Why do you need to use a Kneeling Pad for your Canoe?
Whether you canoe regularly or are just about to try it for the first time, you’ll find that kneeling is the best position for several reasons. However, you might also quickly find out that kneeling can be very uncomfortable after a while without the proper support of a kneeling pad.
A kneeling pad is a simple accessory that can be easily taken and placed at the bottom of the canoe to add a soft cushion for your knees to rest on. Not only will this protect you from discomfort during your canoe ride, but it will also save you from any bruising, soreness or even injuries afterward. As with any sport or outdoor activity, you should always take the proper safety precautions to protect yourself from injury.
Proper cushion and support under your knees will allow you to enjoy your time out on the water without having to hassle with adjusting your posture and rocking the boat too much. This is why it’s so important to invest in a reliable and durable kneeling pad.
GROWEROLOGY THICK AND LARGE KNEELING PAD
If you’re ready to invest in a comfortable, supportive kneeling pad for canoeing this is an excellent option. This kneeling pad is one of the most comfortable ones available. It’s made from the highest quality Eva foam material and is ½ inch thicker than most kneeling pads out there. Anyone can comfortably use it and have space to move around thanks to its extra-large size option.
The water-resistant material makes it a great option for canoeing and very easy to wipe dry. Its durable build means it will last even after years of use - it will always retain its shape even after heavy use, and resist tears and breakdown. A convenient handle makes it easily portable so you can take it along wherever you may need it. It’s even great for other activities besides just canoeing, so you know you’ll get plenty of use out of it.
This product comes in a two-pack, so you can save the other one for future use, give it to a friend or designate it for other things like gardening or housework.
Best Features:
- Premium quality material for durability and longevity
- Water-resistant foam
- Excellent knee support
- Extra-large option available for extra comfort
- Can be used to a variety of activities
Advantages of Kneeling in Your Canoe
There are several positions that you can use while paddling and all have their advantages. However, most people find that kneeling is the most ideal position for canoeing, both solo and with others in the canoe, for several reasons.
Although you’ll need to experiment and see which posture and position works best for you and your canoe, there are many advantages to consider that come along with using the kneeling position when it comes to control of the canoe and your overall performance.
Increased Stability
In canoeing, stability is the key to keeping the boat upright. When you’re in the kneeling position, your center of gravity is low and sturdy. A solid foundation helps you stay balanced and prevent excessive rocking while you paddle. You’ll find the most stability if you’re able to kneel with your knees spread wider apart. This allows you to ground down and distribute your weight as evenly as possible.
In addition to stabilizing the canoe while actually on the water, it’s also helpful for the first person in the canoe to be kneeling to stabilize the boat for others to easily board without it rocking too much. Boarding can be one of the trickiest parts of canoeing for some people, so this is a great way to help ease the process.
Increased Control of the Canoe
Unlike sitting on a seat, kneeling allows you to have more direct contact with the actual canoe. This allows to easily control the motion and direction of the canoe. You might need to quickly change directions or offset the motion of rough water, and being low and in direct contact with the canoe itself is going to give you the most control.
If the wind is high, the water is wavy, or you’re in a canoe with any children or pets, it’s going to be especially important to be able to shift your center of gravity and the tilt of the canoe at a second’s notice. This can save you from tipping the canoe and ending up in the water.
Relieves the Pressure on your Back
Paddling through water takes a lot of strength and can be very straining on the muscles. When you’re seated, you mostly rely on the power of your upper back and body which can become tiresome and leave you sore for days after. However, paddling in the kneeling position gives you the power of both your lower and upper body. You’re able to use the strength or your legs to push off of the canoe and use your lower back more efficiently.
The back can be strained or injured, which can cause lasting damage and discomfort, so it’s essential to protect it. Especially if you enjoy being active and doing outdoor activities like canoeing. You don’t want to be recovering from a day of canoeing for weeks after. Kneeling will allow you to harness the power of the whole body so you aren’t relying solely on your back.
Allows for More Powerful Paddling
This also goes along with taking all the pressure off of your back and gaining the power of your legs and lower body. You’re able to use more of your muscles to push through the water making you go faster and further with each paddle.
Since the kneeling posture will give you the most stability, you’ve got more leverage while paddling. You’re also able to push through the resistance of the water more easily, which is great if you’re canoeing on your own or just want to move faster in general.
Offset the Canoe When Paddling Alone
Being alone in a large canoe can make it tricky to control and it’s important to know how to offset the negative space. Often called “heeling” the canoe, solo canoers find it easiest to keep the boat at a pronounced tilt. They do this by shifting the weight of their body to one side that they’re able to offset their paddling side. By heeling the canoe as a solo rider, you’ll be able to better maneuver and control the boat alone.
Heeling is most easily done while kneeling. Attempting to do so while in a seated position can be very difficult and you won’t have as much balance while paddling. Covering more surface area of the floor of the canoe will allow for easier control of the tilt and motion. Otherwise, it can sometimes feel like the canoe is steering you, instead of you steering it.
Importance of Knee Pads While Canoeing
Although canoeing might seem like a gentle, carefree sport, there are always risks of injury and challenges to overcome. If you’re going to kneel in the canoe it’s so important to take the proper safety precautions to protect yourself just like you would in any other sport.
Investing on a kneeling pad comes with many advantages and is a must-have for canoeing safely. Kneeling pads aren’t just for immediate comfort, they’re going to help protect you from long term injuries.
Your Knees are Very Fragile
The knees have very little protection of their own. The patella, or kneecap, is very vulnerable, with just a sheer layer of muscle and skin covering it. When your knee is bent, it’s even more susceptible to injuries such as fractures or getting out of alignment. The muscles and ligaments that surround the knee are also easy to tear and strain.
General wear and tear on your knees over time can cause lasting issues but can be prevented with protection and padding. Using a kneeling pad or knee pads is going to give your knees the protection they need and save you from future injuries and pain.
A knee injury can be very painful and inconvenient, sometimes even requiring surgery and long healing times. This can put you out of work, keep you from doing your favorite activities and just make daily life very difficult.
Better Performance
Simply using a kneeling pad can help make everything easier while canoeing. The surface of the canoe can be very slippery with the water entering the boat and once you start to sweat if you’re wearing shorts. When this is the case, your knees can start slipping, making it difficult for you to leverage yourself and push against the canoe. You’re trying to push against the water with the paddle, so you must have good leverage in the canoe.
Padding can be helpful because it gives you resistance to push against and grip so that you can easily stay in place. This will allow you to have much more power and control while paddling and keeps you from sliding around too much.
Added comfort, in general, can give you a boost of confidence and energy to push harder and focus on your posture and overall technique instead of constantly adjusting. Often when we’re uncomfortable, we compromise our posture in other ways to try and compensate. For instance, if one foot is hurting, you might put more weight on the other one.
Prevent Soreness and Fatigue
Sitting on your knees for long periods can be tiring and cause major soreness, and even bruising. A comfy kneeling pad will allow you to keep canoeing comfortably so you can go further and enjoy yourself without focusing on your knees.
There’s nothing worse than getting too far from the dock and not have the energy or being too sore to get back.
Ensuring that you’re able to sit comfortably is also going to allow you to stay still so that you don’t have to adjust your position too much. Too much movement in the canoe is a recipe for disaster and can cause the canoe to tip over.
Prevent Bruising and Scrapes
Even kneeling for just a few seconds cause bruising on your knees. So you can imagine kneeling for a long time on a hard surface like a canoe floor can cause some nasty bruises on your knees that could last for weeks. Some soft padding to kneel on will help to prevent bruising.
A kneeling pad will also protect the skin on your knees from and cuts or scrapes from the canoe itself or if any small rocks or debris that are sitting on the floor. Kneeling on loose gravel can be a miserable experience.
CONCLUSION
Kneeling while canoeing comes with many advantages but can come with discomfort and risk of injury if you don’t have the right protection. This is where your kneeling pad comes in. It will give your knees the proper support and comfort to keep you safe from injury and soreness.
If you’re going to be kneeling and don’t already have a kneeling pad, definitely check out the Growerology Thick & Large Kneeling Pad. The thick, comfy foam will provide your knees with comfort for long canoeing sessions, allowing you to go further and faster. It’s durable and built to last so you can trust that it will hold up even after continued use and exposure to sun and water.
Like other sports canoeing can be so much fun, but it does require the proper protective equipment to ensure that you are both comfortable and safe. Since kneeling is the best way to sit and paddle for many reasons, you must take the right steps, like using a kneeling pad, to make sure you have the best experience possible while protecting yourself.
10 Best Lake House Attire
10 Best Lake House Attire
There's nothing more difficult than packing. Instead of grabbing whatever you've got and running off to the lake house, check out these 10 best lake house outfits to make your packing a little easier.
Product Reviews: LAKE HOUSE ATTIRE
Wrangler MEN'S OUTDOOR CARGO SHORT
It’s hard to find a good pair of outdoor cargo shorts for men. Check out this option from Wrangler to see if it works for you. Made from 99 percent cotton, these shorts zip closed and can be machine washed. They’re in the traditional cargo style, meaning that they’re built for both versatility and comfort.
Slip your phone into your pockets, since you have six pockets in total, and still look great with the relaxed fit of these shorts. It helps that the 10-inch seam will keep you comfortable for the entire day even underneath the sun near the lake.
Pros
Cons
Patterned blouse
Honestly, finding a good blouse can sometimes feel like too much trouble. You want an option that looks great but that won't leave you feeling too hot when you're by the lake. Make your lake house attire with this patterned blouse though, which hangs off your shoulder comfortably with a lot of fits. The flared sleeves look great, and the loose fit will cover all body shapes. Show off your beauty with this blouse for all seasons, and in casual and formal venues, or just at the lake.
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Cons
Blouse Tie Knot
If you're looking for a cute top, look no further than this blouse. You can button it up to feel the comfortable polyester and spandex. It's made to be very soft, although do know that the white color is a little bit see-through. You might not even care about that with the knitted design and breathable fabric. It's a lightweight lake outfit option that's perfect for outdoor wear lots of time spent right around the water.
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Cons
One-piece swimsuit
It can be difficult to find a good one-piece swimsuit that doesn't look like a train wreck, but this option is both elegant and beautiful. It has a high neck design with a padded push-up bra and hooks closure. This means that it will support you and shape your figure. The see-through mesh style in the front will help you be flirty without you needing to show too much skin, while the quality will keep you comfortable when you've come in from the water. It's wonderful that this one-piece comes in all sizes for all body shapes as well.
Pros
Cons
Cropped Pants
Who says that women can’t find a good pair of pants with pockets? These cropped pants look great, have two patch pockets that Velcro on the side to hold all of your items. The waist is elastic, which means that it will fit all body shapes and sizes, and the length is cropped. This lake attire is made to look great on you while the elastic bands on the legs keep you feeling comfortable. Pick out your color and hang back on the lake with this spandex and polyester blend.
Pros
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Striped Polo
A polo is always a good option when you're relaxing outside. This striped polo option is made to be a comfortable cotton and polyester blend, with a button closure up near the neck. Throw it in the washing machine after you've worn it, but hopefully, you won't be dealing with too much sweat thanks to the moisture-wicking fabric.
This shirt is designed to stay cool and dry for the entire day, making it perfect for the man on the move. Not to mention that the design and fabric are crisp and can stretch to keep you completely comfortable throughout the day. It helps that the collar is roll-resistant and doesn't require ironing either.
Pros
Cons
Denim Shorts
For a good pair of denim shorts that aren't too short, look no further than this amazing option. It closes with a button and has a straight fit that makes your curves look great. The fabric itself is distressed lightly with a bit of a frayed hem for the sake of style. They're designed with a mid-rise style for a low-slung slouchy fit without being uncomfortable. The best part of these shorts is the easy casual look, and of course, the classic five pockets that will still fit even larger items like your phone.
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Cons
Straw Hat
You’ll never know that you need a straw hat until you’re sitting outside trying to squint out at your family out over the lake. This straw hat is made to help shade your eyes while fitting over your head comfortably thanks to the adjustable closure. If it rains, you can easily hand wash this hat, but otherwise, you can pick out your color and just relax with it on your head. Thanks to the style, you can feel comfortable and relaxed while enjoying some time outdoors.
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Cons
Hoodies
A night out on the lake is always relaxing—until you’re cold and you don’t have a blanket with you. There’s nothing better than having this hoodie though. It closes with a zipper and washes easily in your washing machine.
The fleece is thick and soft to keep you warm, while the cover-seam neck and armholes will keep out air as you move. On top of that, the pill-resistant fabric is made to have high-stitch density, which means that this hoodie will be even more durable. For style, you can’t go wrong with the ribbed waistband and cuffs, along with the kangaroo pocket.
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Dress for Kids
Let's not forget about getting a dress for your kid for the lake. This polyester and spandex blend is perfect for your little girl since it's made to be comfortable and to slip on easily. The dress is short-sleeved to keep her comfortable, while the ruffled sleeves add a classic cut. But rest assured that this dress is made for more than looking nice. Since the fabric is slightly stretchable, you don't need to worry about your kids playing together outside or about the dress getting dirty.
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Reasons to Visit a Lake House With Your Family
There is any number of reasons to go along with your family to visit a lake house. Besides the obvious fact that it's an amazing vacation option, of course.
Activities
You’re right on the water at a lake house. This is pretty obvious, but think about everything that you’ll be able to do with your significant other, your family, and your children. You can be out on the water at any time of the day on a boat, reading, or in your swimsuits. There are so many things for you to do right in your backyard.
Vacation Time
Take a load off and relax. If you're feeling exhausted from the city life and daily life, take a minute to go out and relax on the lake. Let the water calm you down and just take out the stress from your daily life. Honestly, that's one of the best things about being at the lake house: you can take a little break from your daily life.
Food Options
Even if you’re just cooking for yourself, going to the lake house with your family is a great opportunity to enjoy some new food options. Check out the fresh food around the area, and try cooking new things with some ingredients that you might have not tried at home.
Outfit to Pack for Lake House Tips
You’re going to the lake house, but the real problem is what to pack before you get there. Instead of the usual vacation method most people use—packing everything—let’s think about what outfits you can coordinate to wear while you’re there.
Comfort
Think about your comfortable clothing. On those rainy days out on the lake when you just want to sit inside, you’ll want a soft sweater to relax in. Pair that with a good pair of shorts that you can wear either inside or outside when you go out to the water. This way, you won’t have to roll them up when you go out to stand in the water.
Don't forget your comfortable pants when you just want to relax inside. These pants will be perfect to wear at any time and will keep you feeling warm when you just want to sit around and have a nice meal with your family.
Always Bring Jeans
You might think that you don't want to wear jeans when you're supposed to be relaxing. But jeans are a great option for being in nature. They're perfect for keeping your legs safe while walking through the woods and will prevent your legs from being bitten by bugs while you're sitting around the fire at night.
Jeans are also great for multiple weather options. If the weather changes suddenly, you’ll have a nice warm option. You’ll also have multiple style choices, not to mention that jeans look great with just about any top.
Great Swimsuits
You can’t go to the lake house without an amazing swimsuit option. Try to pick out a suit that feels comfortable, but that will also be great underneath your outfit. With a pair of jeans and a cardigan, you can wear your swimsuit comfortably.
Accessorize your suit with a few other items too. Add in a straw hat to relax outdoors without the sun in your eyes, or a good pair of sunglasses to help you feel comfortable when you’re reading out by the water.
A Perfect Top
There are tons of options for tops. Pick out a flowery top to work with those vacation vibes, or something loose to relax in. You can pull on a great shirt with any outfit, from a loose option to a buttoned option. Check out the fabric too before you choose, and make sure that you have something comfortable that you can wear all the time.
Conclusion
Instead of just throwing all your clothing into your suitcase before you go, think about what outfits might be best for you to wear. From comfort to practicality, you have a lot of options available here, all of which will help you enjoy your time out on the lake with your family.
Top 10 Lake House Must-Haves
Top 10 Lake House Must-Haves
Everyone loves spending summers out on the lake. Lakehouse trips are great fun for the whole family, and there is always something for everyone to do. Children love swimming and splashing in the water, and long summer nights listening to the wildlife can be serene.
There are a few items that are an absolute necessity for any lake house. These fun accessories will help you get the most out of your lake trip and help you enjoy the time you spend out on the water. This summer, make your trip to the lake house even better with these fantastic items.
Product Reviews
LAKE HOUSE MUST-HAVES
Hanging beds
If you enjoy hammocking, you’ll absolutely love lounging in a comfortable hanging bed. This hanging bed would be a great accessory to any lake house porch and will provide you with a comfortable spot to relax, nap, read or simply enjoy the view.
The bed is equipped with a sturdy wooden rod to keep it supported and comes with everything you need to hang it. It also includes the seat cushions for maximum comfort.
Pros
Cons
Lake House Chairs
Many outdoor chairs are bulky, uncomfortable and awkward. Thankfully, these outdoor folding rocking chairs are a great alternative to conventional outdoor folding chairs. This chair is ultra comfortable with padded armrests, a convenient cup holder and a tall height to make sitting and standing easier. In addition, it also rocks back and forth so you can have the comfort of a traditional rocking chair in the outdoors.
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Cons
Seaweeds Cutter
If you haven’t been out to the lake house for a while, you may return to find that your lake shore or dock has been overcome with weeds. The Weed Razor comes in handy to help you smoothly and swiftly remove all the weeds with a limited amount of effort.
The v-shaped tool is razor sharp and covers a path of 30 inches. All you have to do is throw it out in the direction you want and pull it back, eliminating all the weeds in between.
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Floating Raft
Relaxing in the lake will never be as easy as it is with a floating raft. This raft is completely designed for comfort with a backrest to lean on and a mesh bottom to keep you comfortably supported in the raft. You’ll also love the sturdy handles to hold onto and the cupholders are definitely a plus. You can relax with friends or simply float by yourself in this fantastic inflatable raf
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Cons
Floating Mat
Although it’s not as common as other lake toys such as innertubes and rafts, a floating mat is an absolute lake house must-have for summer fun and relaxation.
It can be used to sit on and pull behind a boat, it can be tethered to relax and sunbathe out on the water, or it can even be used as a floating table to set drinks and play games on. You’ll be amazed at how much fun this mat can bring the whole family.
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Floating Pong Table
This floating pong table is the perfect toy for the adult’s trip to the lake. This extra long 6-foot raft is strong, durable and easy to inflate. Each side has 10 cup holders in a pyramid shape, and there are more cup holders outlining the perimeter and a slot for pong balls.
A great feature of the table is the cooler in the middle, so you don’t have to get out of the water to get another drink. Finally, the table can also be used as a lounging raft, as it can hold the weight of an adult.
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Cons
Floating Cooler
A day partying on the lake is incomplete without cold drinks and plenty of food. That’s where this awesome inflatable cooler comes in handy. Simply inflate, set up, load with ice, then fill up the cooler with drinks, salads, fruit bowls, and other party snacks that need to be kept cold. The cooler is convenient to drain and refill, so it can be used all day long.
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Cons
Floating Duck with Hammock
Everyone loves to spend time in the water, but swimming and back floating can get tiring after a while. This multi-functional floating hammock is perfect for kicking back and relaxing in the water. This hammock is constructed with comfortable, floating head and foot rests connected by a strong sheet of mesh to keep you supported in the water. You can use the hammock to lay on your back, float on your stomach or sit in, like a chair or saddle seat.
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Weeds Cutting Tools
If you need a good weed-cutting tool but prefer a more traditional method, this simple weed remover is the one for you. This weed cutter has a 54-inch handle that will give you great reach for tackling weeds in difficult places. It is guaranteed to destroy weeds with its heat-treated, self-sharpening blade that works by removing weeds from below the soil.
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Lake Pillow
A lakehouse won’t feel like a home until it has a little bit of personalized decoration. You can use it as a throw pillow on the couch, a decorative bed pillow, or even put it on your porch seating area. It’s small size makes it adaptable to any space and it is completely machine washable, so it’s easy to clean if it gets dirty outside.
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Selecting Lake House Furniture
1.
Begin with the Bare Essentials
Start off decorating your home with the most basic pieces of furniture, such as chairs, tables and couches. Be certain that the furniture you select will fit in the space you have, and will fulfill the function you want. After you have selected and arranged your more basic pieces of furniture, you can move on to thinking about other accessory items such as bookshelves or stereos
2.
Think of the Functionality of Your Furniture
Take some time to think about the functionality that your furniture will provide and what activities you will be doing the most. Both aspects will be important in choosing what type of furniture you will be purchasing and where you place them.
If you want your living room to serve as an entertainment center for you and your guests, you may choose to have a television as a centerpiece of the room. Or have a place where you can serve drinks and food to your guests while hosting a party.
3.
Measure Living Room and Take Note of the Existing Architecture
Before buying any of your furniture, you will need to do an accurate measurement of your living room and create a floor plan. This way, you can figure out how to make proper placements for each piece of furniture while still having clear pathways to move around easily. In addition to furniture placement, you may want to have them arranged in a way that suits your personal tastes.
After taking measurements, outline each item on the floor itself with either masking or painter’s tape. This will give you a visual of the space each item will take up and you will be able to clearly see traffic patterns.
Also take some time to evaluate the existing architecture of your living room, such as the windows, columns, and the design of the room itself. Make sure that the furniture you select will fit the interior design while fitting properly according to the floor plan you created. You and your guests will take great pleasure in a well planned and constructed interior design
4.
Choosing and Coordinating High Quality Furniture
Once you are ready to move to the next step, choose some high quality furniture that will look good in your lake home. Design alone should not be the determining factor for the furniture you select though. Quality matters too. High quality furniture will be a bit more expensive than regular furniture, but it will be more valuable and remain durable for much longer in comparison.
To coordinate your furniture, make sure that it goes well with the other furniture and design elements of your lake house. The theme of the interior and the placement of the furniture should complement each other and make sense design-wise. The same goes for any other types of accent furniture you choose to place in your lake house.
Lake House Design Tips
1
Know the Different Styles
There are two commonly popular lake house styles to consider when you are thinking of building it from the ground up. One is craftsman style and the other is cottage style.
Craftsman style houses make use of natural materials for its construction and has a centrally located fireplace. Cottage style houses are open-plan homes that are usually constructed with diamond panes and bay windows, which contribute to its overall sense and appearance of coziness.
2
Learn how to Best Construct Each Area of the House
Every room will be constructed differently but they will ultimately work together to create a nice and welcoming atmosphere for you and your guests. Keep in mind that your exterior may have as much impact on the appeal of your lake house as the interior. So design your exterior in a way that you and your guests can relax while taking in the gorgeous scenery and other amazing features that your lake house offers.
Safety Items to Have in Your Lake House
First Aid Kits
One of the biggest lake houses must-haves in regards to safety is a first aid kit. An emergency can strike at any moment and it is essential to always be prepared for accidents or medical emergencies with an accessible first aid kit. First aid kits will usually consist of multiple adhesive bandages, compress dressings, antiseptic wipes, and tweezers among many other items.
Smoke Alarms
Smoke alarms are a necessity for every home. Make sure your smoke alarm is up to date and place full batteries into them upon installation and replace them every six months. Install smoke alarms on every level of your house so you can have the best maximum smoke alarm detection.
Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide detectors should also be installed on every level of your house for safety purposes. Carbon monoxide is an odorless, colorless, and extremely dangerous. It is difficult to properly detect without a carbon monoxide detector. Make sure that your carbon monoxide detectors are on at all times and that you replace their batteries every six months.
Battery Operated Flashlights
Battery operated flashlights are useful during power outages and traveling outdoors at night. Make sure you carry a battery operated flashlight if you plan to be outside during the night. Stock extra batteries for when you need replacements.
Life Vests
Since you are surrounded by a lake based environment, there is a good chance that you own a boat and enjoy recreational water activities. Life vests are essential for the safety of you and your family. Even if you and your family are expert swimmers, life vests are still a necessary safety precaution that can save your life in dire situations.
Conclusion
Your lake house is meant to be your home away from home. It’s important to be well prepared and to stock up everything you need to have the best vacation. Go through our list of lake house must-haves and make sure you’re all prepared to have the best time away from home!
What Kinds of Fish are in Rough River Lake?
What Kinds of Fish are in Rough River Lake?
If you are going to be in Kentucky any time soon, you will want to experience some of the local hotspots. But if you are more into the outdoors than the city, you need to take time to visit Rough River Lake. With plenty of things to do and opportunities for outdoor activities like fishing, it is a great spot to check out. Whether you’re alone or with the family, there is something for everyone at Rough River Lake.
10 Kinds of Fish
found in Rough River Lake
?
If you are interested in fishing in Rough River Lake, you should first know what you might find in there. This will help you get your bait and gear ready and be able to accommodate for the specific types of fish.
18 Kinds of Fish found in Rough River Lake
Bass
Rough River Lake has eight different types of bass that call it home. Largemouth, smallmouth, Guadalupe, spotted, striped, white, yellow and striped bass hybrids are all occupying the river. Largemouth and smallmouth bass will need to be over 15 inches in length to be kept. You will also need to look at the statewide limits and regulations for catching them as well so you don’t go over the limit.
Catfish
Channel catfish, blue catfish and flathead catfish all live in the Rough River Lake.
Bullhead
Black and yellow bullheads are both available in the lake.
Crappie
There are two types of crappie in Rough River Lake. The black crappie and the white crappie both live in the area and are also referred to as white perch. It is important to remember that to keep the crappie you caught, they need to be at least 9 inches in length to be kept. You will also need to look for statewide creel limits before going out.
Bluegill
Bluegills are also referred to as Perch, Sunfish, Sunperch, Brim and Bream.
Sunfish
Four types of sunfish call Rough River Lake home. The green sunfish, longear sunfish, redear sunfish and redbreast sunfish are all available to be caught.
Warmouth
Warmouths are also referred to as Goggle- Eye fish.
Drum
The red drum and the freshwater drum are both common in Rough River Lake .
Carp
The common carp and grass carp are both found in Rough River Lake.
Shiner
There are four types of shiner in Rough River Lake. The Texas shiner, blacktail shiner, golden shiner and red shiner all call the lake home.
Shad
Threadfin shad and Gizzard shad both reside in Rough River Lake.
Chain Pickerel
Chain pickerel are also known as jackfish or pike.
Gar
The Longnose, shortnose, spotted and alligator gar are all found in Rough River Lake.
Buffalo
There are three types of Buffalo fish in Rough River Lake. They include the smallmouth, bigmouth and black buffalo.
American Eel
The American eel is also called the freshwater eel.
Paddlefish
Paddlefish are also known as spoonbills, boneless cat, shovelnose cat, and spoonbill cat.
Bowfin
Bowfins are also referred to as grindle, dogfish, cypress trout, mud fish and grinnel.
Rio Grande Cichlid
The Rio Grande Cichlid is also known as the Texas Cichlid and the Rio Grande Perch.
About Rough River Lake
The Commonwealth of Kentucky teamed up with the Army Corp of Engineers back in the 1950’s to create a perfect spot for wildlife to thrive as well as accommodate more recreational activities for people. The 5.100 acre lake is located in Grayson, Hardin and Breckinridge county in Kentucky and is home to the Rough River Dam State Resort Park. This resort offers plenty of activities to do, while being surrounded by the beauty of nature.
Things To Do
If fishing isn’t your thing, or you just want to try out some other activities while you’re there, there is plenty to do around Rough River Lake.
Check Out A Local Event
Rough River Lake almost always has something going on at their State Park Resort. From concerts to craft shows, and even buffets, there are some great opportunities for getting to know the community. The different activities change, so if you don’t like one, there is something new to try out all the time. It is a fantastic way to get involved and meet new people, as well as finding new activities you may want to try out.
Swimming
In addition to the fishing, you can also enjoy swimming in the water. During the hotter months the lake makes a perfect place to cool off, or just splash around and have some fun.
Hiking
There are many great places to walk around near Rough River Lake. But if you are more into hiking, you will want to check out Lake Ridge Trail or Folklore Trail. They both offer great views of the area including the shoreline and an old pioneer cabin.
Recreational Activities
If you want to enjoy more of a formal game or workout, you can also enjoy plenty of recreational activities. The lodge offers you the ability to play basketball on a full court, or mini golf, shuffleboard, tennis and volleyball. There are also disc golf competitions in the area.
Picnicking
Rough River Lake offers plenty of beautiful spots to stop and enjoy a picnic. This is a great option for those who want to spend the day on the lake and have their meal there.
Playgrounds
If you have children, there are also playgrounds around the area to give them plenty of places to play. Swings, slides and lots of fun can be had, while also making it easy for you to enjoy time with the family.
Boating
If you are looking to do some boating or water sports, Rough River is ideal. There are plenty of boats and slips to be rented and the marina is open year round. You can also rent equipment for more specific water sport needs in the area. Using the best fishing kayaks will also be a great way to do your water adventures.
Conclusion
Whether you live in Kentucky, or just passing through, you should take a few hours and go visit Rough River Lake. From fishing to more recreational activities, there is something for everyone to enjoy.
Best Pontoon Boat Grill
Best Pontoon Boat Grill
A relaxing day on the water with your family, friends, and trusty pontoon boat wouldn’t be complete without food. Water and sun tend to bring out the hunger in everyone, so bringing snacks and sandwiches from home sometimes just doesn’t hit the spot.
Enter the boat grill.
That’s right, it is time to look at pontoon boat grills so you can have delicious meals without leaving the comforting sway of the water.
BUYER'S GUIDE TABLE
PRODUCT NAME | SUMMARY |
|---|---|
  | Overall Rating - 4/5 Even heating over a porcelain-enameled grate will have great meals cooked in no time so you can get back to enjoying life on the water. |
  | Overall Rating - 3/5 This gas grill is uniform in color – sleek, shining silver. A stainless-steel shell lines the inside of the grill to help keep the outer shell cooler. |
  | Overall Rating - 4/5 This stove can be used for all sorts of cooking. You can use the griddle or grill that are included, or even use it like a stove. |
  | Overall Rating - 4/5 This is perfect for searing a few steaks and grilling some fresh corn or other veggies on the side. |
  | Overall Rating - 4/5 You won’t have to worry about its lid slamming shut in the wind, thanks to its tough hinged design. |
  | Overall Rating - 4/5 This is perfect for general safety and smaller boats since movement is sometimes hindered. It has a 200-square inch cooking surface area that will fit a nice meal for a family. |
  | Overall Rating - 3/5 On the sides are two foldable panels that can be used as side tables for meal prepping or as wind guards. |
  | Overall Rating - 3.5/5 It was designed for fixed-mount application to your boat, and can look stunning mounted on the side of your boat. |
  | Overall Rating - 4.5/5 They are made with marine stainless steel mounts made for pontoon boats. If you won’t be using the grill for a trip, simply dismantle and store them somewhere out of the way. |
Product Reviews
1. Cuisinart CGG-180T Petit
This Cuisinart grill brings the best in both portability and stability. As long as you have a flat surface on your boat, the two side legs will provide a sturdy base for your cooking needs. We make use of what we can storage wise on our boats, so no worries here, the legs fold up underneath the grill.
There is about 145-square inches of grilling area for you to use. What does this mean in real terms? Well, you can cook 8 burgers, 4-pounds of fish, or approximately 6 to 8 chicken breasts. This grill gives you plenty of space to cook while still allowing you room to meal prep on the side.
Even heating over a porcelain-enameled grate will have great meals cooked in no time so you can get back to enjoying life on the water.
Pros
Cons
2. Magma Marine Kettle A10-205, Gas Grill
Sleek in appearance and great for cooking, this Magma stove and grill will be a great addition to your pontoon boat. This gas grill is uniform in color – sleek, shining silver. A stainless-steel shell lines the inside of the grill to help keep the outer shell cooler. This is for your safety, but it also prevents discoloration.
It might be easiest if this grill is mounted onto your boat as it does not fold up for convenient storage. Luckily, the lustrous design of the grill makes it a beauty to have for show on the boat.
Not only a keeper in the looks department, this grill heats up fast and the temperature is dispersed evenly. The lid is hinged and perfectly balanced to help prevent slamming shut.
Pros
Cons
3. Coleman Road Trip Propane Portable Grill
This larger sized Coleman grill is convenient and sturdy for use on your pontoon boat. It stands tall on thick, stainless steel legs. Smaller sized boats that do not have as much flat surface areas will benefit greatly from this standing grill. Even though it stands and is larger, the legs, chassis, and side tables all collapse in seconds making transport and storage a breeze.
There are two fully adjustable burners along with two side tables. The large surface areas make meal prep and cooking easier while on a boat. This stove can be used for all sorts of cooking. You can use the griddle or grill that are included, or even use it like a stove. If you plan on being on your boat for long periods of time, this versatility is ideal.
This grill does run on propane, so make sure that you have the proper equipment before heading out on the water. Read the manual included before use to make sure that you are following all safety measures.
Pros
Cons
4. Camco Olympian Portable Gas Boat Grill
Camco brings out the big guns for this grill. It is portable so you can place it where needed, but you are able to mount it to increase its sturdiness. It uses propane, and will connect directly to your propane supply. It comes with a quick connect hose that has a shut off valve in place to help prevent accidents. Safety features like this on boats are vital.
The surface area provides 180-square inches of cooking space. This is perfect for searing a few steaks and grilling some fresh corn or other veggies on the side. If you have an RV, it connects easily and conveniently to the low pressure propane supply. Customer services tends to respond quickly to any concerns or issues, and we all know that can be a relief to know. There is also a 12-month warranty that will come with the purchase of this grill.
Pros
Cons
5. Magma Marine Kettle Gas Grill
Featuring both convection and radiant cooking, this sturdy stainless steel gas grill will be a trusty companion on your boat. You won’t have to worry about its lid slamming shut in the wind, thanks to its tough hinged design. This grill heats up quickly because of its radiant heat distribution function so you can get cooking.
