Our First Full Moon Paddle: A Night to Remember Under the Buck Moon (2017)
- Bryan Floro
- May 5
- 3 min read
Updated: May 5
Back in the summer of 2017, Portage River Paddling Company hosted its very first full moon paddle, and to this day, it remains one of the most unforgettable nights of my life. We didn’t know quite what to expect—but we knew we wanted to try something magical. That July, we welcomed 65 adventurous paddlers to join us under the light of the Buck Moon, and the experience far exceeded even our wildest hopes.
I’ll be honest—before we even hit the water, I was a nervous wreck. As the owner of a new paddling company, in our 2nd season, all I wanted was for everyone to be safe and have fun. I double-checked every kayak, every paddle, every life jacket. I watched the weather, counted lights, checked the list, checked it again, and silently prayed that nothing would go wrong. Though I've calmed a bit, my poor wife still has to deal with the craziness of mine before every night paddle we do. 65 people on the water after dark? It was ambitious and 64 were having fun, and then there was me! But what happened next changed everything.
Once we launched from our little beach onto the Portage River, something shifted. The group quickly
settled into a smooth rhythm, laughter echoing over the water as the last rays of sunlight dipped below the treetops. Then, right on cue, the full Buck Moon rose over the horizon, casting a soft silver glow across the water. It felt surreal—like nature had decided to put on a show just for us.
The energy from the crowd that night was incredible. We haven't had a crowd quite like that one since! There’s something about paddling together under a full moon that brings people closer. First-timers and seasoned kayakers alike found a shared rhythm. Conversations flowed, the moonlight danced on the river, some people jumped off their kayaks and were standing in the river, and the whole scene had a kind of peaceful electricity to it. It wasn’t just a paddle—it was a memory in the making.
We did it, we pulled it off! Thanks to my wife, my kids, some family, and some friends helping out! I'll never forget, years before opening the business, some friends and I went on a full moon paddle down the Portage River. The next day, someone I knew, told me that I had made a college aged decision for doing so. Insulting me. Years later, we've had as many as 125 people pay to go on a full moon paddle with us! Win!
That night taught me a lot. It reminded me why I started this business in the first place—to create experiences that connect people with nature and each other. Since then, our full moon paddles on the Portage River have become a signature event, and they continue to sell out year after year. Last year we had a record breaker, 125 people on the water! Each one is special, but nothing compares to that very first Buck Moon paddle back in the summer of 2017!
Ready to Experience the Magic?
If you've never experienced kayaking in Port Clinton, Ohio under a full moon, now’s your chance! Whether you're chasing adventure, looking for a peaceful escape, or just want to try something new, our Full Moon Paddle events are the perfect way to spend an evening. They are family and beginner friendly! 🌕🚣
👉 Check our upcoming moonlight paddles and other special events! Just give us a call to book! https://www.portageriverpaddlingco.com/special-events
We can’t wait to see you on the water.
Best,
Bryan Floro
Portage River Paddling Company
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