Today was my second time out on the SUP, and I have to say I’m really enjoying it. I’m getting more comfortable paddling around, mounting and dismounting, transitioning back and forth between standing and kneeling, etc. Next, I’ll be looking to read up on technique, so that I can paddle more efficiently and go longer distances. Compared to the kayak, I love how quick and easy it is to load the board up onto the car roof for transport. When Cathy and I go paddling, I always dread loading the kayaks back up onto the van roof after we are finished. It takes at least 10 minutes of moving the step stool around, climbing up and down, fiddling around with the straps, making sure everything is tight, etc. With the SUPDawg, the board is up and secured in about 30 seconds, and I suspect 2 boards will only take a few seconds longer. I also think the SUP will be a very nice paddling option for the hotter months, and can see it becoming my go-to watercraft from June through August.

One change I made this time around was to swap the 8″ fin that came with the board out with an aftermarket 5.5″ fin. The shorter fin did a better job clearing submerged obstacles in the shallow tidal estuary headwaters that I frequent. I suspect that the 8″ fin will track better in deeper water, but my paddling technique hasn’t yet improved to the point where I could notice a difference. I’m sure it’ll get there, and I’m sure I’ll be experimenting with both fins as time goes by.

Today’s paddling destination was Tanyard Cove, which is the same place I paddled two weeks ago on my rainy maiden voyage of 2024. Next up, I may head to Pasadena at Green Haven Wharf, or possibly the headwaters of the Severn River near Millersville. The latter will require a rather long carry, so I’ll have to think about the logistics and decide if it’s doable.