It was another great year at Canoecopia for Kokatat. We sold plenty of product, sat in on presentations, and bonded with folks who share a collective passion for paddlesports. With a solid crew from Arcata and some of our sponsored athletes in attendance (Ben Lawry, Nick Troutman, Anna Levesque, and Justine Curgenven) we were able to help beginners and experienced paddlers alike to find the perfect gear (at a discount!), share stories of fun times on the water, and reconnect with old friends.

It’s an exciting time to be around paddlers in the Midwest, as spring was beginning to show its face. There was a sense of excitement in the crowd, knowing it would just be a matter of time before they were able to head out on the season’s first paddle. That said, ice fisherman clung to what’s left of the winter’s freeze, and could be spotted dropping line from their shacks all weekend on nearby Madison lakes.

Team Kokatat’s Nick Troutman interviewed at Canoecopia 2010 from Kokatat Watersports Wear on Vimeo.

Our athletes had a busy weekend spending time in the booth and giving presentations. Anna Levesque offered a chance to quiet the mind and stretch the body in her “yoga for paddlers” classes. A certified yoga instructor, Anna caters her classes to paddlers’ specific needs. She also spent a good chunk of the weekend educating women about correct paddling techniques and talking about her Girls At Play organization and instructional trips.

Justine introduces her new film “This Is Canoeing” at Canoecopia from Kokatat Watersports Wear on Vimeo.

Justine Curgenven used Canoecopia as the world premier venue for her latest film “This Is Canoeing.” A large crowd came out on Saturday night to the High Noon Saloon for the show. Justine also offered presentations on her circumnavigation of New Zealand, and a special Sunday morning behind the scenes slideshow and Q&A about the film.

Kokatat’s sponsored partner Northern Forest Canoe Trail had a booth set-up, offering tips on how to best plan and experience this amazing water trail. The NFCT just released a new guide book in time for Canoecopia, and founder Rob Center was around to discuss the journey. Everyone loves Rob’s passion about paddlesports, it’s contagious!

Canoecopia founder and Rutabaga Paddlesports owner Darren Bush perhaps said it best on Saturday night, when addressing a large group of vendors and manufacturers he stated that every year Canoecopia reaffirms his faith in good people, healthy living, and the fundamental enjoyment of getting outdoors. Cheers to that, and see you in 2011!