Surf Rescue at Hobuck Beach, Neah Bay 6-6-2025

Rescue in the Surf (link below with more details) This was not a demo or part of a class and it was not a ‘life or death’ sort of situation. My main reason for telling the story is for learning purposes. It was a chance for me to think through what I did and why, and to provide some insights as to my decisions/process for others to use as part of their training/education. The setting The paddler, while part of a group there for the weekend, was on his own (and yes, something I have done too). He was generally safe out there and had some experience. Prior, he exited and swam back in several times. I was there with 2 others for an impromptu surf lesson only because I cancelled my planned trip for the morning as I didn’t want to lead 2 less experienced paddlers through the surf and down the coast in dense fog. This time he was a bit further out when we went over. He got over the cockpit to control the kayak back to the beach – exactly as we teach – but after a few minutes watching him from the beach, it was clear he was not moving. He was enough of an sea anchor and just on the edge of the small rip on a low energy day. The rescue The initial thoughts in my head when I made the decision to launch: I knew he was dressed properly He was clearly not panicked – no visible distress from the beach I knew once he let go of the kayak, he’d be able to swim back on his own – and that was the plan; have him release the kayak and swim. It didn’t play out that way. Read the full article including a debrief of the rescue (and the decisions made): https://rnissenbaum.com/rescue-in-the... ___________________________________________________________________________ For Coastal sea kayak & Greenland paddling instruction (I do travel): https://rnissenbaum.com Get out, go #seakayaking, #challengeyourself, #pushyourllimits, #goexplore, get in some #skillspractice, #learnsomethingnew & live your #lifeunleased with a few #kayakingadventures (and preferrably with a #greenlandpaddle)! Facebook:   / robertcnissenbaum   Instagram:   / robert.nissenbaum   My paddle - the Gearlab Outdoors Kalleq (https://amzn.to/3ZBgHGV)* *Affiliate link: The link won't impact your order, but does support my content.