This podcast is the audio version of the Gear Garage Live Show, where Zach talks shop on technical rafting setups and river safety. In this episode, Zach dives into the math behind oar length, the essential knots every boater must know, and a controversial "rant" about the dangers of rescue harnesses for most private boaters.

Zach starts the episode with a technical deep dive into oar length. He explains that choosing the right oar isn't just about the width of the boat, but about the "leverage ratio" between the inboard and outboard sections. He provides a specific formula to help boaters find their "sweet spot" to avoid fatigue and shoulder injury while maintaining power in heavy water.

The conversation shifts to essential skills, specifically knots. Zach identifies the few critical knots that solve 99% of river problems, emphasizing the Bowline, the Figure 8 series, and the Taut-line hitch. He argues that mastery of a few versatile knots is far superior to having a shallow understanding of many.

The episode concludes with a serious safety discussion regarding rescue harnesses (quick-release belts) on PFDs. Zach shares his concern that many boaters wear them without ever practicing "live bait" rescues, effectively carrying a "loaded gun" on their chest. He challenges the industry to reconsider if these tools belong in the hands of anyone without professional-level training and constant practice.

• Technical Skills: Essential knots for rafting and rowing.
• Gear Setup: Calculating oar length leverage ratios.
• Safety Controversy: The pros and cons of PFD rescue harnesses.

• Topic: Oar Length. "How do I know if my oars are too long or too short for my frame width?"
• Topic: Knots. "What is the best knot for tying a raft to a trailer or a tree?"
• Topic: PFD Features. "Should I buy a rescue vest even if I haven't taken a swiftwater course?"
• Topic: Frame Setup. "Does oar tower height affect the leverage of my rowing stroke?"

• The 1:2 Leverage Rule: Aim for a leverage ratio where your inboard length is roughly half of your outboard length to maximize efficiency.
• Practice the Release: If you wear a rescue harness, you must practice pulling the toggle under tension; otherwise, it’s a liability, not a safety tool.
• Knot Mastery: If you can't tie a Bowline behind your back or in the dark, you don't know it well enough yet for a high-stress river rescue.

Connect with Zach

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Zach Collier is the owner of Northwest Rafting Company and an International Rafting Federation Rafting Instructor. He has decades of river guiding and expedition experience across the American West and internationally, specializing in technical rowing and professional guide training.

Zach sits down with Louis-Jacob Campbell to ask him 10 questions on whitewater rescue.

This podcast is the audio version of the Gear Garage show, where Zach sits down with Louis-Jacob Campbell, an experienced river guide and rescue instructor from Quebec currently working in New Zealand. In this episode, they dive deep into the philosophies of river safety, comparing the professional worlds of first responders and recreational boaters while discussing the essential skills every guide should master.

The conversation begins with Louis-Jacob explaining the unique co-op structure of his rafting business in Quebec, New Wave Expeditions (Expeditions Nouvelle Vague), which is owned by 28 staff members. The bulk of the interview focuses on his role as a rescue instructor for Raven Rescue (the Canadian provider for Rescue 3 International) and his approach to teaching different audiences.

A major theme is the distinction between "whitewater rescue" for recreational boaters and "swiftwater rescue" (SRT) for professional first responders. Louis-Jacob notes that while the techniques are similar, the approach differs: boaters usually have a better "river sense" but need quick, on-the-fly solutions, whereas first responders often have more resources and equipment but must be taught the fundamental power of the river from scratch. They also discuss the value of keeping rescue systems simple, especially for new guides who can easily be overwhelmed by complex mechanical advantage setups.

The discussion concludes with a deep dive into gear and knots. Louis-Jacob shares his "Big Five" essential knots and explains why he prefers specific equipment, like the Palm Nevis PFD, which acts as a mobile workstation for rescue professionals.

• Professional Training: Raven Rescue and Rescue 3 International.
• Outfitting: New Wave Expeditions in Quebec.
• Gear Favorites: Palm Nevis PFD and high-quality throw bags.
• Rescue Techniques: The "Pig Rig" 4:1 system versus a simple 3:1 Z-drag.

• Topic: Industry Philosophy. "Is whitewater rescue separate from swiftwater rescue?"
• Topic: Essential Skills. "If you could only pick five knots for a boater to know, which ones would they be?"
• Topic: Mechanical Advantage. "If there's a boat wrapped and you only get one system, which one do you pick?"
• Topic: Safety Gear. "What is the most important piece of gear in your rescue kit?"
• Topic: Training Methods. "How valuable is training with rescue tethers (live bait) for paddlers?"

• Keep it Simple: For most river scenarios, knowing how to attach a rope and make a loop (like a Figure 8) allows you to solve almost any problem.
• The "Pig Rig" Advantage: Louis-Jacob prefers the 4:1 Pig Rig because it uses an external line, meaning if the boat breaks free, you don't lose all your expensive pulleys and carabiners in the river.
• Gear as a Tool: A PFD isn't just for flotation; it’s a workstation. Having a vest that can carry necessary tools comfortably is vital for a rescue professional.

Connect with Zach

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Zach Collier is the owner of Northwest Rafting Company and an International Rafting Federation Rafting Instructor. He has decades of river guiding and expedition experience across the American West and internationally.

This podcast is the audio version of the Gear Garage Live Show, where Zach answers submitted questions and talks all things whitewater. In this episode, Zach discusses new one-day safety clinics, dives into the "horrible" customer service at River Hardware, and analyzes whether a 13'9" raft is suitable for multi-day trips.

Zach starts the show by introducing a new concept: "a la carte" rescue instruction through Northwest Rafting Company. These one-day clinics allow boaters to focus on specific skills, like throw bags and mechanical advantage, without the time commitment of a full three-day course. He explains that building skills incrementally every year is often more effective than trying to cram everything into one long session.

A significant portion of the show is dedicated to a very honest look at his side project, River Hardware. Zach explains that because he is so busy running his main outfitting business, River Hardware offers no customer service. He addresses a viewer's frustration regarding blower adapters for Craftsman tools, explaining the challenges of designing custom parts for every brand and suggesting that those who want traditional support should shop at larger retailers like NRS.

The technical discussion shifts to raft design when a viewer asks about using a 13'9" Wing Raft for overnight trips. Zach, who has designed many boats for Wing, explains that while he loves rowing the boat for light trips, its high rocker and smaller tube size make it a poor choice for heavy multi-day loads. He offers advice on better alternatives for those looking to carry a kitchen, groover, and multiple passengers.

• Training: One-day Safety Clinics at Northwest Rafting Company.
• Gear: Blower adapters for DeWalt, Milwaukee, and Makita tools.
• Raft Design: Wing rafts.

• Topic: Blower Adapters. "Does the DeWalt adapter work on a Craftsman blower?"
• Topic: Boat Selection. "Is a thirteen foot nine raft big enough for a multi-day trip with passengers and gear?"
• Topic: Customer Service. "Why is there no contact link for River Hardware?"

This podcast is the audio version of the Gear Garage Live Show, where we answer submitted questions and talk all things whitewater. In this episode, Zach sits down with Greg McReynolds, the Executive Director of Idaho Rivers United (IRU), to discuss the future of the Lower Snake River and the hidden rapids currently buried under its reservoirs.

The conversation begins with the "permit apocalypse," as Greg and Zach share the common disappointment of being denied for major river lotteries like the Gates of Lodore. This frustration leads naturally into a discussion about unpermitted river opportunities and the massive potential of the Lower Snake River. Greg explains that IRU is heavily invested in the removal of the lower four Snake River dams to recover salmon populations in Idaho, which remains the "last best place" for salmon in the lower 48 states.

A fascinating part of the episode explores what lies beneath the current reservoirs between Lewiston and Pasco. Underneath 140 miles of stagnant water are 66 named rapids that have been submerged for half a century. Greg describes a future where those dams come down, transforming the river into a premier multi-day destination where boaters could potentially paddle from the Middle Fork of the Salmon all the way home to the Columbia River.

The episode also touches on the technical and political realities of dam removal. Greg clarifies that these dams were built with a 50-year lifespan that is now expiring, and their economic value—particularly in electricity generation—is diminishing. Unlike many other dams, these four were authorized by Congress, meaning their removal requires congressional action and a plan to replace services like barge shipping for grain with expanded rail and road infrastructure.

• Conservation: Idaho Rivers United and their mission to protect Idaho's waterways.
• Geography: The Lower Snake River watershed and the impact of the four lower dams.
• Policy: The role of Congress and the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) in dam relicensing and removal.

• Topic: Salmon Recovery. Why are the lower four Snake River dams the most significant impediment to salmon thriving in Idaho?
• Topic: Submerged Rapids. What were some of the legendary rapids, like Lewiston Rapid and Clarkston Rapid, like before the dams?
• Topic: Dam Lifespan. How does the expiring 50-year lifespan of these structures influence the urgency for removal?
• Topic: Logistics. What infrastructure needs to be built to replace barge shipping if the dams are removed?

This podcast is the audio version of the Gear Garage Live Show, where Zach answers submitted questions and talks all things whitewater. In this episode, Zach dives deep into river safety "rants," analyzes rescue videos, and discusses the importance of professional training for both private boaters and aspiring guides.

Zach begins the show by announcing new one-day rescue clinics offered by Northwest Rafting Company. These clinics are designed as a "palatable" way for private boaters to gain experience in specific areas like mechanical advantage and throw bags without committing to a full three-day course. He also shares a personal "safety rant," emphasizing that while some may call him a "safety squirrel," his access to non-public incident reports drives his passion for teaching rescue techniques.

A significant portion of the episode is dedicated to video analysis. Zach reviews footage of a "pushing move" gone wrong, explaining why aggressive maneuvers can leave boaters exposed and sideways to obstacles. He suggests that many situations are better handled by pulling or using a "ferry" to maintain control. He also reviews a rescue scenario in flat water, cautioning against the reflexive use of throw ropes which can create dangerous tangles in the water.

The discussion also touches on gear essentials, particularly PFD selection. Zach notes that while many kayakers prefer low-profile vests for agility, rafters—especially larger individuals—benefit from higher flotation models like the Astral Indus or specific NRS rescue vests. He concludes with a reminder that professional growth in the industry requires "time on the water," recommending programs like the Class III Rowing School for those looking to build a solid foundation.

• Training: Northwest Rafting Company Rescue Clinics and Class III Rowing School.
• Gear: PFD selection and the dangers of ropes in flat water rescues.
• Safety: Using your voice as a rescue tool (Speech, Reach, Throw, Row, Go).

This podcast is the audio version of the Gear Garage Live Show, where we answer submitted questions and talk all things whitewater. In this episode, Zach covers the latest digital river mapping tools for permit winners, shares critical advice for aspiring rafting outfitters, and dives into the challenges of search and rescue in the Kalmiopsis Wilderness.

The show kicks off with a sobering update on a missing boater in the Illinois River area. Zach discusses the immense challenges of search and rescue in the Kalmiopsis Wilderness, highlighting how the rugged terrain, overgrown brush, and poison oak make travel incredibly difficult even for experienced hikers. He also highlights a successful boat recovery by Nature Nicole, who utilized a flip line after completing a rescue instructor course with Zach.

For those who recently scored a Middle Fork of the Salmon permit, Zach advocates for the digital river maps available through GoRafting.com. Used via the Far Out app, these maps allow boaters to see their exact mileage, upcoming camps, and real-time rapid updates—a significant advantage over traditional paper maps that can't be updated on the fly.

The core of the episode focuses on the business of guiding. Zach shares a key lesson from his mentor, Dick Linford of Echo River Trips: in outfitting, sales and marketing are everything. He explains that while many enter the industry to be on the river, owning a company is more about being a salesperson, cleaning groovers, and managing logistics than it is about daily guiding.

• Digital River Maps: GoRafting.com and the Far Out App.
• Safety Spotlight: Boat recovery techniques and the Illinois River search efforts.
• Business Advice: The reality of starting and running a professional guiding company.

• Topic: Search and Rescue. "Do you know any details of progress on the search for the missing boat around the Illinois?"
• Topic: River Gear. "Did you see Nature Nicole's video using your flip line for a boat recovery?"
• Topic: River Navigation. "Are digital maps better than paper maps for the Middle Fork Salmon?"
• Topic: Professional Growth. "Any advice for me starting a fresh guiding business?"

• Sales First: Without sales, you have a name and some boats, but you don't have a company.
• Diversity of Experience: To run truly special trips, you must see a variety of rivers and how different companies operate.
• Problem Solving: Most outfitting issues—broken trucks, closed roads—can be solved with money, which only comes if you are filling your trips.

Connect with Zach

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Zach Collier is the owner of Northwest Rafting Company and an International Rafting Federation Rafting Instructor. He has decades of river guiding and expedition experience across the American West and internationally, specializing in technical rowing and professional guide training.

Whether you’re a seasoned river guide or a recreational boater, the conversation around whitewater safety is constantly evolving. In this featured interview, Zach Collier sits down with safety expert Jim Coffey to discuss the modern state of whitewater rescue, breaking down everything from technical gear debates to the fundamental ways we approach rescue education.

Here is a summary of the key takeaways from their deep dive into the world of river safety.

One of the first topics Zach and Jim tackled was the terminology we use. While the terms are often used interchangeably, Jim notes that the industry has developed a functional split:

• Swiftwater Rescue: Typically the domain of first responders and professional rescue services.
• Whitewater Rescue: The term more commonly representative by the boating community and river professionals.

Jim emphasizes that organizations like Rescue 3 have formalized this by designing specific technician courses tailored to each group’s unique environment and gear.

A major theme of the interview was the methodology of rescue instruction. Jim argues that many practitioners try to jump into complex scenarios before mastering the basics. He breaks rescue education into three distinct phases:

1. Skills & Fundamentals: Similar to learning to skate before playing hockey, this phase focuses on individual proficiency in swimming, throwing, and boat handling.
2. Coaching: Once the skills are present, this phase focuses on refining them and learning how to apply them effectively as a team.
3. Expert/Specialist: At this level, training becomes scenario-driven, focusing on evaluation, judgment, and critical decision-making under high-pressure conditions.

The conversation didn't shy away from technical debates regarding personal protective equipment (PPE):

• PFD Flotation: While some prefer high-flotation professional rescue vests, Jim advocates for a balance. He finds many "pro" jackets too bulky for the maneuverability needed in canoeing or kayaking, preferring high-performance vests like the Astral Green Jacket.
• Rescue Harnesses: Jim is a strong proponent of quick-release rescue harnesses but acknowledges they are advanced tools. The challenge for instructors is determining when a student is ready to move from simple techniques to using these more complex tools safely.

When deciding what to teach (and what to practice), Jim uses a quadrant system to measure importance:

• High Frequency / High Severity: These are the essential skills that everyone must know because they happen often and have high stakes.
• Low Frequency / High Severity: These are the "once-in-a-career" scenarios (like complex pins) that still require rigorous training because the stakes are life and death.

Ultimately, the goal of these conversations isn't necessarily to reach a single "correct" answer. Instead, it’s about fostering civil, educated discourse. By sharing different perspectives—from European "clean line" theories to various mechanical advantage systems—the entire whitewater community becomes more versatile and, ultimately, safer.

This podcast is the audio version of the Gear Garage Live Show, where we answer submitted questions and talk all things whitewater.

First out of the gate, Zach highlights a game-changer for river navigation: the digital river maps from GoRafting.com. These maps integrate with the Far Out app, allowing boaters to track their exact location on the river in real-time. Zach specifically recommends the "Whitewater Classics" bundle, noting that the ability to see photos of upcoming campsites and track distance to the take-out is well worth the investment.

The discussion then moves to gear, specifically the NYCE (NICE) inflatable kayaks. Zach describes these as a "mid-market" alternative to high-end models like the Sotar ATV or the Wing Jimbo. With a wider 38-inch stance and high weight capacity, these IKs are framed as a great option for bigger paddlers or those looking to pack heavy for multi-day self-support trips without breaking the bank.

The episode wraps with a deep dive into professional development. In response to a viewer asking how to grow in the outdoor industry, Zach argues that outdoor leadership is simply "leadership practiced outdoors." He shares his essential reading list, ranging from Navy captain memoirs to basketball coaching philosophies, including It’s Your Ship by Captain D. Michael Abrashoff and Eleven Rings by Phil Jackson. He also emphasizes the critical role of risk management in becoming a top-tier guide.

• Topic: River Navigation. "Are the GoRafting maps worth it if I already have a guidebook?"
• Topic: Inflatable Kayaks. "What is a good IK for a bigger person that can handle overnight gear?"
• Topic: Professional Growth. "What books should I read to grow as a leader in the outdoor industry?"
• Topic: Leadership. "Is there a difference between managing people in an office versus on a river?"

• It’s Your Ship by Captain D. Michael Abrashoff (Leadership)
• Eleven Rings by Phil Jackson (Team Dynamics)
• The Guide’s Guide by Bill McGinnis (The "Bible" of river guiding)
• Authors to follow: Tom Peters (Management) and Simon Sinek(Purpose-driven leadership)

Connect with Zach

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• YouTube

Zach Collier is the owner of Northwest Rafting Company and an International Rafting Federation Rafting Instructor. He has decades of river guiding and expedition experience across the American West and internationally, specializing in technical rowing and professional guide training.

This podcast is the audio version of the Gear Garage Live Show, where we answer submitted questions and talk all things whitewater.

In this episode of the Gear Garage Live Show, Zach answers live questions covering groover systems, raft patching and field repairs, and an impressive run of the Illinois river in a sweep boat.

First out of the gate, Zach promotes Northwest Rafting Company's one-day rescue clinics. These day-long clinics have a rotating schedule of what is taught, so you can cherry-pick what you would like to learn/get practice on.

Zach talks about groover systems and camp sanitation, discussing what works well on multi-day trips and why simpler systems are often more reliable and easier to manage. Also that his favorite product is the classic Selway Groover.

The discussion moves into raft repairs and patching, including when field fixes are appropriate, how long patches realistically last, and what boaters should expect from different repair approaches. Zach emphasizes understanding your equipment and being prepared to manage small issues before they become trip-ending problems.

The episode wraps with watching an epic video a Will & Skip Volpert running a sweep boat down the notorious Green Wall rapid on Oregon's Illinois River.

Catch every new episode of the Gear Garage Live Show by subscribing on your favorite podcast platform. For rafting trips, guide training, and expert resources, visit Northwest Rafting Company & Whitewater Guidebook.

Hosted by Zach Collier | Produced by Northwest Rafting Company

This podcast is the audio version of the Gear Garage Live Show, where we answer submitted questions and talk all things whitewater.

In this episode, Zach takes a deep dive into Personal Rescue Equipment (PRE), specifically focusing on the flip line. While it seems like a simple piece of webbing, there is a lot of debate around the length, the type of webbing used, and whether or not to use locking carabiners. Zach also answers viewer questions about the mechanics of righting a flipped raft and how to stay safe while doing it.

Zach starts by breaking down his personal flip line setup. The “standard” for most guides is about 10 to 12 feet of 1-inch tubular webbing.

• Tubular vs. Flat Webbing: Zach highly recommends tubular webbing. It’s easier on the hands, holds knots better, and has a higher breaking strength for this specific application.
• The Length: While 10 feet is standard, Zach discusses why taller guides or those running high-frame gear boats might prefer 12 feet to get more leverage.
• The Knot: Most guides use a simple water knot to create a loop, but Zach discusses the pros and cons of keeping it as a single line with a carabiner on one end.

One of the most contentious topics in raft rescue is the carabiner on your flip line.

• Non-Locking: The argument here is speed. In a high-stress flip situation, you want to be able to clip and pull immediately.
• Locking: The safety argument is that a non-locking carabiner can accidentally “gate-load” or clip onto something it shouldn’t (like your own PFD or another rope), creating a snag hazard.
• Zach’s Take: Zach leans towards the efficiency of a non-locking gate but emphasizes that gear choice should always be dictated by your specific comfort level and the type of water you are running.

Flipping a boat back over isn’t just about strength; it’s about physics. Zach breaks down the “lean back” technique:

• High Side/Low Side: Identify where the current is pushing the boat.
• The Foot Placement: Get your feet high on the side of the tube to create a pivot point.
• The Weight: Use your body weight, not your arm strength.
• The “Pop”: For larger gear boats, Zach discusses using a second person or a “Z-drag” style setup if the boat is pinned or suctioned to the water.

The show wraps up with a discussion on what else should be on your person. Zach emphasizes that your flip line shouldn’t be your only tool. A high-quality whistle, a reliable river knife (accessible with either hand), and a throw bag should be the foundation of your kit before you start worrying about advanced mechanical advantage hardware.

Zach highlights the "Blitzen" as one of the most elusive and rewarding high-desert runs in Oregon. Because it relies entirely on snowmelt from the Steens Mountains, the window to boat it is incredibly "flashy", often opening and closing within a matter of days. Zach emphasizes that this isn't a run for heavy gear boats; the narrow, continuous nature of the canyon requires nimble craft like small catarafts or 12-foot rafts. He notes that while the logistics are simple (no permit required), the technicality and remote location mean your team needs to be self-sufficient and ready for a "no-swim" environment.

Catch every new episode of the Gear Garage Live Show by subscribing on your favorite podcast platform. For rafting trips, guide training, and expert resources, visit Northwest Rafting Company and the Whitewater Guidebook.

Hosted by Zach Collier | Produced by Northwest Rafting Company