On 30 May 2017, eight Tuesday Group paddlers met at Tanyard landing on the Poropotank River. Despite threatening predictions just a few days before of all day lightning and thunder, the group set off under cloudy skies and placid waters. It was low tide so we carefully put our boats in at the muddy and slippery boat launch—no one slipped on a mud-snake. When given the choice of going upriver (the long route) or paddling toward the York River (the shorter route), all chose the long route. It must be in the Tuesday Groups genes. Jim A. showed up to take pictures of the launch but he was hobbled by a bum knee and did not paddle this day. What dedication! Bruce J. took over the photo job on the river with backup by Bob M. John, Gayle, Kathy, Steve R., and Jack the tooth puller all cooperated by pointing out the many sightings this day of bald eagle, hawk, and jumping fish. A few were wishing for a fishing rod in their hands. The goal was to paddle to the Route 14 bridge. We made it farther than expected—almost to the bridge—despite the low tide. Bruce led the route through the brush, and then on the return took charge of landing at the lunch spot, a.k.a. Leta Point where the Letas performed their awesome canoe flipping routine. After a short lunch, the group shoved off and paddled back to the start. All took notice that there was no Phragmites on the river competing with and overtaking the native grasses. Back at the start, John and Gayle decided to also paddle out to the York—they had not had enough. All the rest showed common sense and went to Short Lane Creamery. It was a great day with good friends taking advantage of the security of the group to defy the weatherman—it worked again!
Brian
View Bob's photos: https://goo.gl/photos/ZikLJyY1mkGiRZpA7
View Jim's photos: https://imagesbyjimarend.smugmug.com/Sports/Kayaking/20170530-Poropotank-River-Paddle