I dont want to be the bloke floundering at the rear and needing to be resusitated.,:D
Cheers

[Brad Y]

It depends on how close I can launch to my fishing area. Usually can paddle up to a couple of kays up river while fishing and then back in around five hours. Less if its windy or choppy. Or if im catching plenty of fish.

[yaker]

As Brad says, it depends... I'm usually out for 4-5 hours but obviously not paddling the whole time. If I cover 8-10km I figure I've had a pretty solid work out by the time you factor in another couple of km paddling backwards and forwards if I'm fishing a particular spot.

I try to work the tides and wind so I can drift and cast and just use the paddle for direction changes. On the rare occassion that the plan all comes together you might only paddle about quarter of the overall distance.

Conversely, I have paddled almost non-stop for 4km into a 20 knot head wind and that's not an experience I'm rushing to repeat.

A broad paddle blade will give better acceleration but will tire you quicker. Paddling technique also has an effect. Try to get a steady rhythm happening and don't try to paddle too fast.

cheers, Tony

[Brad Y]

Just thinking about it, I will take the GPS out and plot my next paddle course and let you know the distance. Have done long paddles before and the main problem is I get no feeling in my backside. Distance isn't really a factor- just think of that big bronze trophy at the farthest snag of the river...