FORT DE SOTO PICNIC PADDLE - Level 2

Trip leaders:

Scott Jantz, scottjantz2@gmail.com,  386-853-5159

Jill Lingard, jill.lingard@gmail.com, 352-665-1776

Description: We'll meet at Arrowhead Picnic Area at Fort De Soto Park. If conditions allow, we'll launch and head through Bunces Pass, paddling north along Shell Key to Irma Pass.  We can stop for a break on the inside of Shell Key, go for a dip, practice rolls, etc. From there we'll paddle back on the inside to Arrowhead in time for the picnic at noon. We can make route adjustments in response to weather conditions and group needs. 

Location: Arrowhead Picnic Area at Fort De Soto Park, 3500 Pinellas Bayway S in Tierra Verde.  Here's a Fort DeSoto Park map. Unless you have an annual pass, you'll need to pay the $6 entry fee at one of the machines scattered around the park.

Schedule: Meet at 8:30 AM on Saturday, October 18. Be ready to launch kayaks by 9:00.  We'll aim to return around 11:30-11:45 AM.

Difficulty: Level 2.  This is a mostly open water paddle of about 7-8 miles.  Review TBSK's Skills Self Assessment Chart and contact trip leaders with any questions.  

Requirements: Boats must be at least 14 feet long with deck lines and bulkheads or bow/stern flotation.  Paddlers must wear a PFD with whistle, a spray skirt, and appropriate water shoes.  Bring plenty to drink and be sure it's accessible while you paddle.

If you have any medical issues that might impact your paddling, please notify leaders before the trip so that they can be best equipped to assist you as needed. 

If your plans to participate change, please cancel on the website or app so that people on the waitlist can join us.