Great Rivers Chapter July Paddle

[Otter]

July 25th and 26th the Great Rivers Chapter and the Wisconsin Canoe Heritage Museum along with the Wild Rivers Chapter plan to paddle the beautiful Wild and Scenic Namekagon River in Northwest Wisconsin. The stretch of the river we will paddle is mild water, with good current and a few riffles here and there. The two-day trip will encompass about 26 river miles. Paddle either day or both. The adventuresome can extend the trip another 8 miles to several miles downstream of the Namekagon junction with the St. Croix River. The Namekagon is known not only for its pristine beauty, but also for excellent fishing so bring your gear and Wisconsin fishing license. Walleye and bass are most common, but northern pike and a few muskies also lurk in its waters. We will camp on the river Saturday evening. Paddlers are responsible for their own food, drink and camping equipment. Rooms are available in nearby communities for those who would rather not rough it. We’ll organize shuttles daily at the put-in spots. Paddlers will also have an opportunity to visit the Wisconsin Canoe Heritage Museum under construction in Spooner. The building is being renovated, but already houses an interesting and growing collection of wooden canoes. Wisconsin Canoe Heritage Museum staff will be available at the museum at 312 Front Street in Spooner from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. Friday afternoon July 24. For those who are unable to visit the museum then, we may be able to arrange a visit on Saturday evening. To get to the museum, from the corner of highways 63 and 70 on Spooner's south side, go east on Hwy 70 one block to Front Street, then north on Front 1 1/2 block to the museum. To assist in planning and organizing the logistics for this event, we ask that you please let us know of your intent to participate. For more details of meeting times and put ins and to RSVP contact Jerry Karbon (608)-831-5552, jkarbon@charter.net.