What I have learned.
Posted by: ADNelson on Feb-10-13 10:30 AM (EST)
1. Even though my boat is stable and has two bulkheads and I will be using a spray skirt, it can easily fill with water in a wet exit and it may not be possible to pump it out.
Solution: Stay close enough to shore to return in event of this.
2. Practice very, very much, and even so do not push my limited abilities.
Solution: Stay close to shore and take a buddy, maybe in a rowboat.
3. Actual skills, especially in wave action, will be much harder to accomplish than I think.
Solution: Stay close to shore and practice very much with a buddy on calm water.
4. My kayak is not perfect, but will work if I take the proper precautions.
Solution: Do not encounter conditions above my skill level in any boat, especially this one.
I apologize for my initial ignorance, and for the fact that I am perhaps not taking the dangers seriously enough. I believe that I am, though, and thank you all so very much for your help. I WILL be very careful.