Dumont Lake From a Kayak

Sandhill Crane

Kayaks have become quite popular in recent years. For me kayaks and canoes are another tool in experiencing and photographer creation. They allow me to access locations that might otherwise be inaccessible to me and in some cases allow me get closer. Many people are afraid to try a kayak as all they are familiar with are the narrow and tippy white water kayaks. I use a “recreational” type of kayak which is wider, very stable and has a large open cockpit that allows you to just drop out if in that rare situation you should tip over.

The photos in this gallery collection are not as sharp as I would like them to be as they are all shot with one lens and handheld. They do however show a sampling of what can be seen from the water in lakes and rivers if we take our time and observe. Don’t be in a hurry, stay close to the shore unless you see something further out to explore.

Great Blue Heron

Slow moving kayaks and canoes can get you in closer to many wild birds that you may not otherwise get very close to, like herons, ducks and Sandhill Cranes.

Pickerel Weed

Moving slowly along the shoreline and carefully observing the plants can also be a rewarding time with the colorful flowers that grow both in the water and at the edge.

Belted Kingfisher

Besides all the beauty that is to be seen it is also a good way to relax and unwind after a long day by kayaking slowly around a lake. Get out and enjoy the great outdoors.