When Bears Badger - An Algonquin Tale

Apparently, I was taken on my first canoe trip into Algonquin Park (Canoe Lake) when I was was quite young - only 18 months old. And it wouldn't be my last, although I did end up growing out of the papoose pretty quickly.

Throughout my youth I would spend summers with my parents (who were quite avid canoeists, as it turns out) outside in a tent. Living in Toronto, we spent quite a bit of time as a family in Algonquin, traveling various routes throughout the Lake Opeongo, Canoe Lake and North Tea/Fawcett Creek areas.

Actual "permit" from Fiona's
very first canoe trip.

Pocahontas And Me
Looking back now, I was very lucky to have parents who hauled me out of the city each summer to experience a more natural world. Especially seeing my friends took to referring to our part of the city as the DLS (Dirty Lakeshore).

But my father, Mike, and my mother, Mhairi (pronounced Mary - it's the Gaelic spelling) didn't want to do anything else on their vacation other than paddle. Spending time in the wilderness had a profound effect on me growing up. As a young girl, I quite literally wanted to be Pocahontas. But to me, the most memorable of my canoe trip experiences, (besides everything!) was our many encounters with the native wildlife. Those of you who have been a few steps, or paddle strokes away from an animal in its natural habitat, are probably best able to understand how sharing a peaceful moment with a wild creature can be a remarkably rewarding experience. Even spellbinding at times.

Our family was lucky enough to have connected with nature many times over the years. We have had the distinct pleasure (and luck) to view many a Black Bear, Moose, Deer, Fox, Rabbit, Raccoon, and many other forest creatures as well as the Loon, Wood Ducks, Turkey Vultures, Eagles, Ravens, Heron, Grouse, Mink, and more. My father, "Poppa Badger", once even saw the very elusive Wolf (I missed it being on the other side of the portage). Some of these creatures we happened upon unwittingly and to the surprise of all parties involved. Others we waited for hours to see, tucked away in our boats in the swamp of some back bay.

Most of these memories have blurred over the years. All but for one, that is. Perhaps I was just the right age for remembering. Or maybe it was because it was the scariest night of my life.  Either way, the experience left its mark in my memory.  Whenever I go there in my mind, I am that little seven year old girl again. And the whole day and night come flooding back to me.

"There's a man in the tree!"
It was the last two days of a week long canoe trip. My mother, my father... and me. We were just coming off of the Manitou to North Tea Lake Portage in Algonquin Park. Our last night night was a scheduled stop on North Tea before carrying on, the next day, to the take out a few short portages away. Being a long weekend in the summer, campsites were scarce. My parents left me on the beach of a site, just around the corner from the last portage, while they paddled a short distance to see if any other sites were available closer to the next portage on our route. I was given strict instructions to stay on the beach. No swimming allowed and warned they would see me from their canoe if I misbehaved. They were going to be twenty minutes - maybe thirty - tops.

I made myself comfortable on the beach and began to sculpt the sand into some sort of Algonquin themed creation. Losing myself in play, my parents were back before I was done with my sand fun. It was still quite early in the day so my parents let me choose pancakes for lunch. Pitching the tent and other camp duties were tended to as I learned from my father that there wasn't any other available sites. I also learned that he wasn't sure if we should stay on North Tea Lake or not as there was a "bear warning" issued to all paddlers at the put in when we first arrived. But seeing as we had already started to unpack and set up camp, and nobody wanted to give up their last night in the park, the decision was already made.

My mother and father have paddled together since they were in their teens.

Soon we were settled in by the fire-pit and my mom began to mix up the pancakes. Dad lit up the old Coleman stove as we talked and prepared our meal. He was the best at making the pancakes. He would make make animal shapes and letters. Such fun to eat! It was a peaceful family moment that was suddenly interrupted by my mother's rather loud and excited exclamation "There's a man in the tree!" My father and I both glanced over in shock - as it would be the creepiest thing ever if there was some strange man staring at us, from a up a tree, in the middle of Algonquin's interior - long weekend or not!

Poppa Badger - or is it Indiana Jones?

However, my dad - upon seeing "the man" before I was able to -  quickly declared "That's not a man. That's a bear!" Which was quickly followed by "Grab me those pots and pans!" The bear, having been discovered in a tree just yards away from us, took his time making his way down it's trunk with incredible ease. He was obviously in no rush. That's when things became a bit scary. Loud noises usually scare bears away. But not this one. I remember feeling the chills coming off my father as EVERY TIME he banged the pots, the bear would stop... and (very) slowly turn around to look at us... Right in the eye. He would then give us a good stare down before turning back around and making his way to a trail that was to lead him deep into the forest. This showdown took place multiple times and the encounter didn't sit too well with my mother and father.

"We ain't seen no bears!"
There was some talk of the bear while we ate our flapjacks, which lead to a review in bear safety and a short visit by my dad to the neighbouring campsite - who was full of fisherman. This put my dad's mind at rest somewhat as he later told us the looks of their messy campsite was enough to convince him that if there was going to be any bear trouble - it would be at their camp site. But they had not seen any bears. So we took that as good news.

Little more was said in front of my little ears but I remember the tension. I also remember the night time routine being a bit different that particular evening. One of the biggest changes was the sudden appearance of a can of Naptha fuel by our tent entrance with a stick and the request for an old t-shirt from my father. He wanted to be able to have fire in a hurry and used the old t-shirt to wrap around the end of the stick to be used as a torch. I thought it was scary... but exciting. The other big change was the decision that I was to sleep BETWEEN my parents in the tent that night. And that hadn't happened since I could even remember! They also tethered me to my mother with some rope as an added precaution. To be honest, I have to admire my parents in this situation. They didn't want me to be frightened but they were honest enough with me that I was able to respect the seriousness of the situation. We had a bear in the area. And he didn't look like he was very afraid of humans.

My young parents along an unspecified portage in Algonquin.

Bears In And Out Of The Tent
Taking all the precautions we could (hanging our food, leaving a super clean camp site, no food or toiletries in the tent, Macgyver-ing a ready-to-go torch of sorts, etc.) we finally retired to the tent for the night. The tension was intense. My dad, clearly on edge, planned to keep going outside over the course of the night to keep the Coleman lantern filled and lit. Our senses were heightened and every sound was amplified by our anticipation of a visit from the bear. It took a long while for us to all fall asleep as every few seconds an acorn loudly dropped from its branch and terrified the living daylights out of us. And they were dropping every where constantly! But eventually, our ears got used to the random beat of the acorns and we were lulled to sleep.

My next memory is of my father's frightened voice "Mhairi! Mhairi! Give me the flashlight!" My father, unbeknownst to us, had awoken to a most terrifying experience. At that moment he believed he could actually feel the bear's cold wet nose on his arm. It was pitch dark and he was very afraid. The flashlight beam broke the darkness of the tent while at the same time the tension broke with my father's huge sigh of relief. "It's just a tree frog!" he half laughed, half whispered. "It must have hitched a ride on me when I went outside to refill the lantern..."  Some of the nervous energy was then released by our giggles. Sleep eluded us all for a bit longer, but after some time we were able to drift off again to the sound of the acorn drums.

A young Fiona at Captain Dennison's grave - East Arm of Lake Opeongo
(There were many bear sightings over the years there too!)

The last time I awoke that night was like a nightmare. There were voices. My mom's side of the tent was caving in. I was wide awake with fear....we all were. It was the BEAR. And it was S-L-O-W-L-Y dragging it's body along the wall our tent. We could see the curve of it's body crushing and stretching the thin material to it's limits. It wasn't cool or exciting anymore. It was just really scary. No. Scratch that. It was terrifying.

It was not an expected move by this bear. There had only been reports of the bear being sighted close to campsites. Not tents. This was extremely bold behaviour for this bear. Any bear. And it did not bode well for it's future. Or perhaps even ours! I cannot help but think today that perhaps my parent's instincts and animal safety knowledge helped us get out of the situation without it needlessly escalating. We only had clean clothes on and/or stored in the tent (no shirts with food spills or pants that had smelly fish hands wiped on them) that night. Therefore no scents to attract or tempt an animal. Our food was hung up high and our camp and fire pit was clean. And while we usually took these precautions anyway, we did make sure to go the extra mile in our efforts in this situation due to the unusual encounter with the bear previously that day. Perhaps if we were messy campers or unknowingly had toothpaste or even a chocolate bar stashed in our tent with us, things could have ended differently. But then again, none of precautionary measures we took would have mattered if the bear had suddenly decided our family was worth the effort to eat.

Too Dark To See
As it was, the bear moved away from our tent. At which time my father had his flashlight in one hand and his hatchet in the other (with his torch ready for lighting) and was looking out the screen of our temporary, thin-walled shelter. He watched the bear, within the small beam of his flashlight, walk past our fire pit and then disappear into the blackness of the forest on the other side of our camp. With our hearts beating and our voices hushed, we all desperately hoped the bear was gone.

You have to look really close, but there is a bear in this picture.
(Although most would claim it's just a black dot!)

Not being able to get back to a restful sleep again, worried that the bear was still out there - no matter what "reason" told us - we were up early and started to take down our camp. We all talked excitedly about our very close encounter even though each one of us was exhausted from not having slept properly. As much as I was against telling the Rangers, I could not convince my dad otherwise. I was afraid they were going to shoot the bear and my little girl mind could not bear the thought of it! I think I even cried a little bit. But my dad was right. The bear's behaviour was dangerous and our experience needed to be disclosed to the Ministry. Especially as this bear was known to them. I believe they even had a nickname for the bear, although neither my father nor I can recall that name now. I never got the chance to find out what happened to that bear. I'd like to think that he was trapped/relocated and the bear lived happily ever after. Yes, that's the little girl in me talking.

To this day, when I close my eyes, I can still feel the fear in that tent. Sometimes... it comes back to me when there are a few cracks too many in the dark bush around me... with me in my very thin-walled nylon fabric shelter and lightweight sleeping bag. But then I always think about that "cold wet nose"... and the tree frog. And I smile and go to sleep, thankful for another day spent in a canoe and in the bush.  I don't make a torch up but I do carry "Bear Spray" now.... you know, just in case.

Written by Fiona Westner-Ramsay of Badger® Paddles

5 Reasons To Get Your Own Paddle According to A Passionate Portageur and Paddling Pooch

The following article was written by paddler, "portageur", best friend to Nancy, and blogger; Preston Ciere of the informative website, Portageur.ca. It is entitled: Get Your Own Paddle... where Preston - and Nancy - walk us thru 5 great reasons to possess and use your own canoe or kayak paddle(s). Thanks to Preston for allowing us to publish the following post, but an especially big thanks to Nancy, the loveable and loyal paddling pooch - who looks as comfortable paddling in her PFD as she does running the portages with Preston. We know this great article was all her idea!

Preston Ciere with his loveable
 and loyal paddling partner, Nancy.

Preston was born in Hamilton, Ontario. As a young child, he would wander off into the woods looking for what was out there, and has never really grown out of that. He spends every chance he can get wandering around the Ontario wilderness. When back in the city, he spends half his time entertaining other. He started his website as an outlet to tell his tales to the right audience. He’s also particularly funny and when not portaging enjoys writing in the third person.

Nancy was born somewhere in Louisiana (probably), and after migrating north into Canada, bulked up to become the ideal portageur. Her job is threefold: reconnaissance, security and ambassadorship. She stays alert to keep her group aware of any present dangers, especially small critters that would otherwise surely steal supplies. She’s always paving the way along and around the perimeter of portages, scouting the route for any dangers and showing the group how to get past obstacles – though she often forgets the lesser skills of her comrades. Of course the greatest asset she brings is her natural ability to greet new friends along the trails and rivers.  As a trade off to these skills, she rarely carries anything, and paddles even less, but all things considered, no one ever minds.

Guest Badger Blogger, Preston (and Nancy) Ciere,
www.portageur.ca (Ontario, Canada)

Preston and Nancy lookin' cool in a canoe that has seen many miles.

Get your own paddle!

5 reasons why having your own

makes for a better paddling experience

After the movie “The Color of Money” came out, thousands of pool halls were filled with people walking in carrying a little case under their arms. They’d look down their mirrored sunglasses, pop it open and screw together their custom cue, peering around at who was watching them - no doubt, with “Werewolves of London” playing in their head. This was an annoying new trend to say the least - especially when once they started to play it became obvious that a custom cue didn’t make them any good. 

Paddling is nothing like pool (for one thing, you don’t want anything to sink). Having your own paddle has nothing to do with showing off, and isn’t just a luxury for professionals. It’s more about comfort and preference - making your paddling trips as enjoyable as possible. Admittedly, like a custom cue, it will make also you feel pretty cool. 

1 - Better than the rentals
Generally, when you rent a canoe it comes with paddles. So why would you want your own? Well, the paddles you get when renting a canoe are not the greatest. More often than not they’re those small bladed plastic and aluminum ones that dig little water, so they’re slow and offer little control. They’re also terribly uncomfortable, without the give of wood, or shaped to fit your hand properly. The odd time you’ll get yourself a nice wooden paddle - or one that may have been nice a few years ago. If you’re lucky it may be in a size and style that suits your needs, but usually rental paddles are pretty generic, not to mention scratched and worn from years of use.

2 - There’s a paddle for that
How do you paddle, and why? Getting yourself the right paddle for your style of paddling makes for a great experience. For example, ask yourself whether you are more of a “Destination” or “Journey” kind of person. If it’s all about just getting somewhere as quickly as possible, you may want a wider bladed paddle. On the other hand, if you plan on spending more time floating around exploring than where you’ll eventually end up, you may want a longer but thinner blade for control. Run a lot of rapids? Travel long distances? Prefer to be in the stern or the bow? There are paddle styles to suit all those needs. Talk to a good paddle maker and they’ll recommend something to suit your style. 

3 - Get a grip
A truly under-rated element of the paddle is the grip. If you’re going to do a lot of paddling, a nice comfortable grip is what is going to make the experience much more pleasant. Cheap paddles and rentals will have very basic grips designed to just do the job, leaving you with sore hands and blisters. Look for a paddle with a nice contoured shape that feels good in your hands. Pick it up and take some air strokes so you can judge how good the shaft feels as well - too thin or too thick might make for hand cramps. The best part of having your own paddle is that it’ll be free of all those scratches and marks that will cut up your hands after a day’s paddle, because you’re the one taking care of it, and you can even have them fixed - cheaply for you DIY types.

4 - Size matters
Often you may not be able to choose the size of your rented paddle, but even when you have a choice you might find yourself with a bad fit. A poorly fitted paddle can make you bend at the torso during your stroke, making you shift your weight unnecessarily for an unstable and uncomfortable ride. One measuring technique is to check the paddle’s height up to your chin. Unfortunately, this only works for one type (size) of blade. It’s the paddle’s shaft that’s important. The other more common method is to hold the paddle over your head, checking for your arms resting at right angles. This might be a better way to measure, but you still might not be happy with the size of your paddle. The best size will be the one that meets your paddling style. Some like to reach out further, some sit lower or tilted in the canoe. Try out some different sizes and see what makes you more comfortable and stable. 

5 - As special and unique as you are
Recently, when my friends and I were choosing new paddle styles, I took it rather seriously. I spent hours deciding on what size and style I needed. After I finally decided, I asked what made one friend choose his. Turns out, choosing between two similar types, he simply chose the cooler looking one - a completely valid deciding factor. Paddles have all kinds of looks with all kinds of options. You can get paddles in all kinds of colours and stains, in unique woods, with special logos, imprints and even custom paint jobs. 

Bonus - The Connection
There are some that can look at their paddle, show you each and every scratch and tell you a great story about where it happened and why. The first paddle I owned came from a friend who took great care with his, and  insisted I take it, with all the stories attached to it. I was lucky to find it was exactly the right size. Sure, it had been worn in for me, but I soon knew every nook and cranny. It felt perfect in my hand, and it moved the water just right. It was like that old t-shirt you love because it fits you just right. This paddle had been many places, and maybe I was imagining it all, but after all its travels it felt like the paddle was guiding me. 

And that, is why you want your own paddle.

Written by Preston (& Nancy) Ciere [of www.portaguer.ca] for Badger's Blog, August 2011.

Thanks to these two adventurers for
sharing their insights on the benefits
of paddle ownership.

Thanks again to Preston, that guy in the stern, for keeping the canoe so steady so Nancy could look great in so many photos! Plus another big thanks to them both for compiling such a great list of resources and information for paddlers and campers on their website. If you are thinking of doing a wilderness canoe trip, looking for the straight up goods on an Ontario park route, camper's tips and tricks, or how to prepare for your very first real canoe trip, then be sure to add www.portageur.ca to your list of favourites - 'cause you are going to want to visit this website more then once. You can also follow Preston (portageur_ca) on Twitter, "friend" Nancy, or find portageur.ca on Facebook. And if you happen to meet up with Nancy and Preston on the trail one day, be sure to tell them Badger says "Woof ". (Don't worry - Nancy will know what it means... even if Preston isn't too sure! *wink*)

Note: Comments and opinions of our guest bloggers do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of Badger Paddles and are the expressed writings of the "guest" only. All content has been published on Badger's Blog with permission of it's author and is original to the guest writer. All copyright inquiries should be directed to the guest writer/blogger where necessary.

The Fat Paddler: A Badger Book Review

Every Man Has A Story....

I remember watching an episode of the now defunct Oprah Winfrey Show where the premise of the installment was that everybody has a story to tell. Some more exciting then others, but interesting none-the-less. Oprah had an illustration board of her audience member's seating chart on display, and she threw a dart at it randomly choosing the person who's "seat" she hit on the board to tell their life story. By chance she struck upon a man who had narrowly escaped a war torn country as a child and later immigrated to the U.S.A. when he was a young man and continued his education, on his own, to become a Doctor. It was an unusual story, one that received many oooo's and aaaahhh's from the audience. Reading the newly released book, The Fat Paddler, reminded me of the hypothesis I witnessed on Oprah's show that day. But this time, Fate threw a dart and the incredible bullseye story is, indeed, Sean Smith's.

I have never met Sean in person but have been following his escapades, on his ever popular blog The Fat Paddler, for sometime now - with one of my favourite adventures consisting of a hefty secret agent man being chased down by an irate security guy for getting too close to the Plastiki during a "Stealth Paddle". So in his own way, Sean, had already been receiving a fair share of oooo's and aaahhh's from his own audience thru his online journal (FatPaddler.com) detailing his life's expedition as a big but encouraging man with a number of paddles and boats at his disposal.

The Fat Paddler Book by Sean Smith
A larger then life tale of recovery and inspiration!

So when the Fat Paddler (Sean Smith) announced that a book was coming out, I was keen to get my paws on one as soon as I was able. When it finally happened this past week, I excitedly cracked open my copy to find an unexpected and deeply moving tale that was full of honesty, humour and other significant messages. And while I was used to finding myself laughing out loud at Sean's words, I was surprised to find my eyes welling up with tears - on more then one occasion - entranced by his poetical ways, impacted by his ability to evoke such an emotional response from the reader. To be honest, I had a hard time putting the book down once I had it started. By the end of it, I had a new profound respect for Sean and his beautiful wife, Rebecca - and I wanted to read it again.

Having come awfully close to death on more then one occasion in his life, and living thru it to once again become strong in spirit and fat with personal growth, is a huge testament to Sean's spirit and appetite for life. His expressive descriptions of his true to life global experiences put you right inside of Sean's head, and the way he tells it will have you focused on every word. From two brutal vehicle accidents, to the tragic Bali Bombings of 2002, all the way thru to an Alaskan trip of a lifetime - including a wife and two gorgeous daughters that helped inspire him to become the man he is today - his story is uniquely and excitingly courageous and yet modest at the same time.

 

All in all, Sean's journey to becoming the Fat Paddler, thru much physical and mental adversity, is a story that is sure to inspire the majority of people - not just people who paddle. And while it is definitely laugh out loud funny, with many smiles thru-out, you will most likely come away with your own thoughts stirred and many deeper emotions having been evoked. With Sean's true respect for Love, Family, Nature, Charity, Humour (can't forget Rugby either!), Self Reflection and Life, his tale will be sure to resonate with the masses as, in a number of ways, many of his struggles are our own. Thus, if Oprah was correct and it is indeed true that every person has a story to tell, then Sean's tale is surely of epic proportions... And I'm not just talking about how much he eats or the awesome Fat Paddler's Favourite Recipes section in the back, either!! Tee Hee Hee

Not wanting the book to end, I've already started reading it again.....

To find out how to get your paws on a copy of Sean's book - visit the website: The Fat Paddler Book. To catch up with Sean and his adventures as The Fat Paddler, or to connect with The Fat Paddler online, check out many of the ways to do so below:

www.FatPaddler.com

www.TeamFatPaddler.com

www.facebook.com/FatPaddler

www.twitter.com/FatPaddler

www.twitter.com/FatPaddlerTV

www.vimeo.com/channels/FatPaddlerTV

www.youtube.com/FatPaddler

www.flickr.com/fatpaddler

www.ZenPaddler.com

www.GreenlandPaddlers.com

Fat Paddler Book Review Written by Fiona Westner-Ramsay

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Steve Johnston: Solo Tripping Meets Social Networking (An Oxymoron?)

The following article was written by avid paddler and Badger friend, Steve Johnston. It is entitled: SOLO TRIPPING MEETS SOCIAL NETWORKING (AN OXYMORON?) where Steve gives us his insights on "Facebooking in the forest". This post also marks the first in a series of articles to come from various talented writers with Steve being our very first ever, Guest Blogger!

Guest Badger Blogger, Steve Johnston (Thunder Bay, Canada)

Steve Johnston is an avid paddler who spends much of his free time on the water. He doesn't yet own a Badger Paddle but he would really like to. When he's not paddling you will find him blogging or Facebooking about it. Steve is engaged to be married and is also destined to be the first official Team Fat Paddler representative in Canada. Which he is understandably stoked about! Steve’s main stomping grounds are in the beautiful waters of Lake Superior where many overnighters and longer trips take place.  His long term goal is to explore and camp at as many lakes as possible in Northern Ontario and Minnesota.  You can join Steve’s adventures on Facebook or check out his blog www.northpaddling.blogspot.com

SOLO TRIPPING MEETS SOCIAL NETWORKING (AN OXYMORON?)

Ahhhhh....Solo Tripping, a chance to get away from it all, the traffic, the work, the house, the chores, the people,  the telephone. Wait a minute, back up, the telephone?

Like the popularity of the calculator when it replaced the slide ruler and or abacus, the smartphone is taking the world by storm. While having a mobile device is not necessary to live, living can be made easier by having one.

Never will I advocate that having access to the internet in your pocket is better than preparedness. Mobile technology comes with plenty of limitations. Battery life, reception, weather conditions, or the ability to simply use the device… just to name a few. 

Having a mobile internet device (like an iPad) can be
comforting when going solo into the wilderness.

Having a cell phone or mobile internet device can be very comforting when going solo into the wilderness, so can having a good sense of direction, maps and a compass or GPS.  I had my smartphone with me on my last solo trip and it alerted me that it was too hot to use and had to be cooled down before it would work (much like myself at that time).

Recently in my neck of the woods, the cellular network was expanded so that no matter where I ended up, I had excellent service. I have the ability to play movies or music right from the net. I can play games, download new apps and keep in constant communication with whoever I need to. Which brings us to social networking websites. Some people are for them and some people are dead against them. I will sum up my thoughts about that very quickly. Social networking allows me to organize ( and waste ) my free time.  If I want company on a paddle, all I have to do is post where and when and people will show up. The key word is sharing. I love to share all the fun that I am having with as many people as I can.

One of Steve's extra paddles stays protected in a Badger Paddle Sock.

I belong to a couple of paddling communities here in Thunder Bay, Ontario. For each, there is a "group" on Facebook. New paddlers are joining the groups daily and looking for fellow paddlers to paddle with, do some tripping and/or learn new skills. There is a very strong sense of camaraderie amongst the paddlers both new and old.  Pictures and videos are posted from most events so that everyone can re-live their adventures. This is what seems to "drive the machine" for a lot of paddlers I know. It inspires them as they realize "Hey, I could do that!"

Steve looks relaxed & comfortable with his feet up on deck.

On the flip side, a lot of people are addicted to social networks, spending hours updating their status, posting photos and videos, sharing links and playing games.  As a social media commando, one often feels it is very important to be the fastest, sharpest or wittiest commenter out there in cyberspace. If you find yourself relating to this, you are missing out on the beauty that you came out to enjoy in the first place.

I use social networking sites for practical purposes as well as entertainment.

For example; THE TICK

Up until a few weeks ago, I'd never seen a tick. All of a sudden, I had to remove seven of the little nasties off me. I was a little nervous (ok a lot nervous) about the whole thing, having heard the most horrible terrifying stories about the deadly diseases they carry, so I posted my plight on Facebook. Within minutes, I found out the type of tick, and the many various ways of removing them along with a few jokes at my expense.  Even though I was in the middle of nowhere and a half day paddle back to my car, I knew I was going to be just fine.

Thanks to some Facebook Friends, Steve's mind was put to ease
so he was able to relax and enjoy his trip after removing
7 "nasties" (a.k.a. ticks) from his own skin while out solo.

So, assuming that you have the time, space and battery power to bring your social network with you..... I say "Why NOT"?

Written by Steve Johnston (of northpaddling.blogspot.com) for Badger's Blog, July 2011.

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A special thanks to Steve, from our whole Badger sett, for taking time out of his busy paddling schedule to accept our invitation to be a guest writer on Badger's Blog and for giving us his thoughtful (and entertaining) insights on the ways that mobile technology is changing the way we are exploring the out-of-doors. If you would like to be a guest writer on Badger's Blog, please contact us by email.

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Note: Comments and opinions of our guest bloggers do not necessarily represent or reflect the views of Badger Paddles and are the expressed writings of the "guest" only. All content has been published on Badger's Blog with permission of it's author and is original to the guest writer. All copyright inquiries should be directed to the guest writer/blogger where necessary.

Badger Paddles' Tip of the Week - Think Of Your PFD Like A Bra

Badger Paddles' Tip of the Week includes information on paddling, camping, portaging, boat transport, and maintenance tips, as well as any other information that we may find to be useful around our sett.
This week's tip is pretty obvious. And it's really more of a reminder then a tip, but here is is: WEAR YOUR PFD***! Hey, we told you it was obvious! But with so many people drowning in canoe, kayak and other boating accidents every year, it is also obvious that not enough of us are getting the message.

When out on the water, too many unpredictable circumstances can develop (such as getting cramps or not being able to swim because of very cold water, or even a serious head injury) so it is really important to remember: DON'T JUST BRING IT - PUT IT ON!

Look... whenever you go out in your canoe or kayak*, you really should wear your lifejacket. We know, we know.... not all of you want to... neither do we at times. But, really, it's not so bad! In fact, wearing a lifejacket or Personal Floatation Device (PFD) is a lot like wearing a bra!

So How is a PFD Like a Bra**?
•First off, just like a brassiere, a PFD or lifejacket must be fitted properly to do it's job right. And it really doesn't work if you don't do it up and wear it correctly!

•At one time in history, bras were limited in colour choices (boring beige or white) as were lifejackets (bright orange, anyone?). But both today's bra styles and PFD choices are limitless in the number of colour choices and designs available for numerous types of activities.

•Back in the day, bras, corsets (and yep! Lifejackets too!) were big, ugly, and pretty uncomfortable. However, with modern technological advances, both the bra and the life jacket have come a long way. Brassieres and PFD's are cut and styled for more comfort now, are more lightweight and technically advanced.

•Just like life jackets, there are rules and different bra styles for various occasions. Buying a PFD for whitewater kayaking is different then shopping for a life vest for a fisherman/woman - just as you wouldn't buy a jogging bra to wear with a strapless dress!

Unlike the old orange Life Preservers of the past,
today's Life Jackets are much more technical with
many added safety features and specifications
like this North Water Pro System Rescue PFD.

•As with a bra, when it comes to PFD's, it seems most men don't like wearing one! (In Canada, 90% of boaters succumbing to drowning were male and 78% of those who drowned in boating incidents were not wearing a lifejacket or PFD at the time of the incident). But we know that there are men who wear them.... and yes, that goes for both bras and PFD's!!!

•Just like a good brassiere, a good life jacket must be washed with care, usually by hand.

•Interestingly enough, and for the Clifford C. Clavin in all of us,  Playtex and PFD's are more originally alike then one would think. The inventor of spandex and owner of Playtex supplied materials for the war effort in World War Ⅱ. When the war ended, apparently the company used the materials developed for life jackets (yep! lifejackets!) for other purposes, particularly for intimate apparel and other garments such as girdles and bras (yep! bras!). (Source: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Playtex)

•A bra and/or lifejacket is a personal fit. If you gain or lose the right (or wrong!) amount of weight, this could render your bra or PFD as unsuitable. Make sure your life jacket (and brassiere, if applicable!) is sized properly and is appropriate for the chosen activity.

•Let's face it, as most ladies would know, when you first put on your brassiere - or lifejacket - you become very aware of it. But once you get used to it, you don't even think about it anymore. And once it becomes your routine, you may even feel a bit weird WITHOUT it!

•"And, just like a bra, wearing one should be voluntary, not mandatory." From Daniel Pike, a paddling dad from Ontario. Good one, Daniel! Very funny!!!

•For some women, they must wear a bra for support and to help prevent back pain. For EVERYONE, wearing a lifejacket could help prevent death.

Hey - don't think we are too weird for coming up with this correlation as we are obviously not the first to put the idea of brassieres and life vests together. The "Bay Watch" bikini life jacket concept by Bernstrand & Co. certainly takes the idea of bras & PFDs as far as it could ever go! (Source: http://gizmodo.com/) However, something about it's design makes us think it probably isn't Canadian Coast Guard Approved!!!

Image source:
http://www.made-in-england.org/bikini-life-jacket/

Now for the REALLY serious stuff: 
According to www.redcross.ca, over one half of all recreational boating drownings, in Canada, occurred in lakes. About 39% of drowning victims were fishing from a boat or canoe and another 9% were canoeing. And another Canadian Red Cross study covering 15 years of boating deaths in Canada (1991 to 2006), stated it was found that of 2,232 people who drowned or died of hypothermia, only 12% were wearing a life jacket properly. And out of the 94% of Canadians who drowned, 90% of these boaters were found NOT wearing a lifejacket. Those are some scary statistics!

Too many of us think that we can find our lifejacket in an emergency and put it on if we fall into the water. But we aren't being realistic. With pre-existing health problems like low blood pressure or a sudden heart attack, an unexpected head injury, or even just the shock of cold water, could make it extremely difficult for anyone to follow thru with this plan. Already having your lifejacket on BEFORE you end up in the water will definitely make it easier for you to rescue yourself or, at least, be more able to remain floating until someone else can find and help rescue you if needed.

REMEMBER: DON'T JUST BRING IT - PUT IT ON! IT'S NOT ANY WORSE THEN HAVING TO WEAR A BRA, AFTER ALL! And remember fellas, if us girls can do it... then you can too!!!

*There are circumstances where wearing a PDF is not considered mandatory (i.e. racing)

**Because not all who paddle have worn a brassiere in their lifetime (although let's face it - there are a lot more men who have had on a bra for a lark then who would be willing to admit!), we felt we should explain ourselves more....

***Note: PFD, Life Jacket and Life Vest all refer to a Canadian Coast Guard Approved Personal Floatation Device for the purposes of this article.

Do you have any tips to share? Send us your tips and paddling advice - and if your tip is featured here - we will send you a free Badger Paddles sticker!!! All you have to do is email us your suggestions.

Badger Paddles' Tip of the Week - Increase Your Chance of Observing Wildlife

Badger Paddles' Tip of the Week includes information on paddling, camping, portaging, boat transport, and maintenance tips, as well as any other information that we may find to be useful around our sett.


"You have to do what you can, do your best with what you are. And you have to believe in wilderness. If you do that you can’t go wrong." – Kirk Albert Walter Wipper


Increasing Your Chances Of Viewing Wildlife In Their Natural Habitat:
Growing up spending summer holidays interior camping in Algonquin Park with my parents, I (Fiona) had the opportunity to view lots of fauna in their natural habitat. Over the years we have had the pleasure (and luck) to view many a Black Bear, Moose, Deer, Fox, Rabbit, Raccoon, and many other forest creatures as well as the Loon, Wood Ducks, Turkey Vultures, Eagles, Ravens, Heron, Grouse, Mink, and more. Some of these creatures we happened upon unwittingly and to the surprise of all parties involved. Others we waited for hours to see, tucked away in our boats in the swamp of some back bay. If you are wanting to see wildlife on your trip into any wilderness region, the following tips will definitely help to increase your chance of success... so get your camera ready!

Not far from our campsite, we found a small snake den.

Time of Day:
Although it is possible to spot an animal at 2 in the afternoon, it is much more likely have success if you watch for wildlife at dawn and at dusk. I cannot remember all the countless evenings, and the very early hours after dawn, when we sat in a swamp, not uttering a word (sometimes giggling either from the boredom of the silent wait - or my Grandfather's soft snoring - which really annoyed my Grandmother). And so we waited... and waited... and waited for some creature... any creature... to come to to water's edge from the dark and silent forest. Thankfully, we were rewarded many times for our efforts. And in my impressionable youth, I was altered by each and every experience in some small way. A love for the wilderness was really getting deep into my blood.

Scanned picture of old photo of a moose
(from Fiona's younger years). Taken at dusk.

Be Quiet, Be Still, Be Patient:
At a place like Algonquin Park, if you sit quietly in a small bay (or even at your campsite) for 15 to 20 minutes, you will have a much better chance of spotting a wild bird or mammal. You will also realize just how loud and hungry those mosquitoes can sound! But remember: no sudden movements. Even to lift your arm to scratch your nose can make noise that an animal can hear (clothing brushing against itself). Try to keep all movement and sound to a minimum and speak in whispers if possible. If the animal doesn't notice you at first, enjoy the moment. Because as soon as you click that camera or cause any motion or other disturbance, they will be aware of your presence - and therefore change their behaviour (or most likely move away from the area and you).

This grouse thinks he is still camouflaged by his surroundings.

Location, Location, Location:
In Algonquin, it is not unheard of seeing a moose or bear* walk right thru your camp site. But you will probably increase your chances by finding a bog, field or shoreline to follow. Animals go were people go. Explore beyond your campsite, walk a trail, portage, or old logging road and you will see lots of signs of animals because animals use the same trails as we do. If you see an animal while you are driving, remember to stop and pullover off the road (there is no need to block traffic or create a dangerous situation for other drivers). As for more natural environments,  meadows or flat low lying wet areas like swamps or muskegs, are great places to watch for wildlife. When you paddle, staying close to shorelines is also a great tip or choose to do a river. In larger Ontario parks, don't be surprised if you spot a beaver, martin or even a little mink along the shore. We have!

Swamps and wetlands are prime locations for wildlife.

Bionic Eyes:
This tip is to remind you to bring binoculars. You will be thankful to get an extra close up view of the wildlife without invading their space - they will linger longer if you respect them from a distance. Note: it is possible that a camera's zoom feature will also let you see more detail.

Herons are shy and amazingly prehistoric looking.

Converse with a Local Outfitter or Old Boy:
Talking with a popular and knowledgable Outfitter, like Algonquin Outfitters, or an Old Boy**, can give you a great window into the best places to view the regional wildlife. For example, they can tell you things like how: "Fill In Name Here" Trail has lots of deer at a particular time of the year; or "Fill In Name Here" Lake has plenty of moose in the back east bay after the first inlet; or even that Highway gets lots of moose along the road side in the Spring licking the salt from the winter roads, etc., etc.

Algonquin Outfitters is a perfect example of a local resource
for local wildlife viewing tips and best locations for success.

The Bigger, The Better:
When there is a larger habitat left intact, there is a much better chance of spotting a wildlife. Larger parks or conservations areas are better then smaller ones. And usually, the deeper the route takes you into the interior of a large park, the less people and the more wildlife you will encounter. In the years that we have been wilderness camping, we have countless memories of many a bear, sometimes even with cubs, and deer with their young too. We have seen a loon fight an innocent but confused wayward moose to drive it away from it's nest. We have witnessed deer drink by the shore's edge and disappear the moment they noticed we were there. We have watched moose dive for it's food at the bottom of a lake. We've seen families of ducks, loons and even some mice. We have watched a bear swim from one island to the next in search of food. We have been surrounded by a swarm of Tiger Swallow Tail butterflies and watched a fox romp playfully thru a field. We have accidentally startled sleeping bears at Captain Dennison's old farm on Opeongo (Algonquin) and have been shocked into fright by countless partridge on numerous portages. We have heard a jackrabbit scream and the cries of a wolf pack. We have seen snakes, frogs, crayfish and some crazy big leaches. We've had a bear drag it's body down the length of the tent we were sleeping in on Tea Lake (Algonquin) and have even experienced that moose that walks thru campsites. We've watched beaver work and otters play. My father (a.k.a. Poppa Badger) has even been lucky enough to actually see the elusive wolf. Most, if not all of these events, took place in large parks and conservation areas like Algonquin, Temagami, and Quetico.

A doe and fawn by the water's edge.

Luck Be A Lady:

In the end, you will also need a little bit of luck. You won't always be successful. More often then not, you will come away without a close-up wildlife experience even if you do everything right. But don't give up. In my personal opinion, one of the most pleasurable experiences about canoeing and camping - in most parts of Canada - is being able to view and co-exist with the local wildlife. Seeing a moose, unaware, tromp down to the shore edge of a bog, and make his way into the water walking thru the deep mud without a struggle, is a surprisingly exhilarating experience. One you will never forget. And if you follow these tips, you too, may be lucky (like we have been) and will experience many chances to see wildlife in their natural habitat, enjoying their existence as the free creatures they were born to be.

Fiona was so inspired by her wildlife encounters that she took to painting

wilderness scenes on canoe paddles when she was in her late teens.

See more examples of her work here: Badger Paddle Art Gallery

Do you have any tips to share? Send us your tips and paddling advice - and if your tip is featured here - we will send you a free Badger Paddles sticker!!! All you have to do is email us your suggestions.


*It is also not unheard of to have a bear visit your camp in the middle of the night to pilfer your edibles if he/she can. Never try to attract animals with food. And don't try to domesticate any critters by teaching them to feed from your hand. Keep your supplies in a smell proof container and make your site as bear/critter proof as is possible. 

** An "Old Boy", as Mike refers to them, is a euphemism for an older gentleman who is known to be a long time resident and who has years (and years) of local knowledge and interesting (and not so interesting) facts about the area. Old Boys can often be lured into a conversation with the offer of a cold beer.