The Wacissa River...

I finally had a day where I could get out for a paddle. I've become a little apprehensive about trying new places to paddle sinc the demo day where I learned I wasn't nearly as skilled as I thought I was. But I really didn't want to paddle the Wakulla again, since that's pretty much all I do when I get a chance to get out on the water.

I also don't have someone to paddle with, nor do the local paddling groups have much planned in the next few months. Add to that I don't have anyone able to shuttle for me and I need to find areas with the same entry and exit points.

That still leaves me with a lot of choices and today I chose the Wacissa River. Growing up, I swam at the River a lot, but it had been at least twenty years ( ouch, I am getting old!) since I had been there.

Suprisingly, it looked much the same, although the boat ramp has moved about 30 feet. I got in the kayak and was looking forward to a nice little trip.

What a trip it was. The Wacissa is absolutely beautiful. The water was very clear and there were many fish of all sizes swimming by. Several times, mullet would jump out of the water. There were many birds about and lots of wildlife sounding off in the near vicinity.

A mile out, there is a small offshoot that leads to what is called Blue Spring, one of the springs that feed the river. Over the spring, someone has hoisted a huge American Flag. I had read about it and wanted to see it and it was quite a site. There were many boats at Blue Spring; there is a dock and swimming is possible. I sat for a minute and then headed back out to the river.

I paddled on for maybe another mile, enjoying the scenery but after the second air boat thundered by, I decided to turn around and head back. I took only a few pictures but will definitely be back. Soon.

Also, I see a lot of you find this site while searching for paddling info about local rivers. It would be great to find a small group to paddle with consistently so feel free to leave a comment or send me an email.

I think next on my list is a return trip to the Ochlocknee State Park, so I can explore Dead River and the Ochlocknee River. This time I'll take the kayak and the camera.

Thanks for reading and enjoy the pictures.