Since the 1980's surf kayakers in Washington State have been coming together for the only expression session in the region, the La Push Surf Frolic, or also better described as the 'Pummel'. La Push is known for it's steep beaches and steeper waves, strong rips, cold water, and rugged spectacular Northwest coastal scenery. It's also the home of the Quileute Nation, one of the more remote indian reservations in the area. Flanking La Push are the coastal sections of Olympic National Park.
The Pummel has always taken place during the first weeks of January, traditionally the most gnarly wind and wave conditions of the year. Images from photographers such as Joel Rogers and Gary Luhm have shown kayakers on huge storm surf waves with a backdrop of magestic coastal sea stacks pulled in close with 600mm lenses. As a backup, paddlers travelled on Highway 101 to the standing wave on the Soleduck River called the Mosh Pit. The Pit only works in near flood stage conditions. This year, the event was pushed to February, after a few disappointing years of conditions too big, even for the most experienced paddler. Paddlers were awarded with two great days of offshore 5-7' waves and the rare winter sun. Photographer Gary Luhm captured the event beautifully as seen in the following link, and the image above.
http://www.garyluhm.net/lightroomwebstuff/lapush/index.html
Paddler: Ken Debondt on his homemade waveski.
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