Winter Canoe Trip: 3 Days Solo Camping on the River Wye
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- Опубліковано 30 вер 2024
- Join me on my third visit to the stunning River Wye in Wales, where I embarked on an incredible solo canoeing adventure. As an intermediate canoeist, I was confident in my abilities and knowledge of the river, but little did I know that this trip would be one of the biggest challenges of my canoeing experience.
On the first day, I paddled downstream, enjoying the beautiful scenery and the calm waters of the river. However, this sense of ease and comfort was short-lived when I encountered a sunken tree that wrapped my canoe and caused me to capsize. The cold winter water (5.5°C) shocked my body, and I found myself struggling to stay afloat in the fast-flowing river.
Despite the dangerous situation, I managed to stay calm and think clearly, thanks to my training and gear. The Garmin inReach Mini was a lifesaver, as it allowed me to quickly signal for help if needed. But before I pressed the emergency button, I tried to remedy the situation myself, with relative calmness.
I took refuge in my tarp tent and sleeping bag, which provided me with warmth and shelter from the cold winter weather. I had to dry my clothes on a hanging line, but the low temperatures outside made it difficult. At this point, I was more inclined to stop and find the nearest put out. With no more margin for errors, another capsize could have considerably added hypothermia risk.
My confidence was rock bottom, I was shaken.
However, I didn't give up on my adventure. After a while, I started to see this as an opportunity to push my limits and overcome the challenges of canoeing in moving water. With a fresh mindset, I welcomed the challenge and continued on.
I found a great campsite less than an hour before sundown, on a high bank, in a spot sheltered from the Westerly winds. Pitching my tarp tent with the back facing the wind direction allowed me to have quite a large opening in the front, allowing for great visibility and ventilation. This was my first time sleeping only under a tarp, and it was a pretty cool milestone for me.
At camp, I got a fire going, cooked a couple of beyond meat sausages on a green stick, and dried my wet merino pants by the fire. Within 30-40 minutes, they were dried, and I had recovered an important layer for my sleep ahead in a night that promised -2°C temperatures.
The following day, I woke up to a frosty but sunny day, and I continued my adventure down the River Wye. Along the way, I met the amazing Josh from Wye Valley Canoes, who was an absolute legend of a guy to meet. We're already planning a future paddle together, and I can't wait for it.
This adventure was a reminder that even experienced canoeists can face unexpected challenges, but with the right training and gear, anything is possible. So join me on this thrilling journey, and let's explore the beauty and challenges of the stunning River Wye.
What was your favorite part of this adventure? Share your thoughts in the comments below, and don't forget to like and subscribe for more thrilling outdoor adventures!
GEAR THAT I USE & TRUST:
Sleep & Camp:
Tent - Naturehike Cloud-Up 2 - amzn.to/3tzNNXk
Sleeping Pad - Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm - amzn.to/3xpOVhw
Fold Foam Pad - Therm-a-Rest Z-Lite SOL - amzn.to/3xncjw9
Sleeping Bag (Comfort 5c) - Thermarest Questar 32 - amzn.to/39s6yoX
Sleeping Bag (Comfort -2c) - Rab Ascent 700 - amzn.to/3xiMVYk
Tarp (Heavier) - DD Tarp 3x3 - amzn.to/3xaVIvX
Tarp Lightweight - DD SuperLight 3m x 2.9m - amzn.to/3ty5wyD
Tools & Fishing:
Knife - Mora Outdoor Companion 860 - amzn.to/3tCfDlR
Saw - Bahco Laplander Folding Saw - amzn.to/3aYd6fv
Cooking:
Water Filter - SAWYER Squeeze - amzn.to/3xueDl7
Stove - MSR PocketRocket 2 Stove - amzn.to/3QjCRac
Titanium Pot - Lixada Titanium Cup 750ml - amzn.to/39uKGZX
Cookware Kit - Aitsite Cookware Kit Aluminum Lightweight - amzn.to/3tznCAe
Wood Stove / Bushbox - Lixada Camping Wood Stove - amzn.to/3mLXi1O
Filming:
Drone - DJI Air 2S Fly More Combo - amzn.to/3MOsZSE
iPhone 13 Pro 512GB - amzn.to/3mHR2bl
GoPro - HERO8 Black - amzn.to/3txbEa4
Tripod Main - K&F Concept 64” Compact Light Aluminium Tripod - amzn.to/3NQ8K8I
Electronics:
Garmin InReach Mini - amzn.to/3aYinnj
Battery Bank - Anker PowerCore 20100 - 20000mAh - amzn.to/3O57L4N
Clothing:
Muck Boots (Knee length) - Arctic Sport - amzn.to/3QhrkYV
Boots Hiking - Scarpa Men’s Terra GTX - amzn.to/3mHwjVc
Lifejacket - amzn.to/3OesgLG
Socks (Waterproof) - SEALSKINZ Cold Weather - amzn.to/3HlVXsb
Socks (Merino Wool) - amzn.to/3tW52Td
Other:
Barrel 30l - amzn.to/3yzXd72
Barrel 60l - amzn.to/3z8kUon
Folding Water Bucket / Organiser for Barrel - amzn.to/3Tceihp
Arteesol Dry Bag: amzn.to/3GeTsZC
Link to Wye Valley Canoes (also does accomodation) below:
wyevalleycanoes...
Gear List and Links:
Sleep & Camp:
Tent - Naturehike Cloud-Up 2 20D Grey - amzn.to/3tzNNXk
Sleeping Pad - Therm-a-Rest NeoAir XTherm - amzn.to/3xpOVhw
Fold Foam Pad - Therm-a-Rest Z-Lite SOL - amzn.to/3xncjw9
Sleeping Bag (Comfort 5c) - Thermarest Questar 32 - amzn.to/39s6yoX
Sleeping Bag (Comfort -2c) - Rab Ascent 700 - amzn.to/3xiMVYk
Sleeping Bag (Comfort -5c) - Mountain Equipment Helium 600
Tarp - DD Hammocks - DD SuperLight Tarp 3m x 2.9m - amzn.to/3ty5wyD
Paracord (620lb) - Abma Cord 550 Paracord 9 Inner Strands - amzn.to/3zxq4Lr
Paracord (100lb) - Abma Cord 2mm Paracord 1 Inner Strand - amzn.to/3QdnHDr
Tools & Fishing:
Knife - Mora Outdoor Companion 860 - amzn.to/3tCfDlR
Saw - Bahco Laplander Folding Saw - amzn.to/3aYd6fv
Fishing Rod - QudraKast Fishing Rod - amzn.to/3xjlXQ8
Fishing Reel - Piscifun Flame Spinning Ultra Smooth - amzn.to/3xocOpz
Cooking:
Water Filter - SAWYER Squeeze - amzn.to/3xueDl7
Stove - MSR PocketRocket 2 Stove - amzn.to/3QjCRac
Titanium Pot - Lixada Titanium Cup 750ml - amzn.to/39uKGZX
Cookware Kit - Aitsite Cookware Kit Aluminum Lightweight - amzn.to/3tznCAe
Wood Stove / Bushbox - Lixada Camping Wood Stove - amzn.to/3mLXi1O
Filming:
Drone - DJI Air 2S Fly More Combo - amzn.to/3MOsZSE
iPhone 13 Pro 512GB - amzn.to/3mHR2bl
GoPro - HERO8 Black - amzn.to/3txbEa4
GoPro Windscreen - Foam Windslayer Housing Case - amzn.to/3Oe5oMm
GoPro Clamp - amzn.to/3aScJmp
GoPro Dual Battery Charger - amzn.to/3xp57zu
Go Pro Chest Mount - amzn.to/3HlUh1L
Head Harness - Amazon Basics Head Strap - amzn.to/3zBOO5g
Tripod Main - K&F Concept 64” Compact Light Aluminium Tripod - amzn.to/3NQ8K8I
Tripod iPhone Adapter - Woohot 360 Degree Rotation - amzn.to/3MOZ7pw
iPhone Microphone - RØDE VideoMicro Compact - amzn.to/3zRu49R
Electronics:
Garmin InReach Mini - amzn.to/3aYinnj
Battery Bank - Anker PowerCore 20100 - 20000mAh - amzn.to/3O57L4N
Charging Cable (Lightning) - Anker 1ft - amzn.to/3HhVJlS
Headtorch - amzn.to/3zBfDGD
Thermometer - amzn.to/3HhVJlS
Clothing:
Muck Boots (Knee length) - Arctic Sport - amzn.to/3QhrkYV
Boots Hiking - Scarpa Men’s Terra GTX - amzn.to/3mHwjVc
Socks (Waterproof) - SEALSKINZ Cold Weather - amzn.to/3HlVXsb
Socks (Merino Wool) - amzn.to/3tW52Td
Hi my name is Chris Im from Poland. I have been watching your films for some time now and I must say I love it. Great job. I love comment how you explin things and narrate yor films.
This ona was pretty scary. Yes Yes Yes I cant stres enough how fast thing can get bad and dangerous on water! But you handeled your self very good :)
I have a kayak and trawel a lot and here in Poland fox very rearly use life jackets and I had like a million discution about this.
Grat keep up the good job and waiting for next adventuers.
I love the garbage collecting thing - Im doing it as well :))
Hey Chris - thanks for your kind words - I really appreciate that! Indeed, things can turn very quickly. It's about being prepared for the worst. Keep on adventuring and good on you mate to collect rubbish, let's keep it going!
Wow, brave is all I can say. I canoe the Wye once or twice a year - usually in pairs or 4 people. But solo in Winter? And with a tarp? Most impressive! I'm certainly more risk averse and probably wouldn't do solo on the Wye unless it was Summer levels. I would have probably taken a lot more gear for warmth and redundancy too, and tied everything down expecting a swim. But that's just me. I'm a big fan of your adventures and your videos are great and really inspiring. Keep up the good work.
Thanks a lot buddy appreciate it!!! I should have definitely been more prepared for the possibility of a swim. I went in with a false sense of security, having done the Wye already. But the river levels were higher, the flow a bit faster, and it was winter. Hindsight! Live and learn ! Keep on adventuring brother!
Good effort mate👊. ‘Shit happens’ but it’s how you overcome it that counts and as you say where the growth is. It’s always been my way of thinking. I need to get my kayak back out soon😉
Thanks so much and absolutely brother! It’s all about seeking that discomfort and growing out of it - would be great to go on a good “suffering” one together sometime 😃
@@EzeAdventurer yes my friend I’m sure we can get out for an adventure together at some point👍👊
Take care
Al
@@BUSHMANandBLUE Looking forward brother
I subscribe to and love both your really great channels. Great to see Bushman and Blue watches Eze Adventurer.
What doesn't kill you makes you stronger... keep it up, you're doing good man :)
Thanks the SPIRIT buddy!!
Great video Eze mate. Good effort for how you dealt with the swim and the rest of the trip 🙌🏻 respect to you buddy 👍🏻
Thanks big man!! Was as great opportunity for growth and learning!!! Look fwd to our next adventure together 🔥❤️
Please get some proper paddling coaching; I really like your channel and your videos, but you need some basic recovery training. Glad you sorted yourself out ok and solo adventures are great fun so dont stop - this is a lesson we have all learnt so I'm not trying to slam you, but if that was above a recirculating weir or in the middle of a loch then you'd be really struggling. A bit of recovery practice and the next time this happens (there is always a next time for us lol) it'll be easier for you to manage. Keep up the great content though
Kyle thanks mate I appreciate you taking the time to comment. I agree with you, I'd definitely like to build on my skills especially in rescue training etc. I just tend to want to run before I can walk... and it obviously comes at a cost!! They'll be a next time, FOR SURE! Keep on adventuring mate
Great video, as a canoest and white water kayaker we would never paddle alone in winter. Next time paddle with a buddy tie everthing down and I would invest in a dry suit which you can wear thermals under. Well done for carrying on and braving the cold night ahead .
Thanks a lot Steve! Yes definitely let my guard down there... and yes planning to do more trips with a buddy in the future. Also since then bought good pair of palm bottoms and Cag for pretty much 100% waterproofness! Glad you enjoyed it!
fantastic video. I'm so glad you're ok.
Thanks David appreciate the concern buddy ❤️
I can't believe you went out in the dark at the start! And then went solo in winter! Wow, you are braver than me XD
Great video mate, absolutely loved it.
Haha thanks bud I appreciate that! Stupidity and bravery are related 😂😂. This was an awesome lesson to learn though. Keep on adventuring brother!
Great vid mate, unlucky capsize but it happens; there's not a lot you can do about submerged debris. It was an awkward exit from the river though after the incident, those mud cliffs looked like a right pain in the ass! Take care buddy 👍
Hey mate appreciate it! I know it was so silly, I couldn't believe it, and Josh had warned me.. I flirted with the tree unnecessarily and paid the price. But I feel it was destiny and I needed to experience that, to highlight the weaknesses in my system (to prepare for bigger expedition!! :-)) Those mud cliffs were a pain too haha ! Take care mate
Hey Eze, only just come across this footage and total respect to you for how you reacted to the situation, giving us great footage and just shows when we need to dig in it’s possible….
Keep the videos coming buddy..👍👍
Hey buddy! Yes exactly, we have much more in the tank than we give ourselves credit for. And the growth comes from that “disaster” or we can also call it “opportunity”! Thanks for watching and will do 👊🔥
@@EzeAdventurer hey thanks for the reply, been over in the canoe many times and it never changes in how it feels…. Going to do some videos of my own soon enough, hopefully I will have the strength to show it on camera too….💪💪😂😂
@@PaddleandCamp Absolutely bud!! You have the strength!! sounds awesome keep it going!!
Hi just watched this recent trip of yours man you make memories every time, even in hardship you never complain you crack on & make the most 👍, fantastic channel always enjoyable trips & well filmed, keep up the good work pal 🤛😀
Thanks so much buddy! Really appreciate that!! I really enjoy the challenge aspect of overcoming a situation... in the moment it can suck sometimes but when I look back, those tend to be the best moments! This one was full of learning! Take care my friend!
Man you stayed super calm and collected, good on ya! Awesome to watch you battle on through and deal with it all too, I’m sure you’ve taken a way some lessons from that one for sure!
Hey buddy!! Thank you! haha I just about managed to stay calm. I think it was more anger at my stupidity than anything haha - but I managed to stay focused and I was happy with the result. SOOOO many lessons !! Love from London brother
Eze, great video, respect for the way you handled it. Would you recommend those floatation blocks now you have used them for real? I have the same and wondering did they help?
Hey David, thanks I appreciate that! Yes I think they definitely helped with the buoyancy, I was grateful for having them in place!
Good to know, thank you!
You got it bud!
I’ve got the same floatation blocks and wondered if I really needed them. Judging from how low your flooded boat floated, I’m definitely keeping mine in. Awesome video.
Thanks for the great content! I really enjoy all your vids. I really rate drycags or drysuits even on short or calmer trips in our winters, just in case. ;)
Apologies if you already have, but can I recommend a couple of British Canoeing Courses, including the FSRT?
Buddy thanks for watching!! To add MORE stupidity to on my side, I recently bought dry pants and cag - but just thought it would be overkill for the Wye. Lesson learnt. 100% I should do a course, I appreciate it that as it would equip me with the right tools to navigate tricky scenarios (especially when alone), significantly increase my safety and give me more confidence
The FSRT looks great - any tips on how to book it?
@@EzeAdventurer The British Canoeing website is a great source of online syllabus course material, with a few links to different centres or coaches providing the FSRT course, I'd also recommend looking into the "Canoe Awards" as a start, this gives you a sort of base line of your skills and paddle techniques to then develop from there. I can give you some links to very experienced coaches and guides?
I'm a river guide on the Wye, so let me know when you're ready to try it again, and I'll join you. 😀
Bet that was chilly! Another great adventure, really unfortunate to not only capsize, but to be greeted by such a tall bank afterwards! You handled it well though and kept your cool (no pun intended) and managed to recover on the bank to continue.
Great video and lesson.
Take care, Paul.
Haha was a chilly one indeed bro!! I know the combination of going in and high bank was an interesting one!
Looking fwd to our next adventure together brother ❤️👊🔥
Another amazing trip with you.
Like I said, you always keep your head on your shoulders even in an emergency. You said your confidence was shaken as you went by those rapids after the canoe flipped, but I knew you had all the confidence you needed deep down.
How was that sausage, and have you tried other brands you would recommend?
Namaste 🙏
Thanks mate! the beyond meat sausage is nice, but I've stopped eating them .. they taste really good but I think they are just processed sh*T unfortunately
Wow, that situation could have been a lot, lot worse. I salute your courage for paddling in February with water that cold. That dunk alone could have turned out very different indeed. A dry suit would be a very wise investment if you intend to do more winter canoeing. The flow of the river was pretty swift too!
Andy thanks so much! Yes it could have been a lot worse.. the barrel could have floated away.. I have dry pants and a cag now for next adventure! Keep adventuring brother!!!
Eze you definitely get a thumbs up for perseverance on this one man 🙌🙌🛶👏👏👏👏👍
Thanks buddy! 👊🔥
Unless bugs are a problem, a tarp is about the most useful and versatile shelter you can use. So many different pitches to protect you from various weather events.
Totally agree, super shelter and indispensable item!!
Eze mate you are a legend and I am so glad that you are still alive😆 That was some spill! I capsised on the Spey ( at the 'washing machine') with a rookie in the front. Boy, that was hairy😣 so I can utterly relate👏 KTF🙏
Marty thanks so much mate!! haha glad to be alive too!! I know it really happened so fast, I was lulled into a false sense of security. But I've learned my lesson. I know the Spey bit at the washing machine.. must have been hairy indeed ... where your feet bouncing on the bottom a lot? It's quite shallow there in bits? Tandem makes it heavier sometimes and slower to manoeuvre ... !
Love all your videos and this is no exception. Really glad you’re ok after your chilly dunk!❤️
I’ve learned so many lessons about canoeing from you, including the importance of staying calm in emergency situations on the river.
I’m planning a Wye canoe/camping trip for next month, so looked at Wye Valley Canoes’ website... Confused to read they don’t hire to solo paddlers..?? Did you have a tiny friend stashed in your barrel?😂
Thanks for continuing to add such great content to your channel man, always a pleasure to watch.
Stay safe, and happy paddling. 🛶❤️
Hey Louise and thanks so much, I appreciate that!!! I didn't know they didn't hire to solo paddlers...I didn't hire though, the canoe was my own... did you try to ring them to ask? The wye is absolutely wonderful you'll love it. As long as the water level isn't high, you'll be fine. And unlike me, stay clear of ALL trees hahaha!!
I live near the Wye and I’ve just brought myself a 16’ Novacraft and I’m looking forward to getting out on the river
Awesome!! Aaah novacraft, I''m so jealous that's a proper canoe, really good quality!! Want one of those lol! Hope you enjoy it!
Thank you for making such informative, enjoyable videos and be proud of yourself for cleaning up other peoples mess. I’m glad I came across your page 👌👏👍
So nice of you - thank you I really appreciate that! Glad to have you onboard buddy!
Great video. Shows how quickly things can turn south. Good job on staying calm and thinking things through. Glad it all turned out well for you!
Thanks Kev - Absolutely mate, it can all turn in the blink of an eye! Still, love these sort of experiences. Overcoming them, can provide enormous confidence boosts for future adventures!
Very good video and great positivity .subbed and catching up on previous videos. ATB
Thanks John! Welcome aboard buddy so glad to have you on the team!! 👊🔥
Wow what a trip!! You should try from Aberfoyle to Stirling with the river forth. If you need help with the commute just let me know 👍
Thanks buddy I appreciate that, so kind mate! Will check that section out!
Nice one Eze, looked a great little adventure 🙂. Great to have the river to yourself 👍
Rick n Billydog
Thanks Rickie buddy ❤️! Really was an awesome adventure and having the river to myself, well that’s just priceless!
Bloody hell man, unlucky! You hot yourself sorted though pal so hats off to you and good on you for getting back on it fast! Well done pal
Thanks Ant buddy!! Yeah once I looked at it as an opportunity everything changed! I was super grateful for the experience, wouldn't change a thing :-) !! But will definitely be making some changes now hahah!!
I am glad your barrel stayed dry did you have dry bags inside those blue barrels dont always keep the water out but it looked pritty new. Nice change to see someone paddling in winter on the wye and over comming adversity
Thanks a lot! Those barrels are air tight, super reliable. I do use dry bags for sleeping bag and sensitive items like eletronics, extra clothing etc. But they do the job. Reliable!
Riveting video. That was one of the most dramatic videos I have watched on UA-cam! For a mad moment I even thought the canoe was going to sink! And then good to see how you managed a difficult situation! I mean to capsize by cliffs in winter! I felt cold watching you! And full of admiration for your coping skills. Look forward to watching more of your adventures. (And the charity one with Ant).
WOW thank you SO much really appreciate that!! I was honestly super grateful for the experience, I learned SO much!! Thanks for your kind encouragement it means a lot :-) Looking fwd to sharing more ! Have a good evening Felicity
I am an old guy with little knowledge. I just learned a lot. Your ability to remain calm was amazing. Thank you for sharing the experience.
Woww thank you SOOO much I really appreciate that! I too have little knowledge… there’s so much to learn! Everyday is a school day 😃
I have watched hundreds of canoe adventures and your video was the most challenging yet, with a dump in cold water by cliffs and no cold water clothing. We all learn by doing, making mistakes and pushing our limits. You have a great attitude and no doubt will add this experience to make your next winter trip safer.
Thanks Carol, appreciate that! Absolutely, it's all about learning and gaining experience. The more mistakes we make, ultimately the more we learn - so we should in fact be celebrating mistakes!
Appreciate the kind words and sending you good vibes back!!
Fairplay to you for keeping a cool head. I would have panicked. Loved the video
Thanks appreciate it bud! Glad you enjoyed it.
What an amazing video Eze ! Defo a wake up call. I've only ever paddled the Wye in the summer and really don't mind falling in then but to see you in what most of us would class as a nightmare scenario and stay calm ! Well hats off man. Superb and positive. Love your work brother.
Martyn - Thank you I appreciate that! haha I know it's one of those scenarios you play over and over in your head and hope never materialise. But I'm glad it did so I got the opportunity to learn and expose the weaknesses in my systems! Positivity for the win brother!! Thanks for watching!!!
you done well in a hectic situation dude!! you aint stupid, gonna happen at some point, we all get into these situations! i know i have haha. little tip is to always..always take a hand held bilge pump
Thanks Joey !! I appreciate that man! Yep totally right, won't be the last time I do something "stupid" ! Thanks for the tip!
I was lulled into a false sense of security.... I let my guard down and naturally paid the price! SO MANY lessons learned on this one! What would you have done differently?
you handled that well. I may not have been so calm, everyday's a school day.
@@Sy-12 Thank you mate!! Well said, I love that!!!
Tie your stuff down pal, every time.
Need to do a link up with @Foresteroutdoors, show you how to lace and rig your boat- be brave, and don’t cry, it involves a lot of drilling.
@@rumpoldstilskint7760 aaaah I know what you mean... drilling every 6-7 inches a few cm from the gunwales... nooooo can't do it!
@@EzeAdventurer do it, do it :)
Help! I’m looking to buy an open canoe, and can’t decide whether to by a solo canoe, or can I get a double that’s easy to paddle solo? I can’t decide, as my current mode of transport is a Sea Eagle Explorer x380 2 man kayak that I use solo for kayak camping.
Thanks in advance, and love your videos!
Hey buddy if you go for something around 15ft, MAX 15.5 you can do both. I'd recommend 15 more, it's best of both worlds!
@@EzeAdventurer many thanks.👍🏽
God bless Eze not a nice experience in that temperature
Thanks mate! Yeah really was a shocker lol but much needed humbling dose!! Super grateful for these experiences. In hindsight, Much more so than the pleasant ones!
It’s amazing how calm you handle the pressure here mate, Respect
Thanks Chano! I appreciate that bud!!
Thrilling adventure, anyone who spends a lot of time in a canoe will find the bottom of the river… well done
I love that Jim!!! thanks for sharing !!
OMG man that capsize was something I didn't expect to see and you were so calm and got yourself sorted I was like ffs hope he's OK lots of people would have called it a day and give up but not you your definitely a bloke that rick needs on his adventure that was an amazing video well done eza atvb Jimmy 😎😎👍👍👍👍
Jimmy thanks mate for the warm words, very much appreciated!! I definitely thought of quitting and calling it a day - but I knew I had sufficient kit with me to be ok... and I was able to re-frame the situation into an opportunity of recovery. I knew that on longer, bigger expeditions things like this may be inevitable and I was keen to give it a run for it's money :-). Glad I did! All the very best Lundy mate have a good evening and much love as always - Eze.
@@EzeAdventurer well you did a fantastic job and to be honest I think it's one of your best video to date 😎😎👍👍
@@LundysWildcampBushcraft Thanks Lundy your encouragement means a lot to me mate, really appreciate it! ATVB, Eze.
@@EzeAdventurer not a problem I've shared your video and channel on my Facebook group 😎😎👍👍
@@LundysWildcampBushcraft WHAT A LEGEND Lundy THANK YOU mate as always for your kindness!!
always have you phone tied to the boat. that's what i do, or in the barrel. also, when trying to warm up after, the bouyancy aid is your best friend. they are super insulating and it doesnt really matter if that stays wet. keep it on to help keep you warm. mine has totally saved my life during winter kayaking trips.
Stephen thanks so much!! Absolutely agree, the phone should have been either put away or tied securely... I was arrogant/complacent and paid the price! Good tip re buoyancy aid mate!! What was your closest call with nature so far? Keep on adventuring brother !
I have two yellow floatation rings on my phone instead of the recommended one. I still think my heavy phone will sink but I need the freedom to take pictures and photos.
Flipping eck, that was an adventure and a half. Really think it’s sensible to have a dry suit for winter months, and to lash everything to the boat, as you now know you never know what’s going to happen. Huge cudos for keeping going and posting, many wouldn’t as they would have thought it embarrassing, it’s the opposite in my book inspiring👍
Thanks Geoff I appreciate you taking the time to comment! Definitely was one of the top adventures I’ve had. Full of learning. 100% dry suit necessary in these conditions - better safe than sorry.
Happy to continue sharing my embarrassing moments, we’re all human and we all make mistakes. In fact we should be encouraged to make as many mistakes as possible, the by product will be learning and experience. 👊🔥
@@EzeAdventurer When I was looking at buying my kayak, i spoke with an old school mate who now lives on Victoria Island BC, he said “always dress for the water not the air temp” and I’ve always had that in mind whe I go out. We never want or anticipate falling in, but the shock of falling into low temp water can be fatal, I’ve windsurfed all year round and vouch for that! Of course you know you’ll get wet on a windsurfer in high winds, paddling I’m not so sure we expect that. On a similar not I see huge numbers of SUP without proper clothing or even PB, they are just asking for trouble IMO.
Putting up this video will hopefully help other realise the need for the right clothing, and your right, we learn by mistakes and our experiences, and it’s better to do something than years later having regrets at not having a go.
Keep posting ( I know you will, I really enjoy your adventures, maybe one day we will bump into each other on the water👍)
@@geoffknight7322 Wise words, I will remember that one thanks Geoff! And yes hope to bump into to you sometime soon buddy 🙂
What was the tarp you used for a shelter? Cheers.
DD Tarp 3x3m mate absolute quality, love it still going strong. Link below:
amzn.to/3xaVIvX
I have no idea how you have so few subs bro! Only just found you. Absolutely amazing content. Going to be starting wild-camping soon on my channel in the coming months, can’t wait, and your videos are making me more excited!
Welcome aboard buddy and thanks for the kind words! Getting out there is what it's all about!!! Nothing quite as exciting as being outdoors at the mercy of nature!
Mate u need u swap that vest out for 1 with more pockets on it I put my phone in a waterproof case then in pocket on vest check out the peak uk vests but great video mate I’d be goin mad u kept a cool head good on u 2 of my mates done same thing on that river luckily I been ok 😅 nice vid man 👌
Thanks buddy! I know the issue is I was filming with my iPhone on a tripod, and so everything went down together when I capsized. I prob shouldn't be using my phone for filming on a canoe... !!! It was a pretty silly capsize, tree looked so innocent but was effective in getting me in the water! Hahah managed to keep a relatively cool head in the scheme of things hahah thanks for watching!!!
@@EzeAdventurer get a floaty tripod mate again great vid look forward 2 next 1 👊🏼
@@campingwild9601 Good idea ... !! Ahh so many mistakes hahahaha but it's part of the process I guess!
Fantastic. Again. Such positivity during adversity. Good work Eze. 👍
Thank you so much Chris! absolutely, that's what's it all about!! 🙂buddy !! thanks for watching !
Awesome video!
Glad you enjoyed it!
Thank you 😊👍
You're welcome 😊my friend!!!
Another AWESOME trip!!! You gotta stay dry though!!! Life lessons, hard learned :) Keep up the great content!
Hahah thanks Chris!! Absolutely these are the best lessons to learn! Take care mate 💪🔥
Awesome vid Eze! At the expense of your phone and gear 😕 I got dragged under a tree last year on the Wye, came out of nowhere and ended up in the drink floating down the river. Sketchy, but sort of fun! Looking forward to more Eze adventures! 👍
Darren thanks I appreciate it! Happy the loss was only material luckily :-) I know the feeling, it really did seem like it came out of nowhere, from once second to the next! I also agree it was kind of fun :-) ! Adrenaline junkie talking... Look forward to sharing more, take care mate
Great job man😎👍🏻 You were so calm and open minded for such dynamic change of situation you were. Survival procedure (stay calm, keep dry & warm etc.) was crucial for your comfort. High five for crossing your own comfort zone✋🏻Always like watching your trips & videos. Think I still will😉 Greetings from Poland 🇵🇱
Hi buddy!! Thanks I really appreciate that! Exactly! I went into survival mode and tried to execute as best as possible. In some ways, it's easier to execute under those circumstances because you don't over think things - you know what you have to do and you know you gotta do it quick! Crossing the comfort zone is what it's all about and where we find the most growth, I'll continue to do so, hopefully staying relatively safe whilst doing it! Much love from London to Poland mate
Well done again pal, great film. Gotta love your positive mental attitude! Easy to get down on moments like these. So enjoy your films💪👍👍
Thank you I appreciate it Buddy! Yeah definitely felt the down moment and managed to stay positive, remembering these are usually the best adventures in the end 😃
Hey man, I enjoyed your video but fear for your well being. I am 74 have over fifty years experience canoe/camping and like most of your subscribers, still dump my canoe on occasion. For your (and your families) well being, please heed my advice. a) you have a great attitude but slow down in your actions, b) study currents, especially in white water, b) make a list of essentials ahead of your adventures, ie: fire starters, 2nd set of clothing, cell phone, water purification, maps, and always, even on day trips, keep them in a waterproof bag tied down in your canoe, and wear a life preserver.
The above may be overkill, but take it from one who almost died of hypothermia twice, be prepared for any situation.
Happy and healthy adventures ahead! Looking forward to your next video....
Scottie I really appreciate your concern and I know it comes from a good place of care and love - so thank you :-) ! 100% this was packed full of lessons and take aways. I will be upgrading my system entirely with safety in mind and careful planning, regardless of how "innocent" a river may seem. How amazing that you have such incredible amount of experience, I hope to be able to continue paddling well into my 70s - adventure is what keeps us young ey? Would love to hear your close call with hypothermia!! What happened???
@@EzeAdventurer Thanks for your response, Eze. I was hoping you wouldn't take offense.
I think that we have very similar personalities, that is we're both easygoing and do not panic in challenging situations.
As far as my hypothermia episodes, they are lengthy so please bare with me. The first episode had nothing to do with boating. I was 65 years old at the time and traveling for 2.5 months throughout Alaska. I was on a river wading for salmon. It was June and the water level was very high, raging at over 20 MPH. It was crowded so I hiked up river for about 2 miles. I spotted some salmon on the opposite shore. Another fisherman locked arms with me and we slowly shuffled to the other side. The fish weren't biting so I began my return downriver on a path, when a grizzly came out of the woods blocking my path. So I foolishly tried getting back by crossing the river, but I was viewing a woman basking on a rock when I lost my balance and was swept away down river. My waders quickly filled up with water and I was drowning. I envisioned what I looked like, my rod in one hand, my net in the other, my body spread out like a frog, and I started to laugh. Finally I came to a low point in the river, grabbed a rock and somehow got to my feet. I was surrounded by fishermen asking if I was ok. I began shivering and found that the river had swept me back to where my RV was parked. Feeling weak and disoriented I accented the hill, got in my RV and jumped in a warm shower. That evening I continued to shiver uncontrollably but eventually fell asleep.
The second time happened just a year ago when I met up with a lady to watch the full moon rise from my canoe. She had a kayak. Getting into my Wenonah Wilderness canoe I lost my balance and tipped over into the water.
Soaking wet, my Macho man instincts took over and I told her that we should continue on. It was 60 degrees out and I thought I could fight off the effects of hypothermia. At the end of the evening we headed back to shore. I was dizzy and weak and shivering. Then exiting the canoe I fell in again, and the temperature dropped to about 50 degrees but this time full hypothermia took over! I was shivering so badly that my friend had to take my shirt and socks off. Unprepared, I only had a rain jacket to change into, no socks. I turned up the heat in my car as high as it would go and eventually made it home (I would have gone to a hospital but we were out in the middle of nowhere). This was much worse than the first episode in Alaska. A few weeks later I learned that I needed surgery on both legs (unrelated to hypothermia), but it occurred to me that the weakness in my legs was the cause of my instability.
@@ajda1947 Wow!! I know the feeling, it's hard to shake off, even after the cold water event. I actually had a similar episode just doing a cold water shower at home for lightly too long (I wanted to see my limit...) it took me ages to recover to my normal body temperature!
Well done eze for pushing on through after that dip. Would have been easy to call it quits there. Harsh lessons I find to be the best ones. They really hit home! Will make you better prepared! 👍👍 I’ll be avoiding river canoe trips until I’m totally confident in my ability! Long way off for me!
Buddy thanks for watching!! I def thought of quitting but managed to re-frame it and see it as an opportunity of recovery and growth. 100% harsh lessons work!!! I'll def be more prepared next time. Don't put it off too much mate, the river Wye is generally super friendly.. the lower section is a bit easier, and if you go in levels around 0.5-0.7m the flow will be significantly slower. BUT be prepared for the worst so you have a plan and resources necessary. Go with a buddy if possible and in warmer temps maybe 🙂
O wow eze that must of been cold, you did so well to keep calm and keep it together. I kayak but wouldn’t do it with out a dry suit this weather just incase of what happened to you. I love your adventures and can’t wait for the next. Ps don’t forget those bread bags for yr wet feet. 👍🔥🥰
thanks maxine much appreciated as always!! So many lessons learned...! Dry suit or pants and cag option is a must in winter. aaah those bread bags hahah !!! (seems to be likely I'll need them soon!)
thanks for watching!!
Wow scary stuff. Glad you made it out in one piece. I fell in too a couple of weeks ago. There's nothing like a bit of cold water to give a new perspective. Great video buddy!
Hi mate thank you! aaah where did you fall , what happened? 100% new perspective !!
@@EzeAdventurer I was practising with my new sail on Lake Bray in Windsor. It was 17mph winds. I knew that was too fast but I couldn't wait any longer. Since December there had been 0mph wind till now. So I just went. And I went ker-plunk 😄 (it's on my latest vid with action replay!)
Great Video again Eze! You managed the situation well! if you ever need a paddle buddy on the Wye in the future let me know!
Cheers buddy I appreciate that mate !!
This is the beginning of real adventure. Thanks for sharing with us 👍. It's never to late to learn 😁.
Totally agree!! As they say.. adventure starts when things go wrong ey?? Thanks for watching and keep on adventuring!!!
What an incredible video! Love your work brother! Love your content, amazing adventures that inspire me to get out there and do it myself.
Look forward to more from you in the future!
Give me a massive dopamine hit !
I appreciate that Steven!! That's what's it all about mate - getting out there and letting nature do it's thing! I know what you mean dopamine wise - it's overwhelming and I seek it out so much!! Take care buddy!!
New to the channel - enjoying your videos - keep at it 👍
Welcome aboard buddy, glad you like the videos!
Great video awesome
Thanks Mike!!
@Eze Adventurer I'm hoping to be back on the river wye next Month, watching your videos have been great 👍
@@mikebricknell7686 Awesome buddy you'll have a blast, love this river!!
Eze well done mate loved the video and so relieved you are ok. Great adventure.💯
Thanks Mick for watching for the concern, I appreciate it man! Much love back!!
Great video as always my friend.. What an adventure that one was great the way you controlled the tricky situation calm and collected respect to you … looking forward as always to your next trip stay safe and enjoy life .
Peter my friend how is Australia treating you?? Thank you so much, it really was a fantastic adventure , lot's learned and ultimately good confidence building exercise to go for more! Have a great evening my friend
@@EzeAdventurer Hi Eze if only I was in Australia lol think you must have me muddled up with another Peter I’m here in Essex in the cold and rain 🌧… No worries my friend thank for the reply.. Take care and stay dry on those rivers.Ps I have the same canoe as you but in black fantastic boat .
@@peterfenton9516 aaah Peter so sorry mate!! yes muddled it!!! hahaha well hope you enjoy imaginary Australia!!! Aaah the canoe is a beauty, I would have loved it in Black but they didn't have it and I was too impatient!!
👍🏼 This was a phenomenal watch for sure!! I can’t believe how calm, cool and collected you remained through all that. I’m trying to figure out if I want to go the canoe route or stay with the sit on tops I’ve got now. It’s just the payload is so much more with a canoe obviously but they are so much more tippy. The only reason we would need a canoe is if my daughter decides to go paddle campin with me again. She’s a bigger girl. The sit on tops are virtually unsinkable. You show an incredible amount of humility in this video not only during the adventure but also in deciding to publish it and get it out there. You’re really a great dude! Take care and peace. NQU
NQU Thank you so much I really appreciate that! I'm not too familiar with the sit on top kind, I do love my open canoe and I don't think they are overly tippy to be honest - and yes you can carry SO much, I love it for the expedition aspect. They are also super durable and you (usually!) stay super dry! Have you paddled an open one before to see how it feels? Josh was saying that his canoes have a more angled edge and maybe they are less tipy... worth exploring. Yeah I wanted to show the realness of the situation how it was, hopefully we can all learn something together from this so we can be more prepared next time! Thanks for the kind words, I'm lucky to have subs like you 🙂 - take care my friend
@@EzeAdventurer 👍🏼
Only tippy if you A: pack wrong, B: sit on the seats.
Most kneel in our Canadians, super stable. I’ve been down small rapids in a deck chair in my Canadian- also stable as it were packed right
@@rumpoldstilskint7760 100%! I find them pretty stable in general!
I wouldn’t have gone out in the dark either.
One of those things, was too keen, wanted to get on the water!
Outstanding trip mate. As has a been said already, keeping your cool in those situations is crucial. These things happen so so quickly. Bravo. If it was just a phone and tripod you lost, you're OK. Great video buddy. Glad I found your channel
Ben thanks a lot buddy! Totally agree, a phone and a tripod - all replaceable! Glad it worked out. Thanks for the kind words, they are much appreciated