THE SEA OTTERS. 69 
kelp in sight from the shore, but the Indians say that there 
is kelp in large patches about ten miles seaward, where the 
animals resort as a breeding place.* 
About the period of the eatablishing of Fort Astoria, near ' 
the mouth of the Columbia, and for many years following, 
the sea otter hunters, along the coasts of Califorma and 
Oregon, were made up from nearly all the maritime nations 
of Europe and America, as well as from among the different 
tribes of natives that dwelt near the seashore. Those of the 
former were hardy spirits, who preferred a wild life and ad- 
‘venturous pursuits, rather than civilized employment. The 
distance coasted in their lightly constructed boats, the 
stealthy search for the game, and when discovered, the 
sharpshooting pursuit, gave these hunting expeditions a 
pleasant tinge of venture; moreover, the taking of sea ot- 
ters on the coasts of the Californias by foreigners, was pro- 
hibited by the Mexican government; and the hunters were 
aware that, if detected, the penalty would be severe; hence 
they ever kept a watchful eye on all vessels seen, which 
were carefully avoided, or cautiously approached. 
An “otter canoe” is fifteen feet long, nearly five wide, and 
eighteen inches deep. It is sharp at both ends, with flaring | 
sides, and but little shear. Still these boats are admirable 
sea-goers, and regarded as unsurpassed for landing through 
the surf. Its shape is peculiar; so likewise are the paddles 
for propelling it, which are short with very broad blades, 
being better adapted for use in the thick beds of kelp. 
The outfit when going on a cruise is limited nearly to the 
barest necessities. Two men usually hunt in one boat, each 
taking his favorite rifle, with a supply of ammunition. A 
little tea, coffee, sugar, flour, or ship-bread, are provided, 
adding pipes and tobacco, and, as a great luxury, perhaps a 
keg of spirits completes their equipment. 
All being in readiness, they leave the quiet waters of the 
* Within the last four year this locality — by 
e Indians as producing eris ca of kelp, but have never i fond any.—C. M 
