While Northern Alabama is widely recognized for the world class fishing that can be found on the Tennessee River and its network of reservoirs, I discovered how much more the area has to offer last year, during a week-long paddling trip in the Guntersville area. One of the highlights of that trip, was a float down the Paint Rock River – one of the many tributaries of the Tennessee.
When I realized this year’s road trip would take me through the area once again, I reached out to Dan Truit, the host of the Southern Paddler YouTube channel. Dan led me down the Paint Rock last year. He is always game for a river trip and knows the rivers of Northern Alabama.
Finding the Flint River
Part of the Tennessee River Line, the Flint River flows south on the outskirts of Huntsville, Alabama. Its proximity to the city and the fact that it has enough water to paddle year-round makes it one of the most popular rivers in Northern Alabama.
The joy of the Flint River is that it has mild current as it winds its way through the beautiful countryside. It’s a river that paddlers of all skill levels can enjoy. It has easy put-in and take-out access, and a few outfitters who provide canoe and kayak rental and shuttle services.
Testing the Perception Hangtime 11
Always looking for opportunities to test new kayaks on my paddling adventures, the Flint River seemed like the perfect opportunity to test the Perception Hangtime 11 recreational kayak. What makes the Hangtime unique is that unlike most sit-on-top kayaks that use the back deck for storage (called a tank well), the back deck of the Hangtime was designed as a full-on lounge chair, for hanging out on or off the water.
Testing a kayak that specializes in lounging while floating down a beautiful, spring-fed river is a tough job. I was up for the challenge!
PFDs/Life Jackets: NRS Odyssey PFD (Touring and Rec)
Kayaks: Perception Hangtime 11
Paddle: Aqua Bound Manta Ray Carbon 2-piece
Shirts and Tops: NRS Guide Short Sleeved Men's Shirt
Paddling Shorts: NRS Benny Board Shorts
Sunglasses: Wiley X
