Paddle Rocky Gorge Reservoir at Browns Bridge
Detalles
Alright, I give up. Sunday keeps looking windier and wetter, so I'm switching to Saturday morning at 9:45 instead. I have to be off the water by 11:45 to meet some out of town guests, so we need to shove off promptly at 9:45. It's a huge reservoir though, so you guys are welcome to keep cruising past the put in / take out and get some more miles in.
The reservoir is low, so unless we get a solid inch of rain this week, we will head downstream towards the rocky ravine that gives the reservoir its name. If we do get some rain, then we should be able to push upstream into the Patuxent River.
The water temperature is still in the brutally cold mid 50's and is still quite dangerous if you fall in. But that's why you always paddle with friends who can lend a rescue assist. Still, you ABSOLUTELY need to be wearing 100% synthetic-fiber clothing and I STRONGLY recommend packing a spare set of clothes in your dry bag.
This is event is suitable for kayaks and canoes (but not inflatables). WSSC does not allow paddle boards on their reservoirs and has been getting more serious about enforcement. If you've got a seat attachment for your SUP and can paddle it sitting down, I think you're in the clear. As always, you must WEAR, not just carry your life jacket/PFD.
WSSC requires a watershed use permit. Permits are $6.25 per day or $72 for the year. I heard that they increased the fine for not having one to $100. You can purchase them online at:
https://my.wsscwater.com/selfcare/views/public/login/login.faces
