The Splendor of the Pecos River
By
Blair Brisbey
In the arid desert region of west Texas lies a sparking
gem. The Pecos River flows from Northeastern New Mexico down to the Rio Grande
where it terminates near Del Rio, TX. Long known for its historical
significance, the Pecos was home to Paleo-Indians over 5000 years ago. There
are less people inhabiting the Pecos area nowadays than in those times. That is
why I love it so much, the river is far removed from the encroachment of
civilization seen all over the modern world.
I've been down the Pecos
many times and have never had a bad time. The only run in Texas is from Pandale
down to Lake Amistad, about 65 miles. It can be done in 3 1/2 days by the truly
ambitious, however a comfortable trip takes 6-7 days. Trust me, you won't be in
a hurry to get off of the river. As the river gets closer to the choked and
dammed Rio Grande the flow slows considerably to the point that the last ten
miles is basically flat water. Although the fifty miles above will afford
enough excitement to provide memories for years to come. With great fishing,
excellent camping, rich history, and awe inspiring views the Pecos river is a
home run to say the least.
I'll be headed back out there this October,
maybe you can too....
Blair is a native
Texan now living in California. The last time he was in San Marcos he stopped
by to visit and told me of his adventures down the Pecos. I enjoyed it and
asked him to write a little piece for us. If you have similar stories about
paddling trips far or near you would like to share please email them to
editor@austinkayak.com
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DVDs for Kayakers
Staffs Pick
 The Kayak Fishing Video
By Dennis Spike
Dennis does a great job of
getting the novice paddler excited about the sport of kayak fishing. When I was
first getting into the sport this was my introduction and this video laid the groundwork
for what is now my favorite hobby.
Jason Bay- Bay City
Anglers
 b.EAST
By Lisa
Utronki
The b.EAST video is a riveting film following some of the best
in the business through some of North Americas biggest early season water. Lisa
Utronski really has a keen eye for what the whitewater crowd wants.
Tony Blair - ACK San Marcos
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So many of our valued customers have come under
the helpful guide of one of ACK's co-owners, Steve Messana. Steve, along with
his brother Peter Messana have been at the helm of Austin Canoe & Kayak
since May 2005, however, this August Steve is on his own while he attempts to climb Grand Teton in Jackson Hole, Wyoming.