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Lake Superior Surfski
เข้าร่วมเมื่อ 12 ส.ค. 2011
I live in Duluth, Minnesota and started paddling Surfski in 2019. I am basically self taught, which is embarrassingly obvious from the videos, particularly the early ones. Almost all the paddling I do is on Lake Superior, which I paddle year round.
I paddled solo for most of the first couple of years until I met some great paddlers from the Twin Cities who occasionally come up to run a downwind with me. Fortunately for me, several intrepid paddlers have moved to Duluth in the last year - it’s so nice to share downwind runs with friends on a regular basis!
My first Surfski was a Think Zen. Now I paddle an Epic V9 and a Vega Flex.
I paddled solo for most of the first couple of years until I met some great paddlers from the Twin Cities who occasionally come up to run a downwind with me. Fortunately for me, several intrepid paddlers have moved to Duluth in the last year - it’s so nice to share downwind runs with friends on a regular basis!
My first Surfski was a Think Zen. Now I paddle an Epic V9 and a Vega Flex.
Superior Summer Surprise
The forecast called for 10-15 knots but we got closer to 20. There were also some sets that were surprisingly big, clean, and fast given the wind strength - I am not sure why but it sure made for an unexpected great run with warm water (70 F, 21 C) and sunshine! It was also my 60th run of 2024, which is hard to believe.
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วีดีโอ
The heat broke and the wind came
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I haven’t experienced the rows of big, clean waves on the Gorge that I have seen videos of, but it was a great day!
Surfski camera setup
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I periodically get questions about how I set up my camera for paddling. It was suggested that I make a short video description, which I thought was a good idea. So here it is, let me know if you have questions or suggestions.
First Gorge run
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I finally get to experience downwind week at the Gorge. The first couple of days will be exceedingly hot with temperatures as hot as 107 F (42 C) which will be particularly hard on this old man from Duluth, MN. My first run was nice, not cranking, and allowed me to get a lay of the land, err.. water. And I paddling barefoot, almost like being naked.
Superior does its own thing
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The forecast was for SE winds turning S. This was correct around the area except, as it turned out, for the Lake where we typically do our runs. Looking out the window from work at midday I could see there was a light NE wind on the Lake, although not quite useable. By midafternoon it built up quite nicely so Andy and organized an impromptu run with my son driving the shuttle. We ended up havin...
Marathon traffic and flood debris
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In addition to inconsistent wind, we had to deal with Grandma’s Marathon traffic and debris in the Lake as a result of the major flooding we have had in northern Minnesota. I suppose it was for the best it wasn’t really cranking because the logs would have been much harder to spot. As we head into the dog days of summer we just have to settle for whatever we can get.
40th downwind of 2024: A beautiful Mille Lacs run
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The combination of a windy spring and the accretion of a group of eclectic (and possibly fanatical) paddlers has allowed for many downwind opportunities so far this year. My 40th run of the year, which happened to be on Mille Lacs, was remarkably clean in the middle section, allowing for long rides and easy linking. While Zach certainly needs no help paddling having an Olympic biathlete in the ...
Vega Arc first paddle: big and fast conditions
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I have been curious about the Arc and a friend loaned me his paddle. This was not the best day to try a new ski as conditions were big and fast. Interestingly, when I looked at the video it didn’t look at all like what it felt to me. For starters, conditions didn’t look as fast and chaotic as it was, I think this was due to the waves being so broad, both across and wave length, that things seem...
Mille Lacs!
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While about 98% of my paddling and downwinds are on Superior there are at least a couple of other bodies of water in Minnesota that provide downwind opportunities. Mille Lacs is fantastic in that regard as it is a roughly circular lake so wind from any direction can be utilized. The distance across is 15-20 miles (24-32K). We have had some fantastic paddles on Mille Lacs but we feel this was de...
Stormy, Knife to McQuade
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We caught the early part of a big storm system moving in which resulted in fun and fast conditions. It rained quite hard for the first 1/3 or so. The video is mostly one continuous clip.
3 days, 3 runs, 3 camera angles
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I think it is safe to say that spring has come to Duluth - well, maybe. While the odds are that the big blows will become more scarce as we head into summer, we did have enough wind the last three days for some nice runs. One positive of summer is that the water will “warm” up. The water temp is currently about 39 F (4 C), by July 1st maybe 60F (16 C)?
2024 UMD Meteorological Buoy Deployment
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John and I were fortunate to be invited along for the deployment of the University of Minnesota-Duluth buoys. As paddlers we find the data provided by these buoys invaluable, following the monitored conditions nearly daily. In addition to the deployment of 2 buoys, the crew retrieved 2 submerged scientific buoys that were deployed last fall. The morning was beautiful and we were lucky to return...
Beautiful mellow morning run
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I was expecting it to be quite big this morning because yesterday the forecast was for strong wind all night and that seemed confirmed when I woke up early to the sound of strong wind. However, I was surprised when driving to launch the Lake wasn’t at all big. After the run I checked the wind data and the wind had in fact dropped off substantially for most of the night before picking up again e...
Knife to Lester 5/6/24
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The forecast was calling for moderate conditions and Sky Harbor airport was reporting fickle winds so I was thinking it would be a good day for the Vega Flex. However, about the time I was leaving work I noted some large whitecaps across the Lake towards the south shore although it was really not working by Duluth. With those distant whitecaps in mind I decided to load the V9 instead, glad I di...
Two runs, big and BEEEEG
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We had another gale blow in but unlike the blow of two weeks ago, where the NE wind was more local resulting in very fast runs, this wind came from farther up the Lake generating bigger, faster swells. John and I did a run from Two Harbors to McQuade (25K) in the morning thinking it would be fast in building conditions but it was already getting quite big. Still great fun, but not the endless l...
Gale force wind, dramatic clouds, great fast run!
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Gale force wind, dramatic clouds, great fast run!
Superior Surprises Again (my first sub 4 minute K)
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Superior Surprises Again (my first sub 4 minute K)
Its never what you think it is going to be on Superior
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Its never what you think it is going to be on Superior
Frustrating round swells and dragging my leash
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Frustrating round swells and dragging my leash
Rare December Reverse with interesting rebound entering Two Harbors
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Rare December Reverse with interesting rebound entering Two Harbors
That's how the waves normally look on the weekend and during the week going to work it's like a mirror 😂
Tramps like us, baby we were born to run: home fucking run brother!
Is it fair to say you're not starting and stopping at the same point? I see the waves taking you out, but I couldn't imagine trying to paddle against that current back to shore. Sorry if this is a stupid question, I've never paddled the Great Lakes before. Also, have you ever practiced self-recovery out there?
Wow what a fine long down wind ride....and what unreal water surface temp. too. Enjoy that summer stuff Tim. !!
Curious, are you required to wear the pfd’s?
Good stuff!!!!!!!!!
What kind of Tom Fakery is this? Interesting video looks like a video game.
Great footage! An excellent video of what it is like paddling down through Swell City and The Hatchery! Looks like a fun run!
That looked like fun. Scary but fun.
I've done that surfing on a surf ski but wing foiling last 4 years, so much more ability to engage with the wave in 3D.
@@fluiditynz I have some friends doing SUP foil, looks like a blast!
Welcome! I was hoping to see the result of your first encounter at the Gorge and here it is. Thanks!
@@bentz98125 You’re welcome! It’s been a great week!
Tim, I have a long list of music tracks earmarked as potential music for downwinder videos - this Boston track is on my list. Glad you got some real Gorge waves!
@@paulreavley5900 Paul, I need to make a list. Ideas pop into my mind but I don’t right them down, dumb. Hope you had a good week and race! I had a great time this week and a nice race. Sorry I missed you. I was staying at Viento and paddled with the MN/WI people. Only got to Stevenson once.
love it.
These waves look complicated.
@@IamNothing82 Seems like it when I am out there!
Wow, bucket list stuff! Thanks for posting this. So, was it everything you anticipated? How was it different than Superior (other than temps)? I’m laid up until fall from a surgery and had to bail on a 10-day sea kayak trip around Isle Royale. Finding your channel is therapy for me - thank you again. Hoping to get out on my ski and in the kayak this fall when I’m better and when the water gets more lively around here. Cheers!
@@timomomomo969 After the 2 very hot, low wind days it has been great and I am happy I made it out here! The waves are slower and can be steeper than Superior which involves some adjustment, particularly how to stay on top of the wave. Hope you recover soon and can get back on the water!
@@timomomomo969 Where do you paddle?
@@ttrayn1000usually in the Little Traverse Bay between Charlevoix and Harbor Springs, in the northern LP. With an easterly wind, fetch is long enough to build some decent swells, and occasionally a small surf break at Harbor Point. But it’s nothing like Superior! Thanks for the kind thoughts!
Thanks for the overview. Could you clarify your mast base material? Never thought of using duct tape. I see a stern tie off point, do you also have a tether when bow mounted?
Can you compare this ski to the V8pro?
@@mikevohs3467 I have never paddled the V8 Pro so I can’t really comment on the differences.
Great run! Is that the Traveling Willbury’s?
Yes it is!
That looks swell!😂
With the Scamp!
Yes! Sure glad it has AC!
Curious if you can describe you camera and mount setup on the boat (or even a video of it). Enjoy the Gorge!
I have had a few questions about my camera setup so I will do a short video describing it. Thanks for the suggestion!
I really thought this was a video game for about 3 minutes lol. I was like “is this real?, yeah it is, wait no it isn’t, can’t be” lol Great video man!!! This looks like fun for you but not me lol. Great job. ❤
Was that Leif on the shuttle?great footage! Sorry I missed it!
@@RhettBonner Yes, Leif helped out with the shuttle. Would have been fun to have you with us!
I thought this was a computer game !
Duh😂😂
GOOD TIMES!! 🤙 😎
I remember that rush of screaming across the following waves. When your bow starts to dive and then you’re sliding down the wave face only to pop out and do it again. With every wave you lose sight of your paddling partner and scare the hell out of yourself. Now in my mid 70s I am fine watching someone else doing it. Nice boat by the way.
@@christopherwilson8713 Thanks! Sounds like you had some great times!
Marathon traffic??
Grandma’s marathon route is along the Lake and results in some closed roads and traffic congestion making our shuttle pick up a bit complicated.
Is the the hi-vis shirt windproof? Wondering if you wear it to reduce windchill from evaporative cooling. Who makes it?
The shirt is not wind proof, I wear just for visibility. The tag says Paragon - I got it at a race so I didn’t purchase it myself.
All there is to say about that is surf's up mthrfckr! And what's a season pass at Lake Superior cost? Bring the whole family and don't forget the inflated inner tubes.
how cold is the water? Thomas Magnum would be proud
On this run the water was in the low 40s.
Great View on Kayak
You guys are awesome. Holy crap. Max speed achieved? Water temp? I’m going to guess 12 mph and 40F. 🤷♂️ Launching and landing in that gale had to be interesting. 😅 I’m paddling my FSK out on Lake Michigan in June and July and we don’t get these “Superior” conditions. When that nose buries you probably experience a bit of sphincter pressure…😂 Noting that pitchpole moment in slo-mo was nice. You all deserve a nice Duluth cinnamon roll for that run!
The water temp was 39, max speed was 15 mph. We have several launch/landing site that are protected which helps tremendously but handling the skis can be tricky in the wind!
Clean is definitely the word! Just collapsed in my tent at the Columbia River Gorge and watched your video for the perfect end to a perfect day. Thanks!
I am glad you enjoyed it! I am looking forward to paddling the Gorge for the first time in July! From what I hear the Gorge is known for clean waves. Did you have good conditions?
Great video Tim!
Thanks Rhett!
Great video! Get a far better sense of the wave size from this angle, seeing the face of them. You got a custom seat pad going on there? Be interested to get a closer look at your whole setup sometime.
Thanks! I use the Epic seat pad plus some custom hip pads and calf pads that are attached with PVC tape. I need the seat pad to prevent chafing of my tailbone. The hip and calf pads help keep me connected to the ski.
Wow, the cabling that holds those to their moorings seems woefully inadequate considering the stress they're under with wind, wave, and current activity!
You’re right, the cable is a small diameter but it must work fine. The buoys also have a GPS and if they depart too far from their designated position they will send an alert.
Nice. Shouts from New Zealand. Is that a VHF on your shoulder or epirb?
A PLB. I also carry a VHF. I would love to get to NZ some day!
@@ttrayn1000 Thx. Nice come over mate. You'll love it. Nice waves too!
Solid skills here 🫡
Thanks! It’s taken me a while to get to this point and living on Superior provides lots of opportunities for learning. It’s a big learning curve but rewarding and fun!
Looks like the period was maybe just a second too long to really jump on the runners consistently. Epic stuff anyway!
Yes, definitely too fast for me to get the big ones!
Awesome!
Looks pretty epic. We had a chance to paddle the Arc a few weeks ago and found it to be impressive. Thanks for sharing!
..
Amazing… and even the wave flattening GoPro optics still show the big swells!!! I bet this was a GREAT run. Conditions look amazing.
It was fantastic, we were smiling ear to ear!
Another great downwind video. Great runs that seemed to provided lots of linking opportunities! We have similar conditions when the wind blows on Botany Bay in Sydney. When we downwind off shore in Sydney though we get a lot of refraction from the sandstone cliffs and headlands that we have to contend with. Not complaining though, the Sydney coast can produce some awesome downwind conditions.
Yes, lots of linking of runs on Mille Lacs, more so than on Superior, due to the shorter fetch waves don’t achieve the same velocity - seems easy after paddling Superior!
... so cool...
Impressive! Could you go over water temp (assume it’s 35-40F) and your clothing choices to deal with it. Looks like you use wetsuit rather than dry suit. Would be interested to hear your logic as I’m about to do two months of Lake Michigan fast kayaking. Thanks!
You are right on the water temps. Here is a response to the wetsuit/drysuit considerations I posted elsewhere: I briefly considered a dry suit when I first started but there were a couple reasons I went with wetsuits. Firstly, I knew I was going to be in the water a lot, and as it turned out on some of my first runs I would remount 10-15 times. I don’t think dry suits are as good for frequent remounting (I have never seen a surfer wear a dry suit). Secondly is cost, I got 3 good wetsuits for under $600 total, which is about half of what a good dry suit costs. It seems most touring kayakers do use drysuits and I can see the advantage if are rarely in the water and not doing a lot of remounting and can roll with a spray cover.
@@ttrayn1000 Thank you! What wetsuit do you like? What thickness? Do you wear wetsuit socks? Thanks.
@@tommyrq180 I have three Excel Infinity wetsuits. A 5/4 hooded, a 4/3, and a 3/2. I use the Excel Drylock booties, I have a pair of 7mm and a pair of 3mm.
@@ttrayn1000 Appreciate the answers! I’m gearing up for a major haul in Lake Michigan so I’m interested in how you guys handle the cold water.
@@tommyrq180 What are you planning for Lake Michigan?
Great vid! Consider working in a bit of music for added effect :)
Hardcore riders on the storm ! dig it !
😸
Sorry, I just read your bio and I see that it's a V9. Another question if I may...........what is the distance of that downwind and what type of avg speed are you getting? Cheers, Dave (Sydney, Australia).
Hi Dave, the total distance of this run is 14K. I averaged 14 kph for the middle 12K.
@ttrayn1000 thanks for that. That's a great avg speed! The runs look fantastic. Mesmerising!
@@daveneal2960, Thanks! I am fortunate to have Superior in my backyard so that I can enjoy such conditions.
Awesome conditions and paddling!
@@zachhandler Thanks Zach!
Nice Tim, dang that water is still cold! Are you using a head cam in the early footage? If so, it looks like you got the angle set up well. Does your phone add some of the color punchiness or does the color just pop so much in contrast to the often grey sky? By the way, tell your OC friend that an old, slow OCer (me) appreciates his surfing in what often looks like quite challenging water. I would love to hear his comparison of Superior downwinding to the open ocean paddling he used to do in Hawaii (right?).
Paul, I did seem to get the angle right on the head camera - luck? I did not adjust the color, when the sun is high or at my back you see pretty true Superior blue. If it’s dark and grey Superior looks stone cold. When the camera is facing the sun it’s just a lot of glare, but it can be dramatic sometimes. Yes, John paddled in HI. I let him know about your comment, maybe he’ll chime in?
Hi Paul! Thanks for the compliment! Tim usually manages to catch my better moments. I would say that my first reaction to paddling on Lake Superior was amazement at how similar the conditions were to those I was used to in Hawaii (I did almost all of my paddling on Kauai, tho I did paddle OC1 in the Pailolo channel and OC6 on several other channels and islands). So overall, I would say the lake is quite similar when it comes to the complexities of various swells, wind waves, and refractions. There are also currents in the lake that Tim and do not fully understand (and neither do the marine scientists we've spoken to) but that we definitely feel. All that said, in addition to being much colder, the lake also feels more powerful and less forgiving, at least compared to the ocean in similar wind conditions. We've been told that the lower density of fresh water makes big, open-lake waves more steep and breaking than the rounder swells in the open ocean. I definitely feel that and it can be quite intimidating! It is nice to that I don't have to rinse off my canoe after every run tho! Where do you typically paddle?
@@johnteschner Thanks John - you are confirming some of my impressions from Tim's videos. And maybe I have some direct experience to compare with yours - the three trips we've made for paddling in Hawaii were all to Kauai. We were chaperoned initially by Tom Bartlett and later by Michael Wood (who has now moved back to Bellingham full time). We do most of our downwinding in Bellingham Bay which gets no ocean swell. It gets big only with pretty high wind, but it often is somewhat technical because of the way the wind can angle in off of neighboring hills at odds with whatever the usual prevailing S, SW, or SE fetch is doing. We get to the Gorge for the Champs race and often get at least one other trip there per year. My impression about the Gorge is that it is mostly much more orderly than the ocean paddling I have done and only gets intimidating (for me) with fairly high wind and/or maybe before summer when the snow melt water is colder and the higher flows create more resistance and more squirrelly currents to paddle against.
@@paulreavley5900 You and I have probably paddled together! Tom and Mike are both great people and good friends of mine. Tho it's been a while since I've seen them. Please say hi to Mike for me next time you see him. He has an incredible reputation on Kauai. One of the most generous people around. I'm sure Bellingham is a great place to paddle. It's certainly a beautiful spot. I started a cross country bike trip from there in 2007.