That looked like fun Chip, good thing you had the pole along.
Alasgun, I needed all 3 tools accessible at the same time and I think the hook on a short handle is safer. Sometimes I had to go from the pole to the hook, or pole to the paddle, or hook to paddle, with no time to spare. Like pushing off solid ice with the hook, then grabbing the paddle for a quick to brace as I slipped into the water. I got pretty quick at stowing the pole under the thwart so I could drop to my knees for the paddle or hook. It was like drawing a 44 mag with a 12 inch barrel, but in reverse.
Alasgun, I needed all 3 tools accessible at the same time and I think the hook on a short handle is safer. Sometimes I had to go from the pole to the hook, or pole to the paddle, or hook to paddle, with no time to spare. Like pushing off solid ice with the hook, then grabbing the paddle for a quick to brace as I slipped into the water. I got pretty quick at stowing the pole under the thwart so I could drop to my knees for the paddle or hook. It was like drawing a 44 mag with a 12 inch barrel, but in reverse.
