Crabfest January 27, 2013 (Waiver page 1)

if you can't self rescue maybe you should keep out of the water.

You know that will never happen...

I can self-rescue in a lake; but in 8'-10' swells, not sure I could on my own.

if you can't self rescue maybe you should keep out of the water.

You know that will never happen...

I can self-rescue in a lake; but in 8'-10' swells, not sure I could on my own.

Point heard don't wanna argue see you there.
P.S Lexi says you promised to teach her to make omelette. She didn't forget. Thanks bro

P.S Lexi says you promised to teach her to make omelette. She didn't forget. Thanks bro

Your point is also understood; we both want the samething: a safe, accident free event.

Tell Lexi: Mooch "stole" my recipe and got photos; and also, that dad needs to catch and clean the crab  .

Roger that, on all accounts

Glad to see all the excitement for Crabfest! Who has everything packed? Show us some pics of your crabbing rigs.

Freshly painted, must look our best for crabfest.

if you can't self rescue maybe you should keep out of the water.

You know that will never happen...

I can self-rescue in a lake; but in 8'-10' swells, not sure I could on my own.

It's easy Glen, point the bow at the swell direction, wait for a swell, as soon as it passes climb in. It's a timing thing. As log as your yak is squared up on the swell, it should be plenty stable for re-entry. You can also use the swell to help you flip your yak right side up but really, everybody should be able to do this unassisted. I am not an instructor but I have self rescued in the surf zone in 6-7' surf. Outriggers can be problematic as we learned at GS last year with regard to self-rescue. Worth a discussion in the safety section.

Regarding outriggers:  I use the inflatable Hobie Sidekicks which can be easily removed or deflated if necessary.  I think this is a much better option than something that could impede reentry. They're not as big as the fixed mounted ones I have seen but they provide plenty of additional stability when pulling crab gear.

SAFTEY:

I appreciate the comments about Safety posted above. This is the upmost concern for us. Due to the nature of the event, it draws a fair number of first time ocean paddlers. Many of which do not have a self rescue. This is why we are taking precautions to make sure everyone is safe and has a great experience at Crabfest. (even if that means not getting on the water) I would like to address a few comments and explain Victor and I's plans for Safety at the event.

*First and most important thing: WE CAN NOT STOP YOU FROM DOING SOMETHING STUPID. What I mean by this is ultimately you are in control on wether you decide to hit the water or not, or wether you go out solo or not, or go around the jetty to the open ocean. Everyone has their own comfort level, but please don't paddle over your head. We want everyone to push themselves but please stick to the rules laid out on this post.

*Always three when at sea: This is a rule we teach in Sea Kayaking and I think its very applicable to fisherman as well. The buddy system is great, but when things hit the fan its nice to have that extra person to gather up loose gear and support the rescuer in any way they can. It's much easier and efficient when there are to rescuers instead of one. So pick two buddies you want to crab with and keep them within shouting distance at all times.

*Bring a Whistle: This is the easiest way to get someones attention if you hit the drink.

*VHF Radio: Make sure at least one person in your group has a VHF Radio. Keep the lines clear from chatter if something is going down.

*Stay close: Remember you are pulling pots and you don't want to have to paddle/ pedal a super long ways in rough sea's with traps on your deck. (Use good judgement) If you are a first timer, stay right inside the Jetty where we can see you from the beach. We can radio a rescue kayak over to you and in a matter of minute or two have you back on your yak.

*Safety boaters: There will be roughly a dozen or so rescue kayakers on the water during Crabfest. We will try our best to point them out before the tournament. When in doubt stick by one of these paddlers, because they are trained at rescues and will quickly fish you out of the water.

*Keep your deck clear: Don't bring an over abundance of stuff with you on the water. This makes the kayak harder to flip over and can also get you hung up while trying to get off or on the yak.

*DRESS FOR THE SWIM: This means dressing for the water not the weather. 3mm or heavier wet suit with insulating top and splash jacket, or dry top. Better yet a Dry suit/ paddling suit, with warm polypro, or wool layers under. (NEVER COTTON EVER) Having a dry suit does not mean you can wear your favorite jeans. This is a recipe for disaster if you swim. Warm booties, gloves and a cap can also make your time at sea much more comfortable.

*If you can, make it come to the Safety Clinic Saturday AM at 10:00AM. We will be going over buddy rescues in a controlled environment, so you will have the skills to save yourself and your buddies. (The best 3/ 4 hours you will have all weekend)

*Know when to call it: Know your personal comfort zone and don't be afraid to not hit the water, or paddle the bay instead of the ocean. This is not about pride, its about the safety of the group. One bad incident can mean a real bummer for the whole group. Plus the best part of Crabfest is the food, and friends anyways. So use your head and don't be afraid to ask Victor or myself about any questions or concerns you may have. WE are here to make sure every single person has a great time and comes in safe.

If you have a comment about the safety rules layed out please PM me. I'm not to proud to change them or take advice.

SAFTEY:

*Know when to call it: Know your personal comfort zone and don't be afraid to not hit the water, or paddle the bay instead of the ocean. This is not about pride, its about the safety of the group. One bad incident can mean a real bummer for the whole group. Plus the best part of Crabfest is the food, and friends anyways. So use your head and don't be afraid to ask Victor or myself about any questions or concerns you may have. WE are here to make sure every single person has a great time and comes in safe.

If you have a comment about the safety rules layed out please PM me. I'm not to proud to change them or take advice.

That right there to me is the number cause of accidents.  People either will not admit that the water is too big for them or they want to try and keep up with their buddies.  This was one of the main problems when I rode in motorcycle groups, trying to keep up.  People need to drop the ego and go at your own pace, if it looks to big, do not try without supervision.

Great post Dan. 

Sandy Patel on channel 7 said it ain't supposed to rain Sunday, which is good news. When she says anything, I listen, stare, and drool.

Well said Dan!
Safety first, and be prepared.
Dave

The weekend is almost here. I am looking forward to getting a report from those who get in today or tomorrow.

***Just a reminder, please print out the waiver that is on the first page of this thread. Having your waiver signed and ready on Sunday morning will make the check in process much easier and faster. ***

If you have any questions about this weekend please feel free to PM me. See you all soon, looking forward to hanging out with everybody.

The WX is not good  but should be doable if the swell is not rotated west too far. It will be a game day call for me. All that said, if you are an ocean newbie, I would not venture beyond the jetty too far.

Sunday: NW wind around 13 kt. A chance of showers. Mixed swell...WNW 11 ft and S 1 ft. Wind waves around 1 ft.

I will have my Adventure with one ama and trampoline and tow rope in case someone needs assistance.