If you've ever wanted to try canoeing the Maitland River, or have done it but want to learn more, Andy Phillips has the answers.
Phillips owns Composite Canoe Creations in Vanastra and he'll be joining members of the Maitland Trail Association tonight (Friday) for a presentation on canoeing the Maitland River, almost year-round.
Phillips suggests paddling the Maitland in the winter in open-water sections is an amazing experience as long as it's done properly and safely. One important consideration in the winter is that the banks freeze up, making it difficult to get out of the canoe.
The only time the Maitland is almost too low for canoeing or kayaking is late summer to early fall. Phillips adds for all seasons, it's important to be familiar with the part of the river you're using.
There are stories about a "black hole" in one section of the Maitland River, and Phillips says he knows where it is and how to handle it in a canoe.
Phillips is speaking tonight (Friday) at the Trinity Christian Reform Church on Mill Rd. in Goderich. The multi-media presentation starts at 7:30pm.