Kayaker missing near Morro Bay...

[Tailchaser]

That's real sad too hear, you can only feel for his families loss, but this should be a reminder how vulnerable we all are against such a force as our ocean.
 I got too think(as I have never had the opportunity to go into the ocean yet), but I think we all get a little complacent thinking this can't happen to us.

 Always, always go with another kayaker, if you can't just go another day, bring ALL the safety gear you may or may not need.

 Being a newbie, I hope some veterans of the sport post again, the things needed when going in the ocean too help you protect yourself, I know I would like to see it again.

 God be with a fellow kayaker.

 Chuck

[PISCEAN]

My yak mod goal this season (since I feel like I did indeed push the envelope a few times last season) is bombproof secondary flotation. I also will make a concerted effort to capsize in controlled conditions & remember what is like to be upside down underwater. A roll would be nice, but without the thigh straps (which I've found problematic when fishing) I doubt that I can achieve that.

on-my-person: suitable clothing,  PFD, 4 flares, whistle, energy bars, VHF.
on-the-boat: pump, GPS, compass.
in-the-mind: rescue techniques, potential water conditions, my own personal abilities.

I still paddle solo on occasion, but these days I've got enough fishing buds that I enjoy the social aspect (in part thanks to NCKA), plus it's safer.

Hopefully this stuff will keep me paddling as long as I desire to do so.

[Tailchaser]

 Thanks for posting Piscean, if any others have something they would like to add Please do, for all of us need too look out for one another, and it's always good just too be reminded from time to time.

 I know I appreciate it.

 Chuck

[Sin Coast]

The whole story is sketchy. There seems to be good reason to believe he didn't die while kayaking in the ocean (he may even be alive still). The pieces just don't match up: his truck was found parked by Plaskett (presumably on the summit road behind the camp) without any of his belongings. Too far to cart a yak to Sand Dollar beach, not to mention those steep stairs. For all we know, he's backpacking in Los Padres. Or sewing seeds to harvest in Sept. It is still a sad story, accentuated by the rumor he is fighting cancer. And I truly hope he is OK. But this may be a case where we have to wait until all the facts are known...to get the real story.

Ocean newbie questions can be posted here: http://www.norcalkayakanglers.com/index.php/topic,14820.0.html

[Tailchaser]

Thanks for the link, very informative....