52nd annual SurfnTurf, July 27, Rockport/Porterfields

[Deuce]

Are adult beverages ok to bring for after the paddle??

Ellie

Yes, as well as for during and possibly before the paddle.

[Tim Eubanks]

Gate to Porterfields will be unlocked at 9:30am Saturday, locked back at 5 pm. Plan accordingly so your stuff isn't locked up!

[Raynard]

If the weather holds, Julie and I (tandem open boaters) plan on being there.

This will be our first time on this river. We were thinking about a 10am paddle before it gets hot, but do not know about the water level. If someone has an opinion on the optimal time with respect to the water release, that information would be helpful.

For the downriver trip, do folks generally gather/park at Porterfields or up at the put-in? We would like to be part of a group.

[Deuce]

They open the gates at noon, so that's when I'd suggest putting in, especially if you want to paddle with a (the) group. Last time I looked the forecast high was 81, so I wouldn't worry too much about getting hot, but if you do you can quickly fix that by jumping in. That water will freeze your gizzard. Shuttle/float plans will materialize at Porterfield, so you should probably go there first. Hope you guys join us. It's big fun.

[Louiscov]

Around 6 paddlers from Shreveport are coming for burgers and paddling. Nice people who are very excited to participate in their first Surf n Turf, have a good time, meet new friends. This is a WONDERFUL mid-summer event, thanks to all who work to put it on!!

[Lupe]

The release on Saturday July 27 is to start at 10am, so you could start that early, although I'm not sure if any others plan to go that early yet. Now that the weekend is nearly upon us, I would think plans would start being finalized, but you can always just plan to come to Porterfields, hang out, and just head up river as a group forms!

Cheers

[Deuce]

10:00? Hmmm, thought I remembered it being noon last year, but that was last year. For all I know it was 10:00 then too.

[sig]

From their 7/22 email...

Blakely, Carpenter and Remmel Dams are releasing about 3,600 CFS from about 1 to 9 PM on Weekdays.

This weekend the Saturday release will be about 3,600 CFS from about 10 AM to 8 PM and the Sunday release will be from about Noon to 6 PM.

DeGray is releasing about 2,200 CFS from 2 to 8 PM daily.

[Lupe]

Luke, it'll vary a bit from year to year depending on lake levels. Last year was super dry and probably was a stretch to even get it turned on at noon. This year we're in much better shape with the lake levels, and so we're enjoying much longer releases, both weekdays and weekends! To which I say, Yay!

[Tim Eubanks]

Weather is looking great especially when compared to last year. Hope to see all y'all Saturday!

[Deuce]

Thanks Heather! Can't wait for Saturday!

[MissEllie]

I had invited someone to come paddle "when good for them" - well this weekend is good for them. Would like to bring them on Saturday. I have one extra kayak set up but will need to borrow another kayak & paddle if anyone is willing to help me out.

If I can not find one to borrow can anyone tell me where I can rent one close to where we are going.

Ellie
501-247-5935

[MissEllie]

Question: I have done this stretch but not with the gates open... I will have a couple of paddlers that have not paddled in years.... this does not get real rough does it... I don't image it would but can someone give me their words of wisdom.

Thanks,
Ellie
501-247-5935

[maggiepowell]

Ellie,
Your friends will be fine. The Oauchita is very tame until you get to Rockport, then it's just one drop with plenty of people playing around their so even if they flip, there are lots of people around to help. Lots of paddlers do this section with very little knowledge of boating.

Maggie

[MissEllie]

That is what I needed to know! Because of the extra paddlers will have our trailer & truck so can help shuttle.

SYOTR!
Ellie
4501-247-5935