29-Sep-2004 -- As a result of working on a documentary focusing on the wolf-moose study of Isle Royale, I was fortunate to have spent the better part of the summer on the incredible island. After investigating the confluence project I was thrilled to discover a confluence off the north shore. Of course the confluence is located along the most inaccessible stretch of shoreline.

When on the island I am working solo and travel by kayak hauling 25 days worth of food and camera equipment. Packing the boat every morning is one of the greatest challenges. As this was my third solo-circumnavigation via kayak of the island I was familiar with the northwest shoreline, but never comfortable with it. There is a twelve mile stretch with no place to beach or pull out due to a fortified wall of cliffs. The confluence is located three miles into this forbidden zone.

I departed the campsite Todd Harbor at eight in the morning under blue skies and calm seas. After four miles of paddling, I stopped to filter more drinking water and inhale a couple of energy bars before the point of no return. Predictably, as I neared the confluence three miles later, a strong headwind from the west developed bringing along large rollers. With GPS in hand I bobbed directly over the confluence with a sense of accomplishment. However, due to the wave action I was not able to pull out my 35mm SLR and had to settle for a point and shoot camera. At least I had the option. After photographing the confluence I continued my paddle as the waves increased in size and began to wash over the bow and crash into my chest throughout the remainder of the day. After a five and a half hour grueling day on the water I pulled into the safe waters of Hugginnin Cove and collapsed under the afternoon sun before hiking into the woods in search of moose. The following day I navigated my way into the friendly confines of Washington Harbor closing the circle.

I am in the beginning phases of post-production on the film. If intersted, film clips and still photos will be posted on my website in the near future, isinglasspictures.com