Whitewater Rafting Guide School (or, How to Fish Where No One Else Can)

Fly fishers aren’t all that interested in the kayaks and rafts that float by.

Yet I always wonder if I’m not missing out on a fun way to fish some hard-to-reach water when the river was otherwise blown.

(River Dancers photo)

If you’ve ever had that feeling, then consider this: the top local rafting company (River Dancers) is offering a whitewater guide class on the Upper Sacramento April 28-30:

We cover all the basics of the river experience; equipment use, maintenance and repair, boat rigging and knot tying, the reading of water and river hydraulics, trip logistics, outdoor care procedures, whitewater emergency and rescue techniques and the swimming of rapids.

Our focus is on fun, safety, cooperation, team work and personal striving, all in a supportive and friendly environment. A ratio of 4 to 5 students per instructor assures lots of personal attention and hands-on experience. 

Our approach is one of due respect to the river and its environment. We promote conservation and a “minimum impact” philosophy of recreational use.

I have no financial interest in River Dancers, but I know the owners well. Not only are they river rats in the best sense, but Chantal and John are patient and knowledgeable teachers.

Naturally, I’ll be in Tennessee for the latter half of this class. But if I wasn’t, I’d consider taking the class, getting a whitewater-capable pontoon boat, and then catching the high-water trout the rest of of just can’t reach.

Naturally, I’d rub everyone’s nose in it. Maybe next year.

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