Trip leader / Co-leader: Al Tillson alberttillson12@gmail.com 813-731-3583 / Tom Sobocinski sobocinskithomas1@gmail.com 727-348-1184
Description: We’ll meet at the kayak rental area and paddle down that channel, into Mullet Key Bayou, and along the shoreline at a leisurely pace toward the eastern end of the island. Obviously we’ll make mid-trip adjustments in response to weather changes and group needs. Manatees are especially common in the channel, and we’ll hopefully see an array of waterfowl, fish, and perhaps a few dolphins.
Location: Turn right at the T intersection at the flagpole just after passing the entrance station. (Unless you have an annual pass, you need to pay the $6.00 entry fee at one of the vending machines scattered around the park). The rental location will be on the right approximately opposite the entry for Bay Pier. A park map is available at Fort De Soto Park Map - Pinellas County Look for my white Highlander Hybrid with kayak cradles. The most convenient restroom is across the road at the GULF pier (on the side of the parking lot away from the beach).
PLEASE NOTE: We will park in the field at the rental and launch from an opening in the mangroves to the left of the rental area as you face the water (and face away from the paved road). The dirt road that leads to that opening is blocked off to vehicular traffic, but kayaks and kayak wheels are fine.
Schedule: Saturday April 19. Meet at 9AM for a 9:30 launch. We’ll return by 11:30 to allow time to load up and join the other paddlers for the picnic at Arrowhead.
Additional information: The most convenient restroom is across the road at the GULF pier (on the side of that parking lot away from the beach). At last check, the kayak rental operation was still closed.
Difficulty: Rec/Level 1. See the Skills Self Assessment Chart on the web site and contact the leader with any questions. Please register (or cancel) on the web site or RSVP to the trip leader to allow notification of any changes. Approximately 4 – 5 miles.
Required / suggested / restricted: Boats must be at least 14 feet long with deck lines and sealed bow and stern flotation.
Remember that Tampa Bay Sea Kayakers requires that all trip participants wear a PFD and carry a whistle or other sound-producing device.
Be sure to bring plenty of water, lunch, sunscreen, bug repellent, and footwear that will protect you against possible oyster shells at take outs. A paddling jacket or other waterproof outer layer is a good idea.