By Douglas Scott
Paddling the waters of Grays Harbor is an event as old as human civilization in the region, with the rivers, creeks and harbor serving as a hub of trade, survival and exploration for thousands of years. As modern technology increased and shipping became one of the Harbor’s main industries, the region’s canoes were replaced with larger, less personal watercraft. For more than a generation, the waters of Grays Harbor were used primarily for shipping and fishing, but with the resurgence of outdoor activities and an energetic youth culture taking pride in everything Grays Harbor, water exploration of Grays Harbor is returning in exciting new ways.
Photo credit: Ryan Kuja.
Ryan Kuja, owner and guide at Blackfish SUP, offers a slower, more personable approach to reconnecting with the waters around Grays Harbor County. Relocating from Seattle in January, Ryan is hoping that he and his wife would be able escape the fast pace of city life and explore the beauty and waters around Grays Harbor County. What Ryan discovered exceeded his expectations of the region. He quickly learned that Grays Harbor is a stand up paddler’s (SUP) paradise.
“Aberdeen and the surrounding area is chock full of amazing spots to paddle, from Lake Aberdeen and the Chehalis, Wishkah, Hoquiam, Elk and John’s Rivers, to Grays Harbor, and the ocean. Its endless,” Ryan exclaimed. “This was really eye opening for me – all of the great new spots to explore by SUP. There is a lifetime of paddling in the southern Olympic Peninsula region.”
Stand up paddling is a fast growing way to explore the waterways of the world, and the popularity of the sport is helping make Grays Harbor County a sought after destination to some of the most amazing and scenic waterways in America. What makes stand up paddling addicting for those who try depends on what they are looking for, as the experience can range from a full body workout to a relaxing trip to watch sunset with seals.
SUP is an extremely versatile sport, as Ryan explains. “Whether you’re 5 or 85, whether you want to paddle calm and relaxing flat water, get a high intensity cardio workout, race competitively, ride waves in the ocean or navigate rapids in a river – SUP truly offers something for everyone! I love it all, especially exploring all the hidden nooks and crannies that can only be accessed by water as well as encountering wildlife. I paddle with my wife quite often too. Its always nice to be on the water with your partner.”
For those who have their own boards ready to go, Grays Harbor has some incredible spots for paddlers of all levels. For beginners, Lake Aberdeen and Friends Landing in Montesano are perfect spots to learn to balance, paddle and appreciate being on an SUP. With calm waters and great views, those looking to learn to SUP will enjoy those two locations immensely. Out in Ocean Shores, Duck Lake and the 23 miles of interconnecting lakes and canals make a trip to the North Beach an amazing place for all levels.
Intermediate paddlers will adore the Wishkah and Hoquiam Rivers. Offering incredible views of the city and a chance to see the wilderness of the region along rarely traveled waterways, the rivers around Grays Harbor are SUP destinations begging to be explored. Grays Harbor itself is also a fantastic destination to paddle, giving those who put forth the effort a chance to be on the historic waters of our community, as well as giving a rarely seen view of the cities of Aberdeen and Hoquiam.
Advanced and expert paddlers will love being out on the ocean at Westport or Ocean Shores. When the swells are on the smaller side and winds are light, paddling along the coast is an experience unlike any other, reconnecting with the energy, power and beauty of the Pacific Ocean.
“Anyone can do it, including you,” explains Ryan. “The boards we use are designed with the new paddler in mind. They are very stable and forgiving. And, if you do fall in, that is the best part anyway! Come out, give it a try, and wet or dry, you will have an amazing time.”
Stand up paddleboarding is an intoxicating experience, letting paddlers connect with the water in an unique and intimate way. While boards may be a bit pricey, Ryan offers tours through his company Blackfish SUP. Ryan is a certified SUP instructor, trained by the PSUPA (Professional Stand Up Paddle Association). Offering boards for all levels of paddlers, wetsuits for days when the weather is inclement, and tours and lessons to become a pro at paddling, hitting the water with Blackfish SUP isn’t just a fun day, it is a start to rediscovering the beauty of the waters of Grays Harbor.
When asked for his best moment while paddling, Ryan told an amazing tale that should entice anyone on the fence to try stand up paddleboarding.
“I was paddling one morning in the summer, during the seal pup season when baby seals are born. There were three or four of them that were really curious about me. I stopped and hung out with them for a while as they splashed and dove and played right by my board,” Ryan continued. “The most daring of the bunch began touching the back of my board, eventually lurching itself nearly completely onto my board next to me. It brought me to tears. That kind of interaction with wildlife is so special, it gives you a glimpse into the depth and wisdom of non-human creatures.”
For amazing wildlife experiences, and a chance to reconnect with the historic and amazing waters of Grays Harbor, put your board on your car or call Ryan and Blackfish SUP. Paddling the waters of the region will reconnect you with the natural wonders of the region, as well as giving you a better appreciation for just how lucky we are to live in Grays Harbor.
For more information, visit Blackfish SUP on Facebook.
