Posted by Wayne on October 02, 2000 at 21:23:19:
In Reply to: Beach diving entry techniques posted by Gary on October 02, 2000 at 13:17:36:
When the waves are manageable, I walk in with fins in hand, BC about half-full or less, Mask on reg in mouth. Always reg in mouth since it will give one last chance to verify air supply and valve on and all that before I descend and besides a few breaths at the surface will NOT harm my available bottom time.
Bigger waves (knock down types) fins on, BC empty. Walk until knocked down or able to duck under. Do a swim/crawl on the bottom until past the breakers. Ascend, inflate the BC and back swim to the descent point. When alone at night, I do it this way NO MATTER WHAT THE WAVES ARE LIKE.
Coming out is about the same. I am never too proud to crawl up a beach. I prefer the waves going over me if they are big, so the bottom is my favorite place. Besides there is still air in the tank that i paid for! Also less sand in the reg if it is in my mouth.