They call 'em low-riders

I first kayaked on Elephant Butte Lake in New Mexico, where many coves and sunny days were equally conducive to prospecting for birds and other wildlife. My husband got a boat and our kayak journeys lengthened and increased. When we moved to Texas, our first outings on the Gulf bays were short and rewarding. We had an ecosystem to explore with many"new" birds in close proximity to our kayaks.

Equipment varies greatly among kayakers. The shape, length, weight, and composition of the boat depends on the intended use by the paddler. The back bays around Goose Island allow for a variety of flatwater kayaks, from sit-on-tops, especially nice in summer, to fiberglass or wood touring kayaks for extended trips. Beginning kayakers should rent different types of boats and define their style of kayaking before buying.

Safety equipment is important since even a short excursion can be interrupted by high winds and waves. Personal flotation devices, whistles and drinking water are absolutely necessary. A spare paddle and a pump can also come in handy. Other items make a trip on the water more pleasant: sunscreen and a hat, snacks, maybe a camera or binoculars.

Taking binoculars in a kayak is riskier than carrying them around on land. Most binoculars are not waterproof. A dunking will ruin them, since water between the lenses makes viewing impossible. Nitrogen-purged binoculars are guaranteed to be waterproof. This also prevents fogging of the lenses when binoculars are carried from air-conditioned interiors to the steamy outdoors. Serious birders and dedicated kayakers invest in waterproof binoculars and flotation straps; recreational users compromise by keeping field glasses in dry bags. Kayaking is a water sport, so expect everything to get wet.

As with all watercraft, wind is an important factor in kayaking. Before embarking, we decide our course depending on wind direction and velocity. The Gulf Coast is known for consistent southeast winds, with blue northers blowing occasionally in the winter. On a very windy day, we head directly into the wind for a brisk paddle, then turn around with the wind at our backs for a more leisurely return trip. The Lamar and Blackjack Peninsulas shield the full force of the wind for at least part of the excursion. Wind velocity increases as the day progresses, and we plan accordingly. I backed out of an excursion when the wind increased significantly from our initial observation. My fellow paddlers went on while I returned to land. I watched kestrels and turkey vultures until they returned half an hour later.

Kayakers must watch for powerboats coming in and out of the channels, because their wakes can swamp smaller craft. There are many duck-hunting camps along the western shore of St. Charles Bay. During duck-hunting season, it might be prudent to paddle the eastern shore of the bay, which borders Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, and leave the western shore to hunters.

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