It was already past noon when I loaded three days’ worth of camping gear aboard my Flint, ARR & ARR, still on its trailer in the unpaved lot near the launch ramp at Port O’Connor, Texas. The sky over the Gulf of Mexico was thickly overcast and gray; a chilly breeze cut through my shirt, but I expected to warm up once I started rowing.I had postponed this winter trip twice because of poor weather, so the forecast for a fair weekend was a welcome change. There would be some rain in the evening and the nights would be chilly, but the three days were supposed to be mild.I wanted to have camp set up by twilight, before the rain arrived. I just needed to get going and keep an eye on the time. Rowing ARR & ARR, I can sustain 3 knots, and with Matagorda Island only about 6 miles from the mainland, getting to my campsite at Sunday Beach before the rain wouldn’t be a problem. I’d have ample time to explore the oyster reef and mangrove marsh along the route.
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Great story, I was back there again as I read. Thanks for sharing.
I’m glad you liked it. Thanks for reading.
It was a great read. Thank you for sharing and showing your interest in the natural world. You made it sound light and easy, obviously not your first solo trip.
Thank you, Sharon.
What a great story. As we say: “The smaller the boat, the greater the pleasure.” I’m sure Roger got more out of that trip than all the power boaters put together.
Thanks for reading, Matthew. Yes, there really is something special about little boats. They seem to amplify sensory perception instead of getting in its way.
I loved the story! I live just blocks from Goose Island State Park and enjoy the inland water here so much. Your story confirms my belief that a quiet weekend on the water and beach is restorative. Thanks for sharing it with the readers of Small Boats Magazine!
Thank you, Chris. “Restorative” is certainly the right word.
Hi Roger,
I loved your article. I have had the idea of adventuring to Sunday Beach in the back of my brain for quite a number of years now, but I never had the right vessel to make the voyage. I do now however. I was wondering if you could point me to some good resources to find routes and other good information about that jaunt. Thanks in advance.