The beach on the west side of the boardwalk is usually protected. Not sure of the ease of access. Santa Cruz harbor is the easiest.

New Brighton beach is a favorite but doesn't open gates till 8am. Other ways around that but I'm too old to be lugging around a kayak that far.

Hey, Bob.

I might have some lead I would trade for some 16 ounce .

I’m hoping to attend, too. I’m thinking I will be camping for it - any recommendations that are nice and close by? TIA

There are several KOA in the nearby area.Beach camping as well. New Brighton is excellent if there are any openings

Great work , Mark and all that volunteer.

Maybe too late to register this year?

https://r2ak.com/r2ak-race-application/

Some great advice and experience to prepare for a great adventure in the future. Looks like some requirements before your even considered.

I would imagine a new kayak would be a must. I would think a dry run would also be in order to familiarize yourself with a new one as well to make sure there are no defects.

How much use and stress has been exerted on your current kayak on your last journey? I think it was considerable? 

Love the enthusiasm. I think with some more thought-out research and planning you will achieve your goal quickly.

Welcome. Tight lines. Great folks and information here

Al

Second that. I jig for few seconds and then leave the jig still until u feel it load up with squid and then reel up at a good controlled speed. If you continue to jig up and down as you retrieve, you will just  be knocking the squid off. I have been on the water and watched folks do this.