On what was not the hottest day of the year but sure felt like it, 23 paddlers set out in 22 kayaks to explore beautiful Harrell Lake in Louisiana’s Union Parish on Saturday, August 16th. The paddlers consisted of folks from BCOS as well as folks from the North Louisiana Kayaking club. Harrell Lake, which is part of the Upper Ouachita National Wildlife Refuge, is absolutely gorgeous. A few paddlers took advantage of the kayak launch available at the put-in. We paddled northwest up a branch of the lake called Dry Creek, winding our way through a myriad of Bald Cypress trees, and we were grateful for the shade they provided. We went as far as we could go up Dry Creek before the water became too shallow and the cypress knees too many, prompting us to turn around and head back to the main lake. As it turns out, “Dry Creek” is anything but dry, according to Keith’s grandson who tumped out of his boat! Little Griffin reports that the cool lake water felt refreshing, and his grandad got to break out the bilge pump he brought along for such an occasion. We continued our paddle north up Harrell Lake for another mile or so before turning around and heading back to the launch area. On the way back, Mark Robinson caught an impressive largemouth bass with his Snoopy fishing rod! Who knew that little kiddie rod & reel could reel in such a great catch?! Saturday’s nearly 4-mile scenic paddle provided us all a generous dose of sunshine and camaraderie on the water. Afterwards, several paddlers went to the Creamery in West Monroe for lunch and ice cream to cool down. A big thank you to Steve Birmingham for planning and leading the paddle.
