Kelp diving

[pasley]

OK from your post we have new to kelp and buoyancy control issues. Both solved by diving and lots of it. PM me and lets get wet.

 

[ligersandtions]

My first kelp diving experience included some negative buoyancy issues. I didn't realize it at the time as I was in the habit of continually finning, and thus I didn't realize how negatively buoyant I was. While I was swimming through the kelp, each time I got tangled in it enough to have to unwrap my foot, I'd stop to untangle which resulted in me dropping down instantly.

I've since worked on my buoyancy a lot....it is by no means perfect, but now if I get tangled, I just stop, suspended in position, and calmly untangle myself.

I'm also getting new fins with no quick releases....hoping that with less protrusions, I won't get myself tangled as much.

Diving in kelp is beautiful and a lot of fun....I'm hoping to become a more competent kelp diver myself, so I can continue to enjoy it for years to come.

 

[Teamcasa]

Here is some great info from Chuck's website.
Kelp Diving Information

The key really is streamline your gear with as few dangles as possible, which includes fin straps, and whatever happens do not panic. Kelp can easily be broken.

Kelp diving is also a magical experience.

Some terrific and helpful information has been given so far. You just need more time in the kelp so go back to Casino Point and dive there more often. But also, like Peter said, don’t panic. Kelp is easily removed.

All of us who dive SoCal with any regularity get snagged from time to time, so as soon as you realize it (kicking and not moving) – stop, relax, slowly turn and look around, find the culprit and remove it. Just don’t start flailing around or try to jerk your way free, it will just burn up more air and take more time. This also where a good SoCal buddy comes in handy, many times they will see that you are snagged and free you, sometimes even before you realize it.

Read the articles referenced in this thread as well, but mainly go and dive it – it is part of what makes diving here so special.