The Delaware River is the longest undammed river east of the Mississippi. Beginning below the Pepacton and Cannonsville Reservoirs on the East and West Branches, it flows south unimpeded for more than 300 miles to the Delaware Bay. Along its route to the ocean it also provides drinking water for more than 15 million people and is home to migrating American shad and striped bass, which return each year to spawn.
The paddle portion of this event begins at the Eshback boat launch and continues downstream roughly 4 miles to the Bushkill boat launch. There is one Class II rapid near the mouth of Toms Creek but it can easily be avoided. Click HERE for the full paddle course map.
It is common to see bald eagles, blue herons, beavers and other wildlife in this section of river.
As with the other legs of this event, all fishing gear must be in your possession throughout this leg. To make things more fun, competitors are encouraged to attempt to catch a warm water species during this portion of the event. The same time bonus will be awarded as during the running portion (1 inch = 2 minutes deducted from total time). Angling opportunities include shad, smallmouth bass, panfish, carp and even musky.
To ensure safety, volunteers will be on the water in kayaks and boats along the course and available to assist you. All participants will be required to wear a life jacket, firmly secured, at all times during this portion of the event. Should weather and water conditions restrict paddling on the day of the event, the bike portion will be lengthened.
Participants may bring their own kayaks, but rentals will be available.