The Most Popular Activities to Enjoy While on a River

There are a lot of fun activities that you can enjoy while on water especially now that it is springtime. These activities are perfect for both young and old and promise to be an exceptional experience for those involved. It doesn’t matter if it a small river or a large sea, engaging in water sport is a great way to relax and exercise the body also. Here are some popular activities you can enjoy while on a river

1. Fishing

This is by far the oldest form of river activity; it involves using a hook, line, and sinker to hunt for fishes in freshwater environments. Some people hunt for fishes for the aim of using them as food (protein source) or for just the fun of it (games). If you live close to the river, you might want to take advantage of this age-old river activity to have fun. Although to be able to engage in fishing, you need to have a boat or know someone who does. Fishing is a good way to relax your mind while in the water. You will also need to use a bait to lure the fish to your hook, worms, snails, or other little fishes are a good form of bait.

2. Kayaking

This involves the use of a kayak to move across the water. It differs completely from canoeing due to the sitting position of the kayaker and the number of blades on the paddle. While you can simply use a kayak to navigate on water and enjoy the wildlife, you can also fish from a kayak. All you need for a nice time kayaking is a kayak boat with paddlers and appropriate kit which usually include a life jacket, waterproof clothes, pair of goggles and a lot of energy to paddle the kayak along the water.

3. Canoeing

This can either be done as a sport or simply for recreation. It differs from kayaking as the canoe is more opened compared to a kayak and the paddle comes with a single blade. This is a fun activity to engage in if you happen to be close to a lake, pond, river, stream, and even on an ocean. It is also a good way to explore the wildlife and also exercise your body and mind.

4. Diving

Diving is a great way to explore under the sea. It is better to dive in clean and clear water where you can easily see the bottom of the water to avoid coming in contact with obstacles. You can swim with a school of fishes or capture the beauty of underwater using your go-pro. For those who are inexperienced at diving, it is better to dive from a low height or better yet use a gas mask so as not to run out of oxygen while under the water.

5. Boat Cruising

This is a great sailing adventure for members of the family or a group of friends. It is a great way to explore the seas while you lose track of time. All you need for a nice boat cruise is a boat, even if you don’t own one, you can easily rent one and find a great sailor to take you and the guys out on a nice sailing expedition.

Of course in the course of your enjoying activity on the water, you forget to shut everything off in your car and your battery runs dead, or you manage to get your vehicle stuck in mud on the riverbanks, then you are going to need a tow!  Felix Auto & Tire of Oshkosh does the towing Oshkosh residents trust!  If you are in Central Wisconsin and need a tow, call 920-267-8334!

 

3 Fascinating Facts about the History of Canoes

Canoe is a light, narrow boat pointed at both ends and open on top, propelled with a paddle or paddles. These seagoing boats used widely in many water sports today were first developed thousands of years ago by the Caribs. It is a fun recreational activity that is often enjoyed by everyone from young children to adults and senior citizens!

 

Origin of the word “Canoe” 

There are two theories regarding the origin of the term “canoe”. One theory posed is that the term is derived from the african word kenu which means “dugout”. Others claim the word is of an Arawak origin: originally spelled “canoa” then anglicized as the word “canoe”. 

 

Here are 3 facts you won’t believe about the history of Canoes: 

  • Archaeologist have discovered the remains of a dugout canoe which puts the age of the first canoes to more than 8000 years old. However, nobody knows exactly when canoeing started and when the first canoe was built but, it is believed the canoes were developed by North American natives. 

 

  • Before the evolution of canoes, they were used as a means of transportation to get from one island to the next, made from bark and hollowed out tree trunks; they were light enough to be portaged, yet they could carry huge lots of cargo. A factor that made the canoes recognized was that, although they are vulnerable to damage from rocks and other materials in the water, they are easily repaired. 

 

  • Canoes were used by The French to establish the fur trade(worldwide industry dealing in the acquisition and sale of animal fur) and played a significant role in the exploration of North America. Many of the canoes used by fur traders could carry a capacity of up to 2400 kilograms along with several crew members. A french missionary said that “The convenience of these canoes is great in these waters, full of cataracts or waterfalls, and rapids through which it is impossible to take any boat…” 

 

 Today, canoes have evolved and are hardly used as means of transportation but, most commonly as water sports.  

 Currently, the term has been confused with another which is quite similar known as kayaking. Along with having two different histories there are a number of differences between the two. The most eminent being that canoes are open top boats whilst kayaks are closed top boats. 

 Places where the canoe played a significant role in their history, still recognize them as an important theme in their culture and some still use the canoe as a means of transportation with a few new additions. 

 

The Best Brands of Canoes for Your Next River Adventure

Have you ever wanted to spend some quiet time with a lover or loved one on a beautiful river? Or maybe your a fan of water sports and your looking for a new avenue? Or are you that fisherman/fisherwoman who wants to visit local rivers you believe to have an abundance of fish?

Well, whatever it is I’m committed to finding the best canoe that you can afford.

Below, are the best brands of canoe based on category: whether recreation, fishing or water sport.

Best Canoes for Recreation

MYCANOE PLUS ORIGAMI

Canoe which carries up to 2 people and is best for average paddlers limited on transportation and space. The total length of the canoe is 14’6” and weighs around 52 lbs.

Pros: Folds into a compact case that can be fit into a small sedan, durable.

Cons: High price point, fold seams have higher chance of breaking than traditional canoes.

SUN DOLPHIN SCOUT

Canoe which carries up to 3 people and is best for families and fishermen that are looking for a great overall canoe with low price point. The total length of the canoe is 14’0” and weighs around 95 lbs.

Pros: Has drink holders molded into every seat in addition to a cooler, rod holder fixtures and a dry storage area. Durable and stable.

Cons: Heavy, may be challenging for one paddler and it is slow to paddle.

Old Town Loon 111 Recreational Kayak

Extremely lightweight kayak of only 45 lbs. Canoe carries only one person. The total length of the canoe is 11’1”.

Pros: Adjustable seat, large roomy cockpit, rear deck bungee rigging and paddle keeper, cup holder

Cons: The features of the kayak do not go with its retail price.

Best Canoes for Fishing

Old Town Twin Heron Angler Kayak

Canoe carries up to 2 persons and provides ultimate stability and control. The total length of this canoe is 13’6” and weighs around 62 lbs.

Pros: The front seat can be removed for either extra storage or even to bring a pet. Auto trim hull.

Cons: Lack of dry storage.

SUN DOLPHIN SCOUT

See review above.

Sevylor Coleman Colorado 2 Person Fishing Kayak

Canoe carries up to 2 persons and is very easy to drive; it also has a compartment to keep your belongings while paddling. This canoe weighs around 41.2 lbs.

Pros: Has a maximum capacity of up to 470 lbs and is extremely durable.

Cons: Does not come with a pump and paddle top, not the best in windy conditions can be blown off course.

Best Canoes for Water Sport

GRUMMAN SOLO

Canoe carries up to 2 persons and is best for experienced paddlers wanting an agile and fast canoe. The total length of this canoe is 12’9” and weighs around 48 lbs.

Pros: Fast, Extremely durable and great at tracking straight.

Cons: Not best for narrow rivers or streams, high price point.

Esquif Pocket Canyon T-Formex Canoe

Canoe carries up to two persons and the shape of the canoe prevents water from coming in. The edged corners make this canoe look ver sporting. The total length of the canoe is 14’6” and has a weight of around 59 lbs.

Pros: Durable and strong, edged corners give you extra balance in high waves.

Cons: The shape of the canoe isn’t for high speed.

OLD TOWN PENOBSCOT 174

Canoe carries up to 2 persons and is best for paddlers wanting to speed through flat water. The total length of the canoe is 17’4” and weighs around 83 lbs.

Pros: Durable and stable, can accommodate large paddlers, good storage space.

Cons: Lacks a hook area to tie up canoe.

Beautiful Native Freshwater Fish in the U.S.

America is home to a lot of freshwater fishes. These freshwater fishes can be found around lakes, rivers, streams and ephemeral waters all over the United States. Freshwater fishes are typically fishes that spend their entire lives in freshwater. In the U.S. these fishes are classified by the temperature of in which they can survive in. Coldwater fishes such as trout can survive in the coldest temperatures, warm water fishes can survive in warm water temperatures and they include catfish and largemouth bass. Cool water fishes prefer water temperature that is neither cold nor warm but just in between and they include northern pike and yellow perch.

Below are 5 beautiful freshwater fishes that can be found in the United States,

1. Freshwater Catfish

Freshwater catfishes are bottom feeders of streams and lakes. They are mostly eaten by residents of the southeastern parts of the United States where they are consumed as fried catfish. In these parts, they are nicknamed mud cats or chuckleheads. They can grow to weigh up to 370 pounds and they do not have scales on their bodies.

They go for a variety of baits including hotdogs, uncooked chicken or other catfishes too.

2. Striped Bass

The striped bass is also known as Atlantic striped bass and is commonly found on the Atlantic coast of North America. They are commonly found in the U.S.A in states of South Carolina, Rhode Island, and Maryland. They are also popular for sports fishing and striped bass will usually fall for a number of live and fresh baits including clams, eels, bunker, herring, silver spoons, mackerel, and bloodworms. Although striped bass is edible, a lot of anglers choose to catch and release them back into their freshwater environment.

3. Cutthroat trout

They are another popular breed of freshwater fishes found in the U.S. they get their cutthroat name from the red coloration underneath their lower jaw. They can be found in the states of Colorado, Idaho, Montana, Nevada, and Wyoming. Cutthroat trout are also popular as game fishes, especially by fly anglers. There are 14 sub-species of cutthroat fish found across the western part of US, New Mexico, Alaska and Canada. They can grow to a length of 102cm depending on the species and weigh up to 7kg.

4. Muskie

These breed of freshwater fish can be found in shallow or rocky waters in the Northern United States and parts of Canada. They are however not edible but are popular for sports fishing. They are interesting to hunt as they are aggressive and offer stiff resistance when they get hooked on. They are also referred to as muskellunge and can weigh up to 40 pounds.

5. Largemouth Bass

The largemouth bass is another popular game fish found in freshwater environments across the United States but they are a native to North America. They can be found in states of Tennessee, Georgia, Mississippi, Florida, Indiana, and Alabama. They consume a wide range of baits including insects and shrimp, snakes, snails, crayfish, and frogs.

Introduction to Wisconsin River Outfitters

Wisconsin River Outfitters is committed to providing a high quality outdoor experience for small groups and families seeking to explore the rivers and woods of Northern Wisconsin. We are located in the heart of the American Legion State Forest, on the Wisconsin River, 5 miles East of Lake Tomahawk, Wisconsin.

We provide float trips on a scenic, quiet stretch of the Wisconsin River that is the perfect place to introduce children and novices to the lifelong enjoyment of canoeing and kayaking, or just to rejuvenate. If you are interested in a leisurely stretch of the River, where eagles soar, where osprey fish, where deer quench their thirst and an occasional bear crosses, then our spot is for you. This stretch of river flows thru an area of riverside cottages and undeveloped wetland and forest. Three trips run from 1 ½ to 6 hours.

The morning mist swirls on the River. The shrill cry of an eagle startles. A rising crescendo of bird songs begins. The sun warms you as it rises over the trees. Midday brings bright sun and a cool wind. The early evening brings peace as the bird songs end and the day draws to a close, the splash of an otter breaks the quiet.

Wisconsin River Outfitters also can provide guided birdwatching and nature walks. Do you want to see an osprey nest? Watch beavers at work? Just take a walk in the woods? Learn about the flora and fauna natural to Northern Wisconsin? We can help you find just the right spot and provide trained environmentalists to help interpret and show you what you might otherwise miss.

All of our float trips are by appointment only. We have Pelican canoes and Old Town kayaks. We will arrange to get you there and back. We’ll provide a guide if you wish. We limit our trips to a maximum of four canoes/kayaks and eight people, and prefer one or two canoes. Large groups overpower the feel of the river and the experience becomes not of the river’s flow, but of the group’s interference with the flow. The river brings peace. Leave the loud music and beer for another outfitter and another river. Respect our world.