September/October 1984 80C

Pennsylvania

Sailing page 4 Canoeing page 8 page 13 page 28 Powerboating pages 16, 26

The Keystone State's Official Magazine for Canoeists, Kayakers, Powerboaters, Rafters, Sailors, and Water Skiers WEARING PFDs Before the 1930s, the so-called life jacket was no more than a bulky, uncomfortable device found in life rafts aboard seagoing vessels. In 1932 the Fish Commission enacted its first motorboat regulation concerning equipment requirements, stating that motorboats "should be equipped with fire extinguishers, and life preservers sufficient in number to take care of the capacity of the ." In 1971 the life preserver requirement was extended to include nonpowered craft. This regulation was certainly a major step in water safety, but it still did not ensure that the capsized and overboard boater would stay afloat in an emergency. Most boaters still found the devices cumbersome and chose not to wear them. Even though the law states that most need only carry the device aboard for each person, the evidence is clear—we most strongly encourage all boaters to wear their PFDs. Pennsylvania fatality statistics, which match Coast Guard data, suggest that 85 percent of those who died in boating accidents would not have perished if they had been wearing a PFD. Furthermore, visitors to the Harrisburg headquarters, who take a look at the boating accident data, depart with the firm conviction that they will from now on wear their PFDs, not just have them available in their boats. The Fish Commission is dedicated to maximizing optimum boating opportunities in Pennsylvania, but the Commission also regards wearing a PFD an essential ingredient in that pursuit.

Ralph W. Abele Executive Director Pennsylvania Fish Commission SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 1984 VOL. 1 NO. 3

The Cover Pennsylvania powerboaters enjoy Lake Wallenpaupack on this month's front cover, photographed by Don Carey. For practical information that all powerboaters may BOAT to page 26. eventually need to know, Pennsylvania"!

Over the Bounding Erie Main with MORC by Dave Heitzenrater The Midget Ocean Racing Club(MORC) is alive and well and competing in Erie 4 Paddle Your Own —and Portage it, too! by CliffJacobson You don't have to have Charles Atlas to portage your canoe, but you do have to lift and carry it sensibly. Here's how 8 The Eskimo Roll by Leann R. Diehl Here are the step-by-step procedures for learning this Buying page 24 difficult but essential kayaking maneuver 13 A Rescue Line for Small Boats by Charlie Walbridge Here's the lowdown on buying or making your own Racing page 4 throw-line device 16 Consider Design and Technique in Purchasing a Canoe by Greg Proteau are designed and built to do some things better than others. Let this information help you match your needs to what's currently available 24 Towing by Virgil Chambers Sooner or later, most boaters give or receive a tow Follow this advice so your towing proceeds without

Rescuing page 18 hitches 26 Learn to Waterski the Easy Portaging page 8 Way by Jack Davis Viewpoint 2 The author describes the latest advances in technology Currents 20 and gear that let you best learn this difficult Safety 20 technique 28 Mall 21 Susquehanna Enchantment Calendar 22 by Ron Frymire Come along with the author on one of Pennsylvania's STAFF Rolling page 13 most scenic float trips 29 Editor / Art Michaels Graphics / Ted Welke Pennsylvania Fish Commission Boating Advisory Photographer / Russ Gettig Board Circulation / Eleanor Mutch Ross J. Huhn, President Staff Assistant / Jayne Povleski Saltsburg Clayton Buchanan, Chairman Marilyn A. Black. Vice President Pittsburgh POSTMASTER: Send 3579 forms to Pennsylvania Meadville Nicholas Apfl Fish Commission, P.O. Box 1673, Harrisburg, PA Fairless Hills 17105-1673. Pennsylvania Angler (ISSN0031-434X). Walter F. Gibbs Theodore T. Metzger 01984 is published monthly. Second class postage paid at Titusville Johnstown Charles Chattaway Harrisburg. PA. Subscription rates: one year. $5: three Monongahela Leonard A. Green Joan R. Plumly years.$14: single copies are 80e each. For subscription and Sherwood Krum change of address.contactAngler Circulation.Pennsylvania Carlisle Jenkintown Commission. P.O. Box Harrisburg, PA 17105- Fish 1673. Calvin J. Kern Jerome E. Southerton Hawley 1673. Address all other correspondence to: The Editor.Penn- Leon Lyon sylvania Angler, P.O. Box 1673. Harrisburg.PA 17105-1673. Whitehall Honesdale The authors views, ideas, and advice expressed Robert L. Martin J. Wayne Yorks Bellefonte in this magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinion or official position of the Pennsylvania Fish Bellefonte Benton Commission or its staff. g•

Over the Bounding Erie Main with MORC •0 41111W photos by the author

een competition and fun describe the MORC fleet based at the Erie Yacht KClub. MORC(pronounced mar-see) is the Midget Ocean Racing Club, an international organization that promotes handicap racing for sailboats up to 30 feet in length. MORC currently has more than 70 active stations throughout the United States and Canada. Presque Isle Station 31 was granted its charter in 1972 to serve eastern Lake Erie and currently has over 60 regular members. The station sponsors 28 to 30 races each year, which are held in the protective waters of Presque Isle Bay and in the open waters of Lake Erie. The races vary in length, including five nautical- mile bay races, 15 nautical-mile lake triangles, and 42 nautical-mile races to various Lake Erie ports, such as Ashtabula, Ohio; Port Dover, Ontario; and Dunkirk, New York. Several races begin in the evening and continue throughout the night.

SeptemberlOctober 1984 5

Port Dover Series and the United States in this highly mile olympic course race; and a long One of the highlights of the season competitive fleet. distance race of approximately 100 is the annual Port Dover Series. It Several yacht manufacturers were miles. The regatta concluded with begins with the pre-dawn blast of the represented with boats and crews, as social events and an awards dinner. starting gun on a cool mid-June well as numerous sailmakers, all of We welcome sailing competitors morning, as the yachts, ranging from whom were hoping to be able to claim and other interested persons and a Catalina 22 to a C&C 30, head east victory for their boats and sail sailing enthusiasts to join us at our from Presque Isle Bay and north to designs. events. Canada. Some 10 or 12 hours later Northwestern Pennsylvania was the boats finish the race in Long Point well represented with seven boats Dave Heitzenrater is secretary' Bay and rendezvous at the Port Dover racing from Erie, several of which treasurer of MORC Presque Isle Yacht Club. The Series continues on were using sails designed and Station 31 in Erie. He served as Saturday with a 15-mile lake race and constructed in Erie by Bierig station commodore in 1980. Dave concludes Sunday with the return trip Sailmakers. competes regularly in the Midget to Erie. Generally, a good time is had The International Regatta consisted Ocean Racing Club's events in his J24 by all, except for those who may have of five races held on Lake Erie: three Blackwatch, and he's sailed all over navigated too close to a long, narrow I2-mile olympic course races; one 25- Lake Erie. sand bar in mid-Lake Erie known as Long Point, Ontario. Year-round activities Although the racing ends, Station MORC Sailboats 31 does not stop its activities in November. Education and outdoor MORC boats range from about 20 may soon take a back seat as state-of- activities continue throughout the feet to 30 feet in overall length, and the-art sails are made of mylar, kevlar year. In the past, the station has carry a skipper and crew numbering and dynac. conducted seminars on topics such as from three to eight men and women. Some of the owners spare no understanding the racing rules, the A typical 24-footer has a maximum expense or effort in preparing their design and development of sails and beam of about nine feet with draft of crafts for racing. Most crews spend sail cloth, fundamental racing tactics, four feet and displaces 3,200 pounds several hours wet sanding the boat weather forecasting, sail selection, and including a I,000-pound lead keel. A bottom to a mirrored finish, which trim. The station has also sponsored competitive 30-footer displaces up to has been previously painted with a lectures and programs by various 8,000 pounds with a 3,200 pound keel graphite-based antifouling paint. A sailmakers and national sailing figure, having a draft of six feet. An few skippers have even changed the Gary Jobson, tactician aboard Ted ultralight displacement boat(ULDB) size, weight, and shape of their keels. Turner's Courageous, as well as 30 feet long displaces as little as 3,600 Some have added or removed internal sponsoring social events and trips to pounds with a I,800-pound fin keel ballast, lengthened and added carbon out-of-town boat shows. for ballast. Some of these boats carry fibers to their mast and spreaders, and The international and local well over 1,000 square feet of sail believe it or not, taken a saw and organization promote safety when under spinnaker. shortened their boats by two or three throughout the year by requiring These boats are generally feet. These are extreme cases. About safety equipment, which generally constructed of fiberglass, but some of 95 percent of the boats are standard exceeds the standard U.S. Coast the hi-tech designs use several layers fiberglass cruising boats that are raced Guard requirements, and the of wood veneer saturated with epoxy, as they are produced by the organizations also requires boat design especially designed for this purpose. manufacturer and available to the and structural standards to make the Others are constructed of end-grain average sailor. boats truly seaworthy. The local club balsa wood sandwiched between two These "all-out racers" have taken officers agree that the members are layers of specially formulated these steps to squeeze the greatest well equipped and experienced to fiberglass or a synthetic foam core, possible speed from the boats. The handle the adverse weather conditions such as the material used in skis and increase in speed produced by these of Lake Erie. bullet-proof vests. These expensive changes may sound insignificant when materials are used to create a very you realize that the top speed of these International regatta strong, lightweight hull. displacement hull boats is less than The Erie Yacht Club and MORC These boats are required to have seven . The idea that speed is Station 31 co-hosted the 30th annual auxiliary power of either an outboard relative is a well-known phenomenon, 1984 International Regatta. Previous or inboard engine. Most inboard which is continually proven as most international regattas have been held engines are equipped with low drag, sailors will agree that there is nothing in Toronto, Ontario; Marina Del Ray, folding-blade propellers. Dacron used more exhilarating than crashing California; and Milwaukee, for mainsails and jibs and nylon used through five-foot seas, rail down, with Wisconsin. This five-race series was for spinnaker construction have made spray flying, powered silently only by held Saturday. August 18, through cotton sails antiques. These materials the wind.—Dave Heitzenrater Friday. August 24, 1984. The station hosted 60 to 70 boats from Canada September/October 1984 7

ANIMINI1111111114114=III/IMWAWN "re •

. • • •..,1 • • - ; • Portaging requires skills whether you carry your canoe 10 feet or 10 miles. This step- by-step guide can help you master these weighty techniques. Paddle Your Own Canoe and Portage It, too! I y Cliff Jacobson

very canoe trip includes some sort of portage be it the innocent task of loading the canoe onto the Efamily station wagon, carrying it to and from the launching site, or lifting it over fallen trees, dams, and other obstacles in a local stream. Contrary to popular belief, portaging does not require much physical strength. I've seen 90-pound girls lift 75-pound canoes single- handedly and carry them non-stop more than a quarter-mile with grace and confidence. And I've known 180- pound men who could not carry the same canoe more than 100 feet without profanely dropping it on the nearest boulder!

photos by the author September October 1984 9 Step I. Partners stand on the port (left)side ofthe canoe. The person who will carry the craft is infront of(picture right) the yoke. Grasp the near gunnel with both hands and roll the canoe on its side.

Step 2. Partners grasp the TWO-PERSON SIDE LIFT center ofthe yoke with their right hands and pull the canoe upwards onto their thighs. Note the location of the left hands: the "portager's" hand isforward ofthe yoke: his partner's is behind it.

Step 3. Left hand moves to far gunnel, right hand is transferred to near gunnel (thumbs in).

Step 4. Canoe is boosted overhead with a helpful nudge from the right knee.

Step 5. The canoe is set lightly onto the shoulders of the "portager." Getting the canoe "down"is the reverse of this process.

Two-person end lift Use the "end lift" on sand or grass Two-person side lift Here's a popular though if you must. Better yet, become expert Two average-sized teenagers can unprofessional way to lift a canoe. It's at the "side lifts." easily hoist a heavy canoe with this "SOP" in many youth camps where method. As you can see from the the kids are light and the canoes are Single-handed side lift photos, the key to success is correct not. Try this only after you've mastered hand placement. All you have to I refuse to use the "end lift"; it the two-person lifts! The procedure is remember is right, left, right! chews up the deck plate, stem, and the same as that described for the finish of the hull. Frequent use of this two-person side lift except for Conveniences method on rocky ground reduces a placement of the right hand on the You'll reduce the pain of portaging fine wood deck to sawdust and an gunnel. if you occasionally drop one arm to aluminum one to shrapnel. your side as you walk. This puts more

IO Boat Pennsylvania TWO-PERSON END LIFT Step I. Portagersface the stern ofthe canoe, let hand on near gunnel, right hand onfar gunnel.

Step 2. Canoe is rolled up.

Step 3. One person supports the canoe while the other assumes a position under the yoke. Reverse the procedure to "drop"the canoe. Many canoeists prefer to drop the tailfirst. then walk forward before lowering the canoe.

weight on the outstretched arm and tolerated. The only thing that matters The trickiest part of portaging is lets you "rest" the other. is getting the boat to the water as getting the canoe from the ground to And . . . A PMA (positive mental easily as possible. But in their search your shoulders. Even old-timers attitude)! Long carries can be grueling for "better ways" they often overlook who've sweated under the yoke for even if you have a light canoe and a the time-proven methods that are more miles than they can recall comfortable yoke. Saying "I can"! outlined here. appreciate a helping hand here. helps considerably, as does humming, Fit your canoe with a plush yoke, Nonetheless, with a bit of practice, singing, and daydreaming. I know one practice the procedures I've outlined, shouldering a 75-pound canoe is easy. canoeists who tells jokes to himself— and you'll have no trouble lifting or In fact, once you get the mechanics and laughs at each and every one! carrying your canoe. Portages need down pat, you may prefer to lift it Many canoeists consider portaging not be dreaded; they are the canoeist's yourself rather than entrust the an essential evil that must be ticket to freedom! outcome to a well-meaning friend

September!October 1984 II Sip 2. The canoe is spun to thighs. Left hand grasps thefar gunnelforward the 1 of yoke; right hand is behind it. Nearly all the weight of the canoe is supported by your thighs.

ONE-PERSON SIDE LIFT

Step I. Roll the canoe on its side and grasp the center of the yoke with your right hand.

- 7rtifijaiXat4

Step 3. A .forcd'ul shove ofyour right knee and a snap ofyour arms bring the canoe to your shoulders. Simple as pie...If you're quick about it.

Step 4. Settle into the yoke and..relax! ,

who's not familiar with the process. movements. When one person wooden yoke similar to the one shown Once the canoe is overhead, you're "bounces," the other "jounces"—all of in the photos. A pair of paddles on your own. Now it's simply a matter which makes for a terrible awkward lashed between thwarts is not good of putting one foot in front of the and painful experience. Two-person enough. Anyone who suggests other—and watching those feet so carries are only efficient on groomed otherwise is either a nostalgic dreamer they don't trip over roots or rocks. If trails, and then only when the canoe is or a glutton for punishment. your canoe is equipped with a outfitted with a yoke at each end! "Aw c'mon," you say. "I don't need comfortable yoke, rugged trails, Except in wind, a healthy adult can a yoke. I almost never carry my canoe washouts, and downed trees should usually manage a canoe of reasonable alone, and when I do, it's seldom present no more problems than you weight (up to 85 pounds) without help more than a few dozen feet." would experience on an if he or she has the right equipment A few dozen feet, indeed! Try unencumbered walk. and knows the correct "carry" carrying a typical 75-pound canoe 10 Surprisingly, it's almost always procedures. yards up a steep mud bank without easier to carry a canoe alone than help—or a yoke—and you'll instantly with a friend. That's because partners The right equipment understand why one or the other is so can rarely coordinate their If you want to minimize the pain of important! portaging, make or buy a contoured

12 Boat Pennsylvania Follow these step-by-step procedures to learn this difficult—yet vital—skill.

The Eskimo Roll by Leann R.Diehl

n kayaking. the Eskimo roll is arms fails, so going into the teaching the most important—and session with the right idea, that arms difficult—skill to master. The are insignificant, can pave the way to ability to roll, even in the quick success. /roughest white water, adds a When a student uses more arms margin of safety that this hazardous than hips, it is very obvious. Note in sport demands. Not only does rolling the photos how the head is up, the protect the paddler (being upright in a arms are down. When the head is boat is definitely safer than above the water like this, the boat will a rapid), it also protects every other never come up. So one rule to paddler on the river. When a paddler remember is keep the head down! doesn't roll, he needs to be rescued, Another common misconception is and those who rush in to help face that the paddle provides leverage. added, and often unexpected, risks. Although the position of the paddle is In the School of Central important. the paddler's hips provide Pennsylvania, John Schreiner and I the energy to bring the boat upright. have developed a very successful The paddle is only a stabilizer for the teaching technique for the Eskimo roll. hip snap.(Some expert paddlers can It's a method that students understand actually roll without using a paddle at quickly and can practice, with a all. This is called a "hands roll.") partner, on their own. Here are the primary steps in The most common misconception learning how to roll. These that students have is the belief that instructions are for the right-handed arms play the most important role in paddler. Left-handers do everything bringing the boat upright, when the same, except put the paddle on the actually, the roll is 99 percent hips. left wherever the directions call for the Any attempt to muscle up with the right. photos by the author Semember1 October 1984 I 3 -:...• - ...:,.- - You will need a partner to complete ,.....- • ---- ...'""T'.... 1Z... - - ,-.3. 1"T.- 4...... _ ... ..3.3...... 2_, IlMnr...... _.-.3.71.0._1:_. these steps: --2:7---...eficolleffirk 1. Hip snap. The . - ' 411...... t.._ --ir...;.--;,.=_-•-, _.- paddle is held by ....-. '\ ,,....-...._....._ ..----. your partner, _ - ---: -7-1-"--..16L---- parallel to the boat on your right, at the water's surface. .._`,..,..r.---.:--""-- -.0...... -7---i'---.7--.• - --- -7-;"""mai----- " ....1 ,..--- -,..3...... - -.•-•c J Grab the paddle with both hands - -7:-—.- - : spread comfortably apart. Lean out to - -•,.5,1P1"." - the paddle with your body at a . right angle to the boat, head turned to the . side and touching the water. To snap, • push hard with your right knee against the top of the boat. The left I knee stays loose and relaxed. Try to keep your head in the water until the boat is almost the whole way up. Put as little pressure on the paddle as possible. Don't push down on it. Push with the knee and use the hips. Keep the head down. Practice rotating the boat with your head on the paddle until you have the feel for the hip snap. Put some energy into it— remember: This movement is the Working with a partner, practice the hip snap. Keep your head on the paddle power source for the roll! The snap and use the right knee to snap the boat upright. Lean out from the boat at a 90- does not require strength. If it feels degree angle. Don't push down on the paddle—use your hips for power! difficult, you're probably keeping your head up. 2. Shoulder sweep."Set up" your paddle by laying it along the left side of the deck, with your wrist cocked so that the front blade is flat on the water and faces upward. Drop to the right. Your partner should hold your shoulder so you are partly in the water but able to watch your movements. Keeping your paddle at the boat's side, turn your wrist so the blade of the paddle is parallel to the water and now faces down. Sweep the body and paddle out to a 90-degree angle. Remember to : a) keep the blade parallel to the water and above the water's surface, b) keep your head down, pressed against your shoulder, for the entire movement, and c) watch the paddle so that your head follows the sweeping motion. You should finish with your nose pointing out toward the blade at a right angle. When the paddle is at the 90-degree angle, snap your hips immediately and Here the partner holds the shoulder. Note the excellent position of the paddler— come up. Do not push down on the right arm stretched out straight; left arm bent; head pointed to the paddle and paddle- use your hips! head down; paddle at the water's surface, blade flat against the water. 3. Upside down. Again "set-up" the paddle.(You must lay the paddle along the side of the boat each time. This is the beginning position for every attempt, even in moving water.) You will now roll upside down, leaning forward so your forehead touches the boat's deck. Keep the paddle parallel to the boat. Push the 14 Boat Penn.sylvania paddle straight up until you feel air on your hands. The paddle should be out of the water. The partner should now — position the paddle so the blade is flat against the water's surface, and then _ pull it out to the 90-degree angle. At the right angle you will use the hip snap. Remember to keep the paddle at _ the water's surface, follow through with your nose, keep your head down, ; and snap with power! " - - The first few times you are upside down, you will be disoriented, so have your partner move the paddle until you understand the correct directions, etc. If you are doing all the steps correctly and are comfortable upside down, try rolling on your own, _" _ moving the paddle by yourself. • A few common mistakes include - dipping the paddle down to the 1 bottom of the pool when you sweep. This is the correct setup for the paddle. Place it parallel to the boat, at the surface You are trying to push down to roll of the water with the front blade fiat on the water, the spoon side facing upward. arms! You may also up. Use hips, not The paddle must be placed in this position before every attempt to roll. be starting the sweep with the paddle buried in the water. Also, if the paddle is too close to your body and plunging downward, you are straightening the left arm and bending the right arm. Remember to keep the right arm straight and the left arm bent. Really stretch your torso out from the boat. The farther out -as you get, the easier it will be to snap the hips. So if you are using hips and not arms, the right arm will stay straight through the entire sweeping motion. Remember to snap immediately upon hitting the 90-degree angle. Snap with vigor, but do all the other movements with a deliberate grace. Rolling does not require strength! Finally, don't sweep more than 90 degrees or you will lose correct position. Remember always to follow the blade with your nose and keep that head down! Happy paddling!

Leatm R. Diehl is an instructor in the, Central Pennsylvania Kayak School in Harrisburg. Last year, she created' Pennsylvania Women Outdoors, - a nonprofit organization dedicated to involving women in outdoor Perfect example of what not to do. Note the mistakes—the head's up while the challenges like kayaking and boat is still on its side; the paddle is plunging to the bottom of the water; the canoeing. She is a reporterfor the right arm is bent and the paddler's nose is facing forward instead of following the York Dispatch, and appears weekly right hand out to the 90-degree angle. on WGAL TV's "PM Magazine," Ms. Diehl serves on Boat Pennsylvania's Editorial Advisory Committee..

.S'eprember ()( whet' 1984 15 escue:, me for. 11

by Charlie Walbridge

ALI/Af hen a person falls overboard, he needs help fast. The quickest, safest W way to reach him is with a rescue line, but few small-boat operators carry one. The reasons are simple. A long length of line tangles easily, making is difficult to store and slow to make ready. Accurate throwing is a skill requiring considerable practice, and few people are willing to take the time needed to become proficient. Ring buoys have the same problem, complicated by the difficulties of storing and throwing the ring. As a result, most people ignored this need—until now. Origins The concept of the throw-line bag is not new. It was developed by the U.S. Navy during World War 11 for use in lifeboats in the open sea. But in the years that followed it passed into -.11Por obscurity until Red Cross small craft expert Ray Miller uncovered it in Coast Guard archives. Realizing its 31A- 41111, potential, he made a few samples and began showing them off around the --""”" •waar-'1101* country. Within a few months the "41* al device was adopted by whitewater boaters who had need of a compact way to carry a throw line. The idea spread to commercial outfitters, rescue squads, police and fire departments, and finally, the recreational boater, hunter, and fisherman.

_ •••••111'.

SepremberlOctober 1984 17

• +a The bag in use is elegantly simple; beyond. To reuse, just stuff the rope A homemade device just grab the hand loop, which sticks back in the bag the same way it comes One of the outstanding features of out the opening, and toss the bag at out. There's no need for fancy the rescue bag is that it's easy to make the victim. Most people prefer to lob or other elaborate time-consuming one for yourself. You'll need a length it underhand, but sidearm or even preparations. Fully stuffed, the bag of /38-inch line, a heavy duty 6-inch by overhand throws can be made if can be hung in a place that's out of I2-inch round-bottom stuff bag, a 6- conditions dictate. With a bit of the way, yet easily accessible. You'll inch-diameter, I- or 2-inch-thick foam practice, most people can manage 50- find it not only useful for rescues, but disc, and a pres-loc fastener. The type foot throws, while a strong arm will for routine maneuvers such as of rope you use should vary according be able to reach out 70 feet and docking as well. to the bag's application and

18 float Pennsylvania availability. Polypropylene rope is The throw bag is simple to use. Just grab the preferred because it floats, but it is very stiff and difficult to use unless loop, which sticks out of the opening, and obtained in a multi-filament braided cord. Braided nylon is a good second toss the bag at the victim. Most prefer to choice. As to length, a minimum of 55 feet is required; allowing 5 feet for lob it underhand, but sidearm or even over- knots, this gives an effective reach of 50 feet. Most people will want to use hand throws can be made if conditions 70 feet of line for added usefulness; greater lengths are difficult to throw dictate. so that the extra rope is probably worth it. Here's how to put it all together: I. Cut a slit in the bottom of the bag about 1 inch long for the rope to stick out. Find someone with a sewing PRES-LOC maehine with a buttonhole STUFF BAG attachment to finish the edges to 6" x 14" prevent fraying. If this is absolutely not feasible, you can set an oversized grommet. If you go this route, cut a "spacer" of leather that will be attached to the bag along with the FIGURE 8 grommet. The added thickness this LOOP provides will help the grommet grip DRAWSTRING more securely. 2. Drill a hole in the center of the ROPE: 3/8" x 65' foam disc about /12-inch in diameter. SOLID BRAND The best material to use is 1-inch- MULTI-FILAMENT thick,6 -pound-density ethafoam; POLYPROPYLENE styrofoam also works well, but breaks up and has to be periodically replaced. FOAM DISC 6" Marine plywood,/ 34-inch, works well as far as durability goes, but it's a bit tough on the person who gets on the receiving end of your throws. OVERHAND KNOTS 3. Now you're ready to attach the rope to the bag. Make a 20-inch loop LOOP at one end and secure the end to the rest of the line with an . Force the end of this loop through the hole in the foam, and through the hole in the bottom of the nylon bag. Tie an overhand knot tightly against AIME the bottom of the bag to secure Stuff the knot down into the bag, but buoy. For those not interested in together the rope, bag, and foam. allow the loop to stick out above the going through the above steps, the 4. Holding the bag firmly in one top. Pull the drawstring tight. bag can be purchased from Wildwater hand, stuff the rope into the bag. Let 6. Pres-locs can be purchased at Designs, 230 Penllyn Pike, Penllyn, the rope go through the hand holding many well-equipped outdoor stores. PA 19422 or from Northwest River the bag as you stuff; this will keep it Slip the drawcord through the Supplies, P.O. Box 9186, Moscow, from sliding backwards between pulls opening in the pres-loc, then knot the Idaho 83843. Less expensive bags, and allow you to move faster. Short ends so that it can't inadvertently which utilize a smaller diameter rope, strokes, with the stuffing hand kept come back off. Slip the pres-loc are not recommended. inside the bag, work better than securely against the bag to hold the longer ones. opening shut. 5. When you reach the end of the The finished bag can be hung up Charlie Walbridge has been safety rope, make a 14-inch loop, and secure from the loop at either end. Keep it chairmanfor the American Canoe with a figure-eight knot. If you can't where it can be reached quickly when Association since 1975. He serves on make the "figure-eight" work, an needed, or wherever you might Boat Pennsylvania 's Editorial overhand knot is almost as good. otherwise use a throwing line or ring Advisory Committee.

September/October 1984 19 ffwr5

than 80 degrees from the bottom, which New Law Prohibits scope of 7:1 in shallow Safetye works out to a Intoxicated Boaters water, where there is little sag in the line.

On the Rode Again Sand and silt Governor Dick Thornburgh The characteristics of the bottom recently signed into law Senate Bill also affect the holding capabilities of 994, which authorizes the suspension by Virgil Chambers the anchor. A sandy or silt bottom of boating privileges in the Commonwealth for operating a boat boating offers the best ground. The hooking- any enjoyable and while intoxicated. Mventures have ended in despair type anchors perform best in this kind of bottom. At the two opposite ends of The new law carries a mandatory because the boater improperly used suspension of boating privileges for a years, the spectrum, anchoring in soft-mud anchor ground tackle. For period of one year for operators relatively few bottoms and rocky bottoms is usually anchors were limited to intoxicated and provides specific types. However,improved variations of difficult. The soft-mud bottom lacks the gripping power, and rocky bottoms penalties for the offense of homicide each type appeared with radically new by watercraft while operating under designs, which were based on holding frequently prevent an anchor from getting a good hold on anything except the influence. The "homicide by power instead of weight. In fact, weight influence offense" carries a mandator) successful an occasional crevice. has very little to do with the three-year prison term. use of an anchor. Anchoring in grassy or weedy bot- toms is not difficult, but to hold an According to Gene Sporl, Fish Commission assistant executive Design vs. weight anchor in a weedy bottom, the flukes must get through the weeds into the director, the Commission fully The holding power of a modern supports the new law because of the anchor depends strictly on its design, bottom to get a firm hold. This may require some initial adjustment to get a safety problem that alcohol presents. and this power is proportional to the In 1983 there were 19 boating-related area of the flukes and the depth to solid grip on the bottom, notjust on the bottom's vegetation. accidents in Pennsylvania with 25 which they are buried in the bottom. fatalities—five of those accidents The size and weight of your anchor Rode (which took eight lives) involved should increase as the anticipated boat alcohol. load increases. Bigger anchors provide The anchor rode, the line, and any other gear that lies between a boat and Sporl made it clear, however,"The more fluke area, which overcomes objective of the bill is not to take the stresses with heavier loads. Neverthe- its anchor should be selected as care- fully as the anchor. Specific conditions recreation out of boating. The new less, a 500-pound concrete block, unless law's goal is to remove the dangerous it is completely buried in slit, has no of use and maximum anticipated loads should be carefully considered. The operator from Commonwealth more holding power than a 4-pound waterways." Danforth-type anchor. rode should prevent sudden shock from Obviously, that four-pounder wind drag, current drag, and wave wouldn't hold an inner tube if the action. Elasticity of the rode is of anchor line came up vertically from the utmost importance. bottom: but properly set and with the Actually, it is possible to eliminate Water Skiing right amount of line in proportion to much ofthe shock load through proper the water depth, even this small anchor rode design. For instance, nylon line. Publication has a holding power of 230 pounds in connected to the anchor by a short(3-4 soft mud and 1,600 pounds in hard feet) piece of chain, lowers the angle of Safe Water Skiing is a new 8- sand. pull at the anchor. Along with adequate page booklet published by the scope, these elements are important in American Water Ski Association Scope an effective ground tackle system. (AWSA). The booklet details The anchor line is a controlling factor Finally, the essence of successful information on signals, choosing in an anchoring system. It is important anchoring is to stay put without drag- where to ski, the boat and other to understand scope—the ratio of the ging. To accomplish this, learn to use equipment, picking safe skis, and line length to water depth. Scope keeps the proper gear. other safety information for the an anchor from dragging. Visualize skier and the boat operator. The how a long anchor line tends to exert a booklet is available free from the horizontal pull instead of a vertical pull, Virgil Chambers is chief of the Fish American Water Ski Association, helping the anchor dig in. For optimum Commission Boating Education Sec- P.O. Box 191, Winter Haven, FL performance, the line should lead away tion. He chairs the Boat Pennsylvania 33882. from the anchor at an angle of not more Editorial Advisor;' Committee.

20 Boat Pennsylvania down with my girlfriend hanging on I'm an officer in a very active no more than 100 feet away—unhurt boating club. We meet frequently, and but terribly frightened. In a few we're always conducting membership minutes an old man rowed out in a drives, fundraising events, and boat, picked us up, and took me to a educational programs for our doctor who sewed up my arm. members and for the public. Do you I especially appreciated your article have any back issue of Boat in the May/June 1984 issue by Virgil Bill Kisinger Pennsylvania we could pass out at Chambers on pages 30-31 concerning Brownsville, PA these events? the danger of low-head dams. I am one of the few people who has had the Stan Lundborg terrifying experience of going over one I own a new 26-foot boat that I use Pittsburgh, PA of these and lived to talk about it. for water skiing and cruising. Do I When I was 17 years old I was need a fire extinguisher aboard? Of course. We'd be glad to provide boating in a I5-foot canvas-covered free copies ofBoat Pennsylvania for a canoe just about at old dam and lock Peter Winston boating club's events and get- #5 at Brownsville on the Monon- Monroeville, PA togethers. For details call or write to: gahela River. A girlfriend and I were The Editor,Boat Pennsylvania, paddling across the river when she lost Yes. The law requires that all Pennsylvania Fish Commission, P.O. her paddle from the front seat. The motorboats have on board and readily Box 1673, Harrisburg,PA 17105- river was up 6 feet above normal pool accessible a Coast Guard approved 1673. 717-657-4520. and quite swift. Her paddle quickly fire extinguisher. Outboards under 26 swirled away from us and I could not feet are excepted, if they are of open retrieve it. With only my paddling I construction without permanently I am a long-time subscriber to could not stem the current, and it was installed fuel tanks and if they are not Pennsylvania Angler and a charter inevitable that we would go over the carrying passengers for hire. Still, any subscriber to Boat Pennsylvania. dam. We could not get back to shore boat with a motor should have an Every year I request a copy of the soon enough. extinguisher as a safety precaution. volume author index for the Angler, I told the girl to sit down in the For a free single copy of the Fish and I'm curious if Boat Pennsylvania middle of the canoe and hold on to Commission's pamphlet Marine Fire will also be indexed. The yearly index the crossbar no matter what happened, Extinguishers, send with requests a is an excellent reference, and I keep it because I knew the canoe would float. self-addressed, stamped business-sized right with my magazines so I can find She was a fair swimmer and I was an envelope to: Boating, Pennsylvania information quickly. I refer constantly expert one. I thought I could shoot Fish Commission, P.O. Box 1673, to the Angler for fishing and boating the rapids. Neither of us panicked— Harrisburg, PA 17105-1673. information, so! hope Boat We obviously didn't realize the Pennsylvania will also be indexed. danger. We had no life preservers with us—an absolute no-no, no matter Your new magazine—Boat Kim Lange what our physical conditions or Pennsylvania—is a welcome addition Philadelphia, PA swimming abilities were! to boating literature, aimed Going straight for the dam I specifically at the Pennsylvania Boat Pennsylvania will be indexed thought! had things under control. boater. The first issue is very well as is the Angler, but because Boat Just as the bow of the canoe shot over done, and covers a broad spectrum of Pennsylvania is bimonthly, we'll wait the brink, we immediately capsized. I boating activities. I was especially until the end of the second volume went straight to the bottom, which! pleased to see the emphasis on safety year to publish the index in the hit at the base of the dam. Moving at in all the articles. The American magazine. a rate of speed I believe to have been Canoe Association has long at least 20 miles per hour, I raked advocated education rather than over a sharp object, the remains of regulation—publications like Boat corrugated sheet metal left there when Pennsylvania certainly help educate the concrete dam was poured many the boating public. 111EFLAIII years before. This gashed my right In addition, the technical emphasis arm from the elbow halfway to my of articles such as the one by Cliff NAME wrist and almost into the bone. There Jacobson adds a real dimension to the If you have an opinion on Boat was a great deal of swirling debris all magazine. Best of luck with your Pennsylvania content, a question around me, such as rocks and a lot of future issues; you are doing a real on boating, or a helpful idea, send driftwood. I was fighting to get to the service to the boaters of Pennsylvania. correspondence to: The Editor, surface. Finally,just as I thought! Boat Pennsylvania, P.O. Box would never surface, I broke out on Susan Chamberlin, 1673, Harrisburg, PA 17105-1673. the surface about 500 feet below the Commodore dam. There the canoe was upside American Canoe Association SeptemberlOcroher 1984 21 IZE

Avenue, Wayne, PA 19087 (various dates through 10 28). 9 Sailboat races, South Dock. Rose Calendar Valley Lake. David Stone, Lycoming SPECIAL Yacht Club, 926 First Avenue, September Williamsport, PA 17701 (various 1 Sailboat races, Nuangola Lake. dates through 10 14). OFFER!! Commodore Stephen T. Fleetwood, 9 Sailboat races, Presque Isle Bay Nuangola Yacht Club, 15 Nuangola and Lake Erie. Presque Isle Yacht Avenue, Mountaintop, PA 18707. Club, James W. Ford, P.O. Box 1075, Boating Safety 1 Sailboat races. Susquehanna Erie, PA 16512(various dates through River, Long Level. Susquehanna 9 30). Decals Yacht Club, RD I Wrightsville, PA 15 Sailboat races, Lake 17368 (various dates through 10 21). Wallenpaupack (Tafton). Lake 11/111///=MNIIIP AU. BOATS MUST HAVE ON BOARD A COAST 1-2 Pennsylvania State Water Wallenpaupack Yacht Club. John D. GUARD APPROVED PERSONAL FLOTATION DEVICE (PM) FOR EACH PERSON. THE PFD Skiing Championships, Lake Erie Folwell, 3757 Turner Street, SHOULO FIT AND BE ADJUSTED TO THE PERSON WHO WILL WEAR IT. (American Water Ski Association). Allentown, PA 18104. A PFD IS USELESS rvocremrr GET TO IT norstr sret root tor WHEN YOU NEED IT IT MARES GOOD SENSE 2 Sailboat instruction and 15 Sailboat races, Blue Marsh Lake rWO4fl TO WEAR IT. competition, Yellow Creek Lake. (State Hill launch area). Murry Frink, .4,44zr,. JR YOUR BOATING SAFETY • Prindle Fleet #65. Darla L. Svaline, Blue Marsh Sailing Association, 3120 IARN TO RECOGNIZE AND BEY THESE UNIFORM STATE NI Commodore, 1042 Pennsbury Blvd., Octagon Avenue, Sinking Spring, PA EGULATORY BUOYS AND ARKERS N., Pittsburgh, PA 15205 (various 19608 (various dates through 10121). 11111111111 dates through 10 5). 29-30 Pennsylvania Cup Race #2, ___AmisarimmimmOKAPIINWATOMTOURAYITOOMT. 00A1WIllf 2 Sailboat races, Conneaut Lake American Canoe Association, Lenape, decal for nonpowered boats (north end). John N. Shaffer, West Chester, PA. Bob & Ellen Conneaut Lake Yacht Club, 14 Forest Christensen, 2013 Chester Avenue, Avenue, Meadville, PA 16335. Abington, PA 19001. The Fish Commission Bureau of 2 Lake Heritage Regatta (water ski, Waterways Boating Education Sec- canoe, raft competition, sailboat October tion has available two colorful races). Lake Heritage Property 6-7 Fiddler's Elbow Slalom '84, waterproof decals that summarize Owners Association. Box 420, Hummelstown, PA. John Gephart, practical boating safety informa- Gettysburg, PA 17325. 600 Kalla Drive, Harrisburg, PA tion. The decals serve to remind 5 Sailboat races. Lake Erie, Erie 17109. boaters about the use of PFDs, Yacht Club (various dates through 13-14 Ohio-Penn Wildwater uniform state regulatory buoys and 10 14). Championship, Ohiopyle, PA. River markers, and inland rules of the 6-8 Water Rescue Conference, Paths Outfitters, RD I. Box I5B, road. The decals, which measure 6 Educational Conference Center, Confluence, PA 15424. inches by 4 inches, can be affixed to Luzerne County Community College, 14 Pennsylvania Cup Race #4, your boat where the operator can Nanticoke, PA. Sponsored by Bellefonte, PA. PSOC Slalom see them readily. They are available Pennsylvania Fish Commission Chairman, 4 Intramural Building, free from: Boating, Bureau of (717-657-4540). University Park, PA 16802. Waterways, Pennsylvania Fish 7-9 Kettle Cup Canoe Race, 21 Easton Slalom, Easton PA. Commission,P.O. Box 1673, Harris- Delaware Canal (Easton to Tinicum Lehigh Valley Canoe Club, Box 2726, burg, PA 17105-1673. Include a Park), Girl Scouts, Boy Scouts, Lehigh Valley, PA 18001. business-sized stamped, self- Explorer Scouts. George H. Sanford, 27 races, Schuylkill River addressed envelope with requests, Jr., 19 Sunnyside Lane, Yardley, PA (Twin Bridge to Columbia Bridge). and tell us whether your boat is 19067. Schuylkill Navy of Philadelphia, Steve powered or nonpowered so that we 8 Sailboat races, Lake Arthur. Paul McKenna, Commodore, #4 can send you the appropriate decal. M. Taylor, Moraine Sailing Club, Boathouse Row, Philadelphia, PA P.O. Box 692, Pittsburgh, PA 15230 19130 (various races through II 22). (various dates through 10 13). 8 Sailboat races, Lake To have your organization's activities decal for powered boats Nockamixon. Nockamixon Sail Club, considered BOATING SAFETY INFORM ATION to appear in Boat Penn- AR000.410 4.- POP Inc., Joseph M. Galli, 530 Barrington sylvania's "Calendar"column, send the 1.41,4144. %avg. Court, Sellersville, PA 18960 (various information to us at least three months dates through 10/20). before the date of the activity. For 0 8-9 Powerboat races, Susquehanna instance, if your group's event occurs in

River Montgomery. Ronald December, 4.4t4-2 444044.40.441uhr .041 KV.110.0 .4. MON 11141 at we must have the informa- 11[4••• 40.4. miC4:40.4011 *ream. norg rarar. 0.4) ary Letcher, Susquehanna Boat Club, RD tion in September. Send items to: The ‘44444344• 410401 mallotela 4,440 Or 4441.0 I. Montgomery. PA 17752. Editor, Boat Pennsylvania Calendar, 411.4.44.4. 411111 C>- 0 4--4111 4--4111 C> 9 Sailboat races, Marsh Creek P.O. Box 1673, Harrisburg, PA - 4 -.4 444-.4.44 444.,4 4,4•44 t4-04.4 444..144 .04 ;1.404444 64.444,411 Owl •444.111 m14444, Lake. Marsh Creek Sailing Club, 17105-1673. 441.41.• 1.111444414,41/. 4.00 .4.44 Charles S. Cook, 218 Lansdowne BUREAU OF FISHERIES AND ENGINEERING 814-359-5100

Edward R. Miller, P.E. Assistant Executive Director

Delano Graff, Fisheries Eugene Smith, BOAT Construction & Maintenance K. Ronald Weis, Architectural & Engineering Pennsylvania"! BUREAU OF WATERWAYS 717-657-4538

Gene Sporl, SUBSCRIPTIONS Dedicated to the sound con- Assistant Executive Director servation of our aquatic re- Edward W. Manhart, C1. NEW ORDERS/RENEWALS sources, the protection and Law Enforcement To start a subscription to Boat Pennsylvania or to extend your management of the state's Virgil Chambers, current subscription, enter your name and address and check diversified fisheries, and to Boating Education the subscription term you prefer. (Please print clearly) the ideals of safe boating and optimum boating opportu- OFFICE OF INFORMATION nities. 717-657-4518 Your name Michael J. Bickler, Director Address Apt EXECUTIVE OFFICE Larry Shaffer, Publications Stephen H. Ulsh, Education Ralph W. Abele, Dave Wolf, Media Relations City State Zip Executive Director Boat Pennsylvania 03 years $11(18 Issues) 0 New subscriber Howard T. Hardie. Editorial Advisory 0 1 year $4(6 Issues) 0 Renewal Administrative Assistant Committee Dennis T. Guise, Chief Counsel Virgil Chambers, Chairman Ross E. Starner, (Chief, Boating Education Sec- Comptroller tion, Bureau of Waterways,Penn- (attach mailing label when renewing) sylvania Fish Commission) BUREAU OF Joe Greene (Boating Education ADMINISTRATIVE Specialist, Pennsylvania Fish SERVICES 717-657-4522 Commission) Janet R. Mayer(Special Programs Paul F. O'Brien Coordinator, Pennsylvania Director Fish Commission) Signature Charles Walbridge (canoeing) Allison J. Mayhew, Personnel Jack Davis(water skiing) Account it if renewing John Hoffman, Real Estate Gus Neuss. Jr.(sailing) (Account number appears above name on label.) Glen Reed, Federal Aid Leann R. Diehl (kayaking) Mary Stine, Licensing Ed Rogowski, Jr.(cruising) 2. TO GIVE A GIFT: Enter your name and address above and yourfecipient's name and address below. EllgacE 0 3 years $11(18 issues) Businessmen and Employers 0 1 year $4(6 issues) Why not give your new clients and customers gift subscrip- Gift card to read "From tions to Boat Pennsylvania? You might want to advertise TO these gift subscriptions as bonuses, as enticements for choos- ing your company or organization over competitors in the sale of houses, appliances, insurance, furniture, cars, and various Address Apt other services, and for opening new accounts. Furthermore, let Boat Pennsylvania help you maintain City State Zip goodwill among your present customers and provide year- round contact—your customers and clients will remember Return this form to. your products and services as each monthly issue arrives. PENNSYLVANIA FISH COMMISSION You could also let Boat Pennsylvania say,"Merry Christ- BOAT PA Circulation P.O. Box 1673 mas,"to your employees: and the magazine could also be part Harrisburg, PA 17105-1673 of awards to employees for service,job performance, safety, and other special recognition. Be sure your name and address appear both on this form and on your check. Make checks payable to: PENNSYLVANIA FISH COMMISSION We'll send gift announcements to those you name as gift subscription recipients. For complete details, contact Boat Pennsylvania Editor Art Michaels at 717-657-4520.

September'October 1984 -)3 very boat, including canoes, competitors, fostered new canoe rapids are encountered, for example. A is designed to do some designs to suit their purposes. Because canoeist can enjoy learning to adjust his things well at the expense of of their needs, truly recreational canoes turning efforts to the variations in the others. Once you've deter- today have a hull design that's a river. Ferrying, eddy turns, how to set Emined what your canoeing compromise between the ability to up a turn so the current does most of the interests are, you'll want to acquire the maneuver very quickly that's required work. Learning all these techniques particular type of canoe, or canoes, to by river running and the ability to hold increases the pleasure of canoeing. suit your needs. For example, if you're to a straight line ("tracking-) that's What's the best way to learn modern going to run wild rivers, you'll want a necessary when canoeing flat water. canoeing techniques? Some dealers canoe that's easy to turn. If you live in Everyone today benefits from the offer classes in the sport. Many school an area of large lakes and will be doing availability of lightweight, responsive, systems offer adult education classes, as mostly flatwater canoeing, you'll want a easy-to-paddle canoes. do community recreation programs, canoe that "tracks" or holds a straight Canoe racing as a sport has led to the and the American Red Cross. Canoe line well. development of new paddling techni- clubs and outing clubs are other sources Consider the bottom of a canoe. ques as well as new canoe designs. of lessons and clinics. The Fish Viewed from the side, the bottom may Many people, particularly young Commission offers a boating safety be straight, may curve up only at the people, find that once they have awareness program, and interested ends, or may be curved entirely from experienced the truly recreational persons can contact the Commission's bow to stern. The curve is called aspects of a sport, they are ready to Bureau of Waterways. "rocker," and it is an important factor enjoy competition. Canoeing is no You may find that as your skills in how the canoe performs. Rocker exception. But even before you know increase, so does your interest in makes a canoe easier to turn, but you whether you want to try racing, you'll canoeing, which leads in turn to a desire may have trouble going straight. want to learn some racing techniques in to become still more expert! You may Canoes for whitewater slalom racing order to experience all the excitement even become interested in racing, as do have rockered hulls to help them make and adventure that canoeing offers so many other canoeists. Soon you'll be tight turns with ease. Canoes for today. joining organizations that sponsor flatwater marathon racing have no The recreational canoeist benefits marathons, canoe , and rocker, because their goal is maximum from learning these racing techniques whitewater racing. Happy canoeing! M, speed in a straight line. because they're directly applicable to Greg Proteau is Public Relations.1 1 Canoe racers, including flatwater situations he will get himself into for the Director for the National Marine marathon, whitewater, and slalom fun of it: downriver trips in which Manufacturers Association. 24 Boat Penn.srlvania 1.21--ll .1-1.Iiiin•••IM,1.-.•,,,"li, "AI* Pr 1, 1 II

e., photo by Don Carey be attached to the bridle with a more harm than good if he tries to help carabiner or some similar device steer. A responsibility of both boats is allowing the towline to center itself to have someone on board keep a during the tow and preventing excessive watchful eye on any straining of the wear on the line. lines or fittings aboard his craft. However, no one under any circum- Attaching the towline stances should ever try to adjust a by Virgil In attaching the towline to the towline under strain. If an emergency disabled craft care should be taken to occurs, have available a sharp knife to Chambers inspect the bow fitting. The fitting cut the line. should be sturdy enough to handle a considerable strain without breaking or Towing speed and docking ooner or later just about pulling out from the point of attach- Most boaters make the mistake of every boater needs to give or ment. If you doubt the strength of the towing too fast. Towing should be done receive a tow, but if you fitting to withstand the strain of a tow, at a speed that will not strain the towing don't know towing pro- attach the line to something you can gear and permit complete control. All cedures you could find your- trust. If the boat has a bow eye (most conditions favorable, a steady pull at a S trouble than you ever trailerable boats do), it makes an ideal reasonable speed is less taxing for both self in more expected. In good weather with smooth point of attachment. Passing the line boats and line. If the towed vessel water, towing is an easy task involving through the bow eye can most easily be begins to swing from one side to the little more than maneuvering your boat accomplished by someone on board the other, slow down. A towed boat can into position ahead of the disabled craft rescue boat. Trying to gain access from easily capsize during this swinging and passing a towline. However, before the disabled craft can be difficult. movement. In some cases it may be undergoing a towing operation, it is The length ofthe towline is governed necessary to trim the towed boat by essential that you have a sufficient by the conditions of the water. A moving as much weight as possible amount of good-quality line on board. general rule is the calmer the water, the toward the stern to help control this Generally, nylon makes the best towline shorter the line. It makes for easier swinging action. primarily because of its strength and handling if the towed craft is as close as Many towing problems occur when ability to absorb shock. However, care possible to the powered craft, keeping the boats are maneuvering into the should be taken to avoid maneuvering clear ofthe sometimes disturbing wake. dock. It is best to approach the dock alongside a strained nylon towline. If However, in rough water, having a slowly, allowing for slack line and the line breaks,or a cleat is pulled loose, short towline definitely limits your having one of the crew simply step off the line can become a dangerous whip. control and usually results in both with the towline in hand. From the boats tossing and rolling. dock the disabled craft can be pulled in Towing strategies hand over hand. Unless you have In calm water an "alongside tow" PFDs experience in landing with a boat in enables a surprising amount of With the sometimes uncertain tow, or you are using an alongside tow, maneuverability. With fenders in place, reaction of a towed boat, all passengers do not try to make your own landing. a boat that is tightly secured alongside should wear a personal flotation device It is a noble gesture to assist a fellow yours lets both boats respond as a unit. (life jacket). Wearing a PFD is boater in trouble. In fact, it is a tradition This type of towing can be done with important for a number of reasons among seamen never to let a vessel in any size craft, although if your smaller while being towed. Keep in mind that distress fend for itself. I would boat is assisting a larger craft, you will being on the towed craft and falling encourage this camaraderie among the find it more effective to position your overboard can create the problem of boaters of our state as long as the boat along the disabled craft's quarter immediate recovery, unlike man boaters know their limitations. Remem- rather than straight abeam. overboard in typical situations. With a ber—towing can be a dangerous under- A more common type of towing disabled boat you have no control. You taking, as well as an expensive one, if situation is one craft simply pulling the must signal the towing craft to alert the not properly done. If you don't feel you other, and a towing bridle best towboat to what has happened. Next, can handle the tow, never hesitate to facilitates the towing operation. A the powered boat must abandon the refuse it. Instead, you may want to towing bridle is a piece of line (usually tow to assist the overboard victim render assistance by going for someone three or four times the width of the effectively. This involves more time who has training and experience in transom)that is secured to the towboat. than the routine recovery. Wearing a dealing with the problem. A good The tow bridle should be attached to PFD could be a lifesaver when that boater knows his capabilities and acts the towing craft as far forward as additional time is passing. accordingly. possible, running the bridle line Once all lines are properly secured, through or around the stern fittings PFDs are donned, and both boats are (cleats, chocks, etc.) to act as guiding ready to get under way, the towboat Virgil Chambers is chief of the Fish fixtures. Attaching the bridle as far should start off easy and take up the Commission Bureau of Waterways forward as possible frees the stern for slack line very slowly. If the disabled Boating Education Section. He also greater steering operability and permits craft has a rudder, it should keep the serves as chairman of the Boat better stability in trimming your craft rudder amidships. More often than not, Pennsylvania Editorial Advisory while towing. The towline itself should the operator of the disabled craft does Committee. September/October 1984 27 Let the latest technological advances help you improve your skills and learn new ones. middle of the ski boom via connector lines. The trainee is thus connected to the ski boom. This invention allows Learn to him to train and practice front and backwards barefoot and other barefoot skiing maneuvers without fear of falling. It catches the skier if he Barefoot starts to fall and allows him to regain his footing and continue practicing. According to Don Thomson, four- time national barefoot champion and • • • Waterski designer of the cradle,"These devices are gaining in popularity because they eliminate most of the falls and time required to learn barefoot skiing the Easy endeavors." .4% Training steps The trainer is initially taught to Way stand up on the water on his bare feet. by Jack Davis His position and form are critiqued from the towboat until satisfactory f you've been watching alongside the towboat rather than and he has learned to re-establish it waterskiers on nearby lakes behind it. This is accomplished after purposely changing position. lately, you may have noticed through the use of what is generally Next, in successive steps, with various some things that you hadn't termed a ski boom. It is used to train steps omitted for better students and 1 seen before. The technological waterskiers in maneuvers from novice athletes, the student practices standing revolution has affected nearly all to expert, but most often for teaching up from a kneeboard or stepping off phases of American life including barefoot skiing. It consists of a stout from a ski, still wearing the cradle, athletic endeavors, and waterskiing is aluminum pole that extends out until he has the move perfected. From no exception. laterally from the side of the boat for there he removes the cradle and Waterskiers most often use skis perhaps eight or nine feet. One end is practices the same moves directly on made of advanced composite attached to a pylon in the boat, and the boom and on a short, and materials including epoxy, boron, the other end is supported by a cable eventually longer, ski rope attached to carbon!graphite, honeycomb, running to the boat's bow eye. the ski boom. Lastly, he is ready to titanium, and pre-impregnated Ski booms have been around for a barefoot waterski on a full-length ski fiberglass. The waterskier's list of long while, but their construction, rope behind the towboat. increasingly sophisticated equipment range of uses, and popularity have In a similar fashion, cradles are and accessories has been similarly evolved considerably in recent years. used to teach one-foot barefoot, back affected. It now includes ski gloves, They were first used at Cypress barefoot, one-foot back barefoot, and wet suits with built-in flotation vests; Gardens in the late 1930s and 1940s to forwards and backwards deepwater ski pants; polypropylene braided- photograph waterskiers. The skiers starts. plastic floating ski ropes; slalom, were connected to a wooden pole via There are other advances in skis jumping, trick beginner, training, and 10-foot or 12-foot long ski ropes and and equipment for waterskiers on the a host of specialty skies; high-friction photographed from the same boat. horizon that we'll be seeing in the specially formulated compound This setup was all for the convenience years to come. These new items will rubber vices; arm straps; palm grips; of the photographer. In the early help train waterskiers better and leg spray protectors; helmets;jump 1950s a skier at Cypress Gardens increase their safety, so watch issues suits; dry suits; ski cases; equipment named Tramel Pickett began to train of Boat Pennsylvania for reports on cases; adjustable spoiler slalom fin beginning skiers directly on a ski the latest information. attachments; low-drag jump ski fins; boom with great success. For some toe straps; trick bridles; video training time afterward, ski booms were know Jack Davis is a waterskiing instructor cassettes; swivel bindings; adagio as "Pickett arms." and a competitor in waterskiing. He harnesses; ski booms; and barefoot placedfirst in barefootjumping in the cradles. All of this gear is often color Thomson Training Cradle 1983 Eastern Regional coordinated, too. The latest development in Championships, and in the 1983 conjunction with the use of ski booms National Barefoot Championships he Ski boom is the Thomson Training Cradle. It is placed sixth overall. Jack Davis serves One of the things that you may a harness-like device that is worn by on Boat Pennsylvania's Editorial have seen lately are waterskiers skiing the trainee and attached near the Advisory Committee. 28 Boat Pennsylvania Susquehanna Enchantment by Ron Frymire

, he gray overcast sky failed to darken the dream of eight eager canoeists as they assembled on the riverbank and studied the rain-swelled current. Temperatures were moderate. The fragrance and T iridescence of autumn leaves saturated the atmosphere. The water was flowing about five feet above normal. Conditions were nearly perfect for a safe, comfortable float on a captivating stretch of the West Branch. Our destination was Montgomery, 12 miles away. The party of young men and women ranged in experience from novice to advanced amateur. All came prepared for the scenic float with rented canoes. PFDs, rain gear, bag lunches, cameras, and binoculars to capture memories of the fellowship and share a common love for the abundant natural beauty that lies discreetly shielded from nearby homes, shopping centers, and interstate highway traffic between Williamsport and Muncy. September1 October I9N4 29 Launching wingspread and pronounced field markings. Kingfishers The perfect launch site for one of the most unique and migrating songbirds were frequently heard and seen. leisurely floats in central Pennsylvania is Ellmaker's And waterfowl—soon it seemed that ducks and geese were Landing at Montoursville. It is reached from the everywhere along this favored flyway and rest stop on their Warrensville exit off Interstate 180 by crossing the old fall flight south. Montoursville bridge, then turning right and following the By choice, this was a float where the fishing rods were road between the left bank of the Loyalsock and the left behind. No, there is nothing wrong with the fishing in Lycoming County Airport runway to the borough park. No this stretch of water, not at all. In fact, its intermittent camping is permitted in the area, but there are picnic tables, gravel bottom, riffles, and pools harbor a good number of restrooms and parking at the secluded little launch site. species like smallmouth bass, walleye, channel catfish, and The murky green waters soon beckoned the four canoes muskellunge. away from the shoreline. Within minutes after high noon, This particular day our float was focused on attractions the crafts were swallowed by the serene, colorful, like an eroded sandbank where thousands of rough-winged uncluttered landscape at the foot of Bald Eagle Mountain. swallows had colonized hundreds of tiny tunnels the There was just enough cloud cover and fog suspended over previous spring. A few lingering residents darted back and the wide valley to keep airplane activity minimal at the forth around us, snatching assorted bugs from above the airport several hundred yards to our left. water surface as we paused the canoes to watch the riffles. Except for an occasional breeze and bird sounds, the soft Other wildlife revealed signs of their presence where we rushing of the river was virtually uninterrupted by sounds briefly beached for lunch—deer and raccoons left telltale of human technology, even along the railroad grade, which imprints in the sand, and panfish dimpled the surface while was intermittently visible from the river. cruising the shallows. It seemed so hard to believe that Gradually, the canoes accelerated and coursed down the urbanization was mere minutes away because of the riffle of the main channel around Racetrack Island, a solitude we were experiencing in this wilderness setting. prominent river landmark visible from Montgomery Pike Time passed too quickly as the floaters donned their Lookout on the mountain to our right. colorful raingear and resumed canoeing, despite a short- lived shower. We passed King Island, two miles Wildlife downstream from Racetrack, then Brock Island, located "Osprey!" shouted one of the observant naturalists who two miles below the King. recognized the fish hawk's characteristic W-shaped River levels The riffles were fun and seemed to pose no difficulty under the circumstances, even for the least experienced canoeists in our group. Higher water, particularly during Canoe Rentals coming cold weather periods, could prove hazardous for persons not experienced with whitewater rapids. First-time floaters should therefore exercise caution. On the other Deliverance Lifetime Sports hand, the stretch becomes almost too shallow to float if Market Street and Southern Avenue drought conditions drop the water levels below seasonal South Williamsport, PA 17701 norms. (717) 322-8066 Passing some well-preserved stone walls along the left bank, one envisions an era when canals and locks and Nippenose logging were a prominent part of the river scenario. 231 West Fourth Street Subsequent examination of Lycoming County historical Williamsport, PA 17701 accounts of river life will make future floats more (717) 326-6537 enlightening. Upstream from the highway bridge at Muncy, only a few utility wires and a newer picnic pavilion were visible from

30 Boat Pennsylvania ;- .1. ,• , .- ... _ - .1.., ...,•_4 ..•- 4110. .5 " 1._ .- _ „...... _ . ,AI... ..: --..-,0 - ..=..- e- ,"1 -. ,..•-go ---.- . .. -f . .r --. --7-- __* - 7 — „ • I1Ft • -.. '....VV .•.•o•-- 7 _ 411--y n •,4t.- . t --- . ... c_ .1 : -- -d •••,:• 2,- - -‘, ..o - ---.7 v._ • -,.41111110,, i -.-- • the waterway, in addition to the single cabin. More dwellings, picnic grounds, and boat docks become evident Publications for Canoeists along the shorelines between Muncy and Montgomery. The sojourn ended well before 4 p.m. at Montgomery Park, The Fish Commission has available five pamphlets next to the borough river bridge, and we carried the four and guidesheets for canoeists. Each provides canoes about a hundred yards to the parking lot where immediately useful information with safety facts. vehicles were left earlier that morning to carry the canoes •Canoe Safety is a pamphlet that spells out seven and voyagers back to Montoursville, which was about a 40- rules of safety with other practical ideas. minute ride. •Survival in Cold Water describes the dangers of cold water and ill-prepared boaters. The pamphlet Services, equipment also explains what to do in cold water if you are Local outfitters can provide canoes, paddles, roof suddenly and unexpectedly immersed, and how best protectors, tie-down cords, and PFDs at reasonable prices. to be prepared. First aid for cold-water victims is also A substantial deposit is required in addition to the rental detailed. fee but refunded upon timely return of the equipment in •Personal Flotation devices is a pamphlet that good condition. Shuttle service is also available by advance describes the PFDs available, and how and when you reservation. need them. It's advisable to dress warmly and prepare for inclement •Guidelines in Planning a Float Trip is a guidesheet weather. Bugs can be bothersome, so repellent is handy to that explains in a nutshell the responsibilities and have along if it's unseasonably warm. Take what you need preparedness of all float trip participants. for the day and bring the fishing tackle and an anchor if •Suggested Maps and Guidesfor Paddling you want to probe local hotspots. Pennsylvania's Waterways is another useful This serene float is aesthetically comparable to the wild guidesheet that reveals where to obtain maps of the reaches of Big Pine Creek through the Pennsylvania Grand Keystone State's largest rivers and streams. These Canyon, although the Susquehanna is impressively wider. materials are essential to planning a canoe trip. Compared with floats I have taken on the Delaware River, All these items are free, but with requests include a the 8-mile segment of this float between Montoursville and business-sized stamped, self-addressed envelope. Muncy reveals far fewer signs of human impact on the Contact: Boating, Pennsylvania Fish Commission, surroundings. To the seeker of solitude in an P.O. Box 1673, Harrisburg, PA 17105-1673. impressionably wilderness environment, this pristine section of the Susquehanna offers floaters an alluring enchantment. III

- September/October 1984 31 Bulk Rate U. S. POSTAGE PAID Harrisburg, Pa. Permit No. 495