0 The Search is Over

By floridacanoe

0

The Search is Over

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After finding nothing suitable online, the next Saturday we drove to Canoe Country. It is a store that looks deceptively small on the outside, but inside there were canoes and kayaks of every size, shape, and color. Since we knew we wanted the freedom of carrying the canoe on the roof of our Blazer, weight was a major concern. The extremely patient salesman dragged out many canoes for my husband and I to pick up and lift over our heads. I found that my upper body strength is exceedingly poor. We checked out nearly every vessel in the store without finding the right one. The salesman said there were a few more out back that we could look at. And there it was - a bright yellow, American Eagle, 15' canoe. And, it was reasonably light! And, on sale, with two paddles and a canoe carrying kit included. We added in a strap-on seat and a few tie-down straps and we were off. Two more quick stops for drinks and life jackets and we were ready to paddle. 

My husband, Bill with the canoe

We decided on John Chestnut Park, which has boat ramps on Lake Tarpon. There was a lot of powerboat traffic, but we were able to launch without difficulties. We stayed close to shore and paddled through the sea grass to Brooker Creek. It was like entering another world. The live oaks on either side took you into a totally shaded oasis. After crossing under McMullen Booth Road, the creek was blanketed with a fine covering of green algae. We paddled for over an hour without encountering any other people. 

This is definitely a launch we will use again!