BOAT

The RTystone State's Official Magazine In the last issue of Pennsyl- registration, and another third based vania, we talked about where the on the amount of state monies money comes from and where the invested in the program. If fully money goes. Let's continue by funded, Pennsylvania's share would discussing a new federal source of be about $600,000, or about $3 per revenue that over the years will be registered boat. Some $15 million is most important to Pennsylvania allocated to the Coast Guard for its boaters. recreational boating program. Last summer, the National The Sport Fisheries Enhancement Aquatics Resource Trust Fund was Account is important to boaters as established by the 98th Congress. well as to anglers. These monies are This fund is popularly known as the allocated in the same manner as are Wallop-Breaux Fund, named after its Dingell-Johnson funds. That is, a prime sponsors, Senator Malcolm formula is used, which is based on a Wallop of Wyoming and Representa- state's population, geographic size, tive John Breaux of Louisiana. and number of fishing licenses sold. Revenues accruing to the fund come The new law mandates that at least from the tax on gasoline used in 10 percent of this money be used for , import duties imposed on acquisition, construction, and foreign-built boats and associated maintenance of boating accesses. It equipment, and a tax imposed on further provides that up to 10 percent items of fishing equipment not may be used for aquatic education, previously taxed under the Dingell- which includes boating safety. Johnson Act of 1950. The Wallop- There is a technical aspect of this Breaux Fund will accumulate law that is important to you. Money revenues of about $100 million deposited in the Boating Account annually. It is important to note that must be appropriated annually by the except for a tax on certain items of Congress. Whatever is not appro- The Wallop-Breaux Fund fishing equipment, no new taxes are priated spills over into the Sport being imposed. The act simply Fisheries Account, which is a redirects into a dedicated fund continuing appropriation. This monies already being collected. means that the Fish and Wildlife Two separate accounts are con- Service may allocate this money as it tained in the fund, the Recreational accumulates in the Sport Fisheries Boating Account and the Sport Account without going to the Fisheries Enhancement Account. The Congress. first $45 million accruing to the fund Last September, the Office of goes into the Boating Account, Management and Budget(OMB) administered by the Coast Guard; $1 determined that money not million is deposited in the Land and appropriated would revert to the Water Conservation Fund, adminis- General Treasury. The subsequent tered by the Heritage Conservation uproar by boating and fishing and Recreation Service; and the organizations got OMB to reverse its remainder goes into the Sport determination. But in these days of Fisheries Enhancement Account, tight fiscal policy, budget reduction, administered by the U.S. Fish and and the Administration's commit- Wildlife Service. ment not to raise taxes, there's no Some $30 million of the Boating guarantee that such a move will not Account is to be allocated to the be tried again. Be on guard! Don't states for boating safety and public feel bad about raising a ruckus. access acquisition, development, and These are monies you have paid into maintenance. The allocation is based a dedicated fund, and you should on one third divided equally among expect a return in the form of applying states, a third based on boat services.

Gene Sporl Assistant Executive Director Bureau of Waterways Pennsylvania Fish Commission MARCH/APRIL 1985 VOL. 2 NO. 2 The time to put your boat back in the water is almost here! This issue's front cover, photographed by Mike Simmons, shows a boat on Lake Erie that successfully went through its relaunching maintenance and tuning. Your boat, though, may not make it this far unless you check out the information in the article BO on page 14. The back cover, whetting the _ appetite for on the Yough, appears courtesy of Lance Martin, Wilderness Pennsylvanial Voyageurs, Inc. The Cover

Boating in Pennsylvania State Parks by John K. Wiediger Go with the author on a tour of Pennsylvania's best state parks for all kinds of boating 4

How Boating Fared in the 98th Congress by Greg Proteau The U.S. Congress last year was busy with boating business. This is the scorecard of what happened— and what didn't happen 9 How to Pick a by Cliff Jacobson Let this technically detailed information help you make this crucial choice 10 Back in the Water Again! by Gus Neuss, Jr. The author explains how to make a smooth transition from dry dock to water 14 State parks page 4 Wiring Is Your Boat's Achilles Heel by Howard Bach Your boat's lighting and wiring are likely to cause trouble faster and more often than the engine. Here's how to shore up your boat's vulnerable spot 18 Guidelines in Planning a Float Trip by Virgil Chambers These ideas can help you organize an enjoyable, safe trip for any group of paddlers 24 An Picking paddies page Introduction to Whitewater 10 by Brent Peters More and more students are learning safety skills for whitewater. Here's a story of such a whitewater camp 26 Launch Ramp Etiquette by Kim D. Pritts Here's how to follow the Golden Rule at the launch ramp 30

Planning float trips page 24 Etiquette page 30 Viewpoint 2 Currents 22 The Law & You 22 STAFF Calendar 22 Editor Art Michaels Graphics Ted Walke ( Pennsylvania Fish Commission Boating Photographer Russ Gettig Advisory Circulation Eleanor Mutch Ross J. Huhn, President Board Staff Assistant Jayne Poyleski Saltsburg Clayton Buchanan. Chairman ).larilyn A. Black, Vice President POSTMASTER: Send form 3579 to Pennsylvania Fish Commission, P.O. Box 1673, Harrisburg, PA 17105-1673. Meadville Nicholas Apfl Boat Pennsylvania, 01985, is published bimonthly. Third Walter F. Gibbs Theodore T. Metzger Fairless Hills class postage paid at Harrisburg, PA. Subscription rates: Charles Chattaway one year, $4; three years, $11; single copies are 800 each. Titusville Johnstown For subscription and change of address, contact Boat PA Leonard A. Green Joan R. Plumly Monongahela Circulation, Pennsylvania Fish Commission, P.O. Box Carlisle Jenkintown Sherwood Krum 1673, Harrisburg, PA 17105-1673. Address all other corre- Calvin J. Kern Jerome E. Southerton Hawley spondence to: The Editor. Boat Pennsylvania, P.O. Box Whitehall Honesdale Leon Lyon 1673, Harrisburg, PA 17105-1673. Bellefonte The authors' views, ideas, and advice expressed in this Robert L. Martin J. Wayne Yorks magazine do not necessarily reflect the opinion or official Bellefonte Benton position of the Pennsylvania Fish Commission or its staff. ania by John K. Wiediger Itkinksetyle'

he Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Resources(DER) Bureau of State Parks administers 113 state parks throughout the Commonwealth. Some 57 of these state parks Tprovide boating facilities, varying from the small whitewater launching area at in Bucks County to the sprawling Pymatuning Reser- — voir in Crawford County. p Boating on state park waters also provides great variety. Kayakers, canoeists, and rafters find challenging whitewater at such state parks as Ohiopyle, Lehigh Gorge, and Worlds End, or the family wishing to launch the on less challenging waters can find facilities at Cook Forest, Poe Valley, Tyler, and Whipple Dam. A father, taking his children out for an afternoon of fishing or cruising using his small runabout with an electric motor, can find solitude at such parks as Chapman, Ricketts Glen, and Tuscarora. The family with a new high- power boat can find excellent waters at parks like , Elk, and Beltzville. Likewise, sailors enjoy the pleasant breezes found at Nockamixon, Moraine, and Codorus. Like most waterways throughout the Commonwealth, weekends can be quite busy at state park lakes. Most boaters are aware of this fact and plan their outings accordingly. Canoeists seeking solitude visit weekdays or early or late in the day and usually see only a few fishermen. The high-speed skier enjoys the crowd that watches him early in the afternoon, while the sailor takes advantage of the winds during the late morning hours. Boaters of all types can find their favorite water in a state park nearby. Here's a rundown of where you can find the best state park for the water sports you like. Canoe waters Cook Forest and Clear Creek state parks provide facilities for paddlers using the Clarion River in northwestern Pennsylvania. Both state parks provide launching and parking facilities, nearby comfort stations, and overnight accommodations. Boaters who launch at Clear Creek find the Class A, B, C, I, and II waters for the 10 miles to Cook Forest quite tranquil and refreshing. Wildlife is seen quite frequently. Both parks provide family campgrounds and rustic cabins, , picnic and swimming facilities, and summer environmental programs. 4 Boat Pennsylvania is located in northwestern Jefferson County along Route 949 approximately 12 miles north of Brookville. Launching facilities are located at the western end of the park between the family camping and cabin areas. Boaters planning to leave a vehicle in the park overnight must stop at the park office for a free permit. is located in northeastern Clarion County along Route 36 at Cooksburg. The park is approximately 15 miles north of Brookville and Interstate 80. Launching facilities are found at the southeastern end of the park, along River Road approximately 4 miles from Cooksburg. Again, those planning to leave a vehicle in the park overnight need to stop at the park office to leave trip plans. Although neither Clear Creek nor Cook Forest has boat rentals, watercraft can be rented privately in the Cooksburg area. N offers paddlers a quiet, pristine lake setting at either the 422-acre Promised Land Lake or the I73-acre Lower Lake. Both lakes offer many quiet coves and rustic beauty, leading many to believe that they are in an area far less popular than the world-famous . The park provides five boat launch areas, and a watercraft rental facility is available on Promised Land Lake across from the swimming beach. In addition to , both lakes permit rowboats and electrically powered motorboats. Promised Land State Park also provides over 500 family campsites, 12 family cabins, picnic and swimming facilities, fishing, 27 miles of hiking trails, and a summer environmental education program. Nearby attractions include the 2,765-acre Bruce Lake Natural Area, the Delaware River within the Delaware Water Gap National Recreation Area, and the PP&L- operated . Promised Land State Park is located in southwestern Pike County on Route 390, approximately 10 miles north of Canadensis and 4 miles south of exit 7 of Interstate 84. The five launch areas are located at strategic points on both lakes. Other popular canoe and state parks include Roosevelt in Bucks and Northampton counties; Bucktail in Cameron and Clinton counties; and Ohiopyle in Fayette County.

Russ Gstna ERIE

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Small powerboats Some 34 state parks are designated for use by boaters Boating in State Parks using electric motors or manual propulsion only. In addition, seven state park lakes allow gasoline motors up to Ohiopyle Codorus 10 horsepower. Park, located in central Indiana Lehigh Gorge Clear Creek Yellow Creek State County, boasts the 740-acre Yellow Creek Lake. This park Worlds End Promised Land allows motors up to 10 horsepower and is also popular with Cook Forest Roosevelt sailboaters, canoeists, and rowboaters. Three boat launch facilities are available; one on the north side near Poe Valley Bucktail MacFeather's Cove, one on the south side on Route 259, Tyler Yellow Creek and one in the day-use area near the beach. Parking, north Whipple Dam picnicking, and comfort facilities are available at the launch and the day-use area. Chapman M. K. Goddard In addition to excellent boating, Ricketts Glen Kettle Creek provides picnic and beach swimming facilities, hiking trails, is not permitted in the park, Tuscarora Presque Isle and fishing. Although camping some private campgrounds are nearby. Yellow Creek also Bald Eagle Neshaminy provides numerous winter activities. Elk Parker Dam Nearby attractions include the historic Ewing's Mill and Museum built in 1824, and nearby state game lands for Prince Gallitzin Beltzville hiking and . Nockamixon Ralph Stover Yellow Creek State Park is located along Route 422, 13 Moraine Pymatuning miles east of Indiana and 19 miles west of Ebensburg. Shawnee State Park, located in west-central Bedford

6 Boar Pennsylvania I County, provides boating on 45I-acre Shawnee Lake. Sailing Sailors, canoeists, and boaters, using electric motors only, Sailing can be found on virtually all state park lakes. find this quiet lake to their liking. Two launch areas are This activity can include the small windsurfer at the 20-acre provided; one at the western end on Route 96, and the Parker Dam to the several-masted schooners using Presque other in the day-use area near the island bridge. Overnight Isle Bay. boat mooring is also available. A popular sailing lake is located at , In addition to boating, Shawnee State Park provides located in southwestern York County. Codorus State Park facilities for camping, a large beach, picnic areas, and a 12- surrounds Lake Marburg, a I,275-acre impoundment. The mile system. Nearby attractions include Old Bedford lake has 26 miles of shoreline and the park provides eight Village, Forbes Trail, and the Blue Knob Ski Area. boat launch areas. Motors up to 10hp are permitted. Shawnee State Park is located on Route 30 near Sailing enthusiasts, however, have top billing at this Schellsburg, about 10 miles west of Bedford. beautiful lake, which is surrounded by the rolling hills of Other popular low-power state park lakes include M. K. York County. Codorus also provides a large marina, 198 Goddard (10hp), Mercer County; Kettle Creek (electric), family campsites, and one of the largest swimming pools in Clinton County; Codorus(10hp), York County; and Pennsylvania. Additionally, equestrian and hiking trails, Nockamixon (10hp), Bucks County. and summer environmental programs fulfill most all visitor needs. Two boat rentals provide a variety of watercraft. Large powerboats, water skiing Nearby attractions include Gettysburg National Military Boating with unlimited horsepower and associated water Park and the Lancaster Pennsylvania Dutch area. skiing are available at several state parks. Codorus State Park is located on Route 216, three miles , located in southeastern Carbon east of Hanover and about 15 miles southwest of York. County, provides boating on 949-acre Beltzville Lake, By far, the largest state park impoundment is which is operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers for Pymatuning Reservoir located in Pymatuning State Park, flood control. The park provides two concrete launch which straddles the Ohio-Pennsylvania line in western ramps with assorted nearby parking and comfort facilities. Crawford County. The reservoir encompasses over 16,400 The Pine Run Launch is located in the park's day-use area, acres and 10 launch areas await boaters. Motors up to 10hp reached from Lakeside Drive, while the other, Preachers are permitted. Because of the huge expanse of water, it is a Camp, is located off Route 209 on the south side of the sailor's dream. Thousands enjoy the boating facilities each lake. year. In addition to powerboating, the lake provides excellent In addition to the excellent boating, the park has superb fishing and restricted boat-speed areas in the lake's upper fishing and hunting, four campgrounds with over 800 sites, narrow reaches for small powerboaters and canoeists. four public beaches, and many picnic areas. Boat rentals Sailing is also quite popular at the western end of the lake. are available. Beltzville State Park provides several picnic areas, a large Pymatuning State Park is located only one mile from popular beach, 11 miles of hiking trails, and many winter Jamestown and is accessible from routes 7 or 322 or Route activities. Nearby attractions include several state game 18. lands and the popular . Other very popular sailing parks include Presque Isle, Beltzville State Park is located just off Route 209, five Erie County; Moraine, Butler County; Prince Gallitzin, miles east of Lehighton and only a short distance from exit Cambria County; and Nockamixon, Bucks County. er 34 of the 's Northeast Extension. Elk State Park, located in northcentral Elk County, is one of the undiscovered gems of state parks. The 1,160-acre John K. Wiediger, park superintendent with the Operations lake, known as East Branch Clarion Reservoir or East Section ofthe DER Bureau ofState Parks, serves on Boat Branch Dam,is operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Pennsylvania's Editorial Advisory Committee. Engineers for flood control. Remember that a state park launching permit is required The state park provides a launching facility, picnic area, for all non-powered watercraft or a current registration comfort facilities, and a nearby modern campground. issued by the Pennsylvania Fish Commission. Powered About 332 mooring spaces are also available. The park's watercraft must possess a current registration. All safety launch area is found near the upper end of the lake off LR equipment required by the Pennsylvania Fish Commission 24011 near Midmont. is also required on state park lakes. Children under nine In addition to the state park facilities, tl)e U.S. Army years ofage and all non-swimmers must wear a U.S. Coast Corps of Engineers provides a launch area, campground, Guard approved personalflotation device when on state and picnic area near the dam. The lake, although narrow, park waters. provides excellent water skiing through the narrow pristine Forfurther information regarding thesefacilities, other valley. Nearby attractions include numerous state game state park waterways, or state parks in general, contact lands and the sprawling Allegheny National Forest. your nearest state park or write to: Department of Envir- Elk State Park is located about halfway between Wilcox onmental Resources, Bureau ofState Parks, P.O. Box (Route 219) and Clermont(near Route 146) on LR 24011. 1467, Harrisburg, PA 17120. Other popular unlimited horsepower state park waterways include Bald Eagle, Centre County; Presque Isle, Erie County; and Neshaminy, Bucks County.

8 Boat Pennsylvania How Fared in

by reg Proteau ,-• *4:qtx."-:;;') s4tit-10:40:6VA-61.'1•Wir,V -rc: ()1985

"1984 was a banner year for boating- related legislation in Congress," National Outdoor Recreation imprisonment for not more than five reports National Marine Manu- Resources Review Commission passed years for anyone who intentionally facturers Association(NM M A) the Senate but got caught in the traffics or attempts to traffic in Government Relations Director Ron House. Barring further legislative counterfeit trademarked goods or Stone."We have seen more activity action, President Reagan may services. on boating and other recreation bills produce the Commission by executive • Dealer responsibility. The 1984 in one year than we have for the past order. Coast Guard Authorization Bill several years." • EPA and lead phasedown. The prohibits dealers, distributors, and Here's a review of national laws and Environmental Protection Agency has importers from selling a boat or regulations that will effect proposed to reduce the permissible associated equipment after receiving Pennsylvania boaters. lead content in gasoline by 91 percent notification from the Coast Guard or as of January 1, 1986, stating that lead manufacturer that it has a safety •Dingell -Johnson Expansion. This in auto exhaust is harmful to public defect which creates a substantial risk compromise bill passed Congress last health. While boating was not of personal injury to the public. June, was signed by the president in identified as part of the problem, it •Drunk Boating law. Growing July, and took effect October I. It faces significant problems if lead is pressure to eliminate drunk boat captures total federal taxes on fuel forced from the marketplace and if it operators is a spillover from the used in recreational boats for boating requires boaters to find alternative campaign against increasing deaths and sport fishing enhancement. It sources of octane enhancement. on the highways attributed to drunk restructured the Biaggi Fund into the • Anti-counterfeiting. Congress acted motorists. Congress passed an act new National Aquatic Resources to strengthen laws against commercial making it a federal offense to operate Fund (now referred to as the Wallop- trafficking in counterfeit trademarked a boat when under the influence of Breaux Fund) and earmarks $45 goods and services. In addition to alcohol. million in each of fiscal years 1985 boater safety, problems included through 1988 for boating and $6 damaged reputations, unfounded million for sport fishing. warranty claims, and product liability Greg Proteau is public relations •Outdoor recreation review. actions. The new law provides for directorfor the National Marine Legislation to create a second fines not more than $250,000 and Manufacturers Association. March'April 1985 9 How to Pick a

Here's the complete lon and short- of this impoquizt preference.

by just can't do good work with a 3. A "bowman"should use a paddle shaved-down two-by-four. that comes to his nose; a "sternman" Cliff Jacobson should select one that comes to his The right length eyes or the top of his head. iven the choice between Nearly every text on canoeing offers Nonsense! Any recipe for length propelling a good canoe these time-worn formulas for selecting must take into account the kind of with a bad paddle or vice the proper paddle length: canoe you're paddling, the height of versa, I'd have to think on 1. Nose to toes—the grip should the seat, the length of your torso, the Git. Only when I was reach your nose when the paddle is reach of your arms, your own certain of the nature of both craft and stood upright. strength, and how you "prefer" to engine could I make an intelligent 2. Chest span—Stretch your arms paddle (dynamic racing/switch style decision. A really good paddle is outward; the length of the span equals or slow-paced northwoods J-stroke). essential to really good canoeing. You the length of the paddle. As you can see, picking the correct 10 Boat Pennsylvania „

the blade perpendicular to the water at the end of the stroke, so no water is lifted and no speed is lost. All energy is transmitted into forward motion. Bent are more efficient than straight paddles, and that's why every canoe racer and performance- minded cruiser uses them. Still, bent canoe are set relatively high shafts are not ideal for all types of (11-13 inches off the floor) for canoeing. They're a bit awkward in comfort, while those on the modern rapids and they don't lend themselves fine-lined cruiser are slung low (7-9 to the powerful steering strokes of inches) for stability. The higher you northwoods-style (J-stroke) paddling. sit, the longer the paddle and vice They're simply not as versatile as versa. What works best in one style straight paddles. canoe may be terribly awkward in Should you buy a bent paddle? another. That depends on the type of canoe you paddle and how you "prefer" to Length of arms and torso paddle. It's probably pointless to use a The length of your torso and reach bent shaft in a typical aluminum or of your arms affect paddle length, too. Royalex canoe. Reaching over the Long-armed folks who sit tall in the wide gunnels of these boats tends to saddle can comfortable wield long diminish the effectiveness of the paddles; short folks with short arms "push-down-with-your-shoulders" should do the opposite. racing stroke. Angle paddles are not Here's the procedure, if you want to really for beginners. Only after you've get technical. mastered canoeing and can precisely 1. Set your canoe in the water and control the blade angle of a straight climb aboard. paddle should you invest in a bent 2. Measure the distance from your shaft, and then only if you prefer the nose (height of the top grip) to the dynamic power-paddling technique water. That's the shaft length. To this favored by today's racers. If your add the length of the blade (20-25 preference is gliding silently among inches, depending on paddle style). the lily pads, or casting a lure into That's the correct paddle length for quiet waters, then forget about bent you. Note that the overall length of paddles. You may not like them at all. the paddle is in part programmed by If you do choose a bent paddle, the blade length. specify the length that's two inches If you want to get more scientific, shorter than your favorite straight you can add another variable—the shaft. weight of your tripping outfit. The more gear you pile into the hull, the Blade style lower it will sit in the water, and the There are dozens of blade styles, shorter your paddle must be. but all are variations of the basic Nonetheless, unless you're a shapes outlined below. Some canoeing masochist with figures, your original texts suggest that blade shape isn't estimate, or the suggested length I've very important, that you should listed, will get you around in fine choose what you're "comfortable style. with." That's not quite correct. paddle length depends on a number of Paddles, like , are designed for variables, all of which are interrelated. Straight or bent paddle? specific purposes, and each blade style For this reason, experienced canoeists As its name implies, bent paddles has its place. The four shapes outlined often own several paddles (I have 12, have their blades offset at an angle. here pretty much cover the gamut of which isn't nearly enough), each Bends of 5 to 17 degrees are available, canoeing possibilities. designed for a specific purpose and though 14 degrees is most popular. •Modified racing or "cruising" paddling style. Here's why the bent shaft is more paddle. The modern laminated Let's dissect the variables that affect efficient: When you complete a cruising paddle has straight sides, a paddle length: forward stroke with a straight blade, squared-off tip, and fairly abrupt the blade is in a "climbing” position shoulders. The 8-inch-wide to 9-inch- Seat height on recovery—it lifts water and wide blade provides plenty of surface Seat height is important. Seats on consequently slows the canoe. But the area for making time in aerated water, the typical high-volume aluminum or forward bend of the angle paddle puts yet the blade is narrow enough for March'April 1985 11 effective contro . Long-bFaded- paddles are best suited for use in deep lakes; short-bladed ones are the choice for shallow rivers. •Racing paddle. The wide tip provides plenty of surface area in shallow rivers (where you can't submerge the whole blade), and the tapered shoulders allow you to bring the blade very close to the canoe for greater power and less frequent directional correction. The short blade also means less weight, hence faster recovery at the end of the stroke. •Beavertail Most ancient of the blade shapes, the beavertail took its form as the most efficient shape that could be cut from a single six-inch- wide board. When good waterproof glues were developed, the modern laminated paddle evolved and all but replaced the venerable beavertail. However, beavertail paddles are making a mild comeback among both traditional northwoods canoeists and those who favor the solo art. The long, narrow, somewhat whippy blade of the beavertail makes subtle steering ala northwoods style (J-stroke) remarkably easy. A good solid ash beavertail paddle is strong (it has no square corners to break off), beautiful, and much more efficient than most modern canoeists like to admit. •Sugar Island. A modification of the beavertail, the Sugar Island has its greatest width at the tip, which makes it better for use in shallow and aerated water (rapids). The Sugar Island style is favored by some of the best freestyle solo canoeists. Consider this summary of factors that affect the choice of the blade shape. 1. A long, narrow blade is best for steering maneuvers required in northwoods style and freestyle solo canoeing. 2. A wide blade is best for use in shallow and aerated water. 3. The wider the blade, the more awkward and noisy it will be when pulled through the water. Avoid wide blades if wildlife photography and fishing are your main reasons for canoeing. 4. Paddles with splines (vertical ribs) down the center tend to be noisy when pulled through the water, and ••,‘ , they are poorly adapted to side-slip 10:sr maneuvers. 5. Stiff-bladed paddles are best for

photos by the author use in aerated water, while those with grips. The best ones, which are never meet your needs? Can you afford the "reasonably flexible" blades are found on cheap paddles, come very price? Good. Then buy it! preferable for all-around canoeing. close to complete perfection and are 6. Too much flex in a paddle ideal for every use except perhaps the Customizing blade, as evidenced by some hairiest white water. In all my years of canoeing, I've inexpensive plastic paddles, is bad. Offset grips are best adapted to the owned only two paddles that felt You can't paddle well with a blade bent paddle because they put the "perfect" when I received them from that rubber-bands through the water. center of your hand in line with the the manufacturer. Every other paddle 7. Blades with square corners take a force of the paddle blade. You'll also I've owned had to be customized. substantial beating in rocky areas. find offset grips on some good straight Either the grip or shaft didn't feel Square tips must be reinforced with a paddles. Whether or not this is a good right, or the blade shape was synthetic material (fiberglass, Kevlar, idea is debatable. inappropriate. And I've never had a Lexan) to keep them from breaking Most canoeists will probably be paddle whose finish I was completely off in shallows. happiest with a generous pear or satisfied with. Invariable, I sand and 8. Square-tip exhibit rotational "soft" T-grip. The one place where a re-varnish every new paddle until it torque if they're not set into the water T-grip is out of place is in the modern has a distinctly silky feel. exactly perpendicular. For this reason, freestyle canoe. Freestyle technique Finally, don't expect miracles from beginners should avoid them—or requires a number of unorthodox even the best paddles. Human hands round the corners on a wide radius. moves, many of which call for a are very individualistic and so too Choose the square tip only after slightly rotated grip on the paddle. must be the padddles that fit them. you've mastered the fine points of Don't be afraid to file and sand a new paddle control. Weight and balance paddle until it "fits right." After all, By now, you've probably developed The lighter the paddle, the better. the only one you need to please is some specific preferences for paddle Period! The best paddles balance just yourself. And, if pleasing yourself shape. If not, I suggest you start with behind—or within an inch or two—of means spending $75 for a really fine something that resembles a cross the blade and transmit a feeling of paddle, then go to it. between a cruising paddle and a "unawareness of the blade" when you Then later, when the icy grip of beavertail—eight-inch-wide blade, heft them. winter confines you to the warmth of tapered edges, and rounded tip. This your wood stove, take your paddle off design will perform a multitude of Construction its rack, swing it in proud defiance of tasks well. You can get paddles of solid wood, the snows, and re-live the joys of laminated wood, Kevlar, plastic, running water and the magic of your Grip style fiberglass, aluminum, and canoe. There are T-grips, pear grips, composites—wood with foam-core modified T's, and offset grips. What's blades, aluminum shaft with fiberglass best is a matter of preference, though blades, etc. Again, it's a matter of CliffJacobson has 32 years of there are some loose guidelines: preference. canoeing experience and is one ofthe T-grips provide precise control of Lift the paddle and swing it through foremost canoeing experts in America. the blade angle, a reason why nearly the air. Check the flex of the blade— He is the author of three canoeing every serious whitewater canoeist except for tough white water, there books, the latest of which is Canoeing chooses them. should be some. Do you like what you Wild Rivers, published by Stackpole There are "good" and bad pear feel? Is the paddle durable enough to Books.

Suggested Straight-Paddle Lengths for use in Canoes Stock aluminum High-performance Solo racers and Freestyle and and Royalex cruisers (Sawyer fast cruisers (Sawyer whitewater solo canoes canoes(Grumman, cruiser, We-no-nah Summersong, We-no- (Old Town CJ Solo, Michi-craft, Mad Jensen, Old Town nah Advantage, etc.) Mad River Lady- River Explorer. etc. Columbia. etc.) slipper. Galt-Dandy, Persons with Blue Hole Sunburst. Short Torsos/ etc.) short arms 53 to 54 inches 50 to 52 inches 51 to 52 inches 56 to 58 inches Average length torsos and arms 54 to 56 inches 52 to 53 inches 53 to 54 inches 58 to 60 inches Long torsos/ long arms 57 to 60 inches 53 to 54 inches 53 to 55 inches 60 to 64 inches

Mai-chi/1prd 1985 13 A.From deck to keel and bow to stern, notv's the time to repo tton your boat for relaunch.

Back in the Water Again! by Gus Neuss, Jr. area at your yacht club or marina, dust is the swivel-head dry wall and the desire of the club or marina sander. This device, originally personnel to have all yachts in the designed for sanding the joints of dry water by Memorial Day. Your plan wall in home construction, is ideally should include all items of work that suited for sanding round-bottom must be performed while the yacht is hulls, particularly sailboats. Using high and dry. In addition, the plan one-half sheet of sandpaper, its should include the work yet to be universal joint head and long handle performed after launching — work make for excellent surface necessary to satisfy a complete preparation, without contaminating outfitting. Time all work tasks to the person sanding. Power sanding establish a start date, and order and equipment must be hand held, with have on hand all material, tools, and the operator close to the generated equipment required to meet the dust, mandating the use of protective schedule. breathing and eyesight devices. To ensure that no critical items are Sandpaper type and grit size is overlooked, make a thorough determined by the amount and type of inspection of the hull from deck to material to be removed and by the keel and bow to stern. This review finish you desire for the surface before should note any repair or replacement painting. Experimentation for your work needed. Check the integrity of particular application is through-the-hull fittings, water inlet recommended. Most bottom paints screens, sensors, and transducers; the tend to load the paper during sanding. condition of I/O drives, propellers, Wire brushing at intervals cleans the propeller shafts and bearings, paper and provides for economy of rudder(s) and rudder supports, trim use. Remember that the quality of the tabs and actuators, and swim finished painted surface is no better platform, if so equipped, and the than the surface you have when you anodes for electrolysis protection. have completed sanding. What you see is what you get. Voids, pits, pock Priority tasks marks, gouges, etc., if not filled will be Below-water-line reconditioning is visible after painting. They just don't the priority item. Regardless of hull cover. material, whether fiberglass, wood, or Bottom paint selection is best left to metal, preparation of the boat bottom the individual yacht owner. Paints for painting must be accomplished. range from soft anti-fouling types to The extent of this task varies. It may hard racing bottom finishes. Several be a simple job of sanding the surface, manufacturers furnish excellent- or it can mean complete removal of quality paints with good anti-fouling the existing unsatisfactory finish down characteristics. If you are content with to the bare hull, with subsequent your present paint, continue to use it. filling and priming before painting. IS dissatisfied, don't hesitate to seek On planked wood hulls, seams must advice from your fellow yachtsmen on be recaulked as required and not only other paints and their compatibility the bottom but the entire hull checked with your present finish. A change can for dry rot. If rot is discovered, your mean completely removing the old work plan may require major revision paint to the bare surface, and priming to accommodate rewooding the affected may be necessary before applying the area. new coating. photos by the author Sanding the boat bottom can be a dirty, dusty, and unhealthy chore. Painting Because most bottom paints are toxic, Application can be by roller, brush, Ian your work and work a face mask and goggles should be or spray, depending on the type of your plan! This adage is worn for respiratory system and eye paint used. If a pressure sprayer is never more true than in protection when sanding. The only used, don't forget to wear a face reconditioning your boat exception to wearing such protective mask. Make certain the finish is clean pfor spring launching! equipment would be if you can and dry. Moisture is a prime cause of Usually, the launch date provides the maintain a sufficient distance from the tiny bubbles in the finish. Wiping the impetus for preparing the work sanding operation so that you are not surface to be painted with a lint-free schedule. That day may or may not be exposed to the dust. rag soaked in denatured alcohol convenient for you, depending on the An effective sanding tool that dehydrates the surface as the alcohol location of your yacht in the storage provides distance between you and the evaporates. To minimize moisture March'April 1985 15 problems, paint only when temperature and humidity are favorable, such as temperature in the 50-degree to 80-degree range out of direct sunlight. Use the recommended thinner as required to give a smooth, flowing nonsagging finish. If one coat covers adequately, don't put on a second. This minimizes the amount of sanding a year from now. On completion of this phase of your work plan, with your boat supported on blocking or on its cradle, temporarily store your sanding and painting equipment and material. You will need them again as you are picked up in the sling for launching and the support areas of the hull are exposed. On centerboard boats, lower the board as far as possible and give it the sanding and painting treatment, The owner of this boat already has sanded the bottom and waxed the hull. Only too. bottom painting before launch is the last task to be accomplished.

Repairs above the waterline unblemished. If your yacht has a Aboard, below deck Work above the waterline that must varnished mahogany transom and With the bottom and hull exterior be completed before launch is boot other bright work, allow ample time if now complete before relaunch, go stripe and hull refinishing. First, this refinishing is necessary. Settled, dust- aboard and below deck. Inspect all requires the removal of the cover and free and moisture-free temperate through-the-hull fittings inboard for framing used for winter protection. weather is a must for varnish condition. Do the same with Note now the condition of the cover. application, with several coats connecting hoses, replacing where Will it be suitable for the next winter required for that showroom necessary. Make certain that all hose season, or will it need repair or appearance. Going to bare wood also clamps are tight and not rusted—the replacing? Also, if necessary, mark means relettering the yacht name and tightening screws of stainless clamps "port,""starboard," "bow," and port of call. in some instances are not stainless. "stern" on the cover(s) in permanent Metal hulls requiring repainting Close all through-the-hull valves. contrasting color to facilitate the next should be primed down to bare metal. You'll open them after launching to use. Code the framing also as it is As with wood, the old surface is check each for leaks. removed. After you have stowed away sanded and filled, if required, before Make certain bilge pump inlet and this protective gear, you can get back painting. If the existing finish is discharge hoses are connected and to the yacht. satisfactory, washing will be all that is that pumps are operable. They may be Wood hulls should be thoroughly necessary. needed if your yacht takes on water examined for dry rot. Affected Fiberglass hulls with their exterior on launching. Battery operated pumps sections should be replaced, and any layer of gel coat, if unblemished, can require power. If you removed your exposed wood treated with be brought to like-new condition with batteries last fall, reinstall them now. preservative. If the present painted a washdown with a detergent solution Make certain they have a full charge. finish is satisfactory, a thorough to cut surface dirt and with the Repack propeller shaft packing glands washing with a good detergent application of a good wax. The now, if this is necessary. Make the solution will suffice. If painting is amount of surface oxidation and packing nut adjustment after necessary, the surface must be sanded damage determines whether or not the launching. Don't tighten at reassembly and imperfections filled and primed. use of a rubbing or polishing because it will score the shaft. You A variety of gloss and semi-gloss compound is a prerequisite to the will need some water-drip to the bilge paints with good leveling waxing. Scratches and scuff marks for lubrication. On wheel steering, characteristics is available for above- polish out with sufficient rubbing with check sheaves, quadrants, cables, waterline use. Boot stripe painting compounds containing mild abrasives. chain, and sprockets for wear. routine is similar except for color. Deep gouges must be filled. Gel-coat Lubricate cable at flex areas with a Mask at the color parting lines for repair kits are available, which include good grade of oil.(See page 22 of the that neat, professional look. tubes of primary color pigment so January/ February 1985 Boat that you can match your hull color. Pennsylvania.) Oil or grease sheaves, Wood work Hulls that require complete refinishing axles, and sprockets per The natural finish of wood is are best repaired in controlled manufacturer's instructions. Check beautiful but difficult to maintain. conditions by professionals. Such your rudder post housing for a grease Mahogany particularly requires work should not be part of your fitting. On yachts so equipped, considerable work to keep it spring work plan. lubricate it. 16 Boat Pennsylvania Sailboats Masts must be restepped. This work requires scheduling if it's done by paid personnel. Before the restepping, check all standing and running rigging to make certain it is flawless. Inspect all mast-containing sheaves for condition. Check continuity of all wiring within the mast, and verify that all lights are operating. Mast head weather instruments, their sensors, and connecting wiring must be checked for proper mounting operation. The radio antenna and its coaxial cable and connection should be inspected for integrity. If you plan to clean or refinish your spars (mast and booms), do it before rigging. Uncoated aluminum can be cleaned using a soft abrasive to Here is a good selection of paints, thinners, teak finishing materials, and remove the oxide film. Wax mahogany finishing products. afterwards. Anodized or painted aluminum can be renewed by washing with a detergent solution and by Engine check season ends. Now is the moment of applying a good automotive wax. You will need power to move from truth. Are you satisfied with what you Varnished or painted wood spars the launch basin to your mooring or see? would be treated the same as you pier, so an engine check is in order. Remain in the slings after the worked similar finishes on the hull. Pull plugs and clean or replace them launch until you have made a Remember also to do the spreaders as necessary. Remove the distributor complete check below decks for leaks. and to reinstall the cabin top boot if it cap. Dry out any moisture and clean With a wood-hull boat, you may have was removed from the mast. the contacts. Check the rotor, points, to schedule your launch to be the last Stepping the mast routine varies by and gap. Remove the masking tape of the day, so that the hull can seal yacht type and size. If you are doing from the exhaust outlet(s) in the hull. itself while suspended in the slings the job yourself, get sufficient help to Remember that on launching, the overnight. Do not permit removal of ensure proper handling so that no water inlet valve for the engine the slings until all through-the-hull damage occurs to the mast, its coolant system has to be opened after fittings and valves and hoses have instrumentation, or to the yacht itself. all engine drain plugs and water pump been checked for leaks. Make a check Special attention is a must for covers are secured. Check the flame of the propeller shaft gland(s) at this positioning roller furling jib headstay arrester for cleanliness. Verify that oil time, too. When you are satisfied you equipment. After assembly, recheck levels are OK. Before opening the fuel are dry, have the slings removed and the condition of your turnbuckles. Use supply valve, which you closed last move out of the launch basin to fire new cotter keys. Run the turnbuckles fall, operate the bilge ventilation up your engine for the first time this snug. Make your final tuning of the blower and verify that your fire year. shrouds later at your convenience. extinguishers or extinguishing system The balance of your work to Install the boom and its rigging, break are functioning. complete the plan can now be out the mainsail, and you're ready for If you removed life jackets, accomplished at your convenience. your first sail. throwable life preservers, fenders, Whether a sail or power yachtsman, Now, with the work done, mooring lines, etc., re-equip you will be bringing back on board everything should be OK? Have a sufficiently so that you are legal and your radios, navigational equipment, good boating season. You can can tie up safely without marring that and other electronics removed last fall complete the above-deck work and recently finished hull. Also, remember or added during the winter. teak cleaning anytime you want. See that the finish you worked so hard to Functional checks can be made as you you on the water! obtain is damaged by the slings on complete the reinstallation. More moving you from cradle or blocks to mundane jobs include removal of the water. Provide your own anti-freeze from the water supply and Gus Neuss, Jr., has sailed all over protection with carpeting or heavy the head holding tanks, and their North America. He is a member of paper between slings and hull. refilling or recharging, and the the Erie Power Squadron and the Erie Hanging in the slings before launch, recleaning of the ice box or Yacht Club, and he's a director of the the exposed portions of your yacht refrigerator, stove, and all the cabin Pennsylvania Boating Association. need a final sanding and painting of interiors. Then you can bring back the Mr. Neuss serves on Boat the bottom. This may be your final cushions for seats and bunks (are they Pennsylvania's Editorial Advisory look at the boat bottom until the clean?) and start provisioning. Committee March/April 1985 17 Your boat's electrical engine system konks often wiring out, so fails is essential. troubleshootingbefore your The author the helps boat's you charge Wiring into that is Your task. AchillesBoars by Howard A. Bach he time Heel is at we remove hand when storage our boats a good and from electrical ready get with contact. for launching. them the battery Do Ttainly, cables. the same whether a Cer- Charge the major the battery erly, motor concern take a fully. but if will function is charge, If it it trouble prop- placement. it probably will not will most occurs with If, needs and likely the ter shows after charging, re- 11 boat electrical be with each your motor. accessories,the wiring you cannot cell nearly tes- Fortunately, the get the charged to not the tester, final but troubleshoot it is not the battery ball to system your difficult But in may rise in and boat's either be all provements make electrical battery of these right. do-it-yourself to your cases, take if needed. check dealer the '4. im- it. and - • can In some have Battery add instances him ., a little ii • tery acid the dealer 41111101 The to the proper to restore place to addition specific the bat- Hopefully, start is with of gravity. it was the battery. be acid to Any boat was removed done only the battery placed before station. by a should cool, dry in storage, the battery place, kept service ..'ss...... 11111.111 needed. and in a 0 rl If you recharged 400/1 as left it Lights, P'11.' a minimum, in the boat, as accessories it comes require it will, Next,check out of a charge to ensure each Before storage. when that light and charging, ates it is operating. accessory level check weakly in the battery. the necessary or not If it oper- plates If water at all, by even it is over determine to trace it will 0 add water an eighth the that be before -inch, place where it circuit will expand charging. do not to check has failed. to from The power is the The first If you the heat water to an fuse if must of charging. There accessory. there is enough add water, are no to cover add that two handy water the plates. only can take instruments only dilutes Too troubleshootingall the and the much guesswork the excess battery boat. out in the will overflow fluid, The the wiring of charging timeter, first is on Next, process. or boil off an inexpensive your clean about which can baking the battery $15. be purchasedmul- soda by be The DC it on and water using used to voltage for any corrosion solution. a tage detect scale off deposits, Brush at any the presence can the solution also point of clean. to and rinse show in the circuit. vol- Clean leave the sign voltage It a wire the battery battery that drops will brush terminals or larger in circuits, or cleaning with that somethingwiring should a tool to ensure loose like be used wiring joint corrosion of current is impeding or a in the circuit. the flow Connectors A popular wire device with connector automotive metal blades, is a plastic often wire applications used in The other to a running to shooting useful wire. length attach tool Both of a circuits for trouble- nector wires are another available is an electrical and placed at any a the connector in the con- store. automotive tester, pair of pliers. is It is about wire, The closed with driver, the size supply making blades with a of a easy contact. bite into blade sharp screw- to use, Though the would be. point where avoided. these connectors they're light bulb. The handle the They should length From the contains automotive tend to be of wire handle a go bad, use with there subject applications. even in the tester, an alligator is a to moisture, In boats, tened the alligator clip. To more readily. they to the ground clip fail even of the wire is fas- Best of circuit, or connection all, if various and the mits, is the installation parts point a soldered age of the circuit. touched finished connection per- is present, When to joint with sharp the bulb volt- Heat-shrink taped to the point lights. tubing insulate into of the probe The insulation. is it. the wiring can also good anywhere to be pushed Below, It can for in check the electri- be slipped finding the wiring, for voltage cal tester the joint onto a broken most is is made, the wire spot useful to check used joint. then before Pay special in the for the Heating pulled a attention wiring. ing circuit light- or soldering the tubing over the circuit where to with the there any point trailer in the around iron causes a match point is a in electrical the it is corroded, connection. plug coating joint, making to shrink sandpaper If of and clean vehicle. the tow for the connection.a tight plastic connector refasten it with is it. Where could The test 1111.1 next suspected, a . to the connector, cut also 1 the wire, the wire made by be 0111111111.111 and attach strip and an attaching a new clean alligator "." connector. a clip to ---1- metal part "-- car body. of the

— A boat ist, manufacturer with whom wiring trends I recently special- in discussed boat wiring, breaker mends the the in use of highly recom- from the main many wiring heat-shrink the battery. hot wire uses applications. tubing the current This coming it over in for breaker spade joints that He even needs, all the passes terminals. are plug-in, except boat's electrical from It like wired directly the motor, moisture, protects to which maintain insulates the joint own internal the battery is the it, circuit and the joint. mechanical and helps tection. breakers has its If it's strength short With that for connection, necessary of circuit arrangement,pro- the to unplug sory in the be easily heat shrink the circuits lighting a cut away. tubing cannot or acces- When can If the initial disable checking includes early the test your lighting, season boat. bulbs. be tions, the battery, checkup substitute The easiest sure to and fuses, a spare way put wiring, all connec- should bulb, is to into proper and if be kept and experience condition,everything bulb and in the spares is II fuse boat for the no further you should fuses can size used. each season. trouble ...... be tested Bulbs occur, However, during by setting with and the if trouble am .0. um it on a multi be following should read resistance. the "ohms" -meter followed. sequence mode If should meter In this to everything can be used mode, tery, is to evaluate as a the battery dead, check "cold" continuity cuit terminals, the nents like circuits tester breaker. and bat- switches and compo- If only main cir- Most modern and wire. one single, boats the fuse, accessory heavy are switch, is dead, wired loose and check from the pair of with a connection, wiring battery wires running itself. for the console. to a fuse plus the any circuit Each block accessory is lighting near with taken from or accessory The its own the trailer fuse fuse block, The Below positive and a trailer is line. switch tion should a sample only provides This arrangementin the , and get special of crimp moving may even atten- -on ter- ing, but for easy not it need minals adds troubleshoot- from storage. it before for use by isolating to the safety Plug the re- boat wiring. in each of the vehicle trailer trouble. circuit boat outlet lights into Experts in the event functions. and the this another recommend of check all tow step properly, If any lights and by providing taking the does not a circuit tow vehicle first place operate wiring to check Using harness. is the the electrical tester, connect r%) -ARCA14R I I I • MI MI Vse%,,e I Ski%

6

536 Flasher

the alligator car, clip such to a ground on as a screw on the vehicle's in the the probe trunk. a worn of lights and Turn spot the the tester insert trailer where wiring into each the frame. the wire lights. harness opening repair When rubs the Do plug until of it and the break nals, the same the tester damage. protect is found. Pictured brake lights, with the This it from are above these and turn sig- grommet can be further a multi does not flasher. or with done an -meter, the work, If any a silicone tape. with a electrical wiring the problem of product I also like test- contacts, to your icone here. to use er, a car. Clean is in Rubber like multi-pur- and including all comes Sealant, GE Sil- pose be sure those the in a which crimping tight. each in the sets marine tool, wire plug. up overnight grade. also and a Replace is fastened bushing The sealant tion selec- necessary. plug-in and and and serves ofspare connectors an insulator. as both bulbs, fuses, Once if The silicone a and the vehicle for sealant flasher. checks wiring closing is out, make to any place also excellent nection a note the plug keep water where serves of which from you an aid each of con- ple. I like entering. wish to to tracing the functions instrumentto use For not work the function it whenever exam- on as in I install be color the trailer. that does console the console. an -coded, The wiring to prevent It seals tify making will behind water the it at the it easy the instrument from Check back end to iden- the wood getting of the in and photos because each bulb trailer. One the console. damaging these on the other by the in the are the trailer, trailer place to authol trailer most likely is the check If lighting. to hitch. contact on the the bulb fail The ground with the age is good, harness wire trailer at the and is seldom on the your tow vehicle there is trailer wiring tester plug volt- hitch used. because wire to check outlet, nection provides where for use between the ground the it connects voltage trailer the con- there is at the coupler. hitch voltage to the corroded, If ball and with the there, light. the ball the light, the problem If tact, it is possible is dirty in the probably so to or socket with is keep lose this L. there or corrosion clean. the con- is no wire connection. ball and is voltage Careful coupler defective, at the If attention the probably light, the wiring trailer where wire can to boat frame. it problems eliminate and trailer With enters that those the tester, water. give annoying wherever check Better you trouble you have the with yet, on point the access wire your wiring becoming the defective to it, can through familiar section. to pin- save such It could effort you confusion, a check be if a wiring time, occur later. malfunction and should

march/April 1985 ffiyre5 BOAT Pennsylvania.

• May/June. Powerboaters won't want to miss the specifics in an article on cruising the Delaware River. •May/June."Buy that Family Boat" is an expert's advice on how to man- age this crucial choice. Anyone think- ing of making this kind of investment could find this information helpful. • Every month. Lively information, important safety details, and enter- taining ideas highlight Boat Pennsyl- vania's regular columns. Don't miss a thing by reading'em all in every issue! Last January, all waterways conservation officers participated in the Law Enforcement Division Annual In-Service Training. The intensive, week-long activities included training in new law enforcement devel- opments and procedures, and familiarization with the latest informa- Calendar tion. Much of the training focused on Pennsylvania's new drunk boat operator law. The work included briefings and demonstrations by the April Marine Police, who have been enforcing that state's drunk 6-7 Canoe race, triathlon, Penns boat operator law for some time. Other training included subjects such Creek. Penns Valley Park and as conservation. CPR, public relations, and fish law enforcement. Recreation Association, Main Street, Millheim, PA 16854. Telephone: 814-349-5327. Q: I loan my boat to a fishing friend. 21, 27 Sailboat races, Marsh Creek Can I purchase a duplicate certificate The LAW State Park Lake. Marsh Creek of registration for him to carry on Sailing Club, c/ o Graham S. board while he is operating the boat? and YOU Thompson, 97 Waterloo Avenue, A: Yes. Duplicate certificates of Berwyn, PA 19312 (various dates by Perry D. Heath registration may be obtained from the through October 20). Fish Commission. These certificates Q: Our local volunteer fire company 26-28 Water Rescue Instructor may be obtained by completing Form has a boat for search and rescue Training, open enrollment, Phase II. 732, and the cost is SI. Contact Boat operations and also for use in the Pennsylvania Fish Commission, Registration Section. Pennsylvania evacuation of people and property Boating Education Section, 3532 Fish Commission. P.O. Box 1852, during periods of high water. Must we Walnut Street, Harrisburg, PA Harrisburg, PA 17105. purchase a registration for this boat? 17109. Telephone: 717-657-4540. A: No. Boat registration requirements Q: My boat has a double bottom May do no apply to boats owned by quasi- that is not sealed to the hull. Do I 3-5 Water Rescue Instructor public organizations such as volunteer need a fire extinguisher? Training, open enrollment, Phase II. fire departments and river rescue units A: Yes. See April 26-28 listing. and used exclusively in the performance of their work in To have your organization's activities Q: Our local furthering safety and search rescue on boat club wants to considered to appear in Boat Pennsyl- conduct a water ski show for the lake the water. vania's "Calendar" column, send the cottage owners. Do we need a permit? information to us at least three months A: Q. I own a canoe for which I have Yes. A special marine permit is before the date of the activity. For not purchased a motor, but I intend required. Applications may be example, if your group's event occurs to do so. May I purchase a boat obtained from your district waterways in June, we must have the information registration even though I do not have conservation officer. in March. Send items to: The Editor, a motor? Perry D. Heath is deputy chief of the Boat Pennsylvania Calendar, P.O. A: Yes. Watercraft other than Commission Law Enforcement Box 1673, Harrisburg, PA 17105- motorboats may be registered. Division. 1673. 22 Bow Pennsylvania K. Ronald Weis, Architectural & Engineering BUREAU OF WATERWAYS 717-657-4538 Dedicated to the sound con- Gene Sporl, servation of our aquatic re- Assistant Executive Director sources, the protection and Edward W. Manhart, Law Enforcement management of the state's di- Virgil Chambers, versified fisheries, and to the Boating Education ideals of safe boating and opti- mum boating opportunities. OFFICE OF EXECUTIVE OFFICE INFORMATION Ralph W. Abele, Executive Director 717-657-4518 Howard T. Hardie, Michael J. Bickler, Director SUBSCRIPTIONS Administrative Assistant Larry Shaffer, Publications Dennis T. Guise, Stephen B. Ulsh. Education Chief Counsel Dave Wolf, Media Relations 1. NEW ORDERS/RENEWALS Ross E. Starner, To start a subscription to Boat Pennsylvania or to Comptroller Boat Pennsylvania extend your current subscription, Edliorial Advisory enter your name and address and check the subscription term you prefer. (Please print clearly) BUREAU OF Committee ADMINISTRATIVE Virgil Chambers, Chairman (Chief, Boating Education SERVICES 717-657-4522 Your name Paul F. O'Brien, Section, Bureau of Waterways, Director Pennsylvania Fish Commission) Joe Greene(Boating Education Allison J. Mayhew, Personnel Address Apt. John Hoffman, Real Estate Specialist, Pennsylvania Fish Glen Reed, Federal Aid Commission) Mary Stine, Licensing Janet R. Mayer(Special Programs Coordinator, Pennsylvania City State Zip Fish Commission) BUREAU OF FISHERIES Charles Walbridge (canoeing) 0 3 years $11(18 issues) 0 New subscriber AND ENGINEERING Jack Davis(water skiing) 0 1 year $4(6 issues) 0 Renewal 814-359-5100 Gus Neuss. Jr. (sailing) Edward R. Miller, P.E., Leann R. Diehl () Assistant Executive Director Ed Rogowski, Jr.(cruising) Delano Graff, Fisheries John Wiediger(DER Bureau Eugene Smith, of State Parks) Construction & Maintenance (attach mailing label when renewing)

Fish Commission Officers Become Film Stars Several Pennsylvania Fish Commission waterways Signature conservation officers were the stars of a film recently shot Account # if renewing at Indian Lake in Somerset County. The film, entitled, (Account number appears above name on label.) "Alcohol Awareness," is being produced by the National Draeger Corporation and will be distributed nationwide to 2. TO GIVE A GIFT: watercraft law enforcement officers to help them recognize Enter your name and address above and your recipient's name and apprehend intoxicated boat operators. and address below. "The Commission was very pleased to play a role in the 0 3 years production of this film," said Gene Sporl, the Commis- $11(18 issues) sion's Bureau of Waterways Assistant Executive Director. 0 1 year $4(6 issues) He noted that statistics conclusively show that operating a Gift card to read "From boat while intoxicated is without a doubt a matter of life TO and death. Last year, nine Pennsylvanians lost their lives in accidents that were alcohol-related,"and that is nine lives too many," said Sporl. Address Joe Greene, the Commission's boating accident investi- Apt. gator, also noted that while most boating fatalities occur in the spring and summer, "we always seem to lose a few City State Zip late-season boaters. Mixing alcohol and cold water is a Return this form to: deadly combination," said Greene. PENNSYLVANIA FISH COMMISSION "The film is slated to be released soon and will be used as BOAT PA Circulation a training tool for conservation officers faced with the P.O. Box 1673 difficult task of keeping drunk boaters off the nation's Harrisburg, PA 17105-1673 waterways," Sporl continued. "If it results in the saving of Be sure your name and address appear both on this form and on your check. even one person's life, then the Commission's efforts were Make checks payable to: PENNSYLVANIA FISH COMMISSION well worth it."

March/April 1985 23 Equipment preparedness I. Personal flotation devices (life jack- ets). One for each person. They must be Guidelines in worn at all times when on the water. 2. The proper craft. Be sure the boat is in good repair before starting a trip. It may be wise to carry appropriate repair Planning a materials: gray duct tape, rubber ham- mer,sharp knife, etc. Respect the craft's capacity and know how this capacity is affected in moving water situations. 3. Adequately sized paddles. Carry Float Tri spares. 4. At least 60 feet of rescue line. Throw- Decisions on the participation of inex- line rescue bags are ideal. by perienced boaters should be based on 5. Bailer and sponge for removing total group strength. Remember the excess water in the craft. Virgil Chambers welfare of the group is the major 6. Well-equipped first aid kit in a responsibility, and a balance of expe- waterproof floating container(check an he recreational sport of ca- rienced paddlers with the less expe- appropriate source for a list of first aid noeing, particularly on riv- rienced will make for a more enjoyable supplies). ers and streams, is under- trip. 7. Whistle or other hailing device. going a tremendous growth 4. Equipment. Plan so that all necessary 8. Proper clothing (sneakers, outer Tin popularity. Still, the ca- group equipment is present on the trip. garments according to weather). noe, rich in history and tradition, is a 5. Float plan. If the trip is into a wil- versatile craft that can be decidedly derness area, or for an extended Other Equipment less than stable when handled or period, plans should be filed with the Depending on personal needs, time loaded improperly. appropriate authorities (Pennsylvania of the year, length of the trip, and Successful paddling, particularly on Fish Commission) or left with some- expected weather conditions. moving water, requires a delicate bal- one who will contact them after a cer- Wet suit (if applicable) ance of coordination and dexterity. No tain time.The establishment ofa late-return Spray skirt (decked boats) written words can properly prepare an phone number can save time and Float bags (decked boats) individual to undertake the sport; it worry for everyone involved. IS-foot painter lines (canoes) requires skills that can only be obtained Glasses strap through practice. Participant's preparedness, Extra glasses There is specific planning that must responsibility Sunglasses be taken seriously by paddlers in pre- I. Be a competent swimmer with the Sunscreens paring for a float trip. These suggested ability to handle oneself underwater Knee pads guidelines can give the paddler an and in moving water. Helmet (for class III water or insight into what specifically is to be 2. Be certain to have a properly fitting above) considered before attempting a cruise personal flotation device (PFD), and Sun hat or wool stocking cap on the river. WEAR IT. Block and tackle (optional) 3. Be suitably equipped. Matches or other fire starting devices Leader's preparedness, 4. Keep craft under control. Control in a waterproof container responsibility must be good enough at all times to Waterproof watch I . Know the river or stream to be stop or reach shore before reaching any Canteen of water or water purifier paddled. River guide booklets and danger. Know one's boating ability. Do Camera and film (in waterproof topography maps are valuable refer- not enter a rapid unless reasonably sure container) ences in trip planning. Know the diffi- one can safely navigate it or swim the Change of clothing in heavy-duty cult parts of the trip and the location of entire rapid in the event of a capsizing. waterproof bag any low-head dams. Be aware of pos- 5. Be sure to keep an appropriate dis- Insect repellent sible changes in the river's level. One tance between canoes (distance will Garbage bag may want to plan alternatives in case vary depending on water conditions; a Flashlight (extra batteries) the stream is too high or too low. good general rule of thumb is keep the Ice chest with food 2. Set up locations for put-in and take- canoe behind in view). Never get ahead Fishing equipment (optional) out along with a possible lunch break of the assigned lead canoe or behind the stop. Consider time and distance. Ar- assigned sweep canoe. Both lead and range for shuttle. sweep positions should be held by expe- Virgil Chambers is chief of the Fish 3. Participants. Limit the size of the rienced paddlers with knowledge of the Commission Bureau of Waterways group to a number the leader can com- water. Boating Education Section. He also fortably control. Designated group lead- 6. Keep a lookout for river hazards and serves as chairman ofthe Boat Pennsyl- ers should be experienced paddlers. avoid them. vania Editorial Advisory Committee. 24 Boat Pennsylvania If you'd like additional information for planning a river boating excursion, you may want to contact these two organizations: • American Canoe Association, P.O. Box 248, Lorton, VA 22079 • American Whitewater Affiliation, P.O. Box 1483, Hagerstown, MD 21740

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7

1_4 -*;4 11ft An Introduction 4•MT a-• •. 01, 4t> VII• to Whitewater by Brent Peters

umonville Whitewater Camp was created four years ago as a result of responses from the youth participating in the Adventure Camp sponsored by the same group. The Adventure Camp. offering two J days each of caving, rock climbing, and whitewater paddling, was enough to stimulate a greater interest in whitewater for these young boys. The philosophy of the 0010Mo.- • whitewater camp is to build character through spiritual • - growth, group dynamics, stress management, and challenge. The program is open to boys and girls, and applicants come from Erie to the Susquehanna Valley on the north and from Pittsburgh to in the south. On arriuglitthe

training center they meet the camp's .1•11=•. • "dean," Charles "Smokey" Martin. Smokey is a well-traveled kayaker AMIk who is both a certified paddling instructor and knowledgeable youth counselor. He serves as ,/ • \lb program coordinator and is the camp's primary instructor. •

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The submerged kayaker makes contact, grabs the bow Training begins in the camp's swimming pool where the tip, and presses down with an accompanying hip snap that students learn to select and fit appropriate PFDs and brings the victim upright and back to fresh air. The snap of helmets. Into the water they go to "get the feel" of their new the hips is practiced with the boaters in their boats as they equipment. Session one affords the instructors an sit on the lawn near the pool, then in the water at the pool's opportunity to check the individual students' swimming edge. skills and comfort in the water. It is far better to discover The students simply grab the pool gutter, press, and snap apprehension in the confines of the quiet, clear waters of to the upright position. The novice paddlers pop up just to the pool than in the rolling river currents. do it again . . . and again. Their confidence begins to show The Fish Commission allows the students to explore their as they move about the pool freely. Some capsizing is by abilities to move about and float in the security of their design: others are not. But more and more, exits are PFDs. They quickly learn how to get into them while in replaced with paddlers hanging in there, waving their deep water. This task is more difficult than it appears. The arms skyward until a classmate comes to the rescue. value of the flotation supplied by the PFD is reinforced as the class is taken through a cold-water survival session, in Down by the river side which they practice the H.E.L.P.(Heat escape lessening At midday, Smokey says it is time to go meet the river. posture) survival position with and without a PFD. He has already scouted a section of water that permits Then,just as the students begin to feel comfortable in the some flat-water work and an introduction to eddies, eddy still water, the instructors begin to create a choppy sea with lines, eddy turns, and peel-outs. one-foot waves leaping onto the pool deck. A good training With lunch completed and loading orders carried out, chop is produced by the strenuous rocking of the aluminum the noisy bus ride to heightens the canoe from bow to stern. excitement of the paddling school. On arrival at the river After becoming comfortable in their safety gear, students location, all the skills of the morning session are reviewed. begin to learn about the crafts they will be using during the The is employed early and the students week — the standard recreational canoe, the rubber raft (4- make the transition from the clear, pool water to the man), and the kayak. How to get in and how to empty a gentle section of the Yough. The afternoon is filled with swamped craft lead to exits and re-entry skills. paddling and safety drills as preparation for the moving water of the Yough's famous Loop. Pool paddling The students are back at the pool for an evening After a dinner break, it's back to the pool. Basic paddling session, reviewing the techniques of the four-paddler raft is the subject now. Practice begins from the pool deck and crew. Smokey uses this time to select his crew leaders. progresses to the boats afloat on the water. Forward, This choice is done in preparation for the activity of day backward, turn, stop, forward, backward, turn, stop. "Dig," three: A group rafting run down the Lower Yough. "sweep," and "draw" are the shouts heard all about the Smokey and Larry Beatty will lead the expedition and pool. serve as rescue boats. As the sun sets it's "shower up and report to the lodge" Another night quickly comes and goes. It appears, for a Fish Commission water safety film. The final however, that almost everyone in school has come up with schooling of the day is a question-and-answer session that a whole new set of muscles. They were not that tight nor becomes the standard way to close each day's final session. did they hurt in those places yesterday morning. Many Next comes snack time, a nightly campfire, and finally, minutes of moaning and groaning precede breakfast. rack time. Another bus ride to the state park in Ohiopyle is as Night ends quickly. Day two starts early with a formal noisy as the last. At the put-in site, Smokey instructs the "required" 30-minute stretch before the 7:30 breakfast call. students to check the water level and temperature. Safety By 8:30, it's back in the pool. Wet exits are practiced. equipment is checked and crew assignments are made. Students are instructed in the proper techniques of reaching The class stops at the launch area long enough to review and throwing rescues. The session gives strong emphasis to the trip plan and view a safety lesson produced by the use of the throw bag, probably the most versatile rescue Ohiopyle State Park. The lesson is a video tape viewed on tool the boater can find. a TV screen right at the launch site. Clad in helmets and Also crowded into the busy morning session is the PFDs, the crews secure a throw bag to each raft and the Eskimo rescue. This technique allows the kayak paddler to two . All gear is carried down the ramp to the right a craft and resume training skills without time lost for river. All aboard. emptying the kayak after a wet exit. On the river it prevents In the quiet pool of the launch area, students again the need to chase and recover a swamped craft. This work review their paddling techniques under the shouts of their is also a two-fold confidence builder as the inverted, crew leaders. Heartbeats quicken as the paddlers see and submerged beginner learns to trust his own ability to hear the roaring waterfall just above the raft put-in area. remain calm and wait for rescue, and the alertness and The crews are busy spinning their rafts to the right, then ability of his paddling companions to come to his aid. to the left. "Back on the right, forward left," echoes through It is important for the group to develop trust in one the river canyon. Smokey signals "go.""Go," repeat the another early. In this procedure, the turned kayaker stays in the three crew leaders. The rafts do not appear to be 28 Boat Pennsylvania o • •

o 2 under much control as they spin and weave through Two rafts are prepared for the other students. They Entrance Rapid. eddy hop from rapid to rapid, waiting below each to The water level is low, but the crews are challenged to shout encouragement to the trailing kayaks. keep the bow first and work hard to center in on those down-river sections. They negotiate a rock garden as they Wrap-up enter Cucumber Rapid. As they paddle for the main Friday is the wrap-up day for the Jumonville chute, they see themselves as the entertainment of a large whitewater camp. It is time to dry out all the equipment, gathering of spectators along river left. "Sure hope we're but by now the students have developed a case of lookin' good. Keep right! Dig! Dig! All ahead." "whitewater fever" and want more river time. Smokey The river seems to swell as the rafts gain speed. The gives in. One final run. Every new day on the river offers bow paddlers are showered as the raft slams the waiting new learning opportunity. This day the students will apply waves."What fun!" The wide eddy below the rapid allows their rescue skills as they discover a raft pinned on the the class time to regroup and hear their instructions for rocks at mid-river. The renters of the craft are safe, but the next run. The floating school works its way through the raft is like new skin to the rocks in a very swift one rapid after another with several eddy stops alone the current. Smokey is unable to free it in a solo effort, but way. There are ample quiet holes below each major with the aid of three throw lines and the backs of three of challenge on the section of the beautiful Yough. An our staff and five students, the raft is tugged and twisted instructor could never design a better teaching lab. from one end until it pops out and is quickly carried through the rapid's main chute. Pulled to the river bank An "exam" by the lines of the Jumonville school group, the raft was The caravan reaches the big eddy just below Swimmer's recovered and its crew could set out to finish the day on Rapid and joins many other excited rafters who have the river. pulled in to catch their breath or to walk back up river to Friday night's campfire for the whitewater camp was leap into the swift waters for a thrilling float through the high atop the mountain as the students and staff sat under current. "Swimmer's Rapid" proves to be the perfect spot the stars, recounting all that the week had given them. to give the young class its "exam" on how properly to ride Tomorrow they would leave the mountain, but they will out the strong river currents. Feet up and feet first is the take with them experiences, knowledge, and memories only way to go. that no one can ever take away from them. They will Fully refreshed, the rafters board their crafts and push return to their homes throughout the Commonwealth off on the final leg of a great day of learning. They wind with a storehouse of knowledge and skills they learned down river ready to challenge anything ahead. Smokey firsthand. They return home safer boaters. Mission tells them to prepare for "Double Hydraulic" and "River's accomplished. And you can bet on it — many will return End." They reach the take-out point still filled with to the whitewaters again. Mission again accomplished. excitement. The take-out begins the final hands-on lesson of the already highly educational outing: How to climb the steep slope leading from the river to the shuttle bus Brent Peters is an instructor trainerfor the Fish parking lot with a I2-foot raft in hand. The lesson is Commission's "Implementing Boating"safety program. imprinted far deeper than it possibly could be when The Pennsylvania Fish Commission's "Implementing interpreted from the page of any paddling book. Boating: A Practical Approach to Instructional Methods" On Thursday the class is eager to get on the river again. is a small-craft safety program that hasfor three years Several of yesterday's rafters think they want to try a run been vital to Mr. Larry Beatty, executive director of the in kayaks. Smokey puts them through a rigorous test and Jumonville Training Center, a retreatfacility of the one-by-one gives the okay to six paddlers. A low water United Methodist Church. The Jumonville Training level makes this a safe venture during this day. The Center's Whitewater Camp, which uses the method, has recorded level is below 2.0. Two instructors escort each proven to be a very successful approach to introducing the student one-by-one through the six rapids of the Loop. excitement of whitewater sport to youngsters.

Practice in the whitewater camp includes lessons in paddling and a variety of safety subjects. Students leave with know-how in how to think "safety." e Boaters and crews should be properly ready to launch, back down onto the by Kim D.Pritts prepared for quick, safe, efficient ramp. When you get on the ramp you launching and retrieving at public should simply launch your boat and "It's Saturday morning, the weather is launch ramps. Here are a few tips. then move off the ramp. great, and it seems that every boater Don't leave your boat, blocking the in the neighborhood picked this ramp Boat and trailer preparation ramp while you park your car. Have to launch his boat." This feeling You will want to prepare your boat your crew member tie it off away underscores a real problem at *many for launching before backing down from the ramp access. There is access areas. In addition to the the ramp. Stop away from the ramp nothing more frustrating than backing crowding conditions, the situation can and transfer your gear from your car down to a launch area and finding an be aggravated by inconsiderate or to your boat. Make sure you have all unattended boat bobbing around unskilled boaters at the launch sites. your safety equipment. Take off any directly in front of the ramp. Be Many times a boater forgets about the tie-downs and put the plug in your considerate of those trying to retrieve next guy and ties up the launch ramp boat. Unplug the electrical connection their boats, too. Don't "box" them in longer than necessary. between the vehicle and the trailer. with your boat if their trailer is next Launching and retrieving a boat is Check the launch site before on the ramp, again adding often the most frustrating part of the backing down. Check the degree of unnecessary delays. sport. Boat launches are bottlenecks slope, water depth, and the surface of crowding many boaters into a small the ramp to be sure you will have Backing and maneuvering area often with limited facilities. This sufficient traction. If others are ahead A Saturday morning at a public crowding is compounded by some of you at the ramp, observe several launch area is the wrong time and boaters attempting to launch while launchings to judge better how your wrong place to test and practice your others are trying to load. A little rig will handle. skills at backing down a trailer. There common sense and courtesy can go a Make sure the person helping you is a certain amount of skill needed, long way toward easing the tension launch knows exactly what he is and many boater don't get enough under these crowded conditions. supposed to do. When your boat is practice, embarrassing themselves in 30 Boat Pennsylvania front of others. If you have trouble coordination. Don't forget to try an mixture of skill, courtesy, and backing your boat, practice in a non- empty trailer, too. Looking out common sense. When practiced by congested area such as an empty over the trunk may put the trailer everyone, it can make a pleasant parking lot, field, or your own out of sight. If this is the case, I outing even more enjoyable. driveway. find it easier to take directions from Set up some type of course my crew than using the side mirrors. requiring various maneuvers. Very few Again, it is what works best for you Kim D. Prins is the waterways ramps provide enough room for a that counts. conservation officer in northern straight-in shot, and with crowding Practice until you can keep the Lancaster County. you will have to develop backing trailer confined to one lane. Taking up skills. There are no secrets to effective, two lanes at a multiple-lane ramp fast trailering skills, but they take while others are waiting to use the Trailering Publication practice. Develop a hand/eye ramp is neither efficient nor coordination and use whatever courteous. The Fish Commission has available technique works best for you. Some a pamphlet called, Boat Trailering, find it useful to grasp the steering Vehicle parking which details information on trailer wheel at the bottom. Thus, when Park your car in a designated area selection, equipment, maintenance, moving the hand to the right, the away from the ramp. A great deal of launching and retrieving, registration, trailer will back to the right. I space is needed for turning and and safety. For a free copy, with concentrate my attention on the back backing in the immediate ramp area. requests send a self-addressed, end of the trailer and react to what is Park well clear of this spot. Don't stamped business-sized envelope. happening there. Trying to "think" it park directly in front of the ramp Contact: Publications Section, through . .. "If I turn the steering access and figure other boaters will Pennsylvania Fish Commission, P.O. wheel this way, the trailer will go that maneuver around you. It is both Box 1673, Harrisburg, PA way," doesn't work for me. With a inconsiderate and illegal. 17105-1673. little practice you will develop this Proper launch ramp etiquette is a March!April 1985 3' --4ipia-44411

Bulk Rate U. S. POSTAGE PAID Harrisburg, Pa. Permit No. 495

You have a boating friend in Pennsylvania