I started today with a paddle around Jetty Island in Everett. I had planned to go to Lake Washington because I wanted to see if I could get a pic of some of the eagles that nest there, but unfortunately it was closed to the public today (I assume to prep for a fireworks display).

Not wanting to waste the effort it took to get my kayak down from the garage and onto the car, I trudged up to Jetty Island. By around 8 am it was already packed with people getting ready for 4th of July celebrations. Tons of boats. Very little regard for the “no wake” zone. LOL

Shortly after I started I saw a seal about 20 yards in front of me. Fairly common sight around here, didn’t think anything of it when it dove out of view. About 20 or 30 seconds later, it came up right beside me and damn-near capsized my kayak. I assume it was checking to see if I was the kind of kayaker that would throw it some food.

As I came around the North end of the island, I saw a couple bald eagles perched on a log. I had a 100-400mm lens on me, but wanted to get closer… alas, the tide was out and I ran aground probably 100 yards or so away. Still, I managed to get a couple great photos. I’m really impressed with the Nikon Z8 and how far you can crop in and retain image quality.