Scott and I explored a new (to me) paddling area. We put our boats in off 48 in Roanoke Rapids and floated/swam to the boat launch on Rockfish Drive. This area is known for the rockfish fishing. This time of year they are releasing water from the dam for spawning. When the water is lower at the end of June the rapids are larger and much more fun. Although on this trip they were fun and the last one made me swim. Don't take a flat water sit on top kayak through whitewater and not excpect to go for a swim.
This trip took Scott and I about an hour and fifteen minutes. With the high water the current is strong and perfect for a short ride. You do pass the paper mill and sewage plant but they are only by yourside for a brief time. After that you go through woods. You do go under I95 during this trip but it is still very scenic. We saw Osprey, river otters, gar fish, carp, turtle, and one blue heron that we followed down the river for about 2 miles.
Please remeber our next two paddles: June 9th Bannister River and July 14 the Staunton River State Park adventure.
Paddle safe out there!
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