Strong Advice for Strong Winds as Local Author Releases New Canoeing Book

By Scott Arnold

After decades of paddling through some of Ontario's toughest conditions, Peterborough's John Etches has turned hard-earned experience into a new book aimed at helping canoe trippers stay safe when the wind picks up.

local author john etches with his new book, Fighting Strong Winds in a canoe (photo by Scott Arnold)

Etches' new book, Fighting Strong Winds in a Canoe, focuses on an aspect of backcountry travel that he believes is often overlooked.

While paddlers typically plan for rain, cold temperatures and other weather challenges, Etches says strong winds and waves are frequently underestimated despite being one of the biggest safety risks on the water.

"Wind is one aspect of backcountry travel that will end your canoe trip," he explained. "You can prepare for rain and colder weather, but it's extreme wind conditions that will end your canoe trip. It's a real safety hazard."

Drawing on more than 50 years of paddling experience across Ontario, including trips through Temagami, Algonquin, Killarney and the Kawartha Highlands, Etches wrote the book to provide practical advice rather than technical instruction.

His goal is to help paddlers recognize potential hazards, adapt to changing conditions and make better decisions before problems arise.

"I hope people read the book and think about these aspects before their trip," said Etches. "When they're confronted with adverse wind and wave conditions, they can adapt, modify their progress, stay safe and avert disaster."

fighting strong winds in a canoe is available at several local outlets, including the canadian canoe museum (photo by scott arnold)

The book was inspired by several close calls over the years, including trips where rough conditions pushed both paddlers and equipment to their limits.

Etches recalled one particularly difficult outing in Temagami where strong winds and waves left his canoe taking on water while the crew was forced to stop and bail.

Looking back, he said some trips came much closer to disaster than he would have liked.

A key message throughout the book is preparation. Etches encourages paddlers to think beyond ideal conditions, learn how to read wind patterns and lake configurations, and understand when it may be safer to wait or even cancel a trip.

"You have no control over the conditions that nature hands you," he said. "But with a little bit of knowledge, you can prepare for them and adapt."

One of the book's unique features is the EWind Route Correction Tool, a planning method developed by Etches to help paddlers determine safer and more efficient routes when facing strong headwinds or crosswinds.

The publication has already received praise from members of the Ontario Recreational Canoeing and Kayaking Association. Six ORCKA board members and associates reviewed the book, with prominent canoe tripping instructor trainer Bill Elgie calling it "such a great book" and expressing interest in using it during his courses.

Etches is quick to note that the book is intended as a practical introduction to wind safety and is not a replacement for the in-depth training programs offered by ORCKA.

Fighting Strong Winds in a Canoe is now available through Amazon, the Canadian Canoe Museum, Take Cover Books and Wild Rock Outfitters.

An official book launch will be held June 11 at 7 pm at Take Cover Books in East City. The event will include a presentation by Etches, coffee and baked goods from Kit Coffee, and an opportunity for paddlers to discuss the upcoming canoe season. All are welcome.

Scott Arnold is a Journalist and Content Creator at PTBOCanada Media Inc

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