We managed one drum (sheepshead), one small channel catfish, and one larger channel catfish all caught on nightcrawlers. Could not catch any small panfish to use as bait. Smaller fish didn’t seem to be utilizing the usual holes this evening. Cutbait typically works well here, especially towards the end of summer as fish are in a final feed frenzy. Catching some small panfish to use is always a priority and we typically have a rod dedicated to finding them. But it appears that they haven’t moved into shallow river areas as of yet. The spring cool down we experienced in May seems to have slowed things down a bit.

Fishing Eastmanville Bayou May 29 2025

Recommended Catfishing Gear

• No roll weights
• Circle hooks
• Floats
• Barrel swivels

We used a basic slip rig, an improved slip rig, and a Santee rig. We also caught a fish on each one, with the largest fish coming on the Santee rig.

The Weather

The weather was tolerable. By the time we were catching fish it had cooled off to 55 degrees, but clear and very little wind, measuring from the west at 6 miles per hour. Humidity was 84% and the dewpoint of 50 degrees. Pressure was 29.95 and falling. Overall, was a great night to be out on the water.

While the river had gone down quite a bit from the previous week (we get out to this location often), there were still a large amount of grass, mud, and leaves that were flowing down the river and getting caught in the fishing lines and weights.

Basic Catfish Rigs

Fishing Eastmanville Bayou

Fishing the Grand River at Eastmanville Bayou usually leads to a mixed catch. Fish you can plan on catching include channel catfish, freshwater drum, bluegill, and the occasional bass. During the spring, it is possible to catch suckers as they move up river.

The post Fishing Eastmanville Bayou May 29 2025 appeared first on Pack & Paddle Expedition.

Fishing For Smallmouth Bass at Fallasburg Park

Fished the early evening hours of April 19, 2025. It was breezy, but mostly sunny. The air temps were in the 50s, but were tolerable. A white Rooster tail was the hot lure today. Targeted areas with structure, focusing mostly on underneath the wooden bridge. With a slow retrieved against the current, managed to locate two smallmouth bass. One of them was quite nice in size and color, as seen in the above YouTube video.

When fishing in Michigan, it’s important to make sure that you have the right fishing gear. Be sure to check out YUMEOWL’s Fishing Plier Set (Amazon Affiliate link).

Spring Smallmouth Bass Fishing

Fishing for smallmouth bass in the Spring can lead to great results. However, do so carefully. While it is catch and immediate release season in Michigan, these fish are either preparing to spawn, spawning, or post spawn. These fish can be quite fragile. Handle with care!

Spring Smallmouth Bass Fishing Tips

Spring in Michigan marks the start of some incredible smallmouth bass fishing opportunities. As waters warm and bass move from their winter depths toward spawning areas, anglers who understand these transitions can experience trophy-class fishing. Here’s a quick guide to help you target Michigan smallmouth bass this spring.

Understanding Spring Smallmouth Behavior

Spring smallmouth fishing in Michigan follows a predictable pattern that can be broken down into three distinct phases:

Pre-Spawn (45-55°F)

Bass are moving from winter holdover areas to staging areas near spawning flats. They’re actively feeding to build energy reserves for the spawning process. This is often when the largest bass of the year are caught.

Spawn (55-65°F)

When water temperatures stabilize in the mid-50s to mid-60s, smallmouth create nests in shallow areas with gravel or sandy bottoms. Males become territorial and aggressive during this period.

Post-Spawn (65°F+)

After spawning, smallmouth recover in deeper water near their spawning areas before establishing summer patterns. They’re often found near drop-offs adjacent to spawning flats.

Thanks for reading! Please don’t hesitate to subscribe to our YouTube channel to stay up to date with all of our adventures. Questions? Comments? Send us a message.

The post Spring Smallmouth Bass Fishing at Fallasburg Park appeared first on Pack & Paddle Expedition.

The Unique Position of Paddlers as Environmental Stewards

As kayakers and canoeists, we access waterways in a way few others can. We navigate narrow channels, discover hidden coves, and witness firsthand both the pristine beauty and unfortunately, the environmental challenges facing our waters. This unique perspective makes paddlers ideal environmental ambassadors.

“Paddlers are often the first to notice changes in water quality, invasive species, or pollution issues,” explains Maria Sanchez, aquatic biologist and founder of the Watershed Paddlers Alliance. “They become the eyes and ears for environmental monitoring, reaching areas that would otherwise go unobserved.”

Organized Cleanup Paddling Events

National Organizations Leading the Way

Several national organizations coordinate paddling-based cleanup events that you can join:

• American Rivers’ National River Cleanup® hosts events across the country where paddlers collect trash from waterways while enjoying a day on the water. Their website features an interactive map of upcoming events.
• Surfrider Foundation’s Paddle Out Plastic program focuses on coastal waterways and features kayak-based cleanups targeting marine debris.
• American Canoe Association’s Stream to Sea Initiative combines paddling instruction with conservation activities, making it perfect for beginners wanting to develop skills while contributing.

Local Opportunities

Don’t overlook local watershed associations and paddling clubs that often organize regularly scheduled cleanup events. These smaller, community-based efforts can have tremendous impact:

• Check with your local paddling shop or club for upcoming conservation paddles
• Follow regional waterkeeper organizations on social media
• Contact your state’s environmental protection department for volunteer opportunities

DIY Cleanup Paddles

Can’t find an organized event? Create your own:

1. Gather a small group of paddling friends
2. Equip each boat with:
   • Heavy-duty trash bags
   • Gloves
   • Grabber tools for reaching debris
   • Separate containers for recyclables
3. Focus on areas where debris collects (eddies, strainers, inner bends)
4. Document your findings to share with local environmental agencies
5. Celebrate your efforts afterward!

Pro tip: Many municipalities will arrange special pickup of collected trash if notified in advance of your cleanup efforts.

Citizen Science Opportunities for Paddlers

Beyond trash removal, paddlers can contribute valuable scientific data through citizen science initiatives:

Water Quality Monitoring

Programs like the Waterkeeper Alliance’s Water Reporter app allow paddlers to document water quality issues through geotagged photos and observations. The World Water Monitoring Challenge provides affordable test kits to measure basic water quality parameters.

“A kayaker with a simple water quality test kit can help create a comprehensive picture of watershed health that would be impossible for professionals to gather alone,” notes Dr. James Peterson, freshwater ecologist. “It’s crowd-sourced conservation.”

Wildlife Observation and Tracking

• eBird lets paddlers record bird sightings, particularly valuable for water birds and shoreline species
• iNaturalist enables documentation of all flora and fauna encountered during paddling trips
• FrogWatch USA trains volunteers to monitor amphibian populations, often accessible only by water

Invasive Species Detection

Early detection of invasive aquatic plants and animals is crucial for effective management. Programs like The Invasive Species Early Detection Network train paddlers to identify and report problematic species.

Many states now have specific apps for reporting invasive species sightings, making it easy to contribute from your smartphone right on the water.

Planning Your Conservation Paddling Trip

Essential Gear for Conservation Paddling

Beyond standard paddling equipment, consider adding:

• Mesh collection bags that drain water but contain debris
• Sturdy gloves resistant to sharp objects
• Collapsible buckets for larger items
• Smartphone in waterproof case for documentation
• Compact water quality testing equipment
• Field guides for species identification
• Dry bag for scientific equipment

Safety Considerations

Conservation paddling involves unique safety challenges:

• Never handle hazardous materials (chemical containers, sharp medical waste)
• Be cautious of added boat instability when collecting items
• Report rather than attempt to remove extremely large debris
• Maintain proper immunizations when regularly exposed to water quality issues
• Follow proper protocols for documenting rather than disturbing wildlife

Spotlight: Notable Conservation Paddling Destinations

1. Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness, Minnesota

This pristine wilderness area benefits from the “Leave No Trace” monitoring by paddlers who document campsites and portage conditions while enjoying world-class canoeing.

2. Florida’s Coastal Waterways

The Florida Microplastic Awareness Project engages paddlers to collect water samples while exploring mangrove ecosystems and coastal waters.

3. Chesapeake Bay Watershed

The Chesapeake Monitoring Cooperative trains paddlers to collect water quality data throughout the bay’s extensive tributary system.

4. Colorado River Basin

Various citizen science initiatives monitor water quality and invasive species along this critical waterway, with paddlers contributing valuable data.

Building Community Through Conservation Paddling

One of the most rewarding aspects of conservation paddling is the community it builds. Annual events like the Ohio River Sweep, which spans six states, bring together thousands of paddlers for a common cause.

How Your Paddling Club Can Get Involved

• Adopt a specific waterway section for regular monitoring and cleanup
• Partner with local schools for educational programming
• Develop a mentorship program pairing experienced conservation paddlers with newcomers
• Create a photo documentation project showing improvements over time
• Connect with scientists at local universities for guidance on meaningful data collection

The Ripple Effect

Your conservation paddling efforts create impacts far beyond the immediate environmental benefits:

• Heightened awareness among fellow paddlers and the broader community
• Data that informs policy decisions and protection efforts
• Educational opportunities for youth and newcomers to paddling
• A deeper personal connection to your local waterways

As paddler and river advocate Jess Thompson puts it, “Once you’ve spent a day cleaning up a river, you never see it the same way again. You become its guardian, not just its visitor.”

Getting Started

Ready to transform your paddling adventures into conservation action? Start by:

1. Researching local watershed groups and conservation organizations
2. Attending a training session for citizen science protocols
3. Adding simple cleanup tools to your standard paddling kit
4. Connecting with like-minded paddlers through social media and clubs
5. Setting personal goals for conservation contributions

Remember, every piece of debris removed and every data point collected contributes to healthier waterways for generations of paddlers to come.

Whether you’re drawn to the satisfaction of a cleanup paddle, the scientific engagement of citizen science, or simply wanting to give back to the waters that bring you joy, conservation paddling offers meaningful ways to combine recreation with purpose.

The next time you load your kayak or canoe, consider how your paddling journey might contribute to the waterways that make your adventures possible. After all, the best paddling experiences are those that leave both you and the environment better than before.

The post Paddling with Purpose: Conservation-Minded Kayaking Trips appeared first on Pack & Paddle Expedition.

CMI Rescue 8 Descender

The CMI Rescue 8 Descender is a great descending tool for low angle applications. There are several similar products available, including Petzl’s figure 8 descender. There are also many lower-priced options available on Amazon and eBay, however, I’d stay away from those for anything that requires trusting it with your weight and potentially your life. One common complaint with the Rescue 8 is that it increases rope twist. I haven’t seen that as a major issue as of yet. Another common issue is the lack of progress capture. This can be accomplished by tying a prusik above the Rescue 8 and then attaching it to your carabiner that has your Rescue 8 attached.

CMI Rescue 8 Descender Summary

The CMI Rescue 8 Descender is a versatile and durable belay device designed for technical rescue, rope access, and rappelling. Made from high-strength aluminum alloy, it features a large frame that efficiently dissipates heat during descents, reducing rope wear and minimizing risk of overheating. The flat style of this product makes it a great addition to a go bag or SAR bag.

Key Features:

• Material: Lightweight yet durable aluminum construction.
• Size: Large design accommodates a wide range of rope diameters.
• Efficiency: Smooth control of descent speed with multiple friction configurations.
• Versatility: Suitable for technical rescue, industrial rope access, and firefighter operations.
• Compatibility: Works with single and double rope systems.

From our partners at Compass Rescue.

Want to write for us? Send us a message! We’re building several outdoor and adventure-related websites and need your adventure stories.

The post Low Angle Descending with the CMI Rescue 8 Descender appeared first on Pack & Paddle Expedition.

Why Use Portable Solar Panels for Camping?

Portable solar panel kits harness the sun’s power and convert it into usable electricity for camping gear. Depending on size, they are lightweight and easy to carry and offer a sustainable way to keep gadgets running without relying on disposable batteries or gas-powered generators. Solar panels can provide power without creating noise or pollution, whether you need to charge your phone, GPS, or even a portable fridge.

Recommended Portable Solar Panel Kits

Here are five of the best portable solar panel kits for camping. These panels are geared to different needs, from backpackers, car campers to more rugged, off-the-grid adventurers.

Goal Zero Nomad 20 Solar Panel Kit

• Power Output: 20 watts
• Weight: 2.5 lbs
• Best For: Charging small devices like smartphones, GPS units, headlamps, or portable speakers
• Key Features: This compact, foldable solar panel kit is perfect for light camping. The Goal Zero Nomad 20 is portable, durable, and designed for efficient solar power generation. It pairs seamlessly with the Goal Zero power banks, providing a convenient way to store energy during cloudy days or at night.

Jackery SolarSaga 100W Solar Panel Kit

• Power Output: 100 watts
• Weight: 9.1 lbs
• Best For Charging laptops, drones, portable refrigerators, and larger battery packs
• Key Features: Jackery’s SolarSaga is known for its durability and high-efficiency monocrystalline solar cells. It’s also easy to fold and carry, making it suitable for base camps or RV trips. It can power multiple devices over extended periods when paired with the Jackery Explorer Portable Power Stations.

Renogy 100W 12V Solar Suitcase

• Power Output: 100 watts
• Weight: 26.6 lbs
• Best For: Serious campers or RVers who need more substantial power for larger appliances, lights, or multiple devices
• Key Features: The Renogy Solar Suitcase is a robust and reliable option that’s easy to set up. It has a built-in charge controller and alligator clips for connecting directly to a 12V battery, perfect for those needing a high power output for their camping gear. It’s heavier than other kits, but its performance makes up for it.

Anker 21W Solar Charger

• Power Output: 21 watts
• Weight: 14.7 oz
• Best For: Ultralight backpackers who need to charge phones, power banks, or other USB-powered devices
• Key Features: If you’re looking for an extremely lightweight and compact solar charger, Anker’s 21W model is an excellent choice. With its dual USB ports, it can charge two devices simultaneously. Although it doesn’t store power, it’s ideal for daytime and short backpacking trips.

EcoFlow 110W Solar Panel

• Power Output: 110 watts
• Weight: 13.2 lbs
• Best For Campers who need more energy to charge portable power stations, larger appliances, or power a small camp setup
• Key Features: The EcoFlow solar panel works with EcoFlow power stations like the River or Delta series. It’s foldable and waterproof, making it suitable for all-weather camping.

Understanding Solar Panel Power Levels

When shopping for portable solar panels, it’s helpful to understand the differences in the power levels of solar panels and what they can charge. The power output of solar panels is measured in watts, which is how quickly and efficiently a panel can charge your devices. Here’s a breakdown of what different wattage levels can typically power:

• 10-20 Watts: Small solar panels in this range are best for low-power devices like smartphones, GPS units, and headlamps. They’re ideal for short trips or ultralight backpacking, requiring minimal charging.
• 20-50 Watts: This range is great for charging multiple small devices or one larger device, such as a tablet or a small camera. These panels are often more versatile and may include USB ports or adapters for direct charging.
• 50-100 Watts: Medium-sized panels in this category should be able to charge larger devices like laptops, portable refrigerators, or small battery packs. They’re suitable for longer camping trips with a higher power demand.
• 100+ Watts: These high-output panels are perfect for campers who need to power several devices or appliances simultaneously, including larger power stations. You’ll want a panel in this range if you plan to use solar power for your entire campsite, including lights, fans, or a portable fridge.

What to Consider When Choosing a Solar Panel Kit

• Portability: Weight and size are crucial factors for portable solar panels. Depending on how much you plan to move, you may want something lightweight and foldable, like the Anker 21W for backpacking, or a larger, more powerful kit for base camping.
• Weather Resistance: Since solar panels rely on sunlight, they must also be durable enough to withstand harsh weather conditions. Waterproof and scratch-resistant panels are more useful in unpredictable outdoor environments.
• Power Storage: Many solar panel kits have built-in or compatible battery packs to store the energy generated. Batteries are critical if you need power at night or during cloudy days when direct sunlight is unavailable.

Conclusion

Portable solar panels can be a great tool for camping. They offer a clean and sustainable way to keep your devices charged while you enjoy the outdoors. Whether you’re an ultralight backpacker or a base camper looking to power a small refrigerator, there’s a solar panel kit that will suit your needs. With a suitable solar panel kit, you can keep your gadgets and electronics running and extend your time off the grid.

Thanks for stopping by!

Thanks for reading. You’ll notice that some of our links lead to Amazon and other websites where we may earn a small commission if you purchase something from us. We appreciate your support!

Visit our other websites, such as Bivvy Creek Fly Fishing for flies such as diver zonkers, and tenkara gear, diysurvivaltips.com for survival and emergency preparedness, and besttrailstohike.com for trail information.

The post Best Portable Solar Panel Kits for Camping appeared first on Pack & Paddle Expedition.

Please note that while some people may take canoes, it is open water, and a canoe could quickly become waterlogged and swamp. Canoes aren’t a recommended mode of transportation to Government Island. However, sea and touring kayaks are a fantastic option, which was what we were paddling for this trip. As always, wear a PFD.
Are you looking for more kayak and camping adventures? Here are some recommendations.

The Trip To Government Island

We picked a mid-May weekend for our trip to Government Island. The day we were to embark on our adventure could have been clearer. It was pretty foggy when we crossed the Mackinac Bridge from the Lower Peninsula and it was difficult to see the bridge once we were on it!
When we arrived in Cedarville, Michigan, it was still too foggy to put into the water. So instead of hitting the water right away, we spent the morning hiking the nearby Bush Bay (Narnia Trail).
Once the sun came out and cleared up much of the fog, we headed back into Cedarville.
We parked at Loons Point RV and Campground, where we left our vehicle overnight. Loons Point is a fantastic campground on Lake Huron that offers tent campsites and RV sites. It’s the best option for staging trips to Government Island.

Kayaking to Government Island

We launched our kayaks at Loons Point. From there, we had two options for getting to Government Island. We could take the direct route towards the west shore of Island Number Eight and then cross to Government Island or paddle between Island Number Eight and Hill Island. We opted for this second and more indirect route as there was still substantial fog, and we couldn’t see Government Island from Loons Point. Also, we were paddling into a stiff headwind and wanted to minimize our time in open water.

Hitting The Water

Heading out, we paddled a way out from shore to avoid a rocky point (think rocky sandbar) that extended out from Hill Point Resort on Island . Once we passed, we paddled between Island Number Eight and Hill Island, passing the tiny White Loon Island on the way. We crossed under the bridge that connects both islands. Crossing under the bridge was challenging with the headwind and against the current. Also, the channel became narrow under the bridge and crowded due to people fishing from shore and boats.

Once we passed under the bridge, we paddled along the east coast of Island Number Eight. A shallow channel exists for a good portion of this stretch between the shore and more of a swampy area full of birds. We were able to paddle without too much difficulty here. However, with about half a mile of paddling along Island Number Eight, we encountered open water with significant wind and waves. Compounding the difficulty with the wind and waves was the south end of Island Number Eight. There are some large rocks on the south end here, and they can be challenging to avoid when the wind is from the south or southeast, as it was during our trip. Of course, you could always paddle further offshore to avoid the rocks.

Reaching Government Island

We landed on Government Island around the northern third of the island’s east coast. Here, the coast is essentially rocky beaches, but there was a decent beach where we could easily pull up our kayaks. On Government Island, there are several established campsites, and there was one near where we made landfall. Upon landing on Government Island, we realized this campsite would expose us to the wind, so we opted to get back in our kayaks and explore further.
Government Island’s main landing is at the southern end, where a rustic toilet is situated. However, we headed north along the island’s eastern shore to avoid paddling into more headwinds. Once we got out of the wind, the lake was calm. We continued paddling along the coast until we came to the Magpulin Channel, which flows between Government Island and La Salle Island. This channel was little more than a stream at this point, as the navigability of the channel is contingent on the water level. However, we turned around rather than risking getting stuck with our loaded sea kayaks. Which is why we didn’t travel along the island’s west shore in our kayaks.

Camping on Government Island

The northern coast of Government Island features an incredibly sheltered bay, sandy beaches, and a few established campsites. The best part of this side of the island is the large, sandy bay protected from everything but winds from the north. Government Bay makes for a great spot to beach and spend the day (and night!) camping, swimming, and fishing off of Government Island. These elements factored into our decision to head towards the north shore rather than continue to the south landing.

The Campsite

We picked a reasonably sheltered campsite in the middle of the island’s north shore. Although partially exposed, it offered good beach access and featured a fire ring and picnic table.

Someone had recently cleaned some northern pike at the campsite we were staying at and left the remains, so we cleaned the remains and set up camp around 4:00 p.m. It was nice to get out of the wind and warm up in the sun, as we were both chilled after paddling into the wind and waves.

Campsite and Trail Maintenance

Unlike some northern Michigan wilderness locations, campsite and trail maintenance is done regularly on Government Island. Recently, some campsite maintenance was done, as a significant pile of cut cedar boughs and trees must have fallen over. This pile made for tremendous fire-starting material. Seeing that these campsites are visited and cared for regularly is good. Only some wilderness camps in Michigan are cared for on a routine basis. However, the Les Cheneaux Watershed Council does the maintenance in partnership with the U.S. Forest Service.  

Hiking On Government Island

Government Island features a lovely trail that runs the length of the island. Some maps show this trail as a figure eight trail, with an intersection around the island’s middle half. However, All Trails shows it as missing the western lower half section. The trail itself features mainly cedar woods and cedar swamps. The eastern edge of the trail skirts the shoreline. Hiking here can be challenging, as there are some rocky drop-offs. Slipping could be painful here, so it’s recommended not to.

Starting at the middle of the trail’s north-end section, we headed east and then south along the island’s eastern edge. We passed some old concrete ruins. Government Island has had several purposes over time, including being used as a coast guard station. It’s hard to determine the exact purpose of this building, as few landscape features indicate what it could have been used for. Perhaps somebody used to store bootlegged liquor during prohibition.

Much of the island is heavily forested. It opens up around the various campsites, but otherwise, it is relatively dense overall, making the trail rather easy to find. There are also trail blazes, though those can be intermittent. As always, it’s a good idea to bring a compass with you, such as an orienteering compass.

Heading West

Hiking from the island’s eastern shore to its western involves crossing through cedar swamps and walking uphill. The elevation change isn’t significant, however. The island is more than a third of a mile wide here, so it’s a short hike. However, the trail opens up to more thin cedar forests from the view of the lake. It’s different from the feeling on the eastern shore. There are some well-loved campsites on this side of the island, and it’s evident that visitors have used much of the dead fall for firewood. Also located at this campsite is a wilderness privy(see our YouTube video). This side of the island has an expansive beach. However, it’s all rocky and not sandy like the northern shore.

Heading North

Turning north, we walked along the western shore. We tried to follow the trail blazes, but there are few here. And unlike other parts of the island, the underbrush is sparse here. If you need help locating the trail, head north inside the tree line, and you should be fine finding the trail again around the south end of the Magulpin Channel. It does become swampy here, so be careful not to venture too far off. You’ll head east once you’ve reached the trail’s northern end. The area surrounding the north section is pretty open. If you keep Government Bay on your left, you should be fine following the trail until you find the blazes. The great thing about hiking and camping on a small island is that you’re always close to water if you get lost. And then all you have to do is keep the water to one side of you until you find your campsite! Of course, you should always familiarize yourself with the terrain and location before you arrive. Safety first, after all.

Settling In For The Night

Arriving back at camp after spending about an hour exploring the island, we set to work getting a fire going and making dinner. Tuna and rice packets (an exceptional dinner) were on the menu and cooked on our JetBoil. We had set up our Kelty Tanglewood 3-person backpacking tent before beginning our hike, so we only had to focus on food prep once we finished hiking. While eating dinner, a deer came in and stayed just 30 yards off of our campsite for a while. Having this deer come close underscored how wild this island can be during the off-season.

By this time, it had become breezy even in our semi-sheltered campsite, which was fine as it kept the bugs down. The skies quickly became overcast as storms were moving in from the northwest. With the breeze and clouds, it was getting chilly as night neared, so we settled into our tent for the night. As a side note, we debated using a backpacking tent or hammocks. We opted for the tent, but most of the campsites on Government Island offer decent hammock camping possibilities.

Morning

Overnight, the storms woke us up here and there. It wasn’t anything significant, but it was loud enough. When morning came, though, it was stunning. Making coffee with our Jetboil (a substantial part of our adventuring life nowadays) and eating granola bars while overlooking Government Bay was a perfect way to start the day. The water in the bay was flat, and there wasn’t any breeze on the island’s north shore.

The warm sun encouraged the bugs to come out as we broke camp. However, they were mostly an annoyance and not a real problem. Loading up our kayaks, we left Government Island behind and headed back to Loons Point.

Heading Back

Leaving Government Island behind us, we headed north northwest across Government Bay straight to Bay Point on La Salle Island. With the favorable (IE, no) wind and the protected bay, we opted to be more direct in our route back. There was also zero fog, so with excellent paddling conditions and visibility, we made our way across the bay. Once we were just off of Bay Point, we paddled along the eastern coast of La Salle Island. Here, the water became a bit choppier because it was more open but still quite manageable. Once we were across from the northern tip of Hill Island, we paddled across the lake. With a beautiful and easy morning for paddling, it took us about an hour’s worth of paddling to make it back to the mainland.

Wildlife On Government Island

Wildlife is standard for northern Michigan. A collection of birds inhabits the various coves and shoals of the Les Cheaneaux islands, including herons and cranes (you can see them in our YouTube video above). On Government Island, we encountered squirrels, frogs, and deer. We had a deer come close to our campsite to browse on grass and drink from the lake. It was interesting how close she came to our camp and how long she stayed nearby.

About The Les Cheaneaux Islands

The Les Cheaneaux Islands are a group of islands off the southeast coast of Michigan’s Upper Peninsula. While many islands are private property, some feature nature preserves that are only reachable by boat. One of these, Boot Island, features the Nordquist Nature Preserve. The only non-private island is Government Island. Learn more about the Les Cheanueaux Islands here. Many of these islands have vacation homes, and a few resorts and bed and breakfasts exist scattered among the islands.

Conclusion

We’re blessed to have the ability to go on so many adventures this year. Kayaking and camping on Government Island has to be one of our best. It was probably only eclipsed by canoeing and camping in Sylvania Wilderness. But that’s for another time. As always, stay safe and wear a PFD!

We may make a small commission based on purchases from links on this website for places such as Amazon. Thanks for supporting us!

The post Government Island: A Kayaking & Camping Adventure appeared first on Pack & Paddle Expedition.

Features of Reddmann’s Sleepy Hollow Campground

Reddmann’s Sleepy Hollow Campground has several family-friendly amenities. For starters, it’s only $20 per night. Which is less than the nearby Carp River Campground (a rustic campground managed by the U.S. Forest Service). The campground can accommodate both RVs and motor homes (up to a certain size) and tent and hammock camping. Many camp sites are right on Saint Martin Bay.

There is also a sandy beach that affords swimming(please note there are no markers-swim at your own risk), kayaking, and canoeing options. Reddmann’s is located a short drive away from the Carp River Fishing Pier, which offers both a boat launch(overgrown and muddy as of this writing), and a seawall for fishing.

Other amenities include a water pump and pit toilets. There are no power hook ups onsite, so if you’re in an RV, please be aware you will need a generator. There is a small playground that includes swings for kids to spend time on. Each campsite includes a fire pit. Gathering firewood locally is limited, however, you can purchase it onsite and from homes in the surrounding area.

Contact Information

• Address: E806 Charles Rd, St Ignace, MI 49781
• Phone: (906) 643-8248
• No website!

The only way to book a stay at Reddmann’s is to call! Please note, they only accept cash payments.

Best Gear To Bring

There aren’t many stores nearby. You’ll want to make sure you bring everything with you. Here’s a few key items to plan on bringing.

• Bug spray. Reddmann’s is located between the beach and a swamp. Plan accordingly.
• A camping stove. There aren’t grills at Reddmann’s. Be sure you have a way to cook your food.
• A bucket. A collapsible bucket can make a world of difference when you have to carry water from the pump to your campsite. (Please note: These buckets are an amazing gear item to bring).

Reddmann’s Sleepy Hollow Campground: Final Thoughts

Reddmann’s is a fantastic family-friendly campground that offers Great Lakes access. For that reason alone, this should be added to your camping plans. Plus? You’re only a 30-minute drive from Bush Bay (Narnia) Trail!

Reading More

We’re going to add regular campground reviews to our website! Make sure you subscribe to our e-mail list to stay up to date with them. Looking for the best camping snacks? Check out this post. Hiking in Michigan can be an amazing adventure. We’ve got a list of some of the best trails to hike.

Subscribe to our mailing list to stay up to date with our adventures, tips, and hiking gear recommendations.

And of course, we may make a small commission percentage from purchases you may make through our affiliate partners.

The post Reddmann’s Sleepy Hollow Campground appeared first on Pack & Paddle Expedition.

The best places to kayak in Grand Rapids include:

• Reeds Lake
• Fennessy Lake
• Grand River (North of 6th Street Dam)
• Green Lake
• Rogue River
• Versluis Lake

Reeds Lake

Reeds Lake is located in East Grand Rapids and is an absolutely beautiful lake to kayak in. It’s quite popular with all types of boats, including kayaks and paddleboards. Reeds Lake is also near several parks and restaurants, making it a fantastic way to spend a day on the water. The West Michigan Coastal Kayaking Association often has their monthly kayaking meet ups here.

Fennessy Lake

Fennessy Lake is located on the far western edge of Ottawa County. Just a short drive outside of Grand Rapids. The public ramp is located off of Fennessy Drive. It’s a small parking area (basically Street parking). It’s a quiet lake, that due to its size, doesn’t attract a ton of boating traffic. However,r this makes it the perfect spot for an evening kayak trip.

Green Lake

Located just south of Grand Rapids in Caledonia, Green Lake is sure to offer you some memorable paddling trips. One note-the parking lot and ramp is essentially full every decent boating day. So this is another local lake you’ll want to arrive at early in the day. Kayak in the morning and then stop at Maria’s Italian for lunch!

Grand River

While the Grand River in Grand Rapids no longer has rapids (though-some are trying to fix that), it can still make for a great day of kayaking. The best place to kayak is going to be from the DNR ramp on West River Drive down to Riverside Park. This can be paddled back up, or you could stage a vehicle to not have to paddle up River.

While you could travel down River a bit below Riverside Park, you’ll soon run into 6th St. dam which will leave you with a difficult portage. Then, there are several other low-head dams just below 6th Street Dam that will result in portaging, or navigating around. So unfortunately, your best bet is to get out of the river above 6th Street Dam.

Rogue River

The Rogue River in Rockford is a fantastic place to kayak in the Grand Rapids area. It’s split into two areas: the ‘upper’ Rogue, which is accessed from a few different locations above the Rockford Dam, and the ‘lower’ Rogue, which is the confluence from the Rockford Dam to the Grand River. The upper Rogue River is typically the more popular kayaking destination. There are a couple of kayak liveries that serve this area. There’s also a place to either put in (but most take out) right above the dam in downtown Rockford. With the local restaurants (such as Dam Dogs), it’s a perfect way to spend an afternoon. The lower Rogue does present a bit more of a challenge. There’s more rocks and the current is more swift. This stretch, especially when the water is high from storm or winter run off, can be quite dangerous.

Versluis Lake

Versluis Lake is accessed by visiting Verlsuis Park. It’s about a 50 acre lake in Plainfield Township. It’s a good lake for kayakers that don’t want to compete with the boating traffic at other nearby lakes. It can also be a decent place to do some kayak fishing.

Kayak Safety

Keeping safe while kayaking is incredibly important. For a basic list of kayak safety gear, check out this article. We also have a list of recommended kayak safety tips. Always wear a PFD and tell someone where you’re going and when you’ll be back.

Where to Kayak in Grand Rapids

Green Lake, Fennessy Lake, and Reeds Lake are the best places to kayak near Grand Rapids. However, there are several other great kayaking adventures to be had locally. Please stay staff and wear a PFD!

Reading More

Heading out on other Michigan-based adventures? Be sure to check out Bush Bay Trail (also called the Narnia Trail), in Cedarville, Michigan. Also, check out our essential backpacking gear recommendations!

The post Where To Kayak In Grand Rapids appeared first on Pack & Paddle Expedition.

The trail features a large amount of moss-covered dolomite boulders that make it almost magical to explore. It’s about a four mile round trip hike. However, the trail does connect to the nearby John Arthur Woollam Nature Preserve, meaning that you could hike for quite a bit further than four miles.

There is a lot of wildlife to see and hear in Bush Bay. Pileated woodpeckers, deer, frogs, gulls, and assorted ducks in the bay will keep you entertained. Wildflowers abound here too. The trees are a mix of cedar trees and pine trees, and there are some beautiful birch trees to see (a personal favorite).

Getting There

Located in Clark Township, Bush Bay Trail is about 45 minutes east of St. Ignace (Here’s a Google Maps pin to navigate to). The parking lot is a nondescript lot just off of M-134. There’s literally nothing marking it as the trail head. There are also no bathrooms located at this trail head-so keep that in mind when planning your trip. Cell service can be spotty, though we had ample Verizon coverage on our hike here.

What To Bring

Planning on hiking the Bush Bay Trail? Here’s a few things to bring.

• Camera. Bring a camera-this natural area offers several opportunities for stunning photos.
• First Aid kit. There are wet rocks, and it’s a bit remote. Make sure you’ve got some bandages, and perhaps an ankle wrap and moleskin packed. Just in case.
• Water. Water is important on any hike, and especially on a hike where the trail can go on and on, it’s always a good idea to make sure you’ve got water. Consider a hydro pack, such as the Osprey Syncro 12.

Bush Bay Trail

This trail should definitely make your Michigan hiking bucket list. And since it’s not far from St. Ignace, it would be an easy hike to add on to just about any Upper Peninsula trip. Be sure to subscribe to our YouTube channel to follow all of our adventures. Always adventure safely. Be prepared for emergencies, and know your surroundings. Our goal is to help you explore Michigan and beyond, but you have to look out for your personal safety.

Nearby Adventures

Kayaking and Camping on Government Island. This blog post describes a kayaking and camping adventure on Government Island, part of Michigan’s Les Cheneaux Islands in Lake Huron. We outline the journey, which began in foggy conditions and involved paddling through headwinds and narrow channels. After reaching the island, we set up camp on the northern shore, explored trails, and encountered local wildlife, including deer. The post also highlights the island’s rustic charm, the importance of preparation, and the joy of outdoor adventure. The experience offered a mix of kayaking, hiking, and scenic camping.

Full post here.

Reading More

While we love hiking and backpacking, we don’t write up every trail we adventure on. Be sure to check out besttrailstohike.com for more in-depth listings of hiking trails in the Midwest and beyond. Interested in kayaking this summer? Check out our kayaking safety tips. We want to help keep you safe and healthy on your outdoor adventures.

Please note: we may make a small commission on products purchased through some of the links.

The post Bush Bay Trail (Narnia Trail) appeared first on Pack & Paddle Expedition.

The Weather

It was around 60 degrees with overcast skies, and storms in the surrounding areas. The water was quite shallow and stained. Even the pond above the dam was significantly lower than it has been at this time for several years. Without decent rainfall, come summer, these rivers may be mostly unfishable due to low water levels and elevated water temperatures. It’ll be an interesting summer. Hopefully we pick up some decent rainfall in the coming months and avoid fish die-offs.

Results

While locating holes where fish were holding was difficult, we did manage to catch a couple of small Smallmouth Bass utilizing Mepps spinners. If the bite is difficult, Mepps spinners can be among the only things that will trigger a bite. I like to drift them downstream while reeling slowly, allowing them to swing through holes behind structure where I think that there may be fish.

About The Park

Leslie E. Tassell Park is a small park along the Thornapple River in Cascade Township (just outside of Grand Rapids). It’s a nice park that features two small parking areas. Picnic tables and a picnic shelter make this a nice stopping point for a canoe or kayak trip down (or up!) the Thornapple River. The park can be found at: 2900 Thornapple River Dr SE, Grand Rapids, MI 49546.

Smallmouth Bass Fishing

Many of Michigan’s rivers and lakes offer awesome smallmouth Bass fishing opportunities(including our Great Lakes). While it’s not a species we target heavily, it can make for a nice change of pace from chasing stream trout. Bivvy Creek (our fly fishing brand) is releasing some bass poppers! Be sure to check them out here.

Reading More

While we’re in the midst of fishing season here in Michigan, that’s not all we’re up to! Be sure to check out our essential backpacking gear list. Also, for survival and disaster preparedness tips, check out our sister website, diysurvivaltips.com.

The post Smallmouth Bass Fishing At Leslie E. Tassell Park appeared first on Pack & Paddle Expedition.