I Took My Canoe For A Ride

Ice changed my plans for paddling today.

The afternoon was going to be spent on the Shell Rock River, enjoying the protected water corridor, but when I arrived there was too much shelf ice at too sharp of an angle for me to safely move from the shoreline to my canoe.

I will admit that I made several attempts to position the canoe into a spot where safe entry might be possible, but it just wasn’t to be. So, after accepting defeat at the hands of a frozen river, I carried my canoe and gear back to my truck.

I cannot say that I was disappointed. After all, it is only February 10. Open water will come and I will again get out. I was just hoping to get started early. What I am thankful for is that I used restraint and did not take unnecessary chances that ended with me in a very cold river.

During my drive out and back with my canoe I did see a couple of bald eagles and one rough legged hawk. Each bird is featured below.