Rule #1

[Barhopr]

Don't paddle any further out than you can swim back.

http://www.floridatoday.com/apps/pbcs.d ... 0101017005

[red_yakker]

That is extremely sad, but something we need to keep in mind. I was paddling about 1.5 miles out a while back, alone, when my shoulder cramped up. It hurt so bad, there was nothing I could do. No cell-phone, no radio, no anchor and since it was a weekday, no one else in sight. Luckily for me, the wind was blowing in my favor, and I was able to steer myself back towards the landing. I don't know how I would have gotten back in had the wind been blowing out of the east.

Now, at the very least, I always have my phone, an anchor and a stakeout pole with me, so if worst comes to worst, I can just hold still and wait for someone to find me. Kayaking alone can be dangerous, but kayaking alone offshore is just reckless.

[Flint River Pirate]

Sad news for sure. I wonder if he has kids? My son has really kept me grounded from doing dangerous things that I never saw a problem with before he came along.

[cotton]

On windy days I always try to choose a landing where I can paddle/peddle out into the wind. It sure makes the return trip back much more enjoyable.