First Time Buffalo River Floater
Posted on July 24, 2007
Filed Under Buffalo River Float |
The Buffalo River is a treat for young & old! Those new to the river will find it absolutely fascinating and the experienced Buffalo River visitor always looks forward to coming back. I got my first taste, (literally!) of the Buffalo River when I was probably only 6 yrs old. The memories of camping, spending time sitting in the cool water with my mom & dad, catching tadpoles and crawdads….all memories etched in my mind forever. This is one reason I want my daughter to enjoy all the river has to offer.
The river can be a formidable challenge after a good rain, but most of the time, the Buffalo is fairly tame and welcomes canoeists of all skill levels. Thats not to say you should stick your kids in a canoe and shove them off the bank waving goodbye as they float away. Navigating a canoe isn’t that hard, but for someone thats never done it before, it can be a little intimidating. That said, here are a few tips to remember before you set out for a float:
- Start Slowly - If you’re not an experienced canoeist, try to put in where you’re in a slow or relatively calm pool of water.
- Get to know your canoe - Once your loaded and ready to go, gently paddle out into the water and get a feel for how the canoe will react by paddling on each side.
- Always carry your Personal Flotation Device, (PFD) - It’s an Arkansas law that you must carry at least one PFD for each person in the boat. If you’re not a good swimmer, I would recommend wearing your PFD while floating! Don’t worry if you think you won’t look cool by wearing it…you’ll look better than you would if you were dead!
- Strap in your gear - If you’re new to canoes, you’ll soon find that these fine watercrafts aren’t quite as stable as what you may be used to. It’s recommended that you strap “everything” in the boat. Ice chests, dry bags
, fishing poles etc. Theres nothing like losing your food & dry stuff within the first few minutes of the float, and have to borrow or go without for the rest of the day. (I’ve seen people turn over as they were shoving off from the bank!)
My intent isn’t to scare you, but to prepare you. Obey laws and use common sense and you will have one of the most enjoyable experiences you’ve ever had! The scenery along the river is unmatched, (be sure to place your camera in a waterproof bag & secure it), and the cool clear water is so welcoming during the middle of a hot Arkansas day.
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