Poker Paddlers pick up cards, support clean water

More than 90 participants launched kayaks and stand-up paddleboards or just swam around Polson Bay during the Flathead Lakers’ seventh annual Poker Paddle.

Eve Dixon drew the highest hand with a full house (aces high), while the worst hand was plucked by Cecily Pfarr. Either way they won prizes – as did other contestants in the family-friendly event.

In addition to having fun, cooling off and getting exercise, paddlers also raised around $5,000 for the Flathead Lakers.

“Definitely a nice contribution to our work in advocacy, conservation, and education,” said the organization’s executive director Kate Sheridan. “We have twin goals of raising funds and connecting with new community members and recreationalists with the Poker Paddle.”

Registration totaled 93 this year, including seven intrepid swimmers. That compares to 75 for last year’s event. There were more people atop SUPs than in kayaks or canoes.

Participants had the option to paddle or swim three routes: 2.5 miles, 3.5 miles or 6.1 miles, and collect playing cards at stations along the way. Lake County Search and Rescue patrolled the course, which was calm Saturday morning.

The lower lake level, perched at two feet below full pool Saturday, didn’t seem to dampen enthusiasm for the event.

Flathead Laker board member Rob Mitchell, and his wife, Nancy, were on hand to see people off and welcome them back to the beach near KwaTaqNuk Resort.

Rob said the lower water levels aren’t popular with lakeshore residents. “It’s an inconvenience for the community, for the region, business-wise, and for vacationers and landowners,” he said.

Mitchell’s family has owned land on Rocky Point since 1918, and he and his wife agreed that they’re seeing fewer boats than usual plying the lake.

“I just wish it had happened later in the season,” said Mitchell.

“Or that there had been more transparency earlier in the season,” added Nancy.

As for the Lakers’ official position, “we need to be able to understand and communicate what the issue is, but we don’t take a stand,” said Sheridan.

The Paddle Fest was first held at private property on Kings Point, then moved to Bigfork and last year launched from the Shoe, on the west side of Polson bridge. KwaTaqNuk seemed to be a preferred location. "This is, I think, where we’ll land,” Mitchell said, citing easy access and lack of currents.

As participants began to trickle back to the beach, the Mitchells dealt their final cards and tallied up poker hands prior to lunch and the awards ceremony at the resort.

Bruce and Lorilee Kasnitz finished first, with Bruce drawing a four of spades as his last card, while Lorilee claimed a queen of hearts. “I won the worst hand twice,” Bruce said, “so I’m going for three.”

“That is some special kind of luck!” replied Sheridan.

For more information on the Lakers and the good work they do for Flathead Lake and its watershed, head to www.flatheadlakers.org.