Making Waves at the Quac: Camping New Brunswick

In my second camping video of New Brunswick Canada, I visit Mactaquac Provincial Park near Fredericton. Although I was lukewarm about the location at first, the place had a ripple effect on my spirit as I got to challenge one of my biggest fears.
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/ @slimpotatohead
Website: www.slimpotatohead.com
The kayak was an Old Town Heron 9. For a non-affiliated link see: oldtowncanoe.johnsonoutdoors....
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[@mooselll]

Life jacket unbuckled

[@SlimPotatohead]

You're Busted! See 17:10 in the video! SP

[@elsestelema6273]

@@SlimPotatohead got it!!

[@justlookin3]

About the life jacket only being shut at the top I was concerned, but more concerned that you didn’t have a beer with your meal !

[@Nikhildeepsinghmahi]

Even I was going to write the same thing. Now I see slim’s response.

[@danieltaylor3396]

Here is a tip from an old Algonquin Provincial Park canoe trip guide: When launching from a new spot, paddle out a couple hundred feet, then look over your shoulder to get a visual in your brain as to what the spot looks like, so on your return it will be easier to pick out.

[@handyshake3180]

Better yet, these days, Like Daniel says, look over your shoulder, but these day ( and age ?? LOL ) take a photo! most of those shores look pretty similar

[@tinalavender9506]

Or drop a pin on your phone, and hope you don't drop it in the water while you're out 😂

[@r8edrv4fun65]

Or take a picture, drop a pin, leave a marker such as a brightly colored towel, hanging high in the bushes. If you can point your headlights out over the water, push the lock button to flash your lights. This works great after dark. Not saying I've been looking for my launch after nightfall.... yes, I have.

[@lindacrowley1405]

Excellent idea...

[@91CavGT5]

Your fear of water is warranted. I too have suffered from a fear of water my whole life. As a child, a cousin yanked my life jacket off and pushed me under water while us kids were swimming in a lake. The last thing I remember seeing before I blacked out were my cousin’s legs above me as I slowly sank. When I awoke, I was on the shore coughing up water. My older brother had seen what happened, swam down, grabbed me and pulled me to shore. So I fully understand your fear of the water. It is not unfounded.

[@mskraftee5252]

I appreciate your emphasis on safety, Slim. When I lived in Hawaii, a man drowned while kayaking off the beach near my house. He went in the water by a reef (where the waves were turbulent) and got sucked under a rock shelf. He wasn’t wearing a life jacket. Also, I’d like to recommend a leash for your paddle. You definitely don’t want to lose it when you are out in the middle of a body of water.

[@MrZip-yo7lm]

Son, I say son, I really enjoyed, I say I really enjoyed the Foghorn Leghorn reference. Another fine video as always. Stay safe and keep them coming.

[@peacefulwife5199]

Ha, Ha, good one. I could hear old foghorn speaking while I read your words. 😁

[@PAULPINBALL]

I’ve been watching Slim for a couple of years per recommendation Cruising The Cut. It just dawned on me he is the Canadian Mr. Rogers Camping Neighborhood for Adults! The production is always well done!

[@billheckman5937]

May I suggest you take a begining kayaking lesson. It will cover things like various paddling strokes, placement of the drip rings on your paddle and what to do if you should capsize. It will boost your kayaking confidence and add to your enjoyment. Beautiful country. Great video and enjoy your kayak.

[@defrost8648]

I was thinking a safety string attaching the paddle to the kayak … is that a thing?

[@sueross5823]

@@defrost8648 yes

[@deanmills5106]

Over coming one's fears is one of the most gratifying things a person can do. Good for you.

[@91CavGT5]

My advice is when you take your kayak out, go to some shallow water and practice tipping it over. This forces you to get used to flipping over, but in a controlled environment. Do this several times until it doesn’t scare you. It is MUCH better to do this now in a controlled environment than when you are in the middle of a lake.

[@virginiatolles1664]

Thank you for posting today, Slim. With so much upsetting news coming from the Gulf Coast, I need a place to hide away.

[@virginiatolles1664]

@@dyanmaust4254 Isn't that the truth!

[@tinrat-n-teet]

What’s goin on in the gulf coast

[@virginiatolles1664]

@@tinrat-n-teet Hurricane Ida

[@GH-yh5lh]

I feel so proud! I actually did spot the unbuckled life vest. I saw it as soon as it appeared in the shot. However, I didn't stop watching to comment. Thank you so much for the phenomenal video. What a way to start my Sunday morning.

[@peacefulwife5199]

Yes, please Slim.....all life best buckles.....need to be fastened. I hope you put that sunscreen on your legs and the back of your neck. I've had skin cancer from sun exposure. I was a lifeguard when I was a teenager. Also Slim you may want to invest in a inexpensive whistle to clip on your life vest. It's just a good thing to have. Less effort to blow a whistle than to yell for help. SOS in morse code on the whistle.

[@susanpremo8068]

Me too.

[@susantruppa7321]

Hey slim don't forget to tell someone your plans and general timeline before you go solo

[@noddybrown6281]

Exactky

[@boblem5994]

When I turned 64 I had this impulse to buy a kayak after watching some KZbin channels. I was able to take it out last year and it was like a light bulb that went off in my head. For my first few trips I went to Chestemere Lake west of Calgary to hone my skills and after getting confident I went to Two Jack Lake just out of Banff. Just like you said Slim. Out on the water watching the reflections of the setting sun. Everything perfectly framed with the surrounding mountains and forests. It's paradise! Wish I had bought a kayak many years ago. It takes camping to another level.

[@hazellegate9624]

So good to see that you’re enjoying New Brunswick; it’s beautiful! Some of us are waiting for the other shoe to drop though: the reno on your fixer upper cabin. 😉

[@drakeford932]

Love this video, it has a “Mr. Rogers Neighborhood” quality about it, very relaxing.

[@cheeto.1]

Slim you have inspired me to make sure I take at least 30min a day to just acknowledge and appreciate nature.

[@lynbarnel]

Wonderful! As a long time flatwatter kayaker, welcome to your new obsession! You may find the Jeep getting better gas saving with the kayak mounted up - right as the underside is a bit more aerodynamic. Also find ways to tie everything to the boat so nothing floats away when you do tip over, and you will at some point. Flipping is no big deal in a yak like yours as you just come right out of it, unlike the shorter river kayaks. In fact it's a good idea to practice tipping over and getting back in while in shallow calm water, then deeper as your "self recovery" skills improve. Might want to get a bilge pump too. Anyways, I'm excited to see the amazing video you get of the wildlife you sneek up on!

[@jons5898]

As a kayak fisherman I’d say that pool noodles are an absolutely necessary piece of kit !

[@debbiputman3482]

One inexpensive bit of “equipment” I use is a cheap mesh laundry bag. I use it to store my water shoes, bow line, seat cushion, and the dog’s and my PFDs. The mesh allows wet stuff to dry out, while also allowing you to only have to remember 3 things when you’re heading out - kayak, paddle, and your “boat bag.”

[@ryanandholliebust1916]

I noticed. I actually said, out loud "Buckle your lifejacket, Slim!". I'm glad that it wasn't intentional. -Hollie

[@nanavango9374]

So glad you buckled up. My mothering instinct kicked in and I almost came through the screen! Great video, btw.

[@cathyjay2569]

“The golden sun had a glimmer twin dancing on a mirror of water.” You, dear sir, are a true poet! Thoreau had nothing on you except a cabin on a lake to call his own. You have to drive to find yours. I enjoy you immensely!!!

[@peadubyah6327]

Congrats on the kayak. Safety tip, find someone to guide you through a self rescue in case you fall out and practice, practice, practice. It'll give you more confidence on the water.

[@paulr.3220]

I love the adventures of Slim Poatato Head. Between camping trips I can still enjoy the outdoors and exotic camgrounds. Stay safe Slim.

[@mikewideman5747]

Is this the new version of the Red Green show

[@Esther-ps3vx]

Lucky are the people who are not scared of the water or heights. I am so scared of both. Last week I drove to a mountain and I got so scared driving back because there were no rail guards at the top of the mountain at few places. I do not think I will be able to drive to a mountain again because I cannot handle the fear. Good for you Slim, you are brave.

[@scotthowarth612]

From Australia here, really would like to venture back to the USA and Canada again. Very much well missing international travel. Although may not be able to camp ⛺️ just would like to have the freedom to continue to explore both amazing countries again.

[@grosvenorclub]

We lived in Canada in the late 1960's and were really hoping to go back this year again but looks like no go . We can't even get out of Sydney !

[@shardel501]

My son has been after me to try kayaking . He loves it , but I was always a bit Leary until now, Slim you have convinced me to give it a try. Calm waters and beautiful scenery I’m all in.

[@stickstickley5098]

You are now hooked, my friend. you will probably find yourself looking at every single body of water and wondering what it would be like to kayak it. Time on the water is good for the body and soul. Enjoy your new love, it will never get old. Oh and cheers to conquering your fears!

[@tim2036]

That scream when you ate the Tempeh was perfectly timed! As always, great video.

[@SlimPotatohead]

Glad you caught that. Perhaps his Mom was saying "if you don't behave, you'll have to eat like that man over there" !!! SP

[@aired-downdisconnected4125]

I thought that was my neighbors kid screaming. 😄 21:20

[@gabriel38g]

A kayak! For a second, I thought it was a giant Toucan!

[@richardrosene9738]

😂

[@homehomeontheroad3003]

Never doubted that you could stare your fear in the face and come out the victor. Bravo!

[@billlandphier431]

Always enjoy the videos Slim, have fun with your new vessel!

[@MBAdoptableDogs]

To help you along becoming a kayaker, it is called a paddle, not oars. Have fun!

[@OldFellaDave]

Nice work Slim! One bit of advice I'd give you is to practice falling out and getting back into your Yak in deep water. It can be lifesaving! Get some confidence in the lifejacket. Roll out, jump out, both sides and float there for a while. Find which technique works best for you to get back in. I found out the hard way that I couldn't get back in when I rolled my kayak over the first time I took it out. It will also give you more confidence when you are out there on the water knowing that you can get yourself back into it safely, even if you are a novice/nervous swimmer. Look forward to seeing more Yak trips and maybe even an overnight camp along the banks of one of your lakes or rivers :)

[@dh3277]

Great to see you enjoying the kayak Slim!! I look forward to new scenes from the water.

[@askwhitewater]

Yep I figured I'd wait to comment about the PFD (lifejacket)! You got this!

[@ScubaSteveCanada]

Hi Slim, nice video ... as usual!! Transport Canada have a list of mandatory safety equipment for watercraft including kayaks/canoes. My first year boondocking in the deserts of Arizona and California, I brought my kayak. I wanted to and did go on ... the Colorado river, on the California side, north of Yuma. B is for Beer! Cheers, Steve

[@kew3264]

It’s so fun to go out exploring with you, Slim! Thanks for the Sunday morning adventure! Beautiful!

[@Paquette7024]

Hi Slim. I took an ocean kayak course out of Victoria several years ago. Things I learned were 1) wear a big floppy hat to protect direct sun on face and neck, 2) reflection of the sun from the water can give you a nasty burn, 3) if going kayaking in the ocean, always better to time your trip with the ebb and flow of the tides (go out with the tide on your back and if you time it right, return the with the reverse flow on the way back), 4) while definitely more expensive, an ocean kayak has a rudder which makes turns easier, 5) if you flip over your kayak, the first thing is gravity applies and you will drop out and second is that your oar is hollow and will float. I love kayaking because of the calmness especially when going in early mornings before the winds pick up. Cheers.

[@rrr_rozell7992]

I love kayaking on no wake lakes.....you can sneak up on turtles basking in the sun, birds fishing and occasionally a deer getting a drink!

[@linda48123]

Well, time and age has caught up with me. Too hard to get in and out of the kayak , let alone lift, pack & carry. Thanks for taking me along on your trip(s).

[@hgj2019]

Slim, I too am a less than strong swimmer. Learned to fear water from my mother who would have us wear like jackets in the kiddie pool when we were kids. Also had a scare doing a required swimming test in Boy Scouts. BUT, I’ve been canoeing, including some white water, and boating over 50 years. I started kayaking in the last several years. I’m scared to death of water, but as you are trying, I learned to deal with the fear. Being on the water has given me outstanding wildlife viewing experiences. I’m sure you too will sneak up on the occasional critter on and near the water. I say GOOD FOR YOU! Embrace your apprehensions and fears as the first step to controlling them as opposed to having them control you. That lake is beautiful water! Thanks for another great video! BTW, Your kayak is the exact model and color that my first kayak was! ENJOY!!!🛶🤠

[@TerryW5379]

I’m so glad you have a kayak. You live in the perfect country with so many lakes. Don’t forget to get tie downs for the front and rear of your kayak

[@johndee68]

Another great video. Well done for being able to conquer your fear of drowning.

[@vickirick1]

I am so happy for you... I am living my dreams though your travels at 66 years old.. Thank you so very much.

[@pavementendstraveler6574]

So happy to see you out there again, enjoying nature. This is "classic" Slim.

[@jandelano]

Great Job, facing your fear! So proud of you! And what a joy you have found in doing so. Being on the water is so awesome. Enjoy your kiyak.

[@MarianRehersals]

You will get many happy hours with your new craft. One thing you should add is a tether for your paddle. Surprisingly easy to drop it in the water when you’re adjusting something else. You can buy them but easy to make. Looking forward to more of your adventures!

[@kenrose3190]

Congrats on the new kayak and facing your fear of water. You got a fantastic kayak. My wife and I also have Old Town kayaks and we love them. This will add a wonderful new option to your camping adventures. We really enjoyed this video and the scenery was spectacular, as always. Cheers!

[@susanpremo8068]

How much do they weigh? We have a sit on top and it's so heavy, it's very difficult for us to lift it up.onto our vechile.

[@kenrose3190]

@@susanpremo8068 I believe they're a little over 50 lbs. They are a bit awkward to lift and place on our roof, but worth the effort.

[@SlimPotatohead]

40 lbs

[@susanpremo8068]

@@SlimPotatohead thanks!

[@projekt6_official]

Glad to see you sorted your buckle error. Odds are you'd have been fine, but definitely not something you want to make a habit out of - and I'm sure you won't. 22:05 - Grab your whistle! It'll tell you what the temp was, haha :) Super happy to see you overcome your fear and open up a whole new world of adventure :) Thanks for sharing!

[@anitasimmons3599]

Even really good swimmers can drown. I am an excellent swimmer and have held life guard certification as well as water safety instructor certification. I always wear a life jacket. I love none motorized water travel. I am not a fan of white water canoeing or kayaking though. It is really good to work on overcoming phobias. Getting out of your comfort zone, allows us to grow. Thank you for taking us along. Safe travels.

[@glenysperry3421]

You can buy a leash attachment for oar to attach to kayak I case you drop the oar you won't lose it. I love kayaking, such an intimate way to admire nature.

[@terrysmith4465]

It's a paddle not a oar just saying.

[@glenysperry3421]

True Dat a paddle not an oar my bad lol

[@CharlotteLWilliams]

I'm proud of you for conquering your fear. I've been kayaking since I retired 7 years ago, in a little 8 ft sundolphin, at a river 3 miles from home. I waited until the end to see if you made it ok. It's always good to watch some videos about strokes & when to lean & when not to. If you start your stroke about even with your toes & end even with your hips - that pretty good. Your depth was good. So, Slim, I'm proud of you. . My hubby is a total homebody so we don't go camping, & I miss it. Thank you for letting me live that vicariously through your videos.

[@trainfan6463]

Slim, your joy at using your kayak reminded me of a line from the classic "Wind in the Willows". Muskrat is taking Mole on his first boat ride - " there is nothing half so worth doing as messing about in boats". Enjoy my friend!

[@juliakraus1154]

Learned to kayak in calm waters.. love it! I hope you enjoy it as much as I do!

[@ttfweb1]

It’s great you’re doing new things - adventure keeps us young!

[@doncarlton4858]

Nice to hear all the Eastern song birds and Blue Jays in this video! Welcome to the East! Great to see that joy of you discovering a whole new way to enjoy nature! Thanks for sharing! Safety first! 🤣

[@markgoodman6249]

It’s good to see you again Slim. I really look forward to catching up with you and your adventures. Safe travels!

[@heathkinn]

That place is so beautiful and serene!!!…stay safe slim….you have the most magical adventures!!!

[@patsykluting-lucas3804]

I've been a kayaker for years. Hopefully you'll continue adding kayaking to your content. 🛶

[@richardregimbal3142]

Good comment you emphasized about your life jacket buckles Slim..I enjoy your videos. Informative and relaxing especially for newbie outdoor activists

[@dlmac5935]

That placid water is magnificent!

[@marcireale]

So glad to see you kayaking! I too am a flat-water kayaker. May not seem very exciting to others, but I love it.

[@bethhurst6231]

I’m with you! I have no desire to go on rougher waters so I am happy that there is a calm lake near me for peaceful paddle time.

[@martinsjbmbrito6766]

Hi… just a note: When you travel be redundant in safety with kayaks. I always use 4 straps. If you can, make a brief course. Cook forest state park in PA does that. I did mine there. Your kayak requires a specific technic to leave the kayak if you tip down. Don’t forget a quick release knife in your safety vest and a whistle.

[@williamdickman7917]

Wow ....look at them Canadian white legs....blinding!!!! Thanks for the nice vid, Slim.

[@tnxjesus]

Slim youre taking it to thr next level just simply WOW.

[@bettybrigance6784]

Your having a great time.....thanks for sharing parts of it witb us.....you are a kind person, come on south..!

[@danielsmith2447]

I have one of those compass, thermometer, whistle things on my lifejacket too. Like you I always figured the whistle was the only functional thing on there.

[@UncleBuckle50]

Captain Potatohead! Arrrrrr....I'm proud of you matey.

[@margaretmorissette5365]

Hats off to you for tackling your fears! I hope you get many hours of pleasure from this way of exploring.

[@karlbaschal3245]

Glad you got your life vest buckled correctly. Thanks for the beautiful pictures.

[@claramullen]

Congratulations Slim on facing your fear. I love being on the water it is such a relaxing feeling. I hope it helps you to feel more confident to have many adventures with your kayak.

[@mollyisenbarger1]

I'm so excited for you! I totally understand the fear of drowning, I'm not super crazy about being at the mercy of water either. However, kayaking opens up a whole new world of exploring, peacefulness, and solitude. You will see so much more wildlife in a kayak too. One of my favorite things to do is to paddle out to the middle of the lake at sunset, and just sit there and listen to all the birds, the insects, and watch the Osprey fish. It's my own little paradise. You will find many of those beautiful moments out in your kayak. Good job on facing your fears! And I've been kayaking a long time, never came close to tipping yet! Well, except for the bad entry at the boat launch. But that doesn't count! lol. Here's to many great kayaking adventures to come!

[@ncc74656m]

Ahhh, a nice new video from our man Slim.

[@Collin_Calling]

Slim, the best thing I've heard you sway in a couple years is "C'mon up Americans!". I really think the Canadian spirit lives inside of true Americans, and I hope Canadians can still see the true American love of the great North.

[@GARY-yu8pc]

Woo hoo it's slim. Next video this kayak will have transformed into a mini yacht

[@carpediem8289]

Thanks for sharing your travels! Without documenting you would be much better off, like us. No need for solar panels, heavy batteries, time spent on recording, editing, dealing with lots of other things related to your channel. You are very talented. Thank to your special "touch", "signature" your work is on the top of the KZbin finest. Keep up the good work.

[@susankrochalk8599]

I could really sense your joy as you discovered the freedom on the open water.

[@bpp325]

As always, another fine & pleasant presentation. Thanx Slim.

[@brucewallace3860]

I always enjoy your commentary. However, today your moments of silence were golden. The audio, with the water lapping the shore or being pushed by the paddle, was as exquisite as that beer must have been. Thank you for sharing that willingness to bring us nature. And knowing when to say nothing.

[@Savememoney]

Great video. Thanks Slim.

[@dougzirkle5951]

I bought my kayak from L L Bean in 1991, along with two paddles and two vests. Mine is a two seater in case someone wants to go along. Used on flat water rivers & lakes. I’m like you, I’ve gotten past my urges for testing rapids. Being out on the water offers new perspectives. One of the best investments I made. I even car topped it from here in Virginia to Nova Scotia with my girl & dog in 2005, a much simpler time. Very enjoyable. Well done on tackling one of your fears head on.

[@valeriechaffins4638]

Definitely worth the wait! Your videos never disappoint 💕 I got a kick out of you mentioning your life jacket. I was wondering how well it would work in an emergency if it wasn’t buckled up!

[@jennbroc4660]

Liked your video and lovely scenery. I do a lot of kayaking and always like to stay near the shoreline for safety when I'm on my own. The weather could change so fast.Take care and keep safe.

[@tracker5849]

You look like a pro..paddling away. We have a St John's river here in fla....gators galore!! Lol. #1 rule. Wear your LIFE JACKET WHEN NEAR WATER. AND DO NOT PANIC!!! IF YOU EVER FALL IN....TRY TO RELAX AND FLOAT....DO NOT FLAIL ABOUT!!!! I know..not easy. Stay safe n have fun!! LOOK AT YOU GO!!!! PROUD OF YOU!!!!!

[@take942]

Love your videos!!! Thanks for sharing!

[@TimGamble]

Love this for you. Great video.

[@allenheaps2084]

Another great video Slim. Loved the lake ride! Thanks and take care.

[@linebrunelle1004]

so glad to see you again

[@PWlangford1]

New Brunswick is so beautiful. I spent time on that river swimming armoured personnel carriers. 🇨🇦

[@DonnaBMacK]

Congratulations on conquering your fears and thanks for sharing this beautiful day.

[@redsorgum]

Remember when Canadians and Americans could visit each other’s country without huge hassles? I want to ride a motorcycle through Canada 💪🏻🇨🇦🇺🇸💪🏻 I hope you are able to get over your phobia. 👏👏👏👍🏻

[@douglasw5371]

I know, wish it was that easy now. I need to get updated license to cross and have not done it yet and would like to go north on road trip in Canada, sure do miss when it was easy.

[@nationwyde1]

I remember going to Windsor from Detroit for 75 cents and no passport!😎

[@RobertJLessard]

Ya didn't used to even need a passport

[@jonnycando]

@@douglasw5371 we can get in Canada but can’t get out without a passport, shot record and or quarantine…I’m just not liking this new world!

[@timothyhays1817]

That all ended in 2001 with the Patriot act. That act needs repealed.

[@DIYOutdoorLife]

Seemed like it turned out to be a pretty nice site after all. Great footage and nice to see you face your fears. Thanks for taking us along for the ride Slim, hope to see you on your next trip to the states.

[@mikepatton9537]

Another great video Slim! Congratulations on the new Kayak, that will provide hours of adventure and joy to you. You've created a great life for yourself and you're an inspiration to me!

[@petejoy6328]

I’ve often considered a kayak but never did.Now I’m on it! Thanks Slim for bringing us along and sharing your water concerns!! The kayak also gives a whole new perspective on parks and forests!! Looking forward to your next water adventure! Be safe my friend!!

[@carltonbirds]

Lovely video, I’ll look forward to more Kayak adventures.

[@davedeiler2072]

Congratulations as you continue to expand your adventures

[@elineblind348]

Kayaking seems very liberating, thanks for sharing.

[@debragiblin-davis6681]

Thank you for your glimpse of paradise! Enquiring minds want to know- what's up with your fixer upper?

[@thomasbordelon4149]

I never tried Kayaking in my youth. But I bet I would have loved it! My brother and I would always drag dad’s old Jon boat down to the bayou instead. It was great fishing, frogging fun and gatoring fun.