The Mississippi River is a vast and powerful waterway, stretching 2,320 miles, and cutting a wide path through 10 U.S. states. Its current is strong and it has numerous bends, lineal rocks, and sandbanks which make it unsuitable for regular navigation. This can be dangerous for recreational kayakers, and there are few places where even the most experienced kayakers can realistically attempt to tackle it. The stretch of Mississippi that runs through the state of Minnesota alone, for example, is frequently closed to paddlers.
Risks
Kayaking the Mississippi brings a wide range of risks, from motorboat traffic and dangerous currents to the sheer size and speed of the river. Navigating the river also requires paddlers to possess a vast knowledge of the environment, including hydrology, geography, meteorology, and the skills to map out a route and make any adjustments necessary when faced with unexpected circumstances. The Mississippi may also be home to alligators, snapping turtles, and sturgeons – which can make things physically dangerous as well.
Action Plan
There are a few things any kayaker can do to make the experience of kayaking on the Mississippi a safe one. First, identify the paddling routes that are frequently recommended by experienced paddlers. Many U.S. states have launch sites that are maintained specifically for recreational kayakers, and these sites generally come with a variety of safety features, such as markers to show the depth of the water, bollards to indicate hazardous areas, and no-wake zones.
Second, paddlers should consult the latest weather forecasts to avoid high waves caused by wind or rain, as well as any warnings concerning high winds or stormy conditions. The river can change from day to day, and it is important to be vigilant about hazards. Lastly, it is important for all paddlers to follow the waterways’ sections for the season, and to abide by the local laws and regulations.
Gear
To make sure paddlers are safe while kayaking on the Mississippi River, they should equip themselves with the right kind of gear. This includes protective clothing, such as a drysuit or paddle jacket that will provide paddlers with enough thermal protection in cooler waters. The jacket should also be waterproof and have reflective materials to alert boat operators of their presence. Paddlers should also invest in a GPS device, preferably one with navigational features, for help finding their way in case of unexpected detours. A VHF (very high frequency) radio is also recommended in case of an emergency.
When it comes to kayaks, it is important to select a river-specific kayak model that is designed to handle larger bodies of moving water. Separate compartments should be supplied to store essential items such as food, maps, communication devices, and extra clothes.
Trip Planning
Kayaking the Mississippi River should always be taken very seriously, due to its unpredictability. Paddlers should plan the trip thoroughly, by first assessing the risks and difficulty of the route, and then determining the proper equipment and supplies for the paddling. Paddlers should also inform family and/or friends of their trip, giving them the specifics in detail so someone can easily monitor their progress.
Most importantly, paddlers should always be aware of the conditions of the river, and remain alert at all times. They should also know when to call for help – and stay away from shorelines when possible, as these can be dangerous to navigate on their own. The Mississippi is an immense river, and making sure that kayakers are safe while paddling requires a great deal of preparation.
Weather
Weather conditions can be unpredictable on the Mississippi. Temperatures can vary substantially, and storms with rain, hail, and wind can be unpredictable. In the springtime, it is common for large thunderstorms to move in quickly, with no advanced warning. These storms can present danger to paddlers who are unprepared and caught in them.
It’s also important to consider that the speed and strength of the current, as well as its width, can be different in different seasons. During these times, the water rises and it is difficult, or even impossible, to paddle against the current. In such cases, paddlers should be aware of the current’s strength, and plan accordingly.
Safety Tips
Even though kayaking the Mississippi River is safe given the right conditions and the proper gear, there are some safety precautions all paddlers should take. First, paddlers should always wear a personal flotation device (PFD) that is properly fitted, and should always have appropriate safety and communication equipment on hand, such as whistles and radios. Paddlers should also be aware of the potential dangers posed by hazardous objects, such as sharp rocks, logs, and stumps in the water. Finally, paddlers should never leave the shore without a experienced companion and without preparing for emergencies.
Other Hazards
In addition to the physical dangers of the Mississippi, there are other hazards that can pose a serious threat to kayakers. One of the most significant potential issues are wildlife encounters, such as bats and alligators. Paddlers should always use caution when approaching shoreline habitats, as these may be inhabited by dangerous animals such as alligators or large water snakes. The swampy areas of the river are also home to poisonous plants and insects.
Another hazard to paddlers is small, shallow-draft motorboats, which can travel at very high speeds and cause turbulence and chop. Kayakers should always be aware of the motorboat traffic in the area and be prepared to get out of the way or even paddle to the side, if necessary.
River Etiquette
A final important consideration for kayakers is to adhere to the established etiquette and respect of the river. Kayakers should always carry appropriate supplies and dispose of any trash properly. Many areas of the Mississippi are also off-limits to paddlers, so it is important to research and avoid such areas. Finally, paddlers should be mindful of other boats in the area and never attempt to play chicken with motorboats, as they are much more powerful and can cause considerable harm to kayakers.
