Paddle Dippings

Tough winter, eh? Well, it’s almost over. As a matter of act, I put all of our docks back in the water yesterday! The weather was fairly warm (37°) and the wind was calm. Most of the ice had melted in the past two days, so I was getting itchy to get them in. Did see a couple of ice fishermen pass by on an ice floe. I asked them if they wanted any help. They said “No thanks, sooner or later we’ll bump into land and we really do want to get another day of fishing in.” Now that’s dedication!

When we haven’t been plowing, sanding or shoveling our roads, time has been spent updating material for the web site. The new information on kayak and canoe models, including photos, specifications and MSRP pricing, should be appearing on our web site shortly.

The past couple of years have been tough times for most and we are no exception to those hard times. I know that we are all hoping that things start to even out again although it most likely will not at the same level as a few years ago. So let us all be thankful for what we have in our families, friends, health, and environment. We can, and should, strive to make each of those stronger. Fortunately, kayaking and canoeing can be a relatively inexpensive way to enjoy and improve on each of those valuable assets.

Spring is just around the corner and we are still here doing what we enjoy… helping folks as they are just getting into the sport of kayaking or canoeing, as well as still servicing past customers who have shopped here over the past 25 years. Okay, now let’s hit the water!!

Kayak fishing has become extremely popular over the past several years and is still growing. But let me confess right up front… I am not a fisherman. I would have trouble catching fish at a fish market! There, it’s out and I feel better for it! However, our shop does carry a wide range of fishing kayaks and kayaks that can be accessorized for fishing. We offer sit-in or sit-on-top kayaks from 10’ to 14.5’ from several manufacturers as well as a good selection of fishing related accessories. Many demos are available to try although they might not be all equipped with the fishing accessories. Come down and demo some of the models to know what feels good and what doesn’t. A word of caution however. NONE OF OUR KAYAKS USED FOR FISHING COME WITH A 100% GUARANTEE THAT YOU WILL CATCH THE BIGGEST FISH YOU EVER HOPE TO CATCH. We can guarantee that even if you don’t catch any fish, you will still enjoy yourself.

Do you remember rowing around a pond or a lake as a kid? When was the last time you did that? Wasn’t it a great sensation to feel the boat surge ahead with each pull of the oars? One more question. Do you still have that canoe in the backyard that hasn’t been used in years? Probably hasn’t been used because it’s hard to paddle alone. Well, we may have the answer for you. Last fall we brought in a product for canoes that consists of a bolt-on rowing rig and a drop-in seat. I have been using it on a couple of our canoes here on Billington Sea and I am very impressed with the performance. The first thing I noticed was just how much more stable the canoes were because of the lowered seating position and the effect of the wider grasp of the water with oars as compared to using a canoe paddle. Rougher water and windier conditions were more comfortable to be in also. The efficiency of the oars had a dramatic effect on the speed I could maintain as well. And, the real advantage is the fact that it can be done alone. Exercise, stress management, ability to enjoy a new perspective, or rekindle fond memories… it can do it all for you. Come down and try our demo at our shop. I think you will be impressed also.

“TIPS FROM EXPERIENCE”

Join us on SATURDAY, MAY 15, 10:30-12:30 for a FREE KAYAK FISHING WORKSHOP.
Two local kayak fishermen, Charlie Fortier and Wayne Perry will be here at the Billington Sea Kayak shop located on Billington Sea in Plymouth, presenting “Tips from Experience” on fishing from a kayak. Both have years of fishing experience and for the last 3 years have been fishing from kayaks. They will be happy to share their kayak fishing experience and will be covering topics including gear, setting up your kayak, kayak fishing techniques, and safety.

So, along with Charlie and Wayne’s experience and Billington Sea Kayak’s 24 years of kayak and canoe knowledge, participants can gain 1st hand information on kayak fishing. There will be opportunity to ask questions as well as paddle some of the kayaks that are designed for kayak fishing.

This is a FREE workshop but there are only a limited number of spaces available so pre-registration is required. Please call Billington Sea Kayak at 508-746-5644 to register.

Monday April 19 thru Thursday, April 22

2 for 1 single Kayak Rentals
SAVE $25

Get a taste for summer. Paddle the 5 miles of shoreline. Bring a lunch and explore the wildlife on Billington Sea in Plymouth.

All school age children must be accompanied by an adult. Cash or checks only. Please call 508-746-5644