Name: Chassahowitzka River-- RENTERS & PBO
Start: 2024-11-21T09:30:00-05:00
End: 2024-11-21T12:30:00-05:00

***Recent hurricanes and flooding have left their mark on this favorite launch site. As of Nov 2, the campground store and restrooms are still closed, but the launch area is open and the water is waiting for us. The following instructions have been modified from our usual procedures and route. We'll monitor the situation as time grows closer to our trip.***

Our basic plan is to paddle about 1/2 mile downstream from the campground launch and turn into Baird Creek, which ends at "The Crack." We may be the only humans as we explore the length of the creek, about a mile. During normal times, the water is quiet and shallow, home to many wading and flying birds, and occasional river otters. If possible, we'll paddle to the end, stopping for a quick swim or at least a chance to wade in the creek (and step behind a tree if necessary.) Then we'll loop back to the main river.

Depending on the time and paddling conditions, we'll explore Salt Creek and/or Potter Creek, on the lookout for wading birds, raptors, the illusive and cute river otters, and beautiful scenery that transitions from forest to salt marsh.

Then we'll paddle against the current about a mile back to the launch area.

The spring-fed Chaz runs through the 30,000 acre Chassahowitzka National Wildlife Refuge, and offers a tranquil glimpse of pre-development Florida, making this one of the most pleasurable trips in our area. We'll look for egrets, herons, wood storks, hawks, limpkins, other birds, and river otters. We may see mullet leap out of the water, while other fish, turtles, and possibly manatees or dolphins swim alongside us.

**TRIP DETAILS**
Trip length: Expect to be paddling for about 2.5 - 3 hours, with one rest break at the Crack. Total trip is about 4-5 miles. Not appropriate for peddle craft!

River Description: The Chaz is wide with about 2 mph current. Wind may be a challenge on the open water. Our journey will include paddling both *with* the current and *against* the current. We most likely will encounter other paddlers, fishing boats, and motorized watercraft. Quiet side channels are shallow and narrow. The last mile requires paddling against a 1-2 mile current while possibly maneuvering through other boat traffic and occasional water turbulence to return to the launch.

Scenery: Excellent! The scenery offers transitional hardwood forest to coastal marsh, including clear springs, and abundant wildlife.

**SKILL LEVEL**
This trip is suitable for experienced paddlers with stamina to paddle gently but continuously for about 2 - 3 hours, with one stop. Paddlers should be able to perform forward, backward, and sweep strokes with good balance and stability; and should have experience in moderate current and wind, as well as in turbulent water created by other boat traffic.

**HELPFUL TIPS**
\*\* stop at a fast food or gas station to use the restroom before you arrive at the launch
\*\* wear shoes that cling securely to your feet, no flip-flops or slides. We will be wading in a shallow creek and walking into the spring to swim.
\*\* bring a tow rope. When we get out of our boats, we need to tie the boat to a tree to keep it from floating away.
\*\* bring a small waterproof pouch to hold keys, wallet, etc, while we're wading and we're out of our boats.

**FOR MORE INFORMATION**
Visit the campground's web site at "chassahowitzkaflorida.com.

**RENTALS**
Kayaks are available for rental at a kiosk at the campground entrance.
Phone the campground (352) 382-2200 in advance to reserve and pay by credit card. Rental for a single kayak is $37.10, tandem $47.70 per day.

**PARKING FEE**
Pay in cash at the campground kiosk.
Car only - $5
Car and trailer - $7

**NO RESTROOMS AVAILABLE**
Stop at a fast food or gas station en route, or step behind a tree during our rest break. Bring your own tissue and pack out your trash.

**LUNCH OPTION**
Crump's Landing
11210 W. Halls River Road, Homosassa

**SIGN UP**
RSVP "going" to reserve your space, and then post it on your personal calendar. If you're on the waitlist, please monitor your status in case there are cancellations up to the last minute. For insurance reasons, only VCKC members (no guests) may participate. All participants must sign up individually, even if sharing a boat.

**CANCELLATIONS**
If you decide to cancel, change your RSVP to "not going" ***as soon as possible*** so the next person on the wait list can attend.

**MANDATORY EQUIPMENT**
You are responsible for your own safety and comfort.
\* PFD, worn correctly at all times
\* Whistle
\* Water (recommend 2 quarts)
\* Red VCKC hangtag

**RECOMMENDED**
\*ID, emergency contact information
\* Tissue, hand sanitizer
\*Snacks
\*Hat, sunglasses, sunscreen
\*Insect repellent
\*Rescue rope
\*Bailer, sponge
\*Waterproof bag for keys, wallet, phone, etc.
HAVE FUN AND PADDLE SAFELY!

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Chassahowitzka River-- RENTERS & PBO

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Chassahowitzka River-- RENTERS & PBO

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