Thanks to those members who contributed photos and materials. After enjoying a SISKA event or paddle, please consider sending a short (100-150 words) summary article; for more information, contact one of us, newsletter@siska.ca . If you would like to start a regular column, please let us know!
Jane Jacek (SISKA president) and Tony Playfair (editor)
Convenient Links
PPPS: Siska’s Newsletter Archive - Mailchimp or Siska Newsletters Website
PPPPS: Rocky Point Demolition Blasting Notices
Saturday, April 05th, 2025 - 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM - Relaxed Paddle - Brentwood Bay Ferry Wharf to RAFTUP Mackenzie Bight via Willis Point Paddle
Saturday, April 05th, 2025 - 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM - Energizer Paddle - Brentwood Bay Ferry Wharf to RAFTUP Spectacle Falls via Bamberton Paddle
Sunday, April 06th, 2025 - 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM - Energizer Paddle - Amherst to RAFTUP Portland Island Paddle
Sunday, April 06th, 2025 - 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM - Relaxed Paddle - Telegraph Cove to RAFTUP Margaret Bay Paddle
Sunday, April 13th, 2025 - 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM - Paddle Canada Level One Skills Training - Part 1 of 3 - Part 1
Sunday, April 13th, 2025 - 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM - Open Pool Session
Sunday, April 20th, 2025 - 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM - Energizer Paddle - Oak Bay Marina to Gonzales Bay Paddle
Sunday, May 04th, 2025 - 9:30 AM to 3:00 PM - Relaxed Paddle - Brentwood Bay Ferry Wharf to Mackenzie Bight
Sunday, May 04th, 2025 - 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM - Energizer Paddle - Spirit Bay to Whirl Bay Paddle
Monday, May 05th, 2025 - 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM - Light Paddle - Telegraph Cove to Glencoe Cove Paddle
Saturday, May 10th, 2025 - 9:30 AM to 3:30 PM - Relaxed Paddle - Cadboro Bay to Uplands and Cadboro Bay Exploration Paddle
by Fred Pishalski
A Slice of Turkey - A Kayak Adventure Presentation
by Norm Smyth, Pat Hill and Vic Turkington
In June of 2024, 3 intrepid SISKA members joined 5 other paddlers from Canada and the UK for a kayaking and cultural experience in southwestern Turkey. Arranged through Exodus Travel, the 8 day adventure began in the coastal town of Gocek and transferred to 2 other locations.
The group kayaked in the crystal clear turquoise waters of the Aegean. They also paddled amongst sunken 2,000 year old Lycian and Roman ruins, hiked to hilltop forts built by Crusaders, enjoyed traditional Turkish cuisine and explored a Turkish market town. The trip offered a slice of Turkish daily life with a splash of marine adventure.
The Turkey trip was co-ordinated by SISKA member, Norm Smyth who was joined by Pat Hill and Vic Turkington for this wonderful adventure.
Our meetings start at 7:00pm however, folks that have gear they wish to sell/swap are invited to show up at 6:00pm to set up, doors open for everyone at 6:30pm. We meet at the Garth Homer Centre, 831 Darwin Avenue, off Saanich Road, near Saanich Municipal Hall.
PLEASE NOTE: In keeping with the latest BC public health guidance on Covid-19 and other respiratory illnesses currently circulating in the community, face coverings are not required for indoor meetings and events like this. Members are welcome to wear a mask if they wish to do so. Masks and hand sanitizer will be available at the rear of the auditorium near the refreshment counter. For those who are feeling unwell, uncomfortable with indoor meetings or otherwise unable to attend, the presentation will be posted to our YouTube channel following the evening.
So Where is the Garth Homer Centre? 831 Darwin Avenue, off Saanich Road, near Saanich Municipal Hall. Parking is available beside the building once you pull into the entrance off Darwin Avenue. It is very close to the Lochside Trail which crosses Darwin Avenue close to nearby Saanich City Hall. The nearest bus stop is at Saanich City Hall on Blanshard Street.
Map location: https://bit.ly/35JtONn
Where to park: https://photos.app.goo.gl/97ksKWVnuruKao7d6
by Jane Jacek
SISKA is a volunteer-run organization. We have no paid staff and our many activities continue due to the shared enthusiasm and skills of our membership. Thank you!
SISKA’s Annual General Meeting (AGM) is happening on Wednesday April 23, 2025, and we want to share with you some interesting volunteer opportunities. Please consider how you can contribute to the wealth of skills training, kayak paddling, and fun that we have together.
Executive positions available - Our bylaws state that no one can serve more than four consecutive years in any one position on our Executive, unless the membership agrees to extend the term of office at a SISKA general meeting.
President - Our president, Jane Jacek , will be finishing her first 2-year term as president. She has kindly offered to continue in this position for another 2 year term.
Vice-president - Our vice-president, BJ Porter, will be completing her 2-year term. This position will be available. The vice-president is the vice-chair of the Executive and is responsible for carrying out the duties of the president if the president is unable to act.
Member-at-large - We will also have at least two member-at-large positions available. This is an excellent opportunity to work on projects and share in Executive decisions to advance SISKA’s mission and goals.
How to Run For Office - Any SISKA member can run for one of these positions. You can be nominated or nominate yourself, up to and including at the AGM. Even if you cannot attend that night, you can run by having someone nominate you and indicating in advance (e.g. by email) that you are willing to stand.
Finally, a gentle reminder to renew your SISKA membership for 2025 so that you can vote at the April AGM!
by BJ Porter
Looking for a way to get more involved in SISKA and the kayaking community? We are looking for a Volunteer Coordinator.
Responsibilities are:
1) To encourage members to step up and volunteer, either for specific tasks or to put their name on a roster of names to be called on. For example, last year a Volunteer Job Fair was held, and individuals are sometimes approached directly.
2) To maintain the roster of names and contact info of SISKA members who have expressed their willingness to help out.
3) To help fill volunteer roles at the request of the Executive, finding and approaching suitable individuals.
by Jane Jacek
Spring has sprung, so it’s high time to get your kayaking gear in order and refresh your paddling skills! SISKA is promoting a number of our excellent Island kayaking businesses who have agreed to provide discounts to our members. Check out the full list on our website by logging in, then selecting 2025 Partners Offerings Details from the Members menu. We’re delighted to feature the following companies and recommend you check out their individual websites for all their great workshops, courses, expeditions and more!
by Jane Jacek
Ocean River is offering for the second year 55+ paddle kayak camps and tours.
We all know the mental health benefits of being outside, the exercise, making friends, and doing something new in which built so much confidence.
So if you know of anyone 55+ who would like to try out kayaking or are keen to get involved with kayaking, then check out the offerings and then share this with them.
Camps and tours offered are about supporting our communities, with offerings through Oak Bay Rec and Victoria Rec.And again it isn’t about making money but supporting our community.
by Ginny Flood
SISKA instructors, Elizabeth Purdon and Raj Persram are offering a Paddle Canada Level 1 certification commencing with a pool session on April 13, 2025. This two-day and one evening Level 1 Skills program will build on the skills introduced in the Paddle Canada Basic Skills Course OR on the experience that you may already have. It will cover practical sea kayak training and knowledge for day touring. We will also cover some weather interpretation and practical navigational techniques. Then we will plan and execute a half day kayak trip. By the end of this course, we hope that you will feel able to go on your own day paddle in our sheltered coastal waters. For more information see attached document. To register please go to SISKA Website Calendar and clink on April 13 Paddle Canada Level 1 event.
Maximum Participants: 6
Minimum Participants: 3
Prerequisites: A willingness to learn new things and have fun! A Basic Skills Course and previous kayaking experience will be an asset. You must have your own seaworthy kayak (or rent one) and have immersion gear. You will get wet!
Instructors: Raj Persram and Elizabeth Purdon
The cost is $275.
Dates:
Sunday April 13 6:30 PM to 8:30 PM at Crystal Pool
Saturday May 10 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Gyro Park
Saturday May 17 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM at Gyro Park
by Jane Jacek
Dates: October 3-6, 2025
The tides are calling! Don’t miss your chance to paddle in one of the most dynamic and breathtaking sea kayaking destinations in the world. Whether you’re looking to refine your skills, challenge yourself in tidal currents, or connect with an incredible paddling community, this symposium is for you!
The registration fee is $550 for the 3 days of coaching at the event. Meals and accommodations are extra. Saturday and Sunday we will have a group meals that can be purchased on our website. Accommodation options can be found here.
by Jane Jacek
BestCoast is excited to share some big news with SISKA members in early April! We’ll be announcing what’s ahead through a short online webinar, and we’d love for you to join us. By attending, you’ll receive Exclusive Prizes and Special Offers as a thank you! Email us to RSVP: sales@bestcoastoutfitters.com
Exclusive deals for SISKA members on our spring courses! As always, you can enjoy 10% off all courses using the code found on the SISKA website page under the “Members” tab, click on “2025 Partners Offering Details”.
Spend $500 on gear and accessories throughout the year and receive a $50 gift card!
Spring Tune-Up Deal : Sign up for any 3 courses and get 1 free! We also offer special group discounts, with rates as low as $75 per person:
Kayaking Camps for children 8-12 years old.
Check out THIS file for the full list of upcoming courses.
Thank you very much,
Ali Torabidavan
Marketing Manager
+1 250-590-4625
commassist@bestcoastoutfitters.com
865 Yates St, Victoria BC V8W 1M1
RSVP to: sales@bestcoastoutfitters.com
by Jane Jacek
Just launched … www.karryak.com … !!
by Debbie Leach
Flares manufactured in 2021 or earlier expire this year. Take them to Trotac Marine at 370 Gorge Road East on April 4-5.
Cheers, Debbie
by Jennie Sutton
This 2 hour lesson valued at $900.00 was a door prize at the SISKA
annual Christmas Party, generously donated by Jamie Dawson from
Ocean River Sports. Alex Briker won the prize and kindly donated it
back to the club.
On the morning of March 4th, six of we club members met up with
George and Tracey for our 2 hour lesson at ORS in Oak Bay. One
person had never used a Greenland paddle and a few of us had tried
one and stopped due wrist or thumb soreness.
After the usual introductions, George demonstrated how to hold the
Greenland paddle, and all the mechanics of the forward stroke.
There is a LOT to it in order to paddle most efficiently and is totally
different from the Euro paddle forward stroke!
We had three different models of paddles to trial…GRAM, Gear Lab
and two wood paddles. Both George and Tracy were very helpful,
offering us individual assistance OTW as needed and certainly
answered all my questions! We really appreciated not only the
detailed and clear instruction but also the nice, relaxed pace. One of
our group asked for some instruction on turning strokes which
some tried and others stayed focused on solidifying their technique
with the forward stroke.
It was a very informative session and I would highly recommend
George and Tracey of Ocean River Sports as Greenland paddle
instructors. And finally a huge “thank you” to owner Jamie for the
generous donation.
Jennie Sutton
March 2025
by Jane Jacek
by Jane Jacek
We’re excited to invite SISKA members to our third Guest Speaker Event of the year!
In collaboration with BC Marine Trails, this event will feature a demonstration of the revised, new, and improved BCMT Map, along with insights into their stewardship efforts, environmental advocacy, and First Nations land and resource matters as they may affect the kayakers along the coast.
Join us on April 10th at 7pm for this event which will take place at our store, located at 865 Yates Street, Victoria. To confirm attendance, we kindly ask that members RSVP by sending an email to sales@bestcoastoutfitters.com.
Ali Torabidavan Marketing Manager 250-590-4625
by Jane Jacek
From: KIWI Association of Sea Kayakers (KASK) – Connecting paddlers together kask.co.nz
Paddling Telegraph Cove BC to Skagway Alaska on the Inside Passage
Kia ora koutou, fellow sea kayakers and adventure enthusiasts!
I’d love for you to check out this incredible journey. A group of talented young adventurers, including three former NMIT Adventure Tourism and Guiding students, are heading out on an epic sea kayaking expedition. These passionate individuals are not only making waves in the adventure tourism industry but are also on a mission to share their unique experiences, raise awareness about important issues, and, of course, have an unforgettable time on the water.
What makes this even more exciting is that these adventurers have roots at NMIT and are now pursuing careers in the adventure tourism sector. Their journey is about more than just the thrill of paddling – it’s about connecting with people, inspiring others, and bringing attention to some crucial causes along the way. But, like all great adventures, they need support to make it happen.
They’re reaching out for your help to assist them with logistics, equipment, and ensuring they can continue sharing their journey with the world. If you’re in a position to contribute or know others who might be interested, this is an opportunity to support a fantastic cause and help these young adventurers fulfill their mission.
You can check out their journey and learn more here: The Passage Paddle
Additionally, if you’d like to contribute or show your support, please consider donating via their Give a Little page. Every bit helps, whether it’s financial support or simply spreading the word about this incredible project.
Let’s rally together to make this journey unforgettable for them, and in turn, let’s help them raise awareness and inspire the next generation of adventurers.
Let’s help them make it epic!
by Lisa Lasagna
SISKA has been gifted with a number of navigation charts by long-time SISKA and VCKA member Alan Thomson. We made these charts available at the March meeting, and quite a few were eagerly scooped up. For anyone who might still be interested, the ones we have left include the following areas:
If you are interested in any of these, please contact Lisa Lasagna at secretary@siska.ca, or stop by our table at the April 23 meeting.
by Norm Smyth
Island View Beach boat launch ramp is not accessible due to piles of logs and debris. Also, the sand on the surrounding beach has been washed away leaving boulders. It’s definitely not kayak friendly. But all is not lost, as there is a nice sandy beach with lots of parking spaces about 0.5 km north. Remember to take note of where this is when on the water as it’s difficult to spot when returning. A good landmark is the large partially submerged rock about 100 meters north of this launch spot.
by Debbie Leach
Tape similar to keel easy!
Thanks for the tip, Tim!
Get a Grip! Struggling to open that thermos lid? Pack a piece of “Gorilla Grip” or a jar opener in your kit
by Lynn Baier
Lemon Cashew Pitachio Pasta
https://www.eatfigsnotpigs.com/creamy-lemon-pasta-with-garlicky-pistachio-breadcrumbs/
I made this recipe a couple of weeks ago at home, and we really enjoyed it. Below is how I have adapted it to work for camp.
For the sauce:
Blend all the dry ingredients in a blender or food processor until as fine as possible. In camp, add 1 1⁄4 cups pasta water and lemon juice and shake vigorously.
The breadcrumbs:
Blitz everything in the blender until you have finely chopped pistachios. Dry fry in a non stick pan until crispy and browned. Alternatively you can fry them up in camp in a couple of tablespoons of olive oil, if you like to do more cooking while you’re out there.
Cook up one pound of pasta in camp. Drain it but don’t rinse. Use 1 1⁄4 cups pasta water to make the sauce, and reserve more in case you need it to keep the sauce creamy. Mix the pasta and sauce together. The original recipe says to put the crumbs on top, but I mixed it all together.
This recipe will serve four hungry kayakers.
by Sybil Seitzinger
Lost a Hatch Cover? Be Prepared!
Losing a hatch cover—whether before reaching the launch site or during a paddle—can be frustrating and even dangerous on the water. To stay safe and avoid missing a trip, consider carrying an emergency replacement hatch cover. Several companies, such as Reed Chillcheater and Whetman Equipment Company, offer a range of sizes to fit different kayaks, and they can be easily stowed with your gear.
For a budget-friendly backup, keep a plastic bag or piece of tarp, along with Gorilla tape and bungee cord, in your gear. These simple items can provide a temporary but effective seal in an emergency.
Check out this helpful video.
There are some fine discounts available from our kayak skills course partners for SISKA members who sign up for their skills training programs.
Our partners are:
