Boundary Waters Quetico Forum :: Gear Forum :: Throw bags
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ZIMTLSA |
Ok, now that I have your attention and maybe a song stuck in your head, I have a little PSA for you. Two weeks ago I was on a day paddle trip with a group, and after like 25 years, I finally used a piece of equipment that I haul around with me. A rescue throw bag. I am not a "whitewater" paddler so I don't think I have ever seen another paddler carrying one on any of my excursions. I have done paddling up to class IV but most of my paddling is on lakes and local rivers with up to maybe class II. A person I was with got turned on the river and the boat pinned against a rock and filled with water. They had no luck getting the boat off on their own with 250+ pound of water in the boat and the river pushing against it. I was able to paddle back up to them and throw the bag to them to tie on. I was able to get on shore and between the two of us we were able to get the boat unpinned. Not saying this was a perfect "rescue", but no one was put at additional risk in the water and we were able to get the boat and the paddler back to a safe situation thanks to that bag I have been hauling around for 25+ years. So this is just an FYI for fellow people who like the outdoors to think about their equipment. I always bring a spare paddle regardless if I am canoeing or kayaking. These bags can also be used for ATV, snowmobiling, hiking, etc. Stay safe out there and enjoy God's creation. |
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Freeleo1 |
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Catrina |
We don't run rapids in the wilderness. Better to carry. I don't carry a throw bag but I do always have a rope attached to the front of the boat. My first aid kit is in a fanny pack. All of the supplies are in ziploc bags so if I need a throw bag I quickly dump the contents. stick the dry box that I keep my camera inside (I take that out too) so that it floats, clip to the rope and throw that. I have only needed it once in 40 years and that was when I stupidly shoved off in my solo in a wind and left my paddle on shore. I was able to throw it around a tree. Catrina |
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LaVirginienne |
Looks like my floating line from Atlantic Rigging (shipment delayed now over a month) will just barely make it in time for my upcoming trip. I’m grateful to folks here for focusing me on this useful addition to my equipment this season. |
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ockycamper |
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straighthairedcurly |
The sad part about that story is the group leader was the only one with any BWCA experience. Everyone else was a first timer. The leader was the one that told them running the rapids would be easy. The 2 women who pinned were very freaked out by the experience. We calmed them down and advised them that portages are there for a reason and suggested they be very cautious about the advise of their leader. Say no if ever uncomfortable. Fortunately no one was hurt badly, just bumps and bruises, but I worried that their 1st trip might have been their last. |
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deerfoot |
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