What is an eddy?
An eddy is formed when fast-moving water rushes past an obstruction, like a rock or a section of riverbank which juts out. The water is pushed past the obstruction by the current, and the space behind the obstruction is not immediately filled with water. As a result, the water slowly works its way behind the obstruction further and further downstream, and then flows upstream to fill the area just behind the obstruction. The eddy is often 1) slower moving water than the current and 2) pushes upstream current rather than downstream. An eddy is useful for two reasons: firstly, it is often a calm spot in the midst of the chaotic river, and as such is a wonderful place for a paddler to stop, get their bearings, take a drink, decide what to do next. Secondly, the eddy line (the place where the current pushing downstream meets the eddy water moving upstream) can be used to turn a boat around on half a dime or to attempt squirt moves (more on this later). 2.
