Add this to your kayaking checklist of “things NOT to do.” A U.S. Coast Guard helicopter conducted a dramatic kayaker rescue along the North Coast on the Fourth of July. Seems a paddling couple ventured out in rough conditions, waves knocked the man out of his kayak, and the situation went downhill from there. See the news release and video.
The incident occurred at Trinidad Head, just north of Arcata in Humboldt County. According to the Coast Guard, the couple “were experienced kayakers that had all of the best safety gear.” But they were no match for sea conditions. “It shows you how dynamic and unforgiving the maritime environment can be on the Northern California coast,” said the Coast Guard. Indeed, the National Weather Service had posted marine warnings for the area.
A Trinidad resident told NorCal Yak that even local oystermen stayed dockside that day. This is a good safety tip for recreational kayakers: If people who depend on their boats for a living don’t go out, why should you? California sea kayaking safe kayak rescue kayak
