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PADDLE EXPLORE: THE ISLE OF RAB, CROATIA

WORLD ZOOM IN: KAYAK FISHING AROUND THE WORLD
VOLUME #18 DISCOVER: BORNHOLM ISLAND, DENMARK
2022 MISSION: CANOVÉLO, FRANCE
 EDITO
Every year when we begin to put together this issue, it feels like we have to
scramble to pull together stories. Then, as soon as we reach out, they come
pouring in. Stories from around the globe of the different ways we are out on the
water, enjoying paddlesports.
Stories that range from exploring new environs, from the Adriatic to the Baltic
seas, to an ode to the differences in kayak fishing around the world. Stories that
advocate for free-flowing rivers, like Spencer Lacy’s raft-supported source to sea
SUP mission on the Klamath River, in Oregon. Stories that speak to our willingness
to push our physical limits, whether downwinding in the Columbia River Gorge,
racing 130 km on the Dordogne River, or undertaking a bicycle-assisted canoe
journey (a canoe-assisted bicycle journey?) across France. Stories that speak
to the beauty and magic there is to be found in water, in all its forms, as Jimmy
Martinello discovers in Iceland.
While these stories all differ, they speak to a common theme. The currents, if you
will, that run through them are clear. Each tale of adventure undertaken or place
to explore speaks to our love of being outside, adventure, and exploring new
places; they revel in the freedom and sense of self that being on the water brings.
They celebrate a love of paddlesports—a love of being out on the water—that
ties these stories, and us, together. “Thousands have lived without love, not one
without water,” wrote W.H Auden in 1957.
Water is not only our lifeblood; it is our future. May we continue to celebrate our
love of the potential of this planet and the water it holds, through you and the
stories you tell. As we welcome more paddlers and more stories to the fold, we
ask, what is the message we seek to leave in our wake? How can we continue to
take and share the responsibility for promoting our sports safely or enjoying our
waterways responsibly?

That list doesn’t even begin to scratch the surface of the stories we couldn’t fit We share these stories not just for the pleasure of reading—though we hope you,
in or include in this issue, nor does it touch the stories that you, our readers, too, find pleasure in reading them—but to build our community, inspire others,
are living every day out on the water. From the recent rise of packrafting on the and of course, to keep the dream and love of water alive.
global scale to freshets attracting whitewater paddlers to rivers around the world
to the seemingly endless seas still waiting to show their secrets, what is clear
is that paddlesport is on the rise. Our community continues to grow, and we are
stronger for it.
Happy Paddling,
Until next year—
The team at Kayak Session Publishing

Paddle World / Sup World Mag is a special annual issue of Kayak Session Magazine - Publisher and editor-in-chief: Philippe Doux - philippe@kayaksession.com - Editor: Anna Bruno - Art Director: Jean-François Pascal
Contributing Writers: Dan Gavere, Kathy Holcombe, Spencer Lacy, James McBeath, Jim Martinello, Björn Nehrhoff, Paul Villecourt - Contributing Photographers: Carter Johnson, Pedrag Vuckovic, Matheurs Couto, Johan
Meya, Peter Holcombe, Jim Martinello, Björn Nehrhoff, Paul Villecourt, Spencer Lacy, Brooks Beatty, Will Richardson, Arthur Picard. - Advertising & Editorial office - Kayak Session, 5 Quai des Etroits, 69005 Lyon, France.
+33-(0)472-198-797 tel / +33-(0)472-198-799 fax - info@paddleworld.com - Paddle World is published by Kayak Session Publishing - N° Commission paritaire: 0725K83428 ISSN: 1638-0177 - Dépot Légal à Parution
- All rights reserved ©Kayak Session Publishing. Imprimé en Espagne/Printed in Spain by Imprimerie Espace Graphique - Pol. Ind. Mutilva Baja C/G Nº 11 31192 Mutilva Baja - Navarra - España.www.paddleworld.com
Warning: The activities shown in Paddle World carry a risk of personal injury or death. Canoeing and kayaking, and others outdoor activities are inherently dangerous. The owners, management, staff of Paddle World
recommend you do not participate in these activities without first seeking qualified instruction and/or guidance, understanding the risks involved, and personally assuming all responsibility for those risks. Disclaimer:
Opinions expressed in this magazine are not necessarily those of the Editor or Publishers. References to waters do not necessarily imply that access or passage is legally permitted or that they are safe in all conditions.
The editor and/or publishers cannot be held responsible for any omissions of references to hazards from notes on these waters. They do not necessarily support advertising claims nor do they hold themselves responsible
for inadequacies in items of equipment reviewed here.

3
 - TABLE OF CONTENTS -

EXPLORE
REVELING IN CROATIA
Would you trust a stranger and leave
your entire life in a public park for the
chance to spend a week kayaking on
the Adriatic Sea? For the Holcombe
family, taking a risk proved more
worthwhile than they ever imagined.

MISSION
CANOVÉLO
Join Paul Villecourt and Christian Barbier
as they seek freedom and adventure under
lockdown through a self-powered mission
using canoes and bicycles.

DISCOVER
BORNHOLM
Enjoy day trips in the sunshine to explore
fine sand beaches, towering seaside
cliffs, native forests, delicious food, rich
Danish culture, and medieval ruins. Or,
plan a circumnavigation to experience
all that Bornholm, a small island in the
Baltic Sea, has to offer.

ZOOM IN
GOTTA GET GONE
From Sweden to the Caribbean, each
kayak fishing destination offers something
unique and special. James McBeath
reflects on trips taken around the world
and why he is itching, once again, to leave
Canada behind and get fishing.
 Reveling in
Croatia
A LESSON IN TRUSTING YOUR
INSTINCTS ON THE ADRIATIC SEA
When full-time van lifers Kathy, Peter, and Abby Holcombe headed to Croatia for a sea kayak trip in
the Adriatic Sea, they faced a dilemma: Could they trust a stranger and leave their home behind,
unprotected, for the chance at adventure? One week and the circumnavigation of the Isle of Rab
later, they found a deep appreciation for the freedoms we take for granted, a lifelong friend, and a
reminder of what can happen when we embrace serendipity and trust our instincts.
Words: Kathy Holcombe I Photography: Peter Holcombe
Kathy and Abby explore the northern coast of the
Isle of Rab, Croatia.
 Reveling in Croatia

When we arrived at Sea Kayak Croatia on the Isle of

Rab, we were greeted by Jogi, who welcomed us like
family with a giant bear hug and invited us to join him
in the courtyard behind his home to discuss our plans.
There, nestled amongst pomegranate and lemon trees,
he unfurled nautical charts and regaled us with stories
of interesting waypoints along the perimeter of his home
island. Jogi’s booming laughter and intricate knowledge
of the entire area fueled our excitement to explore the
azure waters surrounding the island.

We spent the afternoon plotting out our course for a

week-long circumnavigation of the Isle of Rab by kayak
and gathering equipment and supplies that we would
need for our adventure on the Adriatic Sea. It was all
The Holcombe family in their Revel van, coming together beautifully until we discussed where
exploring the mountains of Croatia.
to leave our van, our home on wheels full of our wor-
ldly possessions, while we were away for seven days.
Originally, Jogi had offered to let us park our van in his
courtyard, but after seeing his driveway, there was no way
that we would fit beneath the low-hanging branches that

T he voice on the other end of the phone was cryptic and drenched in a thick accent.
She said,“Yes, come,” and the line went dead. I turned to Peter with the phone still
held to my ear, wondering if the voice on the other end of the line had actually
understood what I was asking.

Peter asked, “What did she say?” I repeated her words. “That’s it? Do they have boats for
us? Is the weather still ok for kayaking?”
stood sentry at his gate. Beyond his property, he really didn’t have any suggestions as to
where we could park for a week other than a nearby city park: full of families by day and
completely dark and deserted at night.

At this point, a cynical look at our situation would reveal, at best, a bit of naivety on our
part and, at worst, the brewing of potential danger. While we were seasoned travelers,
having lived full time in our caravan for the past seven years exploring North America, this
was a totally new experience. We had shipped our van, our home on wheels, to Europe
“All she said is: yes, come.”

Even as seasoned travelers with an appetite for adventure and an impulsive disposition,
this whole plan seemed pretty half-cocked. I mean, seriously, who in their right mind would
travel over 500 miles, across three countries, with little more than a vague confirmation
“I MEAN, SERIOUSLY, WHO IN
that we would have what we needed to pull off this escapade when we arrived? But we THEIR RIGHT MIND WOULD
were talking about the Adriatic Sea, a sea kayaker’s paradise, with over a thousand islands TRAVEL OVER 500 MILES,
to explore in the archipelago and warm and gentle conditions throughout most of the year.
So, we took a chance and headed south out of Germany, across the mountains of Austria ACROSS THREE COUNTRIES,
and Slovenia, and eventually made our way into Croatia, hopeful that there were, in fact, WITH LITTLE MORE THAN A
three sea kayaks awaiting us and that we weren't too deep into the fall weather patterns,
notorious for high winds and heavy seas.
VAGUE CONFIRMATION THAT
WE WOULD HAVE WHAT WE
NEEDED TO PULL OFF THIS
ESCAPADE WHEN WE ARRIVED?”

for a six-month paddling tour across 19 countries, and pretty much everything that we
owned was inside. We planned to leave it in an unattended park, in a foreign land, where
a complete stranger laid out our course and knew our exact location for a week while
we would be completely unavailable and out of touch. I was pretty sure that I had seen
some variation of this exact scenario on every TV crime show ever made. This was usually
where some criminal syndicate absconds with a fortune, or some naive family vanishes,
never to be heard from again. Yet, every interaction with Jogi had been nothing short of
charming and delightful, and the adventure that awaited us would most certainly be an
experience of a lifetime. Were we being reckless and jeopardizing the remainder of our
European tour? Our instincts said to trust, but our rational thoughts said to proceed with
caution. We spent the morning deliberating and ultimately decided to trust our instincts.

We paddled away from our van with emotions swinging wildly, oscillating between excite-
Jogi, from Sea Kayak Croatia, was a wealth of information ment for what we would discover over the next week and apprehension as to whether or
and spent the afternoon helping the Holcombes plan
their course for their week-long kayak adventure. not we were setting ourselves up for a dangerous situation. The calm and glassy waters

8
 Kathy and Abby search the shoreline for a
campsite on the leeward side of the island.

Kathy Holcombe pauses to take in the sunset.

9
 The bora winds that pummel the island
throughout the Croatian winter sculpt
gargoyles into the rocky sea cliffs.

Kathy and Abby paddle beneath the village of Rab.

10

All loaded up on the ferry from Stinica to Misnjak on the Isle of Rab.
of the Adriatic Sea quickly washed away our fears as we paddled across the bay, crossing
beneath a soaring precipice that stood sentry beneath the old city center. The buildings
that served as the capstone to the towering cliffs were ancient and ornate and connected
by a maze of corridors draped with lush and fragrant foliage.We spied a break in the wall
lining the sea, with stairs leading to a pathway that meandered up to the village above.
Perched at the top of the stairs was a quaint oceanside cabana with a menu in a foreign
tongue and pictures of tropical drinks and fresh seafood. We secured our kayaks to the
stairs, stretched our cramped legs, and settled into a quirky booth for a fabulous meal
complete with crystal glasses and scrumptious delicacies.
After lunch, we returned to our boats and continued our clockwise trajectory around the
island, past the ancient seaside village of Rab and onto a more remote area of the island.
Just as our arms began to feel the weight of a full day of paddling,we discovered a hidden
cove with a gravel beach beneath a canopied shelf and a clearing in the underbrush perfect
for our two tents. We scrambled ashore and set up our camp just as the sun dropped into
the sea, slashing the sky with a multitude of rosy hues.
Over the next few days, we continued on, exploring the restaurants and shops in small
villages that punctuated the perimeter of the island, treating ourselves to ice cream at a
seaside stand or relieving a heavily laden fruit tree of its burden. Occasionally we won-
dered how our home on wheels was faring without us, but mainly we reveled in the joy of
exploring a new and foreign land. Eventually, we crested the island's northernmost point
and shifted from the leeward to the windward side, and the contrast between the two was
astounding.The lush abundance of the westside was utterly eradicated and replaced by a
wind-scoured, martian-like landscape. As far as the eye could see, there was nothing but
etched and sculpted rocks carved by the wind into intricate gargoyles and twisted figurines.
“THE CALM AND GLASSY
WATERS OF THE ADRIATIC SEA
QUICKLY WASHED AWAY OUR
FEARS AS WE PADDLED ACROSS
THE BAY, CROSSING BENEATH
A SOARING PRECIPICE THAT
STOOD SENTRY BENEATH THE
OLD CITY CENTER.”
11
Jogi had warned us to beware of the bora, a Croatian
windstorm that can materialize without notice and that
is extremely dangerous to small watercraft. Still, we
didn't fully comprehend its magnitude and power until
we witnessed its impact with our own eyes. We landed
at a small rocky cove near the edge of the treeline at
the Sveti Nikola Chapel, set up camp for the night, and
prepared for the most technical segment of our journey.
We launched early the next morning in hopes that
we would beat the afternoon winds for an open-water
crossing to the neighboring island of Sveti Grgur. But
even with our early morning start, a gentle breeze sent
ripples across what had been a looking-glass sea. As
we left the Isle of Rab, the ripples became waves that
amplified in height, rolling over the bows of our kayaks
as we neared the center of the channel. Thankfully,
they dissipated as we neared the far shoreline, and
it was smooth sailing once again as we paddled to
the northern end of Sveti Grgur to the harbor of an
abandoned women’s political prison that confined communist-era artists and political dis-
sidents throughout the cold war in the 1980s and early 90s.As we explored the crumbling
ruins of prison cells and guard quarters scattered about,we couldn't help but wonder about
the people and the circumstances that landed them in the confines of this beautiful island.
The contrast between our experience on Sveti Grgur, hiking, snorkeling, and exploring,
and the experience of those imprisoned during the war was a sobering insight that left us
humbled and grateful for the freedoms that we have always taken for granted.We crossed
the channel once again (this time with smooth, glassy water) back to the Isle of Rab and
continued to make our way down to the south side of the island. We spent our final night
nestled in a small cove amongst a bora sculpture garden.The next morning, the sea was
rough,and we found ourselves surfing three-foot rolling waves as we rounded the southern
tip of Rab. As we approached our final landing, the unease we felt when we launched a
week prior returned as we paddled back to the park where we left our Revel. We rounded
the final point and spotted our beloved van, just as we had left it, ready to carry us on
to our next adventure. We breathed a huge sigh of relief and headed back to Sea Kayak
Croatia HQ to return our equipment and thank Jogi for his help and hospitality. We spent
the entire afternoon swapping stories.Jogi happily answered our endless questions about
The final night’s campsite, nestled amongst the rock sculptures on the southern end of Rab.
 Reveling in Croatia

the women's political prison and his experiences growing up during

the Cold War. Over a few hours, we developed a friendship that felt
like we had known each other our entire lives.

When we came to Croatia, we had our sights set on a paddling adven-

ture in the Adriatic Sea. While the sea itself was as beautiful as we’d
hoped, the experience served as a catalyst that led us to discover a
truly remarkable place and develop a deep appreciation and fondness
for the people who live there. In over six months of exploration across
19 European countries, Croatia proved to be one of our absolute
favorites.And Jogi, a generous, hospitable, giant teddy bear of a man
with a rumbling and contagious laugh, became a fast friend for life.

Experiences and relationships like these cannot be purchased through

a tour operator or found through online reviews. They are the result of
Peter, Kathy, and Abby pause outside the seaside village of Rab.
a perfect intermingling of serendipity, a willingness to take chances
when opportunities arise, and a belief that most people are truly
wonderful and worth getting to know. This philosophy of being in the
moment and trusting that extraordinary things await us is the true
essence of RV life and what has kept us full-time on the road for seven
years.We cannot wait for the next opportunity that stretches us beyond
“AT THIS POINT, A CYNICAL LOOK
our comfort zone and reconfirms that the world is indeed a beautiful AT OUR SITUATION WOULD REVEAL,
place. Until then…onward! AT BEST, A BIT OF NAIVETY ON
OUR PART AND, AT WORST, THE
BREWING OF POTENTIAL DANGER.”

Kathy and Abby paddle into camp after

a long day on the water.
 the wish list
LETTMANN - ADRIA EXPEDITION PLUS
Our newest sea kayak, the ‘‘Adria’’ complements our fleet perfectly. A five-meter sea kayak, super agile and
surprisingly fast and secure.The U-shaped hull with rounded edges provides the Adria with lots of initial and
secondary stability, and the slim stems make her super fast. Thanks to our new cockpit size entering and
exiting is a piece of cake. A compromise between length, stability, agility, and speed rounded up with our
integrated steering-skeg, that’s what makes the Adria a real eye-catcher and a great switchover kayak for
kayakers that want to go from recreational kayaking to sea kayaking.

LENGTH: 500 CM/16’4 | WIDTH: 57 CM/22’’ | WEIGHT: 19 KG/41 LB | VOLUME: 285 L/62.7 G |
MAX. CAP.: 125 KG/275 LB | MATERIAL: DCS . LCS . VCS | SIZES: HV . LV
LETTMANN.DE

NRS - WOMEN'S
NAVIGATOR DRYSUIT
Whether you prefer open seas or ocean-like lakes,
paddling on major bodies of water requires gear with
quick adaptability.The NRS Women's Navigator Drysuit
delivers superior waterproof,breathable protection and
the versatility needed for long days and unpredictable
conditions. Constructed of 100% recycled, three-layer
GORE-TEX PRO for best-in-class waterproof-breathable
performance with a lower environmental footprint.
SELECT PADDLES - XBLADE
The X.BLADE paddle concentrates all our technological expertise.The blades are extremely thin, curved,
MATERIAL: 3-LAYER GORE-TEX PRO | COLORS: and responsive, offering a moderate blade flex for a very stable and comfortable swipe through the
AQUA | SIZES: (WOMEN'S) XS. S . M . L . XL water. The X.BLADE is a very lightweight paddle made entirely of prepreg carbon. Four blade sizes,
550/590/660/720 cm2, available in straight or bent in two-pieces, or as a single piece.
NRS.COM
WEIGHT: 0.7 KG/1.5 LB | MATERIAL: CARBON
SELECT-PADDLES.COM

RTM - DUETTO
A two-seater sit-on-top that can accommodate two adults and a child. The Duetto offers users more comfort
thanks to two tilting polyethylene backrests. Integrated handles make it easy to carry. The reinforced hull
allows stress-free use in calm water, the sea, and gentle rivers.

LENGTH: 375 CM/12’3 | WIDTH: 93 CM/36.6’’ | DEPTH: 28 CM/11’’ |

WEIGHT: 32 KG/71 LB | MAX. CAP.: 240 KG/529 LB | MATERIAL: HDPE
RTMKAYAKS.COM

AQUA BOUND - TANGO FIBERGLASS 2PC STRAIGHT

The Tango Fiberglass’ multi-laminate fiberglass blades are truly hand-crafted using high-pressure compression
molding, and they come in three hi-visibility color options.These handmade blades are coupled with an all-carbon
shaft to give the Tango Fiberglass a super light swing weight while keeping the paddle strong and durable. The
result is maximum performance with minimal effort.The Tango features the dual-button Posi-Lok® ferrule system,
which clicks into position firmly and securely.

WEIGHT: 0.78 KG/1.6 LB | BLADE SIZE: 620 CM²/96 IN² | BLADE MATERIAL: COMPRESSION MOLDED
FIBERGLASS | SHAFT MATERIAL: T-700 CARBON | COLORS: GREEN TIDE . FUEGO . NORTHERN LIGHTS
| FERRULE: POSI-LOK
AQUABOUND.COM

14
 KOKATAT - WKNDR
The WKNDR life vest is designed for comfort and compatibility with
high seatbacks. The zip front-entry vest features a thin foam rear
panel that allows paddlers to sit comfortably in boats with high AQUADESIGN - SEDNA 350
seatbacks without being pushed forward by an oversized rear panel.
The vest sits lower in the front and sides for unrestricted paddle The SEDNA 350 is a one-person kayak that is powerful, stiff, and easy to inflate. It is the perfect
strokes while sculpted PVC-free Gaia foam and PE panels wrap compromise between inflatable technology and rigid performance. The new 100% drop stitch kayak
around the paddler for a secure fit. Two large front pockets provide offers incomparable glide. Sold in a package including the Sedna 350, a wing pump, an adjustable
ample storage and have handwarmer pockets behind them to keep molded seat, and a repair kit.
hands warm on cooler days.
LENGTH: 350 CM/11’4 | WIDTH: 75 CM/29.5’’ |
SIZES: XS/S (16/00) . M/L (16/00) . XL/XXL (16/00) | WEIGHT: 13.5 KG/29.7 LB | MAX. CAP.: 150 KG/331 LB | MATERIAL: DROP STITCH
COLORS: RED . COAL . MANTIS | CERTIFICATION: ISO AQUADESIGN.EU
(EUROPEAN UNION) . HARMONIZED (US COAST GUARD &
TRANSPORT CANADA)
KOKATAT.COM

15
 the wish list
AQUA MARINA - TMHK 15’8
The new TOMAHAWK AIR-C is a revolutionary inflatable canoe utilizing drop stitch
technology double-wall fabric for incredible rigidity and durability. It is designed for those
who want to explore remote locations with friends in almost all types of water conditions.

LENGTH: 478 CM/15’8 | WIDTH: 88 CM/35’’

AQUAMARINA.COM

P&H SEA KAYAKS - LEO MV CLX

Sometimes it’s an expedition, sometimes it’s just a short getaway, but it’s always a Leo.
At around 16’0 in length, and drawing influence from the Scorpio and Virgo, the Leo fits
neatly between the two in the P&H range to offer a boat which allows the paddler to
explore all avenues of sea kayaking comfortably.

MATERIAL: CORELITE X (FOAM CORE HDPE) |

COLORS: FUEGO ORANGE . LIZARD GREEN . OCEAN TURQUOISE | SIZES: MV .
HV
PHSEAKAYAKS.COM

LEVEL SIX - JACK PEAK PS -

The Jack is a bungee sealed whitewater
TECWIK RASHYS
skirt based on the fit and construction Warm when wet, comfortable, and
of our randed skirts. The Jack employs UV50 protective, the Tecwik Rashy is
a super stretchy neoprene deck and the perfect rashy for warmer weather
a bungee seal that fits easily and paddling. Great for kayak, canoe, SUP,
comfortably on a variety of cockpit and more. Custom chest printing
sizes. A flange with silicone grip on the available. Kidz model has a press stud
underside increases the seal against neck for easy access!
your boat.The Jack is a perfect skirt for
all levels of paddlers. SIZES: XS. S. M. L. XL |
SIZES (KIDZ): K6. K8. K10. K12
DECK SIZES: LARGE . EXTRA
LARGE | TUNNEL SIZES: S . M . PEAKUK.COM
L . XL
LEVELSIX.COM

LETTMANN - ERGONOM PRO SEA

Our Ergonom Pro Sea was designed for long distance kayakers. The narrow blades ensure a lot of
propulsion, thanks to their foam core and hydrodynamic formed blades. The Ergonom shaft enables
you to paddle for long periods of time while preserving your wrist joints; they are perfectly positioned
to avoid harming your tendons, ligaments, and muscles. Made with a very high-end and tough material
with a long life expectancy.

BLADE SIZE: S . L | WEIGHT: 0.88 KG/1.9 LB |

MATERIAL: LCS 70 LIGHT/70% CARBON . ARAMID . FIBERGLASS
LETTMANN.DE

16
After two years under lockdowns and
deprived of liberty, Paul finally returned
to his “real” home: the wild!
 The trip started with one of the most beautiful cycle
path in Europe: the “Dolcevia” in the Eyrieux Valley.

CANOVÉLO
A Bike to Canoe Adventure in France

More and more adventurers are looking to combine paddling and cycling. To achieve
this, there is the lightweight version with the packraft, and there is the Canovélo! In
May 2021, two Frenchmen embarked on a 900 km bike-to-canoe adventure after two
years of planning and doubts. Rainstorms, flooded rivers, and steep mountain passes
became not obstacles to overcome but rather experiences to enjoy in pursuit of
adventure and freedom.
Words & photography: Paul Villecourt, Outdoor-reporter.com

19
 Only 900 km, but so many different
environments: that's what France is all about!
C
anovélo: traveling by canoe and bike.The story probably started at the end of
my “Grande Traversée” of France by canoe in 2017.The canoe goes on the
roof of a car,and we drive—in eight hours—what took us almost two months
to paddle. After 50 days of canoeing from Geneva to the Atlantic Ocean, I
feel strange in the car that brings us home.Though happy to finish, I feel torn
away from the river, forced to return to normal life.The day before, we had slept rough in
an improvised bivouac, the sky offering the most fantastic sunset I had ever seen. I could
have lived in the moment forever when everything stopped.
Coming down from a long trip is never easy. Coming back to everyday life, going back
to work. Few people understand what we experienced: a moment of great intimacy with
nature. I’m surprised to find I miss long-distance trips. As soon as I return home, I start
cycling and do several trips with friends on some of France's most famous cycle paths. It
is efficient: what took a month to paddle can be covered in a few days of cycling. But for
Setting out from the Drôme Valley and hoping
that the trip concept (and trailers!) work.
20
me, nothing beats the pleasure of gliding on the water. I don't want to choose between
cycling and canoeing. I have to find a way to combine the two.
Only a few weirdos have come up with a way to tow a canoe with a bicycle. German extreme
paddlers Olaf Obsommer and Jens Klatt paved the way with their "Bike to Boat" project,
which consisted of crossing the Alps by bike while towing their whitewater kayaks. But as
far as the canoe was concerned, nothing made it possible to cover distances easily. Many
suggested taking packrafts, a small inflatable kayak weighing three kg, instead. But these
crafts don't glide enough for me, and their loading capacity is far too limited. For the bikes,
I looked at many options but eventually concluded that you need a real bike and a real
canoe to cover long distances. The canoe just has to be light, and the bike has to offer
the best sprocket ratio available (front as small as possible and rear as big as possible).
So far, it seems simple, but it is about to get more complicated…
There are so many unknowns in this project, three major ones being: How many kilos is the
total weight to be towed (canoe plus packs)? Is it physically possible to tow this weight?
What is the best way to pull this load? These questions seem simple, but I worked on
them for two years! The Canovélo project becomes an obsession during a global health
crisis whose deprivation of freedom affects me deeply. For a long time, I ignore the first
two questions. I know that the total weight would hardly go below 70 kg, but I don't want
to face this reality, terrified that the project might not be possible.
I focus on the trailer and start by testing the two German models available. They work, but
we think they could be improved. I say "we" because my friend Christian Barbier had joined
the project. A lifelong cyclist, bike collector, and the son of a mechanic, he was not at all
afraid of the technical challenge nor the physical. As someone who has often transported
his children in trailers, he knows that towing heavy loads depends on one thing: having
the best sprocket ratio. Christian designs a steel prototype for the trailer that a local factory
produces in aluminum. It weighs 10 kg and can be dismantled into five parts in less than
a minute. The perfect trailer for a rather original trip!
Adventure at home
Our project, an immersion in some of the wildest corners of France, would consist of a
900 km loop starting from home and require about thirty days. Objective 1: paddle down

"I had been dreading this
moment since the beginning of
the project. What if we didn't
make it?"
the Drôme River to reach the Rhône (30 km). 2: Bike up the Eyrieux Valley just opposite,
along the “Dolce Via” (voted Europe's most beautiful cycle route in 2020), then switch to
the Loire Valley at Retournac (130 km by bike with a pass at around 1000 m and slopes
of 10%). 3: Paddle down the Loire to the “Canal du Centre,” which spans it at Digoin (200
km by canoe). 4: Follow the Canal du Centre to Chalon-sur-Saône and then the river Ain
at Vouglans Lake (200 km by bike). 5: Paddle down the Ain River to its confluence with
the Rhône (130 km by canoe, passing through numerous dams and reservoirs). 6: Paddle
down the Rhône to reach the confluence with the Drôme (165 km by canoe). 7: Bike up
the Drôme Valley to return home to Aouste-sur-Sye (30 km by bike).
We plan to leave on May 1st, 2021, while we are in the middle of our third lockdown. At the
end of winter, we set off to pick up our canoes in Reims at Canoe Diffusion, the European
distributor of the Canadian brand Esquif. We had decided on two Prospector 15s. These
two-seater models (we paddled solo) offer the perfect compromise between glide, weight
(27 kg), solidity, and loading capacity. Back home, it's time for a test. Disassembled trailer,
bike, packs, kitchen barrel, photo and video equipment: will our load fit inside? It has to!
Christian's mountain bike is an M frame. He removes the front wheel, and it fits. It has a
Rohllof hub that replaces the traditional derailleur. It is an expensive choice, but a very
wise one, as it can't break when the bike is loaded into the canoe. My bike is an XL touring
bike, with a huge butterfly handlebar that I have to dismantle as well as both wheels and
the derailleur. A real pain in the ass!
March 2021, it's time for a two-day test run in real conditions: a small part of the Drôme
River with a (freezing) bivouac in the middle. We must be stealthy, as we are technically
under curfew and lockdown.The first kilometers paddled are the beginning of deliverance.
On the beach, the dismantling/stowing begins. Christian completes this in less than 20
minutes. I'm as slow as a turtle, and I almost forget the saddle on the shore. Little by
little, we formalize protocols, adopt removable pedals, take boxes to store the screws, and
make neoprene pads to protect the different parts of the trailer and, above all, our hulls.
21
The confluence of the Saône and Rhône rivers in Lyon, the hometown of Paddle World
Magazine. Their headquarters? Nope, just the crazy-looking Musée des Confluences.
On the first three test trips, I ruin my canoe just with the contact points of the bike. Once
the boats are loaded, we move on to a much more controlled world. Paddling is what I do
best. Christian is a little less experienced, but his technique is excellent, and he has no
fear. Anyway, we know the river.There is only one rule that will have to be applied, whatever
happens: no capsizing! Our load is more or less strapped down, but chances are big
that we'll lose parts if we swim. This must not happen, and the trajectory and navigation
decisions must be taken accordingly, even when reading rapids on sight. At last, the tests
go well, and we feel ready.
Running-in
May 3rd, 2021: here we go! We have already postponed our departure twice because
the Drôme is in flood. But no matter, we're going to cycle to the Rhône Valley and up the
Eyrieux Valley on the “Dolce Via,” one of France's most beautiful cycle paths. The trailer
works perfectly. We hardly feel the load on the flat. We get used to the load quickly, even if
we immediately feel the weight on the slightest slope. When the slope increases, you have
to drop the gears, start grinding, and it works! We soon settle into a rhythm.
I was a bit apprehensive about the obligatory sections on the main roads. Our bikes and
trailers are nearly eight m long, but that’s no problem for the cars overtaking us.The weather
is good, and we are finally free. The most physical stage awaits us on the third day: 20 km
of mountain passes with 10% slope sections. I had been dreading this moment since the
beginning of the project.What if we didn't make it? Despite the biggest hypoglycemic crash
of my life, we make it. We are on top of the world—nothing can stop us now. All the doubts
are behind us, now we just have to enjoy it—even the weather, which looks very bad...
We manage the first 160 km in three days, and then it is a real pleasure to embark on
the Loire, the largest river in France. The first kilometers are very wild. The river is low, but
everything is runnable. Our organization improves with each small portage, but the weather
is growing worse: showers multiply, and we jump on the slightest ray of sunshine to dry
the tents. On the fourth day, I make a resolution that I won't keep for more than 24 hours:
stop writing the logbook and sharing it on the web. Family, friends, and sponsors change
my mind. The photos are popular, and many fans are following us. "Continue to make us
dream," they write. So, I continue...
Day 6. The weather forecast announces very heavy storms, and we decide to shelter at a
campsite.Two days of waiting and rest, during which the Loire rises from 10 to 200 cumecs!
The river bed is wide; we have experience—we should be able to make it! We take two
inexperienced adventurers under our wings. Like many beginners attracted by the “river of
kings,” they want to go down the Loire to the sea. We have some unforgettable moments,
 CANOVÉLO
Enjoying one of the trip’s
few dry bivouacs after three
weeks of nearly constant rain.
"There are so many
unknowns in this project,
three major ones being:
How many kilos is the
total weight to be towed
(canoe plus packs)? Is it
physically possible to tow
this weight? What is the
best way to pull this load?"
Gliding through a flooded forest near Lyon.
22
like meeting a fisherman catching a two-meter-long catfish or the portage of the Villerest Dam
and facing doubts raised by the flood, whose water becomes difficult to manage in a canoe. We
leave our friends at the Digoin canal bridge, where hundreds of storks say goodbye. It's time
to get back into cycling mode. The pouring rain still can't dampen our mood as we complete
our tenth day. 200 km of cycling await us to reach the Ain River. It takes us
four days of gritting our teeth between storms. The atmosphere is not one of
contemplation or tourism. We are glad to move forward. We no longer feel the
trailer and its load. We could almost pull more weight! But the real difficulties
are about to begin.
Commando
Located right next to Switzerland, Vouglans Lake is the third-largest in France.
This region of the Jura is known to be very wild... and very wet. We are alone
to explore its 35 km. Everywhere, waterfalls flow into the lake. The color of the
water is sometimes surreal. My mood goes up and down depending on the
amount of sunshine. Christian is always smiling: his brakes no longer work,
but he won’t tell me until the end of the trip. After a big dam portage, we start
a 130 km descent that I didn't think would be so difficult. The river is not
complicated, even if water levels are very high. The problem is the multitude of
dams that have to be portaged on very rough paths, sometimes non-existent.
The landscapes are, however, exceptional. This succession of lakes located
in the high mountains is a fisherman's paradise—we have to remember this
when we come across them.
After three days of flatwater and exhausting portages, we are delighted to reach
the last 30 km to the confluence with the Rhône. At last, whitewater with no
major difficulties. Except that the river is in serious flood! The canoe passes,
large slides built on the river, are unrunnable. You have to go around them by
numerous very physical portages. One leaves Christian limping after straining
his calf muscle, and still there are more. Sometimes, we wonder what we are doing, pulling
our canoes in the rain. It's been three weeks since we left, and we feel like wild bears, avoiding
civilization and only missing a hot shower.
On the last day on the Ain, we are warned that navigation could be complicated by the presence
of dangerous log jams. We never see them, but we do face the biggest waves of our adventure.
Christian almost flips over in a rapid no touring canoe should paddle. But we pass the test and
finally reach the Rhône, which I know well. There are only six days of canoeing and one day of
cycling left. We just have to watch out for the crossing of Lyon and its famous “Hawaii sur Rhône”
rapids. Everything is bigger than I imagined. Once again, we switch to bike mode to simplify our
route. We have had enough of this! For these last days on the Rhône, we opt to travel by bike
to avoid fighting the wind on the water. 20 km/h of average speed is always better than four!
The 160 km of the Rhône serves as a final transition to return home. Even if it rained a lot, I
don't like it when an adventure stops. During our two years of preparation, I often wondered
in what state we would return from the Canovélo trip. Nothing happened the way I thought.
Eat, sleep, paddle, bike. A dream? No, real life!
Who said castles and lakes were
only found in Scotland?
 CANOVÉLO

The difficulties were not as physical as I had feared. On the last stretch of the ride taking
us home, we are amazed by the color of the Drôme. This blue! This green! Impossible to
define it.The weather conditions are now summery.This story should have started like that.
We make a decision: the adventure will not end today.

The day after our arrival, we set off again to do the idyllic 30 km we should have started
with.The water level is perfect, the colors enchanting. Birds are everywhere; there is nobody
on the banks. With no pack or bike in the canoes, all the pain is forgotten, and we finish
with ease. We complete the loop without feeling that the adventure has ended before we
are ready. Adventure and freedom are not elsewhere. They are at home, at our doorstep,
no matter where we go, and we can leave whenever we want. This trip didn't erase all my
doubts, but it did show that nothing ever happens the way you imagine it. You have to
dream, wake up, and live your dreams. The rest is just details.

"But for me, nothing beats the “Barges” means “weirdos” in French. The right place for Paul and Christian!

pleasure of gliding on the water.

I don't want to choose between
cycling and canoeing. I have to find a THE WEIGHT TOWED:
Canoe: 30 kg
way to combine the two." Camping gear and clothes: 20 kg
Photo and video equipment: 5 kg
Repair kit: 4 kg
Water: 10 kg/L
Trailer: 10 kg
Total towed weight: 80 kg for Paul; 85 kg for Christian, who carries
the kitchen barrel (15 kg).

THANKS TO OUR SPONSORS:

Canoë Diffusion, Esquif, Cimalp, Bending Branches, Département de
la Drôme, Palm Equipment, MSR,Thermarest, and ETSA.

WATCH THE STORY: FILM COMING SOON!

www.canovelo.com

Dream bivouac spot on the Upper Loire.

Back on Paul’s local river, the Drôme. After a delayed start

due to rain, Paul and Christian finish the trip the way it
should have started: With clear water, sunshine, and ease.

24
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26
 PALM EQUIPMENT -
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27
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28
 Bornholm
DENMARK’S CORSICA
Soak up the sunshine as you explore sandy beaches,
towering cliffs and seaside caves, verdant forests,
picturesque villages, medieval ruins, and traditional
Danish culinary delights. Björn Nehrhoff details why
Bornholm, a Danish island in the Baltic Sea, is the sea
kayaking destination you wish you had heard of sooner.

Words & photography: Björn Nehrhoff

Expect nothing less than spectacular

cliffs and clear water around the
Danish “Sunshine Island.”

30
31
 Bornholm
ituated far out in the Baltic Sea, in the open waters between Sweden, Germany,

S and Poland, geographically, the island of Bornholm feels far away from the Danish
mainland. Though only a short flight from Copenhagen, Bornholm’s exceptional
position in the Fennoscandian border zone, a geological fault line between a 1.7
billion-year-old granite bedrock in the north of the island, and a 500 million-year-
old sandstone layer in the south of Bornholm, makes the island distinct from the rest of
Denmark in both landscape and geology. Instead of gently rolling hills, you’ll find towering
cliffs with caves and arches, lonely sand beaches, picturesque villages, and a rich history
evident in the ruins of castles and forts along the shore. Bornholm is known in Denmark
for its exceptionally good weather, earning the nickname “solskinsøen—” Sunshine Island.
The island even has a local variety of the common fig, which usually grows much further
south, known as Bornholm's Diamond.

The above are only a few reasons why this island is a dream destination for sea kayakers.
You are invited to explore for yourself, whether through amazing day trips along jagged Bornholm's round churches were built in the 12th
and 13th centuries and used for worship, storage, and
coastlines and beaches, with stops in picturesque villages home to amazing food and fortifications to guard against enemy attacks.
culture, or a circumnavigation of the island, complete with wild camping. Bornholm has
so much to offer that it can be hard to know where to start, so here are some ideas that
the author brought home from several stays on the island:

Day trip 1: The spectacular Northwest Cape -

Hammerodde (13 km/26 km return) "Instead of gently rolling
Bornholm's nature manifests to its fullest in the very northwest of the island. Start your trip
in the cute little harbor of Helligpeder, where small houses seem to stick to a slope. This hills, you’ll find towering
trip aims to round the northwest cape of Bornholm with a paddle to Sandvik, where you cliffs with caves and
can stop on a sandy beach and enjoy homemade ice cream made with rhubarb plucked
from local gardens. Eat it quickly—before it melts in your hand. On the way, you will pass
arches, lonely sand beaches,
the spectacular red granite bedrock.The highlight is a rock formation called “Camel Rock," picturesque villages, and a
for its distinctive shape. rich history evident in the
If the weather allows, you can paddle into the many cracks and sea caves beneath the RUINS of castles and forts
towering cliffs. Enjoy the views above and below; the water quality offers amazing views along the shore."
into another world below you with drifting kelp and fish. Above, you will find Jons Kapel, a
grotto once home to a monk said to be the first to try and Christianize the island, a small
waterfall that drops down to the sea, and the mighty fortress of Hammershus. Make sure

The Baltic Sea is not always so calm;

enjoy the chance to get close to the
cliffs when it is.

32
 The granite bedrock offers a rock hopping paradise.

you stop by the little harbor and walk up to the Hammershus visitor center, where you’ll
find impressive views panoramic views to supplement the day’s history lesson. The 1300
A.D structure is Denmark's largest castle ruins and a potent reminder of the medieval
power struggles between the Danes, Germans, and Swedes.Another reminder of the battles
over the island is the famous round defensive churches on Bornholm that date from this
period, found further inland in Nyker, Nylars, Olsker, and Østerlars.

Day trip 2: Paddling in a fairy tale - Dueodde (17

KM/34 km return)
The Danish poet Hans Christian Andersen began The Little Mermaid with a perfect des-
cription of the Danish sea. “Far out in the ocean the water is as blue as the petals of the
loveliest cornflower, and as clear as the purest glass.” Nothing less will be the motto of
the paddling day when you start your trip in the tiny village of Øster Sømarken and head
around the southeast cape on the way to Nexø. Soon, you will pass the “Dueodde,” an
extensive area of sand dunes accompanied by pine forests and hidden bunkers from the
Second World War. The Danish like to call it the place with the finest sand in the world.
And indeed, when you dip your paddle into the clear water, you can easily imagine that
you are flying above the white sand ripples below. If you are lucky, you will see a plaice
suddenly emerge up from the bottom, only to vanish into the next patch of sand.The water
changes with the wind direction, and even in low wind and waves, you can experience
some wind-induced currents around the corner. Be sure to take a bathing suit and make
use of the incredible, mostly empty, beaches along the way, or take a walk to the nearby
lighthouse and take in the view, which overlooks the gold and green of the forest and the Spring in Bornholm is a riot of colors. Expect local farmland lush with wildflowers and windmills.
deep blue sea. It's easy to find a place along the way, like in Snogebaek, to enjoy a nice
cup of coffee and refill your energy with thick piece of tart while sunbeams warm your
chest. Leave room to taste a traditional smoked fish—or save it for when you finish your
trip in Nexø, the biggest fishing harbor on Bornholm.

33
 Bornholm
Day trip 3. The Sanctuary Cliffs (20 KM/40 KM return)
Follow the north coast between Dønsdalen and Svaneke until you encounter the famous
Helligdomsklipperne (Sanctuary Cliffs).The jagged cliffs are about 20 m high, and they rest
upon an ancient holy well visited by people seeking to be healed from illness. Centuries
of winter storms in the Baltic Sea have carved caves in the cliffs where you can ease the
nose of a kayak inside for a look. If you are willing to get out of the boat, one of them
leads about 200 ft into the bedrock. Another spectacular rock formation is the rift valley
of Randkløve Skår, where cliffs shaped by ice cut deep into a beautiful forest. But there
is much more; you will also paddle below patches of towering beech forests and along
some beautiful gravel beaches that beg you to stop for a break.

You will also have the chance to visit the arguably two most beautiful villages in the whole
of Denmark. Gudhjem has a Mediterranean flair. Red roofs top the narrow, tightly entwined
streets surrounding a wonderful little harbor, and a white windmill, the largest in Denmark,
stands sentry above. Svanecke is nothing less than Denmark’s most beautiful town—it was
The mighty fortress of Hammershus, erected in 1200, stands sentry over the nearby sea.
officially awarded the title in 2013. Paddlers will love the lighthouse and the flat granite
rock beds that encompass the little fishing harbor. It goes without mention that a venture
into either Svanecke or Gudhjem in search of a restaurant is an easy task undertaken with
delight. Try the sol over Gudhjem, a traditional open-faced sandwich featuring buttered
rye bread topped with smoked or marinated herring, radish, chives, onion, and a raw egg
yolk symbolizing the sun.
"It s easy to find a place
along the way, like in A circumnavigation of Bornholm (120-140 km):
The crown of paddling trips on Bornholm is a complete circumnavigation of the island,
Snogebaek, to enjoy a about 120 km long, and perfect for a three-to-four day camping trip. If you travel to the
nice cup of coffee and island by ferry, you don't even need a car. Just roll the kayaks on the deck on a trolley
and start the trip from the base of the Rönne Kajak Club, right in the island’s main town.
refill your energy with Mercifully, the Danish system of wild camping—free and wild overnight places where
thick PIECE of tart you can stay in nature—means there are several marked places to camp “legally wild”
while sunbeams warm directly by the sea. One not to be missed is the wonderful camp directly underneath the
Hammerhus Fortress. You will find drinking water in smaller harbors along the way and
your chest." have good opportunities to stop for supplies so you can travel light.

Rounding the northwest cape in great weather is pure fun.

34
Take your time and explore every nook and cranny; surprises await.
 Bornholm
Despite Bornholm’s beauty, you won't meet many kayakers along
The big crossing (18 km/36 km return):
If you love challenges in the form of big ocean crossings in a kayak, the route from
Gudhjem to Christiansø is an epic little adventure in the north of Bornholm. At the end of
the 18 km crossing, you reach the Ertholmene archipelago, where you find Christiansø,
Northern Europe's first sea fortress. Today, the archipelago is home to small, autonomous
community and hosts all the essentials for daily life: a school, church, post office, library,
museum, grocery shops, cafes, and places to stay.
Bornholm: Why wait?
If you are already calling your friends about a trip to Bornholm, plan your visit sometime
between spring and autumn. In spring, the island's forests awaken, fresh buds bloom, and
the smell of wild garlic fills the air. In the relatively warm autumn, you experience the color
change of the island's vegetation, but warmer swimming temperatures and less wind make
the summer the preferable season to paddle.
While the waters surrounding Bornholm are friendly, there are a few hazards to be mindful
of. Especially at the capes, you should be aware of wind-induced currents. Both spring and
autumn are prone to wind and waves—in fact, surfers used to call the island the Hawaii
of the Baltic Sea. Expect high waves when it's windy, and on some days with prevailing
conditions, even big swell. Be mindful of the rocks and the ferry traffic around Rönne
Harbour, and keep an eye on a military shooting range in the south.
If you need a day off from your kayak, there is plenty of hiking along the coast and trails
that will take you deep into the deciduous forest, where castle ruins and a herd of European
buffalos (wisent) can be found. Bring a bike if you love empty roads and a landscape of
rolling hills to conquer by pedal. On the way, you’ll see many windmills and the famous
rotundo churches. If you like wave riding on a surfboard, you are in the right place. Born-
holm can deliver quite nice conditions when the weather aligns. As one legend declares,
"when God created Scandinavia, he took the best parts together and threw them into the
depths of the Baltic Sea, and Bornholm came into being." Whatever your fancy, Denmark’s
sunny island is sure to delight.
36
the way and will likely have most of the coast all to yourself.
"It goes without mention
that a venture into either
Svanecke or Gudhjem in
search of a restaurant is
an easy task undertaken
with delight."
Best time to visit:
Spring, summer, and autumn all offer something special of their own. For
the warmest water and mildest winds, plan for summer (June, July, August).
Getting to Bornholm: You can fly to Bornholm from Copenhagen and Aalborg
(Denmark) or Stavanger (Norway). Take the ferry from Ystad in Sweden in just
1 hour and 20 minutes; drive 3 1/2 hours from Sassnitz in Germany or 5 1/2
hours from Køge in Denmark. More information: www.bornholmslinjen.com
Stay overnight:
Holiday cottages: www.bornholmtours.com, www.novasol.com, www.
dancenter.com
Official camping: www.hullehavn.dk, www.sandvigcamping.dk, www.
ecobeachcamp.dk
Wild camping: www.naturstyrelsen.dk ; https://eng.naturstyrelsen.dk/
experience-nature/sleeping-outside-in-nature/; www.bornholm.info/en/
wild-camping-on-bornholm.
Rent a sea kayak or find a guided tour: www.havkajakbornholm.dk/en/
rent/; https://bornholm.info/en/paddle-bornholm-seakayak/
 the wish list
VE PADDLES - VOYAGER CARBON
Built for going the distance.The VE Voyager features a narrow cruising blade shape with a small area. Power
transfers gradually into the stroke as the blade is submerged.Thanks to VE’s proprietary Aircore technology and
constructed using pre-preg carbon composites, the blades are exceptionally light, strong, and buoyant – ideal
for all-day paddling. Two-piece as standard, allowing length and angle personalization.

BLADE AREA: 633 CM²/98.1 IN² |

LENGTH: 210-220 CM . 220-230 CM . 230-240 CM . CUSTOM
VEPADDLES.COM

LEVEL SIX - KENORA

The Kenora is a full-featured three-season jacket. It is very
PEAK PS - OCEAN WRAP lightweight and compact thanks to our award-winning
eXhaust 2.5 UL waterproof breathable nylon. This jacket
The award-winning, unique wrap entry PFD for sea features eXhaust 2.5 on the high wear areas to give the
kayaking and touring.The Ocean Wrap features a front- ultimate combination of weight savings and abrasion
entry system with the storage, safety, and comfort of a resistance. The double tunnel and single Stealth cinch
vest. The Ocean Wrap’s unique construction means the waist system work with your skirt tunnel to provide a
ladies’ sizes feature an innovative chest foam layout, great seal at the waist, while the adjustable cuffs ensure
giving unparalleled comfort and fit. a watertight seal at the wrists.

SIZES: L10/12. L14/16. SM. LXL. XXL | SIZES: XS . S . M . L . XL . XL .XXL |

COLORS: BLUE. RED COLOR: MOLTEN LAVA . CRATER BLUE . KIWI GREEN
PEAKUK.COM LEVELSIX.COM

P&H SEA KAYAKS - VOLAN 160

The ultimate lightweight, highly versatile day/weekend sea kayak.The Volan is built specifically for those
who want to make the most of day and weekend trips; tracking straight when flat, but swinging round
effortlessly when on edge or carving into a turn, the Volan has comfortable performance for both the
journey and any play spots you find on the way.The short, 16’0-length provides ample hull speed for most
adventures, and helps keep weight to an absolute minimum for nimble performance and easy handling.

LENGTH: 489 CM/16’0 | WIDTH: 58 CM/22.8’’ | WEIGHT: 19 KG/41.8 LB | MAX. CAP.: 120
KG/264.5 LB | MATERIAL: KEVLAR/CARBON INFUSION | COLORS: CUSTOM | SIZES: 158 . 160
PHSEAKAYAKS.COM

HIKO - CALYPSO AIR4 W. DRYSUIT

The CALYPSO Air4 is a top-of-the-line women's drysuit designed to keep you warm and
dry even while pushing the boundaries of what's possible in a kayak. Rear entry TIZIP®
waterproof zipper and drop seat TIZIP® waterproof relief zipper.A double tunnel waistband
provides a tight seal against your sprayskirt, while latex wrists and neck gaskets protected
with soft neoprene cuffs guarantee maximum dryness. The main body of the suit is made
from Air4 material, with high-wear areas (seat, knees, forearms, and elbows) reinforced
with Cordura. Integrated Cordura socks are durable and stay dry. Equipped with our "Double
Pull" system for a perfect fit.

MATERIALS: AIR4 . CORDURA | SIZES: WS . WM . WL . WXL . W2XL |

COLORS: INFERNO . KAITUNA
HIKOSPORT.COM

SELECT PADDLES - XTR

The high-tech model in this range, the X.TR Mk2 is a versatile paddle, 6%
lighter, for easier navigation. Light and comfortable to use and designed
for smooth strokes, the X.TRX.TR Mk2 is a foam core CNC 3D paddle made
NRS - WOMEN'S RIPTIDE SPLASH JACKET
in carbon prepreg. Four blade sizes, 550/590/660/720 cm², available in
A splash jacket only on paper, on the water, the NRS Women's Riptide Jacket delivers
adjustable or single piece bent or straight shaft options. A must!
advanced waterproof, breathable protection for paddlers willing to gamble on the
conditions. Features an articulated hood and half-zip neck for quick adaptability, kayak
WEIGHT: 0.75 KG/1.65 LB | BLADE SIZE: 550 CM²/85.2 IN² . 590 overskirt, and neoprene wrist gaskets for all-day comfort. Combines HyproTex™ 2.5
CM²/91.5 IN² . 660 CM²/102 IN² . 720 CM²/111.6 IN² | MATERIAL: fabric and factory-taped seams for maximum waterproof performance.
CARBON
MATERIAL: 40D, 2.5 LAYER HYPROTEX™ | COLORS: AQUA . POPPY | SIZES:
SELECT-PADDLES.COM
(WOMEN'S) XS. S . M . L . XL
NRS.COM

38
James McBeath shows off a Pacific ocean perch.
Gotta
Get F ishing A cross
the W or ld
Gone
Feeling the pain of two years of lockdown and limited travel and ready to
head somewhere new? Join James McBeath on a rambling adventure that
serves as a reminder of why we travel to paddle (and fish) in the first place.
Words: James McBeath | Photography: Brooks Beatty, Max Stussi, Will Richardson
 Gotta
Get
Gone
Jim Sammons is all smiles with a trophy brackish-
water pike in Sweden. © Will Richardson
C
OVID sucks. There are so many reasons it sucks, many of them
life-changing, but allow me to introduce one that I think all of
us "jet setter" wannabees are experiencing: it’s hard to travel
these days! As I write this article, the thought of travel immedia-
tely implies a Q-tip up the nose, blue masks, and wiping down
everything, whether I touched it or not. As we wait for the end of the Zombie
Apocalypse, I’d like to share with you my reasons traveling to paddle is important
to me: It’s about both the escape and the experience of new waterways, culture,
people, and of course, the fishing. Using the word "culture" makes this intro feel a
bit sappy,but I needed to add the word,and there’s no way to use the word without
sounding a bit snooty.
Sometimes ya just gotta get gone!
I live in Canada. Not to mock my own people, but travel brochures tout our grand
country as the home of old cities (that aren’t NEAR as old as,well,most other cities),
friendly, beautiful people (just don’t play hockey with us), and nature (lots of bear
pictures… something that should NOT be an attractant to tourists). I have traveled
across Canada and paddled in every province.We are one of the most diverse coun-
tries in the world,but there are a LOT more species of fish to check off the ole bucket
list.Add to this the fact that we are under snow for half the year,and I gotta get gone!
42
Finding your Destination
The fun begins on Expedia and via countless emails to folks you have never met.The
ideal destination will include all the above-mentioned goals. For those who don’t
want to scroll back up, they are escape (adventure), culture (people and history),
and fishing. The good news is that culture is everywhere, and you don’t necessarily
have to look far to find that. Google “Namibia culture” and click “photos.” Voila! It’s
pretty darn easy to plan your cultural itinerary for pretty much anywhere in the world
from the comfort of your couch.
The hard part begins when finding a kayak 40,000 mi away (sorry, 64373.76 km).
You CAN NOT fly with a fishing kayak that weighs 140 lb and stands 13 ft long. It’s
a thing. The good news is that there are kayak anglers in every country; we’re a
movement. I use social media groups and begin conversations that inevitably lead to
"Hey man, you can borrow a boat any time" and sometimes, "Dude, you can sleep at
my place." Honestly, nothing brings out national pride more than showing someone
your fishing spots—and many will want to. It’s the classic "show me yours, and I’ll
show you mine." Tip: Make sure to ask if they still live with their mom (inside story)!
The next challenge is the rest of your gear. That, too, can be borrowed, but if you
MUST bring your favorite gear, simply upgrade to first class. The extra baggage will
cost you pretty much the same.
 Finding Nemo (fish) is a no-brainer once you have the local connections. Unless
they are "that" person who wants to outfish anyone they fish with, it’s super easy to
get the local beta.Your host is one source, but if there’s fishing in the region, there is
inevitably a fishing store.Tip: Learn to say, "what bait do I use for X fish?" in the local
language before traveling! You will NOT find a Bass Pro in most countries, so make
sure you plan for this as well. Fishing with a bent needle and a chunk of your finger
only gets you one fish, maybe two.

Toto, we’re not in Kansas anymore!

I remember my first trip with Jim Sammons. Jim is a legendary world traveler,TV host,
and kayak angler who had invited me to go to Panama on my first real international
kayak angling adventure. As he strode through the airport in Panama City, he didn’t
seem to blink once. Me, damn, I was all over the place. The city was faster than a
Canadian city in all ways: Cars were faster, the language was faster, the gestures
were faster, the deals were faster. Everything but the restaurant service was faster! By
contrast, when we arrived in the Bahamas—Acklan Island, to be exact—everything
was in slow motion:The language was relaxed, the driver was an hour late, the people No sunset is the same. Panama: Los Buzos Resort, Cambutal.
walked at their own pace, and the food service was fast… weird.

Every aspect of daily life is usually very ingrained in so many different ways, from how
folks interact to what makes them happy, what hobbies they have, what sports they
watch,and what they’re most proud of as a countryman.Because of these differences,
things we take for granted at home are often simply not part of life abroad. It all
comes out in those first few hours in a new country. "We don’t have bloody caesars
here," followed quickly by, "what’s Clamato juice??" Food is another great divider of
cultures. I have hundreds of photos of me eating from different trips. Kinda weird but
"I t’s about both the
true. If you’re a culinary enthusiast like I am, finding that first restaurant with authentic
local cuisine is key to immediately immersing yourself in the local culture. It can also
escap e and the
mean trips to the banyos (see, I learn new words!) which has happened a couple of
times by not paying attention to the science of strange water.
exp er ience of new
water way s, cultur e,
Europe has an expanse of cultures and differences from one country to another, but
the global experience there is the sheer age of the place. And instead of a handful of p eop le, and of cour se,
languages, there are twenty-four official languages across the European continent. In
Sweden, I found that the setting was very familiar.The Karlskrona region has the same the f ishing."
maple forests, elk/moose/deer, northern pike, and hockey as home. Then I saw the

The first sign that you are away from home... creatures you
Gunnar greets Jim Sammons in Sweden with an incredible spread of local flavors. don’t necessarily want to see at home!

43
 Gotta
Get
Gone

Heading out to the Pacific with a lot of waves

between you and the fish. ©Brooks Beatty

"I t’s about both the

buildings, the millions of miles of stone walls across the landscape, stone homes and
town centers of cobblestone, and buildings that are two zeroes older than Canada.
escap e and the
The people have decades more experience in life and evolution than we do in North
America.All this is wrapped in the presence of significant history of every single town,
exp er ience of new
region, and country. Castles, monuments, historical artifacts, and stories from locals
handed down for generations make their historical chalices full; in Canada, our most
water way s, cultur e,
significant historical moment was tapping the first maple tree. Boring! p eop le, and of
Remember why we came
I almost forgot that this was a paddling magazine.
cour se, the f ishing."
These trips are also about the adventure on the water. All water is not equal. Indeed,
each country I have visited offers an entirely new look at both the on-water and
off-water cultures of paddling. My first day on the water on the Baltic Sea in Sweden
saw the standard set up onshore. I spied my new friend Hendrik packing a coffee pot,
a burner, and camping gear. We spent the first part of the day finding an island we
could hunker down on for a morning fire and the all-important cowboy coffee. Only
once the coffee was prepped over the open fire and ingested did we head out to fish.
The camping gear, as I later found out, was because the Baltic Sea can turn on you
in a second and leave you stranded overnight on one of the thousands of islands.

In Panama and many Pacific coastal lands, the actual sea is different from what
we typically experience. Its thousand-foot cliffs, boiler rock shorelines, uber currents,
and exotic pelagic fish species immediately remind you that you aren’t in Kansas
(or Ontario, whatever). These elements not only look different but treat you differently
in every sense. Getting out and back through the break and current (hopefully not
combined with wind and torrential jungle rain), and the fish tow you around for hours.
My first words in Spanish were, "Que clase de pez es este?" What kind of fish is this? Home base sure doesn’t look like home. ©Brooks Beatty

44
Egoitz of Spain nets a beauty of a northern
pike, thousands of miles from home and a
new species to check off! ©Will Richardson
 Gotta
Get
Gone

Almost everything I pulled out of the waters in any new waters meant an immediate
Google search.

The Bahamian Islands bring yet another different environment for paddling and
fishing; its thousands of square miles of "flats," stocked with some of the most tar-
geted fly fishing species on the planet. It is here you’ll meet a breed of fisherman
able to spot fish who are, to me, literally invisible to the naked eye. "There! To your
two o’clock! Big bonefish!" What the absolute heck is that kid talking about?? Trying
to spot the world’s fastest tan-colored fish in one foot of water on a sandy bottom
in the hopes of tossing a minute shrimp patterned fly upwind just right so that it
Jim Sammons, Ben Roussel, and James McBeath enjoying
nestles down slowly in front of the fish is a cultural moment all of its own. So, too,
a last dinner before heading home from Panama.
is the disappointment when you scare away not only that fish but the entire school
that it’s swimming with. "Dat be no goo mun."

Why we go.
It’s out on the water, in between strokes, that it all comes together in that moment of
realization that you are far from home, taking in new experiences and connecting
with others who think you are as strange as they are to you (man, does that even
"T he har d p ar t is getting
make any grammatical sense?).The hard part is getting there, the best part is being
there, and the reason it’s the best is due to the effort to arrive.You feel it the moment
ther e, the best p ar t is
you cross the line from your "normal" into a new world and settle down to paddling
and living in another place far from home.
being ther e, and the r eason
it’s the best is due to the
Gotta end this article now—I have a PCR test scheduled. Heading to Mexico. Gotta
get gone! ef f or t to ar r ive."

The author with a massive Panamanian broomtail grouper, a

great way to end a day and feed the town. ©Brooks Beatty

46
 NRS - SHENOOK
Purpose-built for female anglers, the Shenook fishing PFD has all the
features of our best-selling Chinook with a women’s cut and styling.
Designed to make you more effective on the water, the Shenook offers
endless organization and attachment points for all your fishing tools.

SIZES: XS/M . L/XL . XL/XXL | COLORS: CHARCOAL |

LEVEL: HIGH END | MATERIAL: 400D RIPSTOP NYLON
NRS.COM

PALM EQUIPMENT -
KOLA ANGLER PFD
This highback fishing PFD can store everything but the kitchen sink
while staying comfortable and light on the water. The cutaway back
panel works with taller seats, and the slimline front lets you move freely.
Choose how and where you want to stow your gear, with everything
close to hand. Clamshell pockets fold open for a clear view of the
compartments within.Spots to stow pliers or braid scissors and multiple
webbing and snap D-ring attachment points.Stay safe with SOLAS hi-vis
panels and a clip point for your strobe. Made of environmentally friendly
PVC-free foam. Reliable metal-free YKK zips won’t corrode.

SIZES: (MEN'S) XS/S (45 N) . M/L (50 N) . XL/XXL (55 N) |

COLORS: JET GREY . FLAME
PALMEQUIPMENTEUROPE.COM

48
 the wish list
BENDING BRANCHES - ANGLER PRO
The Angler Pro stands out in the industry as a six-time Angler Paddle of the Year, but also on the water
thanks to the vibrant blade patterns designed by the BB fishing team. Large compression-molded
fiberglass blades offer a smooth and quiet forward stroke, and an ovalized 100% carbon shaft allows
for effortless fishing all day long. Catches can be verified quickly with a tape measure placed directly
on the carbon shaft.

WEIGHT: 0.81 KG/1.8 LB | BLADE SIZE: 677 CM²/105 IN² | BLADE MATERIAL:
COMPRESSION-MOLDED FIBERGLASS | SHAFT MATERIAL: 100% CARBON | COLORS:
RADIANT . GLOWTEK . COPPERHEAD | FERRULE: TELESCOPING . SNAP-BUTTON
BENDINGBRANCHES.COM

KOKATAT - SUPERNOVA
ANGLER SEMI-DRYSUIT
(GORE-TEX)
The Supernova Angler is a front-entry fishing
specific paddling suit built with rugged and
breathable GORE-TEX PRO fabric. The single
layer of rugged fabric is lighter and dries
faster than sewn-on reinforcement patches
and provides protection and reduces potential
hook snares while dealing with fish and gear.
The suit also features a draw cord waist, nylon
waterproof front entry and relief zippers, a
comfortable Neo Cinch Collar, latex wrist
gaskets with adjustable hook and loop cuffs,
and GORE-TEX PRO socks with gravel guards.
JACKSON KAYAK - COOSA FD
SIZES: S . M . L . XL . XXL | COLORS:
The Coosa FD is based on the top-selling Coosa HD hull and deck layout but adds our Flex Drive 3D
SANDBAR . RED
system allowing for hands-free propulsion.The new Flex Drive 3D offers forward and reverse operation
and includes a unique articulating system for deep and shallow water navigation, and the prop is KOKATAT.COM
easy to access as needed.The Coosa FD comes with fore-aft trimming and our High Ergo Seat Frame
with MOLLE System that puts the pedaler in the most comfortable position possible. The Flex Drive
3D is easily deployed with the flip of a lever and is upgradable to our Flex Drive E motor system.

LENGTH: 383.5 CM/12’7 | WIDTH: 88.4 CM/34.8’’ |

WEIGHT: 48.5 KG/107 IB | COLORS: EARTH . FOREST . ROCKFISH
JACKSONADVENTURES.COM

AQUADESIGN - KAAKI
The KAAKI vest is ideal for fishing, canoeing,
or kayaking. It is equipped with numerous
pockets and allows you to take all the
equipment you need on board during your
nautical outings. Very comfortable thanks to
its neoprene shoulders, you will not want to
do without it during your expeditions in the
countryside.
SIZES: M/L. XL/XXL | COLORS: RED .
KAAKI |
MATERIAL: 500D NYLON . PE FOAM .
YKK® ZIPPER | ISO: EN 12402-5
AQUADESIGN.EU
RTM - HIRO ANGLER IMPULSE DRIVE
The HIRO Impulse Drive is a new pedal drive fishing kayak from RTM. Inspired by Bass Boats,
our designers created a stable, fast, and ergonomic design that meets the expectations of kayak
fishermen. Powered by the Impulse Drive, this proven pedal system is lightweight and allows you
to move forward and in reverse. A large rudder operated by a joystick makes this kayak easy to
handle. Its comfortable premium chair adjusts to the fisherman’s size. Molded storage area with
battery and transducer accessibility. This new hands-free fishing kayak is ready for adventure.
LENGTH: 362 CM/11’9 | WIDTH: 87 CM/34’’ | THICKNESS: 40 CM/16’’ |
WEIGHT: 35 KG/77 LB | MAX. CAP.: 180 KG/397 LB | MATERIAL: HDPE
RTMKAYAKS.COM

49
 the wish list
JACKSON KAYAK - BITE ANGLER
With the trend in price-point fishing kayaks tending towards compromise in hull
quality, performance, gear management, and comfort, Jackson Kayak’s Bite Angler
doesn’t cut corners. The open-concept deck gives the angler one of our roomiest
platforms to stand and fish, with ample storage fore and aft. New for 2021, the
Bite Angler has been upgraded to the Comfort Seat. The gear track has also been
upgraded to aluminum for enhanced mounting strength.The Bite Angler is the perfect
combination of comfort, smart and innovative design, and great value. It’s at home
across a variety of waterways, including small lakes and rivers, ponds, streams,
and inshore saltwater.

LENGTH: 350.5 CM/11’6 | WIDTH: 91.4 CM/36’’ | WEIGHT: 33.6 KG/74 LB |

COLORS: EARTH . FOREST . ROCKFISH
JACKSONADVENTURES.COM

AZTRON - THERMO COOLER BACKPACK 38 L

Aztron Sports-Thermo cooler backpack is leakproof and an impact-resistant cooler bag perfect for
paddlers or campers going on an adventure. Made with high-density NBR foam and thermoplastic
polyurethane (TPU) shell-sealed to hold coolness for up to eight hours. Performance Features: Leak-
resistant construction; backpack straps/shoulder strap switch design; can hold 20 cans with ice; TPU
shell of approved food-grade material; bottle opener included.

SIZE: 46 X 34 X 24 CM | WEIGHT: 1100 G/2.4 LB | VOLUME: 38 L | MATERIAL: REINFORCED

AND WATERPROOF PVC . SHELL: TPU . BACKPAD: BREATHABLE FOAM PAD
AZTRONSPORTS.COM

NRS - MEN'S TOR SPLASH JACKET

LEVEL SIX - CREEK BOOT
The NRS Men's Tor Jacket adapts quickly to changing conditions on and off the water.
This purpose-built jacket is waterproof and breathable and offers optimal protection from The Creek Boots are designed to be a stable and
the shoulder seasons to seasonal squalls. Lightweight HyproTex™ material provides durable way to protect your feet while on shore
waterproof-breathable protection while being flexible for paddling and easy to stow. or in your boat.These boots come equipped with
a thick yet soft rubber sole and higher cuff to
MATERIAL: 40D, 2.5 LAYER HYPROTEX™ | COLORS: RED . BLUE | provide comfort and protection. The Creek Boots
SIZES: (MEN'S): S . M . L . XL . XXL are an effective start to protecting your feet.

NRS.COM SIZES: 5 . 6 . 7 . 8 . 9 . 10 . 11 . 12 . 13
LEVELSIX.COM

50
 PORTFOLIO

Location: Maliko Run, Maui (Hawaii)

Paddler: Jade Howson
Photography: By Predrag Vuckovic / RBCP

Location: Nusa Tenggara (Indonesia)

Photography: Vernon Deck

54
 FOCUS

Itacoatiara, Brazil, is a beautiful and wild place. It’s a heavy

beach break, and when the big swell comes in, it brings some
heavy bombs.

Location: Itacoatiara, Brazil

Paddler: Vinicius Martins
Photography: Matheus Couto

56
PERFORMANCE // D E N I G A M I E R
Navigator
reflective accents
articulated storm hood

3x hood
over the shoulder = no adjustments
pinch points

splashproof
pockets
drainage ports
YKK Aquaseal
zippers &
zipper guard
double-pull
cinch w/
reflective tabs

extended
overcuffs
guard gaskets YKK Aquaseal
relief zipper

100% recycled
offset seam face fabric

Cordura panel for

abrasion resistance

elastic over-boot
w/ silicone grip tapered leg
+
gathered ankle

GORE-TEX fabric socks

CHARTING A NEW DIRECTION

Developed in cooperation with professional sea-kayak instructors
and athletes, the Navigator Dry Suit re-draws the map for o�shore
touring apparel. Its neoprene comfort-neck combines with latex wrists
to balance comfort and protection for long days paddling in rugged
conditions. The adjustable storm hood helps you adapt as conditions
change, and GORE-TEX® Pro material provides ultimate waterproof
breathability. Now that’s a direction worth exploring.

Available at select retailers world wide.

Scan for all NRS

GORE-TEX Pro
dry wear.

nrs.com