I grew up on the rivers in Western Upper Michigan as a trout fisherman. I have canoed for several years, and grew up on a beautiful resort in Upper Mich. on a very large lake, so I have always been close to water. Kayaking is something I have wanted to do for several years but really never had the opertunity, then I moved to Superior and learned about the University of MN Duluths outdoor program involving kayaking......that's all I needed. This will be my 3rd year but still consider myself pretty new, as the dry summers have really limited the amount of quality river time. All I can say is the rush is unbelievable. My first time over the electric ledge drop on the St. Louis put the biggest smile on may face, and nailing my roll on the same drop put even a bigger smile. I try to explain it to non kayakers but I guess you have to be there. Anyway,I hope to get alot of river time in this spring. Later, Mac