FIND WHAT
YOU LOVE.
In Tazewell County, one local business has served as the premiere location for all things kayaking, fishing and hunting-related: MEFCOR Outdoors.
Located in Bluefield, Virginia, MEFCOR attracts customers from near and far with its wide variety of outdoor recreational gear — and the seasoned expertise of its employees, including Sales Manager Daniel Ingram.
As an avid kayaker, ACA certified paddle instructor, and guide, Ingram knows a thing or two about the rules of the water, and he’s quick to teach others what he’s learned. As kayakers begin to venture out in the summer season, Ingram stopped by to share some tips for helping kayakers prepare for their trip and stay safe as they navigate the waterways.
Download our checklist here to ensure you have everything you need!
Make a float plan. By letting a friend or family member know that you’re heading out on the water, you’re staying accountable.
“If you’re going solo, tell someone where you’re going and about the time you plan on being back,” Ingram says. “That way, if anything does happen, people know where to start looking. Safety is paramount to us, and we do stress that to any of our clients.”
Be equipped and prepared for every situation. Weather isn’t always predictable — especially in Appalachia’s summer months. Having the right safety equipment can protect you in an unexpected predicament, including:
Pro-Tip: Print Daniel’s full checklist of Dos and Don’ts here.
Don’t overestimate your experience or abilities. Knowing one’s limits is key with watersports, Ingram says.
“Stick with water in your comfort zone and paddling abilities,” Ingram said. “Alcohol does not mix with water sports of any type. People say all the time ‘it does not affect me,’ and I fished out a lot of people out of the New River and the stream and even local lakes here because of their state of mind. They couldn’t take care of themselves.”
Talk with local outfitters. Visiting a local outfitter can be beneficial in multiple ways. These folks know all about kayaking, and they’re happy to share their advice and recommendations for must-see spots in the area. They’ll also help you find the right gear for your needs!
“Go to places that specialize in kayaks,” Ingram said. “We’re very proficient in what we do, and we’re very passionate about it and the people. You’re not just a number to us — you are somebody that hopefully I’ll know your kids and everything else. We can help you pick places and find the right kayaks.”
Respect nature. Wash your kayaks after floating to prevent contamination of other bodies of water, and leave the environment as you found it. Be sure to toss your litter in appropriate receptacles to prevent harming local wildlife.
“‘Leave no trace’ is something I’ve been teaching for years, and that’s basically whatever you take in with you, take it back out AKA trash and all that,” Ingram said. “I’ve got a five-year-old daughter that I want to see her enjoying all these bodies of water just like I do.”
For kayaking, paddling, and floating, Ingram recommends visiting Lake Witten, Lincolnshire, the Clinch River in Tazewell County.
Tazewell County, Virginia is nestled in the heart of the Appalachian Mountains. Founded in 1799, the county has a rich history spanning generations and is home to some of the best outdoor recreation experiences available in the region!
