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Caithness Kayak Club |
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Wick River |
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The River Wick is usually paddled from Watten
to the sea with the put in usually just upstream of the A882
Bridge. Above this there are many fences across the river. In very
high water head clearance below fishermen's footbridges can be an
issue. The first 6 km are grade 1 with a series of fishing weirs
giving interest and a chance for novices to practice river skills. There
have been two incidents in recent years where paddlers had problems with
either wires across the river to stop cattle walking upstream, not in
use 2009, and the watergate at Bilbster,
an archetypical strainer(see photo).
Warning signs were put in place after the first incident but have
disappeared. The farmer has willingly agreed to replace his sign and
the SCA have been contacted for a sign to indicate the need to portage
above the watergate bridge(ND283535). From there to the town the river
is a sluggish mature one with little currrent. Headwinds on this
stretch can be strength sapping and lead to prolonged paddling times.
Current picks up in the valley below the railway bridge. The groynes in
the town can give grade 2 conditions if plenty water. Take out is
above the weirs at the boating shed on the left bank or at the slipway
below the road bridge at the river harbour.
The 6km above Bilbster is very suitable first
trip for novices, and the whole river may be of interest to open canoe
paddlers, but they should carry food, drinks and spare clothes to avoid
emergencies arising. Fishing huts can be used for sheltered breaks in
two places. In general the local fishermen do not relate well to us,
and paddling on a Sunday is recommended.
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| White water paddling can be a hazardous activity, the author takes no responsibility for the information contained in this article. As always, scout a river yourself before running it and decide whether the risks are acceptable. | |||||
