Part of being on the water in Door County is being out in the sun. Most of us have had far too much sun exposure over the years and do not need any more. I am on the beautiful waters of Door County many days a year and see the barely dressed and those like me who take protection from the sun to an extreme.   

Whether I am out in my fishing boat or one of my kayaks chasing smallmouth bass, or just enjoying a pleasant paddle on the lake, I am protected from the sun. Starting from top to bottom, I always wear a hat with brim, polarized sunglasses, a gaiter to protect my ears, neck and part of my face.  I wear a good sunscreen of at least 50 SPF on any exposed areas, including areas of my face not covered by the gaiter. I wear sun gloves, long sleeve fishing shirts and pants that have UPF protection built in. Even with the pants and water shoes, do not forget to put sunscreen on your ankles and tops of your feet if they are not covered. Most of you understand about sun protection and this is just a reminder to be careful!

I am asked often about places to launch kayaks. One of the best, and there are many of these up and down the peninsula, are roads that dead-end at the water. The key to any of these launch points is making sure your vehicle is off the road when you park. Using Google Maps is an easy way to research this option.  Peninsula and Potawatomi State Parks both have kayak specific launches and with some scouting you will find beaches where you can launch your kayaks. Most of the boat launches do not want the kayak business unless you are using a kayak trailer, however there are several self-pay launches on the peninsula where kayaks are welcome. 

Amazingly we are past the middle of August, but fortunately there are a few more months of great weather for getting out on the waters of Door County to enjoy the beauty from your kayak!  If you have any questions, please email me at kayakfishingwisconsin@gmail.com.