Winter Texans coming to Port Aransas this year may want to consider bringing a kayak or two with them.

The Joint Effort Leisure Ministry (JELM) will organize monthly kayak trips the second Wednesday of January, February and March.

Dick Mooers of New York State, who conducted the trips last year, plans to return to lead the paddle trips again this year. Trips planned include Wilson Cut/Shamrock Island, Corpus Christi Ship Channel and Bird Island Basin. Trip routes and destinations are wind and weather dependent and are subject to change or cancellation, but typically run four to five miles.

Cost for the trips is free, but participants must be registered with the JELM, which requires a one-time registration fee per season of $3 per person or $5 per couple. The JELM also seeks free will donations to help cover expenses of activities.

Paddlers must provide their own transportation and kayak suitable for open water, 12- foot minimum. A personal flotation device must be worn while paddling, and participants must be able to swim. A reasonable level of fitness is assumed. Trips will depart from the JELM parking lot at 9 a.m.

Longer trips may be available with members of the South Texas paddling community for those with suitable boats and experience.

For additional information, contact Mooers at (315) 854-4186 or rmooers@twcny. rr.com.