Self–Support Whitewater Kayaking
The following is a partial list of quick links to official controlling river agency non-commercial required equipment regulations n the American West (also listed in sidebar): Grand Canyon Non-Commercial Trip Regulations (Colorado – NPS) Middle Fork of the Salmon River Continue reading River Regulations
Kayak Wild launches today after two and half years of internet domain latency, coincident with the YouTube release of the self support documentary, Wild River. Kayak Wild is on river, having left behind the relative safety of the eddy, original aspiration Continue reading Kayak Wild Launches!
Wild River, a “feature” length (34 minutes) self support video is released on my YouTube channel today. The video documents, as best as I was able with a single GoPro H2, my six day solo self support of the Middle Fork Continue reading “Wild River” Released
The National Park Service (NPS), United States Forest Service (USFS), and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) all control river use in the American West. While each agency controlled river has its specific requirements, the following pretty much applies universally, with some Continue reading Agency Required Gear
Most overnighters will require some kind of boat adaptation, either temporary or permanent, to accommodate necessary and required gear. Here are a few refinements to stock that may be worth considering. Rear Pillar Front Pillar Seat Bulkhead / Footrest REAR PILLAR Though Continue reading Kayak Modification
Until a few years ago, the choice of whitewater kayaks capable of exploiting multi day rivers ranging from Class I to VI in difficulty pretty much boiled down to standard and large volume river play boats. Which is to say, Continue reading Kayaks
I have never forgotten, nor have I wanted for, anything on a solo self support, with the exception of more days on the river. Think of your adventure as a trip to the moon – on gossamer wings, just one Continue reading River Prep / Gear Organization
Camping gear suitable for comfortable self supporting has taken a great strides forward in the past couple of decades with the continuing popularity and development of the ultralight hiking movement. While, keeping your boat as light as possible may not Continue reading Camping Gear
The following items merit strong consideration when planning any wilderness excursion, where your spirit of independence and self reliance may be tested. TAP Sprayskirt Throw Rope Towline Sponge Repair TAP Breakdown or take-a-part paddles (TAP) are a necessity for any Continue reading Kayak Accessories
Stow floats are rear float bags designed to carry gear as well as aid floatation. Until 2012, when a new boat shorter of length necessitated new bags (and a new 4 piece break down, or take-a-part, paddle), I used stern Continue reading Stow Floats
Loading stow floats into the rear of my kayak is the worst part of my river day. Times ten. Don’t believe it? Just check out the last few clips of my morning at Fly Camp in my “Wild River” video. Continue reading Kayak Loading
I am an unrepentant fair weather boater. Incidentally, “fair weather” is not a random occasion on any of my backcountry excursions. I hold an advanced degree in meteorology from the University of California, and study weather data before any multi day Continue reading Kayak Wear