1. Always Wear a PFD

For all kayakers, the use of a Personal Flotation Device (PFD) is non-negotiable. Just like a seatbelt in your vehicle, it might feel unnecessary—until it isn’t. PFD's save lives. Always wear it, even in calm or shallow water. If comfort is an issue, invest in a paddling-specific PFD, and know that there are PFDs designed to accommodate different types of kayaks. For example, some paddling PFDs will have little flotation, or no flotation in the back, to accommodate the high-back seats that quality recreational kayaks often have. If you're looking for a paddling specific PFD, I'm a big fan of NRS lifejackets.

2. Use Your Paddle Properly

One of the most common mistakes beginner kayakers make is using the paddle incorrectly. Make sure the cupped (concave) side of the blade faces you. If they do so, then the Logos should be upright and readable on the blade. If they're not, it means your blades are on the wrong side of the kayak, and you need to rotate the paddle 180-degrees. Your hand placement should be slightly more than shoulder width apart, with your hands an equal distance from the blades. To test your hand placement, put your paddle on your head. This should create a 90° angle at your elbows. When you're paddling, you should maintain a light and relaxed grip on the paddle.

Some paddles will have drip rings on each end. if yours does, position the drip rings a hand’s width from the blades. This will prevent water from running off the blade, down the paddle shaft to your hands, where it will then drip onto your lap.

Another consideration is the feather, or twist of your paddle. This refers to the angle difference between the two blades. There is no right or wrong when it comes to paddle feather. I would recommend using anything between a 0 and 45° twist. Most quality 2-piece kayak paddles let you modify the twist of the paddle.

Choosing the right paddle length is key to comfort and efficiency. Read an article about Kayak Paddle Size and Length.

3. Power Your Strokes with Torso Rotation

Strong arms help—but your core should do the heavy lifting. Many beginner kayakers underestimate the value of torso rotation. Rotate your torso with each stroke to maximize power and reduce fatigue. This technique also improves control and allows you to paddle longer with less strain.

Check out my tips to learn the three kayaking strokes that form the foundation for good paddling technique.

4. Prepare for a Capsize

Capsizing happens—even to the best of us. Beginner kayakers should stay within swimming distance of shore unless they’ve learned how to reenter a kayak from the water. it's also critical that you dress for the water temperature, not just the air temperature. Below 65°F/18°C? You’ll want to consider a wetsuit, dry suit or other technical paddling apparel to help prevent hypothermia. For more information, PaddleTV offers a detailed video on the gear you should consider when paddling in cold conditions.

If you're paddling in warm water, and on bodies of water that are protected from strong wind and waves, then you don't NEED to take a paddling course. But, the American Canoe Association does have a free Paddlesports Online Safety Course that is worth it for all beginner kayakers. If you want to explore more broadly with your kayak, it is highly recommended that you take a kayak safety and rescue course.

5. Know Your Limits as a Kayaker

Accidents happen when paddlers overestimate their skills. Beginner kayakers should be honest about their fitness and experience, and they should know about their kayak’s capabilities. Sit-on-top kayaks are safer overall because they won't swamp. On the other hand, sit-inside models tend to perform better, but they need proper flotation like bulkheads or float bags in order to be safe if you're going to travel further from shore than you can comfortably swim.

Make the Most of These 5 Rules

Stick to these five golden rules—wear your PFD, use your paddle correctly, engage your torso, be ready for a capsize, and know your limits—and you’ll steer clear of the most common beginner hazards. Beginner kayakers will find kayaking safe and fun—if they respect the water, their gear, and their own limitations.

For more in-depth tips and gear reviews, check out Ken Whiting’s videos on Paddle TV. Paddle safe—and have fun out there!

The post 5 Golden Rules Beginner Kayakers MUST Know appeared first on Hazeadventure.

Here are some tips, drawn from my real-life travel experiences in places like Scotland and Costa Rica, on how to stay safe and smart when hiking or backpacking abroad.

Travel Accident Insurance

Accidents happen. Whether it's an injury, illness, or an emergency evacuation, having solid travel accident insurance is essential. When we are filming our TV show, Epic Trails, we use a company called Redpoint Travel Protection, which offers tiered travel accident insurance for different types of travellers, from casual tourists to hardcore adventurers who need high risk travel insurance.

• Travel Accident Insurance providers can cover medical evacuations, hospital bills, and trip disruptions for backpacking trips overseas.
• Travel Accident Insurance is a small price for peace of mind, especially if your domestic insurance doesn’t apply overseas.

Food and Water Safety

Your gut biome is familiar with the food and water at home, and even if the local fare is technically safe, it might not sit well with your system. To stay healthy:

• Bring a Water Filter: I recommend products like the HydraPak filter bottle or the classic LifeStraw. Read a past article about water filters and purifiers. These allow you to filter both natural water sources and questionable tap water.
• Carry Emergency Food: Even if you're planning to eat in towns, always pack some dehydrated meals and a small camp stove. Plans change, and local food availability can be unpredictable.

Don’t deny yourself the fun of trying new foods—but you do want to take care of yourself, because nothing’s worse than being sick in the middle of nowhere.

Wilderness First Aid Training

A Wilderness First Aid (WFA) course can be a literal lifesaver. These certifications teach you how to treat injuries, illnesses, and emergencies when you’re far from help.

• Certifications expire Many of the lessons stay with you!
• Wilderness First Aid Training and Courses available by American Red Cross or the one made available by NOLS.
• Create a list of first aid items to pack in a travel first aid kit, get advice from a BackpackingTV video about Backpcking First Aid Kit Basics.

You’ll learn a lot about keeping yourself and others alive and okay in the wilderness.

Money and Communication Preparedness

You can’t get food or water—or much else—without money.

• Carry local currency. Don’t rely solely on your credit or debit card. Machines fail, banks block foreign transactions, and card usage could become unavailable.
• Plan your phone usage. International roaming charges can pile up fast. Check your carrier’s travel plan options, or consider buying a local SIM card for longer trips.
• Don’t forget your adapters! Different countries = different outlets. A universal adapter can save your phone—and your trip.

Navigation and Getting Un-Lost

In many countries, trail systems don’t work like the long, well-marked routes we’re used to in North America. You may find fewer signs, more road crossings, or even confusing town-to-town segments.

• Carry a physical map if one is available. Watch a video about hiking maps vs hiking apps.
• Use GPS apps like AllTrails or OnX. With premium versions, you can download maps for offline use. GPS works even without cell service. Read my review of AllTrails+ vs Strava vs OnX.
• Watch a video guide to the region. For example here is a video guide to Scotland's West Highland Way or check out my video guide to George Washington and Jefferson National Forest.
• Travel Accident Insurance can cover extractions in the mountains or other high risk areas, check out Ripcord by Redpoint Travel Protection.

This can point you in the right direction even if you don’t have service—which is going to be an issue in many, many places.

Visit a Travel Clinic

Before you head out, visit a travel clinic to get up-to-date on necessary vaccines and medications based on your destination.

• Info on local disease outbreaks can be found at Travel Clinics.
• Travel Clinics recommend vaccines like tetanus or flu.
• Malaria Pills or other prescriptions. They may also prescribe pills to prevent diseases like malaria if you're headed to high-risk areas.

Know the Nearest Hospital

This is one of the most overlooked parts of international travel safety:

• Research the nearest hospitals or clinics to your trailhead or destination.
• Save their names, addresses, and phone numbers to your phone and on a physical emergency card in your pack.
• Give the Info to everyone, If you're traveling with others, make sure they also know where to go in an emergency.
• Travel accident insurance policies can cover medical expenses so be sure to check the policy before you travel.

Backpacking and Touring Internationally

International backpacking is an incredible way to experience the world—but it’s not without its risks. With a little preparation, travel accident insurance, the right gear, and the right mindset, you can minimize those risks and focus on what really matters: the adventure!

Even though your certification might run out… some lessons stick with you—and I’m extremely grateful for that.

Redpoint Travel Protection is a sponsor of BackpackingTV. And we couldn't be happier about it because whether we're exploring the backcountry or traveling the world, reliable insurance is a must. 

Redpoint offers three tiers of coverage, but our audience will want to take a good look at the Ripcord package. It applies to “remote destinations with limited communications or medical facilities.” In other words, backpacking adventures!

The post Travel Accident Insurance, Food & Water, First Aid | Tips to Stay Safe Backpacking Internationally! appeared first on Hazeadventure.

If you’re after walleye, especially during those warm mid-to-late summer days, there’s one simple, tried-and-true method that stands out, bottom bouncing. It’s not just effective; it’s one of the most relaxing fishing tips for catching walleye.

When summer settles over the Ottawa Valley, there’s no better way to spend a leisurely afternoon than drifting across the calm waters of Muskrat Lake. Located near Cobden, Ontario, this scenic gem offers anglers a peaceful escape and plenty of opportunities for easy fishing. Let me give you some tips for catching summer walleye.

Bottom Bouncing is the Best Summer Hack  

Let’s face it: not every fishing trip needs to be intense or technical. Sometimes, it’s about enjoying the breeze, the quiet, and letting your line do the work. Bottom bouncing for summer walleye is as effortless as it gets.

Instead of casting and retrieving all day, you simply drag a weight along the lakebed while your spinner rig flutters behind it. The motion does the work; you just troll slowly, sip a cold drink, and keep your rod tip ready for that telltale tap-tap of a hungry walleye.

It’s the perfect blend of easy fishing and effective technique—especially when those late summer fish head deeper but are still on the hunt for a meal.

Walleye Bottom Bouncer Setup

You don’t need a tackle shop’s worth of gear to get started. Here's what works best for walleye fishing in Muskrat Lake during the warmer months:

Rod & Reel: A medium-action rod (spinning or baitcasting) that is sensitive enough to feel the weight on the bottom but strong enough for solid hooksets.

Weight: Use a bottom bouncer weight between 1 and 2 oz, with 1.5 oz often working well at troll speeds of 1–1.5 mph on Muskrat Lake.

Harness: A crawler harness with a spinner blade. Colors that perform well in Muskrat's summer water include chartreuse, orange, and gold. Tip it with a live nightcrawler (or a soft plastic if you prefer a fully relaxed approach).

Bonus Tip: Use quick-change clevises so you can swap blade colors without needing to retie—more fishing, less fiddling.

Walleye Fishing in Late Summer

As summer heats up the surface, walleye tend to head deeper in search of cooler water, but they remain hungry and active.

Target Depths

The sweet spot in Muskrat Lake in the summer is between 18 to 30 feet.

Structure to Look for and Troll along for Walleye

•   Drop-offs
•   Weed edges
•   Sunken humps
•   Rock piles

These spots attract baitfish, which in turn attracts walleye.

Walleye Water Temperature

Walleye are most comfortable around 68–72°F. Use a fish finder or thermometer to scout for cooler layers.

Speed & Angle

Troll slowly at 1–1.5 mph. Keep your line at a 45° angle; if you’re not tapping bottom, adjust your speed or weight. This technique is not just easy fishing; it’s smart fishing.

Walleye Fishing at Muskrat Lake

Muskrat Lake is a great fishing spot for walleye, is located in Cobden, Ontario. Muskrat Lake offers everything you want for a relaxing fishing trip:

• A healthy walleye population
• Varied structure and depths
• Less fishing pressure than some larger lakes

Whether you’re launching from the boat ramp or exploring the eastern points, this lake provides ideal conditions for relaxing fishing all summer long. And let’s be honest: nothing beats watching the water sparkle while your rig quietly rolls along the bottom—followed by the delightful tap-tap of a fish on the line!

Sun, Serenity & Summer Walleye  

Walleye fishing in mid to late summer doesn’t have to be complicated. In fact, it’s best when it’s simple. Bottom bouncing on Muskrat Lake is the perfect excuse to unwind, unplug, and enjoy nature—with the bonus of bringing home a few delicious fillets.

So, next time you're planning a fishing trip in summer to catch walleye, remember: all you need is a bottom bouncer, a spinner harness, and a little sunshine. The walleye will take care of the rest.

Read another article about fishing tips for bass using a wacky rig by Jameson Redding from Road Trip Angler.

The post Walleye Fishing Tips for Summer appeared first on Hazeadventure.

Nestled at the southern tip of the Baja California Peninsula, Baja California Sur is a vibrant destination that offers a perfect blend of adventure, relaxation, and cultural experiences. Whether you're looking for pristine beaches, underwater wonders, or historic towns, Baja California Sur has something for everyone. But beyond its well-known coastal attractions, this region is also a paradise for hikers and nature enthusiasts. Let's delve into some of the best hiking trails in Baja California Sur and explore the diverse landscapes that make this area a haven for outdoor adventurers.

Arrival in Loreto

Upon arrival, you will be greeted by the warm and welcoming atmosphere of this historic town. Enjoy a quick lunch at the La Mision Hotel, savoring the fresh, local flavors that set the tone for the trip.

After checking into the hotel and enjoying lunch, embark on a mini-tour of Loreto City, enjoying beautiful views of the town’s quaint streets and historic buildings. The evening is capped off with a delicious dinner at La Mision Hotel, offering a perfect blend of relaxation and culinary delight.

Exploring Loreto's Rich History and Natural Beauty

The morning starts with breakfast and coffee at the hotel, ensuring an early start to the day’s activities. Dive into the rich history of Loreto. The recommended tour includes a visit to the Loreto Mission, the local museum, and the stunning marine national park.

After a hearty lunch in town, travel north to Eco Tours Las Tres Vírgenes (LTV), a three-hour journey that takes them through the breathtaking landscapes of Baja California. Upon arrival, settle into their cabins and enjoy a peaceful dinner at the Eco Tours LTV restaurant.

Adventure at Las Tres Vírgenes

Breakfast is a quick affair, possibly sourced from the nearby town of Mulegé the day before or from Eco Tours LTV restaurant. The pinnacle of today’s adventure is a 12-hour hike up the Las Tres Vírgenes Volcano. The journey is not just a test of endurance but a spiritual experience, as you camp overnight under the stars, surrounded by the serene wilderness.

From Volcanic Peaks to Historic Missions

After breakfast at the LTV cabins, check out and head to the Mission Santa Rosalía de Mulegé, a historic site nestled about an hour and twenty minutes away. Spend the day touring Mulegé, exploring its beautiful beaches and enjoying lunch by the sea.

The journey back to Loreto is peaceful and reflective. Check back into Hotel Mision for a restful evening.

Coronados Island and Sea Lion Encounters

The day begins with a meeting at the Blue Whale monument, where you pick up breakfast and gear for the day’s adventures. The highlight is a trip to Coronados Island, where they hike to the top of the island in Parque Nacional Bahía de Loreto, offering stunning views of the surrounding waters.

After lunch, indulge in a water activity, snorkeling with playful sea lions in the warm afternoon waters. If time permits, a sunset hike on Danzante Island wraps up the day with a golden view over the horizon.

Paddling and Canyon Hikes

The morning starts with a delightful brunch at Nomadico Baja Coffee, a perfect spot to fuel up before a day on the water. Join Paddling South for a kayaking tour in Bahía Concepción, navigating the calm waters and enjoying the vibrant marine life. After a day on the water, return to Loreto for a quiet evening at Hotel Mision, reflecting on the day’s adventures and preparing for the next.

Canyon Adventures and History Tours

Head out to the Mezquite Canyon Trail for a wet and wild hike. The trail offers stunning views and refreshing dips in the canyon’s waters. After a packed lunch, head back to Loreto for a history tour, exploring the town’s cultural heritage and ending the day with a dinner at Hotel Mision.

The Oasis of Las Parras

The final day of the week trip to Baja California Sur takes you to the San Javier Mission, about an hour's drive from Loreto. Explore this historic site before heading to Las Parras Oasis for a shorter hike. The highlight is a refreshing dip in the oasis, surrounded by the natural beauty of Baja California Sur. As the sun sets, capture the perfect photos of the summit before heading back to Hotel La Mision in Loreto.

Baja California Sur as a Destination

Baja Sur is a destination that promises unforgettable experiences for every type of traveler. With its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and wide array of activities, it's no wonder this region is a favorite among tourists worldwide. Whether you're a seasoned hiker or a casual adventurer, Baja Sur's diverse trails offer something for everyone. So pack your hiking boots, and explore the natural wonders of this beautiful region.

Special thanks to Visit Baja Sur for sponsoring this travel blog and providing invaluable information on exploring this beautiful region.

The post Baja California Sur Hidden Gems appeared first on Hazeadventure.

First, let me emphasize something important—kayaking is an incredibly safe activity overall. However, like any sport involving nature's elements, it demands respect and preparedness. That's why I'm passionate about sharing these insights; to ensure your time on the water is not just exhilarating but also as safe as possible. I want to give a special shout-out to our partner, the American Canoe Association (ACA). They've been instrumental in promoting paddling safety and education. Check out their paddling course for more great information.

Wear Your PFD (Personal Flotation Device)

Let's start with the basics. Wearing a PFD isn't just a suggestion; it's non-negotiable. As my friend Chad Hoover humorously puts it, “PFD stands for ‘pretty freaking dumb' if you don't wear one.” Whether you're paddling calm waters or braving more challenging conditions, a PFD is your seatbelt on the water—an essential piece of gear that can save your life in unforeseen circumstances.

Dress for Immersion

One of the gravest mistakes paddlers make is not dressing appropriately for immersion. Imagine a warm day on the beach; it's tempting to wear light, cotton clothing. However, when you're paddling and there's a chance of immersion in cold water, cotton becomes your worst enemy. Opt instead for synthetic fabrics like fleece or polypropylene that insulate even when wet, or consider a wetsuit or drysuit for added protection.

Know Your Limits: Distance from Shore and Re-Entry

Another critical point is understanding your capabilities when it comes to re-entering your kayak from the water. Practice re-entry to the kayak, practice this skill in calm conditions before venturing further from shore. It's not just about physical strength; it's about confidence and preparedness for any scenario that might arise.

Respect the Weather

Bad weather can escalate quickly, posing significant risks if you're unprepared and potentially becoming a fatal kayaking mistake. Always check the forecast and be ready to adjust your plans. Never feel compelled to push forward through hazardous conditions; having the ability to wait it out or find shelter can make all the difference.

Awareness of River Hazards

Navigating rivers adds another layer of complexity. Dams and log jams can be lethal if not approached with caution. Avoid low-head dams and steer clear of log jams, especially in high-water conditions where currents are stronger and more unpredictable.

Stay Grounded: Standing in Current

Standing up in fast-moving water might seem harmless, but it can lead to serious accidents. The riverbed is often uneven and can trap your foot, making it impossible to regain stability. Always swim to shallow water before attempting to stand.

Protect Yourself from the Elements

Lastly, don't overlook protection from the sun and heat. Wear a hat, apply sunscreen, and choose clothing that shields you from UV rays. Staying hydrated is equally crucial; invest in reliable water filtration systems if paddling in fresh water.

By being aware of these common pitfalls and taking proactive measures, you can significantly enhance your safety and enjoyment while kayaking. Remember, preparation and knowledge are your best allies on the water.

I want to give a special shout-out to our partner, the American Canoe Association (ACA). They've been instrumental in promoting paddling safety and education. Check out their paddling course for more great information.

For more in-depth tips and insights, subscribe to my PaddleTV YouTube channel, where I cover a wide range of paddling topics and gear reviews. Stay safe, stay prepared, and keep exploring!

Happy paddling,

Ken Whiting

The post Fatal Kayaking Mistakes appeared first on Hazeadventure.

Understanding Open Water

When I talk about open water, I'm referring to those vast, expansive areas like big open bays, inshore flats further from shore, or large lakes. These are places where conditions can change rapidly due to weather, currents, or tidal shifts. It's a different ballgame compared to fishing small farm ponds, smaller lakes, or rivers where you're usually close to shore.

Prepping for the Trip

Launch Points and Weather Conditions

Kayak fishing safety planning starts before you even hit the water. Think about where you'll be launching, the weather conditions, and how you'll communicate with other anglers and people onshore. Always check the wind, tide, and current to ensure you can safely return to your launch point. It's often wise to paddle into the wind or current initially so that when you head back, these elements can help you out.

Float Plan

Just like river fishing, having a Kayak fishing safety float plan is essential. Let someone know where you're putting in, how long you'll be on the water, and your expected return time. This way, if something goes wrong, someone will know to look for you or get in touch.

Buddy System

I always recommend going out with others. Not only does it make it easier to find and catch fish, but it's also crucial for safety. Having someone there to back you up in case of an emergency can make all the difference. If you must go alone, take as many safety precautions as possible.

Safety Gear Essentials

Life Jacket

Always, always, always wear your life jacket. Find one that fits comfortably and is approved by the United States Coast Guard. I prefer the type with built-in flotation rather than relying on inflatable ones, which can fail.

Tools and Communication Devices

• Knife: Attach a knife to your life jacket to cut away any entanglements from rod leashes, paddle leashes, or anchor lines.
• Pliers: Handy for fishing and in case you need to remove a hook from yourself.
• Sounding Device: A simple whistle can alert nearby boats or anglers if you need help.
• Communication Device: Keep your cell phone in a waterproof case on your person. If you're in an area with no cell service, a VHF radio is invaluable. It allows you to communicate with the Coast Guard and receive weather updates.

Proper Clothing

Dress for the water temperature, not just the air temperature. A dry suit or appropriate layers can keep you warm and safe if you end up in the water. Check out my full video on what to wear while kayak fishing for more details.

Handling Unexpected Situations

Navigating Rough Conditions

If you find yourself facing unexpected waves or strong winds, try to go with the waves or directly into them. This reduces the risk of flipping. Sometimes, you may need to take a longer route back to your launch point to avoid the roughest conditions. Remember, it's not always best to head straight for shore; plan your route to stay safe.

Low Seat Position

In rough conditions, lower your seat to improve stability. Keep your center of gravity low and avoid standing up. If you need to reach for something, put your feet in the water and keep your weight centered.

Navigation Tools

Whether it's a compass, your cell phone with maps, or your fish finder with GPS, always have a way to navigate. This helps you keep track of your position and find your way back if visibility is poor.

Practice Makes Perfect

Finally, practice getting back into your kayak if you capsize. Knowing how to right your kayak and climb back in can save your life. Watch my video on how to do this and practice in safe conditions. Once again, I want to give a big shoutout to our partner, the American Canoe Association. The online course is for anyone thinking about getting into paddle sports. Check out the link for the free course!

Stay safe out there, wear your life jacket, and as always, thanks for watching! Happy fishing!

I hope these tips help you stay safe and enjoy your kayak fishing adventures. If you enjoyed this content, be sure to subscribe to Road Trip Angler. Tight lines, everyone!

The post Kayak Fishing Safety Tips for Open Water Adventures appeared first on Hazeadventure.

What is a Wacky Rig?

The wacky rig is a versatile and effective way to present soft plastic baits to fish. Unlike traditional rigs like the Texas Rig or Carolina Rig, which usually pin the bait through one end, the wacky rig involves hooking the soft plastic through its center. This unique presentation creates enticing movements at both ends of the bait, making it an attractive choice for a variety of fish species.

The Right Tools for the Job

To master the wacky rig, you'll need the right tools. Start with a soft plastic bait, such as a stick bait or a stick worm. Popular choices include the Gary Yamamoto Senko or the Z-Man Zinkerz, which naturally sink at a slow rate, delivering a lifelike presentation.

For hooks, consider using a drop shot-style hook. These hooks have a distinct elbow at the bottom, making them ideal for wacky rigging. To enhance the effectiveness of your presentation, employ an O-ring tool. This tool allows you to place an O-ring on the bait, increasing your chances of hooking fish and extending the lifespan of the plastic bait.

Rigging the Wacky Presentation

To rig the wacky presentation, you can follow these steps:

1. Use the O-ring tool to slide an O-ring onto the soft plastic bait, about halfway along its length. Ensure the O-ring is secure. 
2. Simply slide the hook under the O-ring, and you're good to go.
3. With the O-ring in place, your bait is ready for action. The O-ring will sit in the hook's elbow, creating a natural wobble effect as the bait falls through the water.

If you don't have an O-ring tool, you can still rig the bait effectively using a regular drop shot hook. Simply put the hook through the plastic itself. You may want to opt for a wider opening on the hook to increase your hook up ratio. For situations where you want the bait to sink faster, consider using a weighted version of the drop shot-style hook, like the VMC Wacky Jig.

When and Where to Use the Wacky Rig

The wacky rig is a fantastic choice when you're having a tough day on the water and can't seem to get a bite on a moving bait. Here are some tips on when and where to use it:

• Rivers and Lakes: You can use the wacky rig around structures, in deeper waters, or along the banks of rivers or lakes. In rivers, it's effective in eddies or areas with current breaks or seams. It is great for clear water.
• Subtle Bites: The wacky rig often produces subtle bites. Keep a little line tension, and set the hook immediately when you feel a bite or even when you see the line jump. It's important to be attentive as fish might inhale and swallow the entire bait before you know they are there.

Fluorocarbon Line:

Use fluorocarbon line for the wacky rig. It naturally sinks and remains invisible to fish. Light lines, 6 to 15-pound test, are generally sufficient unless you're fishing in heavy cover. I prefer using braid for my main line and a long top shot of fluorocarbon leader. I can see and feel the bite better with the braided line and this results in more hookups.

Experiment and Adapt

Don't be afraid to experiment with different hook styles and soft plastic baits. While the stick worm is the most common choice for wacky rigging, you can try creature baits, jerk shads, flukes, and different types of worms. The key is to find what works best for your fishing style and local conditions.

Conclusion

The wacky rig is a valuable addition to any angler's repertoire. Its unique presentation style can entice a wide range of fish species, making it a go-to technique when other approaches aren't yielding results. With the right tools, rigging techniques, and an understanding of when and where to use it, you'll be well on your way to mastering the wacky rig and increasing your chances of a successful fishing trip.

Braid: Seaguar Smackdown Flash Green
Leader: Seaguar Gold Label Fluorocarbon Leader
Hooks: Gamakatsu Drop Shot hook
Bait: Zman Zinkerz

The post The Wacky Rig appeared first on Hazeadventure.

As parents, we don’t get a break. And there never really will be a break. So, how can we choose to do the hard things while trying to give ourselves a little time off at the same time? Well, here are my top tips for dealing with the mental load. So, hopefully, you can navigate parenthood without running yourself to the ground. 

Schedule and Encourage Alone Time

My first tip is to schedule and encourage alone time for both you and your partner. Personally, my husband and I make sure that each of us gets time to disconnect during the day. We homeschool our kids, and we’re together all day, every day. So it’s really important to us that we each get time away.

Every single day, my husband encourages me to go out for a walk. And the reason is that during that time, I get to break free. On my walk, I am no longer taking full care of the children. And there is nothing that I need to be doing. That time is all about me and my own mental health. So, being able to go out and just be alone really brings down the mental load. 

If you’re not scheduling time for the mental health of the parents, you’re going to feel overwhelmed 24/7. I know that if I don’t schedule my time on a daily basis, I burn out very quickly. And then I have a hard time saying yes to adventure because I've worn myself so thin. 

Remember that you don’t just have to ask your significant other for help. You can ask friends, family members, or people that you think would be a good influence on your children. For us, as we travel a lot, it’s encouraged me to find a few close friends that my kids absolutely love.

I know I can ask these friends to take my kids to give my husband and me some alone time, helping the mental health of the parents. And I know that my kids are in good hands, they love the people that they’re with, and these people will be great influences on them. 

Think About What Makes You Happy

My next tip is to think about what makes you happy. If you’re always doing things for another benefit, for example, if you’re only ever running or walking for the physical benefit and it’s not really filling up your cup, then you need to take a minute and think about what does fill up your cup. 

Doing things that fill up your cup will make the mental load and everything else you’re trying to tackle feel a lot lighter because your cup is now at a point where you can give from it.

Over the years, I’ve learned that I need to make sure that I’m filling up my own cup first, as I can’t fill everyone up everyone else’s if mine isn’t already full. 

Know That It’s Okay to be Overwhelmed

And my third and final tip for good mental health for parents, is to know that it’s okay to feel overwhelmed. It’s really easy to try to think about everything and hold everything at a level or a standard that’s very challenging. So, just recognizing this and recognizing that it’s okay that you’re struggling with it is really powerful.

Often, people don’t talk about their struggles. So you’re left thinking, how does everyone balance all of these things with their kids or their adventures? And I’m guilty of that, too. People often look at me and think she goes kayaking, she has a TV show, she does all these things; how is she not just burnt out every single evening?

Being able to vocalize how you’re feeling and communicate about it will let people know that you need help. If you don’t talk about your struggles, people won’t know that you’re struggling. And I’ve found that it’s very rare that help just comes to me. 

Start by telling yourself that you need help and highlight the specific things you need help with. Then, when you know what you’re struggling with, you can start to seek the help you need.

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Family camping can become really overwhelming because your routine and everything you’re doing is completely different. So, when I take my family on camping trips, I like to take a few things with us to help us feel comfortable and at ease with the transition. 

Today, I’m going to share with you three of my favorite personal touches to bring on a camping trip that helps both me and my kids feel comfortable in the great outdoors. 

Pack Extra Socks and Underwear

Something I always pack when we go camping is extra clean socks and underwear. It’s funny how when you feel grimy and gritty from camping for five days, a clean pair of socks and underwear can make all the difference. 

If you’re planning on going camping for even just a day or two, then I highly recommend bringing socks and underwear because you’re going to get dirty and you’re going to get gritty.

For me, I know that when I climb into the sleeping bag, and I'm putting on a clean pair of socks, it feels great. So clean socks and underwear are definitely high on my priority list. 

Bring Something Personal 

Another thing that I think is crucial to help make camping comfortable for kids, especially, is to bring a personal touch on your camping trips. For example, that could be a toy that your little ones are used to playing with or holding. 

My daughter loves to bring one of her Barbies. So, if she’s having a meltdown or if she’s tired, there is something she can engage with that is normal and part of her everyday routine. 

Think about something your kids will latch onto and take it along with you. Often, I pack them, and they don’t even look at them. But it’s nice to know that if there are meltdowns, there is something to distract them and comfort them. 

Don’t Skimp On Your Morning Tea or Coffee

Camping comfort must haves number three for me is continuing to make my tea or coffee the same way I usually do. Don’t skimp out! 

I’ve tried the whole cowboy coffee method, and I didn’t appreciate it or even really like it. So, for me, when I wake up, and I’m kicking off my day, I find it's nice to sit down with my husband and actually enjoy the coffee we’re drinking. 

I personally like to add a splash of maple syrup and oat milk to my Earl Grey tea. So, no matter where I’m camping and no matter how long for, I try to bring lots of packets of maple syrup and a carton of oat milk so I can enjoy my tea just the way I like it. 

Family Camping Must Haves

So, those are my three things for adding personal touches to your camping trip. These three things—clean socks and underwear, a toy for the kids, and your usual morning tea or coffee—can make all the difference and really do shift the whole trip around. 

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Don’t forget to check out our YouTube channel, Great Family Adventure, and keep an eye out for more awesome videos we’ll be publishing shortly.

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When to Use a Skeg 

If you paddle a touring or sea kayak on a windy day, you might notice that when the skeg is up, the kayak naturally turns towards the direction of the wind. This phenomenon is known as weather cocking and happens when your kayak has a keel that cuts through the water. The kayak does not start turning because of the direction of the bow. Instead, it is because the wind blows the stern of the kayak downwind faster than it blows the bow. 

To stop weather cocking you have two main options. The first is to paddle harder on one side than on the other. This way, you can keep the kayak moving more or less in a straight line. However, this is not an ideal or comfortable solution for long as it causes you to paddle unevenly. 

The other option is to use something to keep the stern in place, which is where the skeg comes in. 

How to Use a Skeg

When you notice you need to paddle unevenly to keep your kayak straight, it is time to drop the skeg. Skegs can be lowered to different levels. The depth of the skeg will affect how firmly the stern is held into place. If you lower it fully, it is possible that the stern is held too firmly in place. This might cause the kayak to start turning in the other direction. 

The amount you need to drop the skeg depends on the strength and direction of the wind and your kayak's tendency to weather cock. Every kayak with a keel does weather cock slightly. However, a lot of inflatable kayaks do not weather cock. They have a flat bottom, which is why many of them do not need a skeg. 

If you have a skeg, it just takes a little experimenting to see how much you need to lower it. The goal is to be able to paddle evenly on both sides and in a straight line. The depth the skeg needs to go will differ every time you are out on the water. However, using your skeg will make paddling in the wind much more enjoyable! 

Kayak: Melker Ulvon
Paddles:  Gearlab Outdoors Greenland Ipik
PFD:   NRS OSO Lifejacket
Storage: Gearlab Outdoors Deck Pod 2
Clothing:  NRS Short Sleeved Guide Shirt
Sunglasses: Wiley X

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