Overnight canoe and kayak trips provide an experience that few get to enjoy. They combine two outdoor activities that in their own right have much to offer and relish. When placed together, they are a quasar of outdoor fun, pulsating with all that nature and adventure has to offer packed into one memorable excursion.

If you have never experienced what I am describing here, you should really consider planning an overnight paddling trip soon so that you too can be counted among the those of us who have.

We all know people who are intrigued by the fact that we paddle. Many of them have even commented to us that they too would like to take up the sport. Most though don't have a clue about what paddling canoes and kayaks really entails nor do they realize the diversity that exists within the different types of paddling.

It is for this reason that I wrote the article Getting Started in the Sport of Paddling. The next time that someone tells you they are interested in getting into paddling and asks for your advice, go ahead and tell them all about your passion. Then refer them to this article to help them get the resources they need to determine what type of paddling, if any, is for them.

I just wanted to say thanks for all the comments I received in this blog and over email regarding my paddling trip in the Florida panhandle. Man it was awesome! Paddling Coldwater Creek in the Blackwater State Forest was an extraordinary experience and a great way to kick off 2009.

The weather was an amazing mid-sixties to mid-seventies and the water temp was about the same. This overnight excursion had a little bit of everything which included fishing right from the kayak, hiking off of the sandy beaches into the forest, and of course all of the fun that accompanies camping. The most welcome surprise was the overall character of the river. Flowing at about 2 mph, the clear waters of the Coldwater Creek wind through a landscape that you'd never guess was in Florida.

Furthermore, this river is one of the few Florida paddling destinations that is easily accessible from other states. So come on down to the Sunshine State this winter season and paddle Coldwater Creek of North Florida. I promise you won't be disappointed.

Photo © by George E. Sayour

Well, 2009 is here! If you haven't already sat back and reflected on 2008 now would be the time to do so. I'm a big proponent of goal setting. Most people only set goals in the financial or career aspects of their lives. I'm a believer that you should have goals for every important area of your life including your hobbies, interests, and extracurricular activities.

It may seem a bit strange to set paddling goals. But again, if paddling is an important part of your life you should always have goals that you are working toward throughout the year. What types of goals? Well I'm glad you asked. There are 5 paddling goals that I believe every kayaker and canoeist should have at all times. When one of them is achieved another should immediately take its place. This will ensure that you are always improving and making time to paddle which is an important part of your life.

If you haven't already set your paddling goals for 2009, don't waste another minute. Set your 5 paddling goals now and get on track to having your best year of canoeing and kayaking yet!

What are your 2009 paddling resolutions? Feel free to share them in the comments below.