The Commodore’s Report
February 2023
by Brent Hwang
In Natalie Wiest's book "Canoeing and Kayaking Houston waterways", a reader would be reminded that there are over 1500 miles of rivers, creeks, lakes, bayous, and bays awaiting discovery by a paddler, all within 75 miles from the city. Those of us who call the Houston area home are truly blessed with year-round paddling weather and relatively easy access to these waterways and also the close proximity to many of the coastal paddling destinations in the Gulf of Mexico spanning over 350 miles of the coastline.
We have some exciting paddling events coming up for the remainder of this Quarter: from piddling around in local bayous, full-day paddling trips down Brazos and Colorado, to River Clean Up (paddling) gatherings in San Marcos - HCC was assigned the coolest 4 miles section of the San Marcos River this year (San Marcos River Retreat to Sculls Crossing - the white-water section). We are also exploring an opportunity to host two race events this year that would further bridge and make new connections with both seasoned and newer paddlers in the area and I hope to see you all come out to compete, volunteer or simply show up and have a good time.
Trips posted so far,
1/28 Texas Winter 100K - HCC always has club members participating in this grueling event and what a sight to see 0500 hrs gun start underneath the I-35 bridge at the Lady Bird Lake in Austin
1/28 Colorado River Garwood to Glen Flora (28.5 miles) - Beautiful stretch of Colorado River near Eagle Lake and Wharton TX. The put-in is about 75-90 min from Houston. For those who are looking to add some distance to his/her paddling repertoire, this is it. I can attest Bruce Bodson has yet to lose/leave anyone on the river – as far as I am told.
2/4 Brazos River 290 to SH159 (14.5 Miles) – The trip announcement states this is a good stretch for people who have not paddled Brazos to get into the river and I agree. I have been on this stretch before, and this is also a wonderful opportunity to collect some amazing, petrified wood from the sandbars – marvelous finds.
2/7 Sheldon Lake - Long time members Fran Wilcox and Alice Nissen are leading this pleasurable paddle at the Houston's neighborhood State park and the learning center. A hidden gem that was once a reservoir, hatchery and now a "green and blue oasis for wildlife and people on the edge of Texas' largest city". This is an out and back paddle from a nice launch site and is very close to Houston.
2/11 Colorado river Columbus Loop (6.5 miles) - Joint paddle with HASK, this is a great beginner (and experienced) paddle in Columbus TX. The river in this section is relatively serene and the pace will be casual and relaxed. Usually, we have lunch at the sandbar and a short shuttle of about 1 mile distance across the town is involved.
3/4 The Great Texas River Clean Up San Marcos (4 miles) – This is as good a reason to gather, camp, paddle and clean up one of the clearest rivers in our state. All who show up receive a free 1-night camping site @Shady Grove Campground (free beer and t-shirts for volunteers). HCC will try to organize around the campsite to gather and unwind on the evening of the 3/3 with a campfire. Please register early so we can get an accurate headcount for the campsite.
3/11 Buffalo Bayou Regatta (15 miles) – 51st and still is the largest canoe and kayak race in Texas. Many members compete (and place), and some provide safety boat duties in this true hometown race.
Please don't forget to check out the club event calendars for the latest updates. I want to thank the organizers and volunteers for posting and leading these trips and look forward to seeing you on the water!