Catch A Canoe

Established in 1972, Catch a Canoe & Bicycles, Too! continues to provide a wide selection of kayaks, canoes, outriggers, and bicycles for exploring beautiful Big River and beyond. Originally The Mendocino Yacht and Canoe Club, we are the coast's only full-service outdoor shop, providing rentals, sales and service year-round for visitors and locals alike. Located on the grounds of The Stanford Inn by the Sea — Mendocino's premier hotel resort — we occupy the only privately owned land on the eight-mile Big River estuary. This 7,000 acre tract — now Big River State Park — was purchased in 2002 through the efforts of numerous state, federal, and nonprofit organizations, as well as thousands of private donors. Today, the Mendocino Land Trust works in partnership with the California Department of Parks and Recreation to manage and protect this valuable and beautiful area. Our redwood outrigger canoes are the pride of our fleet, and are available in several sizes to accommodate from one to nine paddlers. Stable, fast, and fun, each one is handcrafted to our specifications by Mendocino's own Secret Harbor Boat Works. An ingenious foot-controlled rudder system takes the guesswork out of steering this easy-to-master craft. We also offer traditional canoes for two to four paddlers, as well as single and double kayaks. An estuary its first eight miles, Big River is influenced directly by the tides. Call us ahead of your arrival (707) 937-0273, and we will help you plan your trip in accordance with the tidal currents, which change daily. Big River is a gentle class one river, paddle-able year-round, and is suitable for experts and novices alike. Sorry, our boats are not allowed west of the Highway 1 bridge, and are only for use on Big River. Canoes We are authorized dealers for many brands of canoes and kayaks, including: Ocean Kayak, Necky, We-no-nah, Current Designs, Navarro, and Old Town. We stock paddles by Werner, Sawyer, and Carlisle, and accessories by NRS and Surf to Summit. Bicycles The Mendocino coast offers many opportunities for two-wheeled adventure, whether on the easy and popular Big River Trail or the radical and challenging Manley Gulch. Ride straight from our shop to one of several nearby destinations, including: the Russian Gulch waterfall, the Van Damme fern canyon, and the Point Cabrillo lighthouse. Our easy and comfortable hybrids are suitable for a variety of terrain, while our mountain bikes will handle the most rugged trails. You are welcome to transport the bicycles to your preferred starting point, though racks or carriers are not provided. Helmets are provided with each rental, and are required for all riders. Rates & Hours We are open from 9-5, seven days a week, closing only on Christmas, Thanksgiving, and New Year's Day.Both bike and boat rental is charged on a per-person basis, regardless of your choice of craft.  Adults (ages 18+): $28- for up to 3 hours; $40- for 3 or more hours.  Kids (ages 6-17): $14- for up to 3 hours; $20 for 3 or more hours.  All minors must have an accompanying adult.