I recently had the privilege of serving as a kayak support paddler for the Tampa Bay Frogman Swim. This was a 3.1 mile (5k) swim across Tampa Bay to raise money for the Navy SEAL Foundation. As I paddled out to stage for the start, a twinge from an old shoulder injury reminded me that I had forgotten to take my usual couple of aspirin to cut down on the discomfort that follows even a shorter day of paddling. My thoughts of a leisurely trip across the Bay went out the window when “my” swimmer, 14-year-old Becca Mann, pulled out the stops and set a blistering 56-minute pace that earned her first place in the women’s division and third overall.

While surfing and getting organized for the upcoming 2012 launch of the Kentucky Kayak Fishing Association, I’ve been reading a lot of environmental information.  It has me thinking about ways to promote sustainability.

Back in June I was looking for ways to optimize the storage in my kayak. Fishing from a Malibu X-Factor I have no issues with the ability to carry or store pretty much anything I want on it, the problem was accessing it on while on the water. I’ve had the standard issue crate since I started kayak fishing, but not being the most flexible guy I have had issues accessing it easily, and have even ended up in the water while trying.

I’ve always wished I were more flexible. I’m not talking about mental or moral flexibility and my personal relationships are all pretty good. I’m talking about good ol’ fashioned stretch ability. I’d like to be able to touch my toes, or maybe sit cross-legged on the floor and play spades with my kids. Nope, flexible I aint. Some of you may recall my post on the TKAA Order of the Turtle board. If you don’t that’s ok, read on.

Growing up in Florida and originally wanting to major in Marine biology; I’m the guy who can usually name and rattle off specific information on the majority of species found at Aquariums or while kayak fishing. Rarely have I found a book that captured my attention and interest like “A field Guide to Coastal Fishes – from Maine to Texas”.