3 Tips for Fall Paddle Boarding Success  

Fall is here! For many paddle boarding enthusiasts, that means yet another season of adventure. Summer often gets labeled “paddle boarding season,” but that doesn’t mean you have to pack up all your gear at the end of September. In fact, you can do just the opposite. Those hot summer days under the scorching sun are over. Cooler temps are in the forecast—finally—and that makes for excellent paddle boarding conditions. Of course, as the seasons change, there are some important variables to keep in mind. Safety is always the number one priority on the water. As you grab your inflatable paddle board and hit the water this fall, here are a few tips to make fall paddle boarding even more fun.  

Keep an Eye on the Sky  

Summer days can go by with barely a cloud in the sky. However, it’s increasingly common to see more frequent weather changes in the fall. As temps fall, be vigilant. Keep a close eye on the forecast as you plan your inflatable SUP board excursion. Then, keep an eye on the sky as you hit the water. If there is a shift in weather, be ready to paddle back to shore. Windy conditions can create choppy waters, which can be hard to navigate. Being safety conscious—and instilling safe paddle boarding habits—is the best way to achieve paddle boarding success this fall.  

Watch the Clock  

There’s nothing like a long summer day out on the water. When summer turns to fall, those longer days slowly fade away. One moment, you’re cruising along on your inflatable SUP board in the sun, and the next, the sun has already disappeared behind the trees. With the days getting shorter, it’s important to keep an eye on the clock. This doesn’t mean you have to pack up all your gear once the sun sets. It’s just about being prepared. You don’t want to get caught out on the water in total darkness. If you think there is any possibility that you’ll be out past sunset, be sure to pack some lights. Many paddle boarders prefer waterproof headlamps to keep their hands free during the twilight hours. But a good, waterproof flashlight is just fine if you plan on staying close to shore. Plus, having a light ensures you’re visible to others who may be on the water, and it can help you navigate back to shore. 

Dress for the Occasion  

As temps drop, dressing for the occasion makes all the difference. During the afternoon, it might be fairly warm, and you could enjoy paddle boarding in your summer gear. But in the early mornings and into the evenings, it can get chilly. So, don’t forget to pack those long sleeves and various quick-drying articles of clothing. Of course, it can depend entirely on where you decide to have an adventure. But it’s yet another reason to do some research on the forecast so you can plan accordingly. As fall drifts into winter, then you’ll really want to break out the full body wet or dry suits. 

About iROCKER 

When you need a new paddle board, iROCKER has the perfect option for any excursion. For nearly a decade, they’ve been your go-to source for all things inflatable paddle boarding, offering boards and equipment for all skill levels and interests. Need an inflatable SUP built for stability? iROCKER has it! Need a board made for touring? Find it at iROCKER. Already have a board but need accessories? iROCKER delivers everything you need, including beverage coolers, fishing attachments, waterproof speakers, and much more. As you set out on your next adventure, iROCKER has everything you need. Leave no lake, pond, river, bay, or coastline unexplored, thanks to iROCKER! 

Fall paddle boarding season awaits at irockersup.com 

Discover how this Florida Keys native is capturing and conserving the natural world around him 

Splitting his childhood between the Florida Keys, his mother’s native Nicaragua, and his father’s native New England, outdoor photographer Ian Wilson-Navarro has never strayed far from the water. While travels and job opportunities have taken him around the globe, Ian has made the Florida Keys his homebase, and their crystal-clear waters his calling.  

PURPOSEFUL DAYDREAMING 

“I wasn’t the best student growing up,” he admits. “I was just a daydreamer, constantly just in my head, thinking of things I wanted to do or places I wanted to travel to.” Spending winters in Latin America with his mother’s family opened Ian’s eyes to a world of possibility, one that of course involved the ocean.  

“I was always around water. Nicaragua is where I learned to surf and fell in love with the ocean. Of course, the Keys are where I was first introduced to it and the clear water diving and underwater coral reefs and fisheries and things like that, and then Nicaragua expanded into the ocean sport-side of things,” Ian explains. 

But it’s not just the lure of good waves that draws Ian to the ocean. “I’ve always kind of been interested in science and the reason for why things happen,” he says. “I grew up observing the rapid changes in my home archipelago, and so I picked up on the decline of the greater ecosystem really quickly and realized we weren’t heading in the right direction. And I’ve taken that interest and run with it.”  

CONSERVATION CONVERSATION  

“I really enjoy documenting passionate people in their element. And more specifically, people who love the ocean, who love being outdoors on the water or underwater, and are passionate and respectful of those environments,” he states. “Whether that’s fisheries management or biologists or coral biologists out in the field […] I find their work just incredibly interesting. The natural system of how everything works in the environment has always fascinated me.”  

A self-taught photographer with a keen eye for detail, Ian uses his photography to highlight the conservation efforts of those around him, as well as his own. “The conservationists, the scientists, they don’t necessarily get a lot of the credit. Their work might, but the individuals might not, so it’s always really fun to kind of help bring them front and center.” 

Last August, Ian spent the entire month as the artist-in-residence in Dry Tortugas National Park, a 100 square mile park located almost 70 miles west of Key West. Comprised of mostly open water with seven small islands, the Dry Tortugas are accessible only by boat or seaplane. Here, Ian lived in the historic lighthouse keepers house on Loggerhead Key, spending his days capturing images of the local marine life.  

That unique experience has since blossomed into Ian’s latest “big project,” a “large format coffee table book highlighting the Dry Tortugas and the many ecosystems found in the park, with an emphasis on ecosystem preservation, conservation, sustainability, and of course, the people that work there,” he explains. “I’ve been really lucky to have great relationships; there’s a lot of great people there doing really cool stuff.” 

In addition to Dry Tortugas and Everglades National Parks, Ian works closely with Bonefish & Tarpon Trust, a Florida-based conversation group dedicated to conserve and restore bonefish, tarpon and permit fisheries and habitats through research, stewardship, education and advocacy. “They do a lot with the environments that those fish live in, so I’ve found there’s a really nice balance there between sport, photography, and conservation of the natural landscape,” states Ian.  

“I love shooting big schools of any sort of fish—fish or shark or tarpon—whenever they’re engaged in a natural pursuit and they’re just completely oblivious to things happening around them, and you’re just watching them. Whether it’s bonefish on a shallow water flat or tarpon in deep water or grouper or whatever it is, I just really love being like a fly on the wall for natural behaviors on the grand scale. I really love finding myself immersed in those moments,” says Ian.  

TAKING IT SLOW 

“Any day it’s glass calm and at sunset, I’m on a paddle board,” states Ian. Enabling him to arrive quietly, his SUP allows him to stealthily “get up to wildlife and interact. He adds, “As long as you’re conscious of being quiet, it’s like an underwater safari where I live, so it’s super important to have that access.” 

Working on, near, and around the water most days, Ian reflects on his appreciation for the natural world and just how much the ocean has to offer. “It just brings me comfort, it’s where I can go to refocus myself and remember what matters. If career things or life things are throwing me for a spin, then that’s where I go to re-center and come back to life with a kind of reinvigorated approach and refreshed perspective.”  

His advice to others exploring our world’s waterways? “Remember to go slow and focus on the world around you at a more detailed level. Being on the water and on a paddle board, you can be tuned it to this secret, kind of hidden world happening around you if you’re observant enough. And remember how special it is to have places to paddle and clean water and pursue that in all aspects and encourage others to do the same.” 

To learn more about Ian and view his work, visit https://ianwilsonphoto.com/ 

Or follow along with his adventures on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/ianwilsonn/ 

If you could do good and have a killer time on the water, would you take us up on it? The iROCKER team and our global community of adventure lovers paddle waterways of every shape and size all over the world. These bodies of water all have one unfortunate thing in common—pollution. Sure, the views are beautiful, and the sunshine makes the water sparkle, but nothing ruins the scenery and a perfect day of paddle boarding like a floating pile of trash. 

Serving your community doesn’t have to feel like a chore. Grab some friends, inflate your iROCKER paddle board and head to your closest body of water. Whether it’s the retention pond in your neighborhood or the sprawling Atlantic Ocean, SUPing your way to a trash-free environment is the best way we know how to give back. 

You don’t need to remove hundreds of pounds of trash to accomplish something important. It can be as simple as a few bottles and some plastic bags. But first, you’ll need to be prepared with the right gear. 

Staying hydrated is key to a successful cleanup. The Cooler Deck Bag is the perfect accessory for keeping drinks and snacks cold without taking up too much real estate on your board that can otherwise be used to store trash. Even better, once the cooler is empty, it makes the perfect receptable for storing plastic bottles and other small trash items you come across on the water. The bag uses a bungee system to securely attach to the front of your board and uses a sanitary liner that’s easy to clean when you’re done. 

Another accessory for making your SUP clean up even easier is the SUP to Kayak Conversion Kit. Adding a seat to your SUP puts your arms as close to the surface as possible, making it easier for you to pick up pieces of trash that may be floating by or stuck near the shoreline.  

Converting your SUP into a kayak is as easy as can be. Take a look at our step-by-step video instructions here. 

BE A PART OF SOMETHING GREATER THAN YOURSELF 

We’re all about having a good time out on the water, but sometimes the universe calls us all to do more. There are massive ocean cleanups all over the world and your local swimming hole could probably use some TLC, too. You don’t need fancy equipment or advanced conservation knowledge to make a difference. 

One of the top reasons to use a paddle board instead of a boat or kayak to clean up your beach is the clearance levels you can reach. Paddle through even the shallowest parts of the water to reach trash caught in shrubbery or rocks. You can’t do that with a boat! 

A great inflatable paddle board is your first step toward becoming an ocean conservationist. Need some further inspiration? Read about The SUP Garbage Man and start planning your next cleanup. 

3 Awesome Spots to Paddle Board to Welcome Fall 

There’s something special about gliding across crystalline waters on your trusty paddle board on a crisp autumn morning. You drift along the surface of the water and breathe in that fresh, cool air. What could make this moment even better? How about gorgeous snowcapped mountains in the background? Or foliage erupting in the colors of fall? 

The summer paddle boarding season may be behind us for 2022, but the fall paddle boarding season is just getting started. And as you kick things off, there are several epic locations around the United States worth visiting. From high mountains to wild forests, here are three destinations that make those fall mornings on the water even better! 

The Foliage of Lake Champlain, Vermont 

Lake Champlain is big. If you’re from the Northeast, you know this can be an extraordinary place. The lake sits on the border between New York and Vermont, stretching into Canada. With a lake as big as Champlain, you can bet there are plenty of places to set off with your inflatable paddle board. From Burlington to Swanton Beach, the choice is yours. From the middle of September and well into October, the trees explode in fall color throughout Vermont and the rest of New England—and most importantly, all around Lake Champlain. Paddle board in a rural spot around the lake, and you’re sure to be immersed in everything that makes fall so magical. 

The Mountains of Jackson Lake, Wyoming  

Jackson Lake is due east of the Tetons and off US Route 191 (also known as the John D. Rockefeller Jr. Parkway), so it’s hard to miss. Of course, the view is hard to miss, too. Few paddle boarding locations around the US can match the majesty of Jackson Lake with a pristine view of the Tetons in the background. The great thing about visiting Jackson Lake and Jackson, Wyoming in early fall is the snow has yet to set in. Much of the time, it’s still fairly warm during the day—balanced by those crisp autumn mornings and evenings. When you go out on the lake at sunrise and the light hits the Tetons in golden blazing glory, you might need a moment to catch your breath. 

The Serenity of Somes Sound, Maine  

Right in the middle of Acadia National Park in Maine, you’ll find Somes Sound. It’s one of the defining features of the park—and it’s perfect for breaking out the inflatable paddleboards. And yes, there’s a reason why a second New England locale is worth mentioning here. During early fall, much like Lake Champlain, the forests of Acadia become a fall foliage wonderland. Not only that, but Acadia National Park—situated on Mount Desert Island—is both fairly remote and mountainous. As you paddle board around Somes Sound and in the various coves that dot the shores of the island, you’re rewarded with spectacular views of color.

About iROCKER 

When you need a new stand up paddle board, iROCKER has the perfect option for any excursion. For nearly a decade, they’ve been the go-to source for all things inflatable paddle boarding, offering boards and equipment for all skill levels and interests. Need an inflatable SUP built for stability? iROCKER has it! Need a board made for touring? Find it at iROCKER. Already have a board but need accessories? iROCKER delivers everything you need, including beverage coolers, fishing attachments, waterproof speakers, and much more. As you set out on your next adventure, iROCKER has everything you need. Leave no lake, pond, river, bay, or coastline unexplored, thanks to iROCKER! 

Get ready for your fall paddle boarding adventure at irockersup.com

Here in Calgary, Canada, at the foot of the Canadian Rockies, paddle boards have risen in popularity. A great addition to an active, outdoor lifestyle, you can use your paddle board year-round to access spectacular remote locations, drift scenic glacial rivers, or fly-fish idyllic alpine lakes. Many enthusiasts relish the portability and carrying utility of these boards. Others enjoy the stunning views and the feeling of "walking on water" amongst soaring peaks and glassy mountain tarns.  

It's important to note that mountain weather is incredibly varied and notoriously nasty. Temperatures plummet to well below -30F (-35C) in the winter and soar above 90F (35C) in the summer. Summer days in the alpine region can begin calm and tranquil, then quickly develop into monstrous thunderstorms, with raging winds and lightning. It's rare to have a day where conditions don't change, and therefore it's a good practice to get used to paddling in various weather, including rain, snow, and wind.   

UNDERSTANDING HOW WIND AFFECTS YOUR INFLATABLE PADDLEBOARD EXPERIENCE  

Something many first-time paddlers will notice is that inflatable paddle boards are very susceptible to wind. When standing, the paddler essentially becomes a sail, which can significantly affect where, how quickly, and how confidently you can travel. The effect of the wind can be diminished noticeably by shifting to a kneeling or sitting position. But like any wise sailor, it is better to go with the flow than fight against it!  

1. START YOUR PADDLE BY HEADING INTO THE WIND

This is perhaps the most helpful advice for first-time paddlers who haven't yet developed the confidence to put the power down and move swiftly across the water in high-wind conditions. If you are paddling on a large body of water and intend to return to your starting location, it is best to begin your float by paddling directly into the wind.  

As you tire, you will drift back towards your starting point and avoid you having to paddle aggressively against a headwind. I've battled headwinds for many miles in windy mountain passes, which can be exhausting and frustrating. Savvy paddlers take note of the winds and enjoy a leisurely drift home.  

2. KNOW WHAT TO EXPECT

In the Rockies, we have a saying, "If you don't like the weather, just wait an hour." Conditions in the mountains change rapidly. I've experienced sweltering heat and snow-showers in the same afternoon and temperature swings of over 30C (90F).   

A clear day in the alpine region can quickly turn to pouring rain or blanketing snow as weather systems pass through and mother nature sends humbling reminders of who's in charge! It's a good policy to research the weather in advance, and the more extended or remote the outing, the more thorough research required!  

In the summer, pay particularly close attention to the chance of storms, prevailing winds, and UV indices. Typically, the hotter the day, the more convective energy to drive currents and build thunderstorms. All these factors are intensified at higher elevations, and it can make the difference between a relaxing paddle and an "old-man-versus-the-angry-seas" sort of a day.   

Winter paddling can present some excellent conditions, as the colder weather typically brings stability and clear sparkling winter scenery. But due to sub-zero air and frigid water temperatures, you must take special considerations to stay warm and dry.   

3. PLAN TO DRIFT FACING DOWNWIND

Inflatable paddle boards are fantastic platforms for fishing, providing better visibility into the water than kayaks or canoes. This is due to the higher angle of refraction and a comfortable standing position for casting on your SUP. However, they can be tough to manage in the wind, as your hands will likely be occupied fishing and only sporadically available to work the paddle.   

In the standing position and windy conditions, the inflatable paddle board will naturally want to turn to face downwind (your back to the wind). You can use this knowledge to plan your float, starting upwind of the desired track, casting forward off the bow, and letting the wind push you precisely where you'd like to go.   

4. POSITION YOUR INFLATABLE PADDLEBOARD PERPENDICULAR TO THE WAVES

High winds mean larger waves and more difficulty maintaining your balance on a SUP. If you're struggling to stay on your feet, it's usually easier to face directly into the waves and the wind. Lateral rolling and yawing motions do a far better job of throwing a paddler off-balance than pitching up and down. Also, small waves are easier to manage when they are visible directly ahead. And it helps to keep paddling. The paddle strokes stabilize and provide thrust as you top out on chop or small white caps.  

5. LOOK FOR LEE, AND CRAB  

If you can't resist a paddle on a windy day (I know the feeling), you can often find more manageable water on the leeward side of islands or trees, or near shore, where the currents are slower. In any case, it helps to focus on good paddling technique and consistency, and if you still can't make progress, crabbing at an angle to the wind may help. If all else fails, attempt to reduce the size of the sail (that's you) by kneeling or sitting on the stand-up paddle board and simply taking the easiest path back to shore.    

EQUIPMENT THAT MIGHT BE HELPFUL: 

Are you paddleboarding in windy conditions or trying to fish in a current? The iROCKER SUP Anchor will keep you pinned down and secured so that you can get the great catch without the hassle! Plus, an integrated paddle board fishing rod holder will adds convenience, letting you focus on reeling in your catch rather than juggling your gear. Now, you can truly make the most out of your aquatic adventure.

The SUP to Kayak Conversion Kit will allow you to rest comfortably and continue to paddle in rough or windy conditions from a seated position for a more stable paddle.

Don't forget to check out our range of paddle board fishing accessories, including tackle boxes and cooler mounts, to make your fishing experience even more seamless. Now, you can truly make the most out of your aquatic adventure with all the essentials at your fingertips.

These are just a few tips to help you better manage your SUP in windy conditions. If you have other suggestions, anecdotes, or helpful tips for fellow paddlers, feel free to drop a comment below!  

Happy paddling!   

Kayle.  

IG: life.of.luft  

About the Author:  

Hi there! I’m Kayle Luft, a life-lovin’ Albertan with a passion for adventure and the outdoors. I’m a professional pilot, musician, business manager, photographer, writer, and a travel and fitness enthusiast. I’ve travelled around the world, run ultra-marathons, scuba-dived exotic shipwrecks, flown remote skies under the northern lights, survived avalanches and nights lost in the wilderness, and motorcycled, skated, skied, camped, climbed, paraglided, paddled and fished countless hours in the backcountry and all over the Canadian Rockies. An old friend once told me, “The more you LIVE, the more you’ll want to live forever.” He was right, and it’s become a goal of mine to share the joy abundant in life’s adventure. Here's to a wonderful journey! 

If you have the one friend or family member always telling tales of their latest catch. Check out our Fishing collection and introduce them to the endless possibilities of SUP fishing and help them reel in the next big one with these essentials.

3 Tips for a Successful Touring Adventure on a Paddle Board

Paddle boarding is a versatile sport. You can paddle board on lakes, rivers, around marinas, and along the coast. Basically, you can paddle board anywhere there’s relatively calm water. And when you’re out on your board, you practice yoga, fish, bask in the sun, or paddle to new and hard-to-reach locales. You can also take your board touring. The practice of paddle board touring is becoming popular with a lot of people. They’re going from cruising around their favorite lake to spending hours exploring larger waterways. Maybe you’re thinking about giving it a try. If you’ve been thinking about going for a tour with your inflatable paddle board, here are a few tips to make it a success!

Know the Difference Between Conventional SUP Boards and Touring Boards

Yes, there are dedicated touring paddle boards! These are typically long and narrow so they can cut through the water and travel longer distances with ease. The overall design can be slightly different, too. The front end may have a sharper point, and the back fins may be configured to keep the board straighter as it glides through the water. These design elements can slightly reduce overall maneuverability, but they optimize stability. However, if you already have a SUP board or you want more of a multipurpose or all-around inflatable SUP, you can simply go with that option over the touring board. Just keep in mind, for touring purposes, all-around boards won’t be as quick on the water so you may exert more effort as you explore.

Get Ready for Your Tour

Whether you go with a dedicated touring inflatable SUP board or you have an all-around SUP board, there are a few things to do before you start your adventure. One of those things is packing for the day. This means you want a dry bag you can wear or strap to your SUP board. At the minimum, you want to pack a hat, food, water, a first aid kit, sunscreen, changing robes and a personal flotation device. Touring can mean you’re out on the water for long hours, so you’ll need plenty of calories to keep going. Energy bars are always a good option, but any of your favorite snacks work, too. And because you’re out in the elements and sweating, staying hydrated is absolutely essential. Lastly, as always, you should be prepared for the unexpected. A first aid kit and a PFD can come in handy in a pinch. Beyond those essentials, other things to pack can include an inflatable SUP repair kit (just in case), a waterproof Bluetooth speaker, and your cell phone in a waterproof case.

Plan Your Tour from Start to Finish

Since you’re likely going to be out on the water for an extended period, it’s good to have a plan in place. You want to know where you’ll be and when, roughly. That way, people know where you are should anything come up. You want to plot your general course from where you’ll start to where you’ll finish.

At the same time, keep an eye on the weather forecast for the day of your tour. Whether you’re exploring coastal inlets, mountain rivers, or expansive bays, changing conditions can be dangerous.

Storms and bad weather can kick up wind and create choppy conditions making navigation difficult. If you start your adventure with clear skies and the weather starts to change, be prepared to get off the water if you need to. No matter the situation, having a plan gives you a guide to follow. If it’s your first time touring, having a detailed plan is a must!

About iROCKER

Since 2013, iROCKER has been the top online destination for all your paddle boarding needs. They have a paddle board for everyone. Explore their versatile line of all-around inflatable SUP boards. Or check out their ULTRA™ Collection. These lightweight boards are designed to go with you anywhere—no waterway is off limits. What about paddle boarding accessories? iROCKER has every angle covered. Find an electric pump for your blow up paddle board. Or get a cooler that straps right onto your board! Make your next adventure on the water an adventure to remember with iROCKER!

Get ready for your paddle boarding tour at irockersup.com

From fear to career, this free diver and ocean photographer gets up close and personal with sharks.

Growing up in New Smyrna Beach, Florida, the “Shark Bite Capital of the World,” John Garza could have easily let sharks become a lifelong fear. While never having been bit himself, John carried several friends from the water after altercations with sharks while surfing. Enough to turn anyone away from the ocean for life.

Long-lining for sharks as a teen in Florida, John wouldn’t have another close encounter with sharks until many years later after moving out to Hawaii in pursuit of world-renowned surf breaks. While the original draw was epic waves, John quickly became entranced with diving and the clarity the water there provided. “I fell into a group of marine biologists and photographers. They were shark biologists, and they took me under their wing and taught me everything they knew, and I just fell in love with it,” he says, adding, “And now I’m here.”

“Here” being a published underwater photographer, the captain of Purely Blu Charters, a luxury catamaran experience based in the Bahamas, and co-founder of lifestyle brand Ocean Outcasts.

A COMPLETE 180°

Together with his partner, Chief Stew Hannah Patten, John aims for Purely Blu Charters to change the way people view and interact with sharks and other marine wildlife. “Growing up, I had this [ … ] fear of sharks, and now I’ve done a complete one-eighty,” he says. “So, I like to tell people my story [ … ] I know it’s scary, but all it takes is for you to get in the water with the sharks for the first time and it’ll completely change your mind. It’s actually calming to me watching the sharks swim around. I feel like I could stay in the water with them forever,” he says.

Though John has traveled the world in search of dive spots and different species of sharks, from Tahiti and Tonga to Bali and Japan, “My favorite location is always going to be the Bahamas,” he says. “There’s this spot out there called Tiger Beach and tiger sharks are definitely my favorite to interact with out of all the species I’ve done dives with.”

Along with simply being in the water and experiencing sharks in their natural habitat, John has found a way to capture these ancient creatures through underwater photography. Having been introduced to photography by the same group who got him into diving, John began hosting his own underwater photography workshops. “I would take people diving and teach them all about interactions with animals in the water and their characteristics, while also teaching them about photography and how to use their cameras, how to edit,” he explains.

Realizing that he was pigeonholing himself by offering expeditions only to those interested in photography, he realized he needed to broaden his horizons. Together with Hannah, the “backbone and brains” of the operation, the pair created Ocean Outcasts.

SUSTAINABLE ADVENTURE

Established in 2020, Ocean Outcasts is a lifestyle brand with the goals of bringing awareness and compassion to the ocean and inspiring others to “take a stand for our planet and ocean.” With several platforms under the Ocean Outcasts umbrella, including John and Hannah’s expeditions as well as a media team, John describes the initiative as “our way of bringing people on board and showing them why we love the ocean.”

“The ocean means everything to me,” he says, adding,” it’s a place I’ve gone to when I’ve had hard times going on in my life, and I can let go of everything and find peace”. Protecting this great blue wonder is something Ocean Outcasts takes seriously—using reef-safe sunscreens, teaching the importance of sustainability and sustainable fishing practices, and providing ocean education in addition to a day of adventure on the water.

A RESPECTFUL GUEST

The main takeaway for John when it comes to diving with sharks is respect. “Obviously I’m jumping in the water with sharks so it’s hard for me to tell others not to do it, but for me it’s about being respectful. I’ve spent the time and been diving with marine biologists and people that have studied shark behavior for years. So, when getting in the water I want to ensure the sharks feel comfortable that I’m in the water with them [ … ] and if they don’t want me in there, I don’t push it.”

With his iROCKER SUP, John is able to enter into places without the noise of a loud engine announcing his arrival. “It just makes everything that much more peaceful and you’re not really disturbing the wildlife,” he says. And capturing the wildlife in their natural state of being is crucial to the artistic side of his venture. Preferring still photography to video, John shares his compelling images through both print work as well as his Instagram account, where he often accompanies each photo with important information about marine wildlife. Follow along at @johngarzaphoto and get up close and personal—that is until you’re ready to dive in with the real thing.

Learn more at purelyblucharters.com and oceanoutcasts.com

For SUP fans, it’s not a summer road trip to the mountain states without your inflatable paddle board! By talking to the locals or doing a little research in advance, you’re sure to discover many hidden gems along the way. Whether you’re planning a trip for this summer or future summers, here are a few paddle boarding spots you won’t want to miss in Utah, Idaho, Wyoming, and Montana. The mountains are calling, and you must go.

More Than Just Mountain Biking: Moab, Utah

Moab is a major desert destination for mountain bikers, off-roaders, and other outdoor enthusiasts. But don’t forget your board because there’s plenty of water around town, too. The Moab Daily (Fishers Tower section) is a popular 13-mile stretch of the Colorado River. It floats by the backdrop of the LaSal Mountains and eventually into the boundaries of Arches National Park. Located along Highway 128, there are plenty of easy put-in and take-out spots. The Moab Daily offers flat sections and rapids for some excitement during the summer months.

The City of Trees Delivers: Boise, Idaho

Beautiful Boise, Idaho is considered a high desert terrain, but there’s definitely more than meets the eye in The City of Trees. People love their water sports in the Boise area. You can take your inflatable paddleboards on sections of the Boise River, which runs along the Greenbelt in the heart of the city. For something even mellower, there are plenty of in-town ponds that are perfect for paddling boarding, such as Quinn’s Pond. Or head out toward Lucky Peak State Park and paddle the Boise River below the dam at Sandy Point. Bring a picnic and hang out at Discovery Park when you’re done.

Cruise Among the Tetons: Jackson, Wyoming

Jackson is an epic place to visit and if the grandeur of the Tetons is calling, you’ll have a blast exploring the lakes in Grand Teton National Park. String Lake is calm and more shallow than other lakes in the park and an ideal setting for beginners. Jenny Lake, also in the national park, is another great spot for beginners where you’ll be captivated by the surrounding Teton peaks. This lake is over 400 feet deep. Jackson Lake is the largest lake in the park and a perfect spot for more experienced paddle boarders. There’s a lot of boat activity on this lake, so be aware.

Miles of Flathead Lake: Kalispell, Montana

Cold, sparkling, and huge, Flathead Lake is the largest freshwater lake west of the Mississippi River. There are many ways you and your friends can explore Flathead Lake from atop your inflatable paddleboards. If you’re staying in Kalispell on your way to Glacier National Park, opt for a sunset paddle boarding session on the northern part of Flathead Lake. Set off from Wayfarers State Park, an ideal location with great access. Just watch out for the Flathead Lake Monster, a tale that goes back over 100 years.

Spring means more time spent outdoors! As temperatures rise, you’re probably looking for every excuse to get outside—and on your paddle board. Well, here’s another reason to enjoy the great outdoors—a picnic! Why have a picnic on a blanket in the park when you can enjoy an afternoon on the water with friends and food! Need some gear to make this picnic happen? iROCKER has everything you need (minus the sandwiches, of course). You know this brand for their selection of stellar inflatable paddleboards, but they also have all sorts of accessories for just about any on-the-water adventure you can dream up, picnics included! Here are a few essential pieces of gear to help you make it happen.

Coolers Galore

iROCKER knows paddle boards, but they also know coolers. The iROCKER 45L Roto-Molded Cooler is their biggest cooler option at 45 liters. It can hold all the food and beverages you could possibly want for a picnic (up to 40 cans, plus ice). Toss it on the iROCKER inflatable dock and you’re good to go. Want something a bit smaller you can put on the back of your inflatable paddle board? Go for the iROCKER 25L Roto-Molded Cooler. It can hold up to 24 cans plus ice, giving you plenty of room for all your picnic essentials. Now, if you want an option that maximizes portability, iROCKER offers their backpack cooler. The backpack is designed with 30 liters of storage, which means all your picnic essentials should fit, no problem. And because you can throw it over your shoulders and go, you can take it just about anywhere!

Cup Holders for Every Drink

Keeping your drink secure on your paddle board is probably one of the most important parts of having a picnic on the water. You don’t want to set it down only for an unexpected wave to knock it over. This is where the iROCKER Cup Holder saves the day. It’s designed to accommodate pretty much any can, bottle, or cup under 3.5” in diameter. But where the cup holder really shines is in drink security. The cup holder adheres to the action mount found on all your favorite inflatable SUP boards from iROCKER (2019 models and newer) and BLACKFIN (2019 models and newer). It’s simple—attach it and go!

An Inflatable Dock for All the Food

Admittedly, this is less a SUP accessory and more a SUP companion. The iROCKER Floating Swim Dock is a multipurpose dock that gives you the perfect central area to gather for a picnic. The dock measures 7’ by 7’, so you can use it to hold coolers, prep food, and just relax. Everyone can gather on their paddle boards around the dock to create the ultimate on-the-water picnic spot. It also comes with eight action mounts to connect a variety of board gear—including cup holders! You can also pair the swim dock with the iROCKER Anchor to keep it in place. That way, your picnic doesn’t float away while you’re off paddling!

Get the best gear for your next paddle boarding picnic at www.irockersup.com!