by Ian Fodor-Davis | Dec 7, 2021 | Best Practices
If you’re searching for local gifts for kayakers this holiday season, you’re in the right place! Whether it’s Christmas or a birthday, finding the perfect present for outdoors-focused friends and family is easier when you support small businesses and talented guides.
Explore this short list of guide-made and guide-owned gift ideas that celebrate the spirit of adventure on the water. Happy Holidays!
Funluvin’ Fleecewear by Kelli O’Keefe
What to Love:
- Fun & functional fleece layers perfect for river adventures
- Essential pieces like the Funluvin’ skirts, featuring funky patterns and memorable styles
Where to Find It:
Tip: Order something for yourself too—you deserve it!
Kinship Leather Goods by Sarah Mallory
What to Love:
- Handmade, detailed, and classic leather pieces
- A personal favorite: the Kinshop wallet, a prize-winning gift that stands out for its quality
Where to Find It:
River Food by Courtney Modaff
What to Love:
- Unique spice blends for those who love to cook
- Signature products include Stir Fry Blend, River Rub, Idaho Pie, and more
Where to Find It:
Available in select stores across Idaho and Montana.
More Gift Ideas and Community Events
Don’t miss out on the Redside Foundation’s annual guide-made fair, a fantastic opportunity to discover even more local and unique gifts.
And if you’re an Idaho or Montana guide, be sure to sign up for their annual Secret Santa gift exchange!
Related Posts:
Holiday Gift Guide for Kayakers: Top Gear and Gadgets
Ultimate Holiday Gifts for River Rats
Celebrate with Scenic Kayak Tours!
Discover local and unique gifts perfect for any river lover. Explore Scenic Kayak Tours →
by Ian Fodor-Davis | Oct 15, 2021 | Kayaking
Embarking on a kayaking adventure can be both exciting and intimidating. Whether you’re learning the ropes for fun or aiming to improve your skills, these kayaking tips for beginners will help you understand the essentials—from gear and safety to the mental challenges of the sport.
Kayaking is a rewarding water sport that challenges you physically and mentally. As a beginner, you might feel overwhelmed by the learning curve, but with the right guidance and practice, you can quickly build confidence on the water.
In this article, we share practical advice and beginner-friendly tips that cover:
- Essential gear and on-water safety
- Fundamental paddling techniques
- Overcoming the mental challenges of being new to kayaking
Why Kayaking Might Seem Daunting
For many beginners, kayaking feels intimidating. The initial fear of being a novice on the water can be overwhelming. Here are some common challenges:
- Starting Over: It takes time to shake off the mindset that you’re a beginner. Every mistake is part of the learning process.
- On-Water Challenges: Every rapid or unexpected situation might seem life-threatening, even though it’s all part of the kayaking experience.
- Peer Pressure: Encounters with more experienced paddlers can sometimes make you question your abilities.
Remember, every expert was once a beginner. Embrace your journey and learn from every paddle stroke.
4 Essential Kayaking Tips for Beginners
1. Dial Your Roll
A strong rolling technique is critical for maintaining balance and quickly righting yourself when needed. Here’s how to improve:
- Practice in a Controlled Environment: Start in a pool or calm eddy areas like the Jonsrud or Brennan’s.
- Consistency Is Key: The more you practice rolling, the more instinctive it becomes. A solid roll is essential for your safety and efficiency on the water.
2. Dial Your Gear
Reliable gear makes all the difference. Focus on quality and proper fit for:
- Personal Flotation Devices (PFDs)
- Helmets and drysuits
- Sprayskirts and paddles
- Your kayak itself
Tip: Renting gear can be a cost-effective solution when you’re just starting out. Check local libraries or rental programs like Love Boat Library for affordable options.
3. Dial Your Crew
Building a supportive community is crucial for growth and safety:
- Choose Trusted Paddlers: As you paddle more, seek out people who share your passion and safety values.
- Learn Together: Taking a swiftwater class is highly recommended. Not only will it improve your skills, but it will also help you build confidence on the river.
- Stay Safe: Always look out for the safety of both yourself and your crew when exploring new routes.
4. Dress for the Swim
Understanding water conditions is key to your survival:
- Know Your Environment: Always check the water levels and temperature before heading out.
- Prepare for the Unexpected: Dress appropriately for the cold. A prolonged rescue or long swim can quickly turn dangerous, even on a clear day.
Related Posts:
Get Out on the Water
These kayaking tips for beginners cover the absolute basics to get you started. While mastering the mental game is a more personal journey, focusing on your technique, gear, and crew will build a strong foundation for a safe and enjoyable kayaking experience.
Join Scenic Kayak Tours – Perfect for Beginners!
Embark on your kayaking adventure with guided tours tailored for newbies. Learn about Scenic Kayak Tours →
by Ian Fodor-Davis | Aug 24, 2021 | Best Practices
When the temperature drops and you’re planning a relaxing river trip, nothing beats a comforting bowl of hot soup. This white chicken chili recipe is the perfect cold-weather meal that warms you up after a day on the water.
(Serves 8-10)
Ingredients
- Chicken & Beans:
- 1 pound boneless skinless chicken breasts, chopped
- 3 cans Great Northern beans (14.5 oz each)
- Broth & Vegetables:
- 2 cans chicken broth (14 oz each)
- 1 can chopped green chilis (4 oz)
- 1 yellow onion, diced
- 1 jalapeño pepper, diced
- Garlic (to taste)
- Cheese & Spices:
- 1 cup shredded Pepperjack cheese
- Olive oil
- Your favorite spices (consider cumin, oregano, salt, and pepper)
- Optional Extras:
- Bouillon cubes or homemade bone broth for extra flavor
Directions
- Sauté the Base:
- Heat olive oil in a Dutch oven or large pot over medium heat.
- Add the chopped chicken and diced onion; cook until lightly browned.
- Stir in garlic and your chosen spices.
- Build the Chili:
- Add chopped green chilis and chicken broth to the pot. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat to a simmer.
- Mash one can of beans and mix it into the pot.
- Pour in the remaining two cans of beans and stir well.
- Simmer and Serve:
- Allow the chili to simmer on low heat for 20-30 minutes to blend flavors.
- Serve hot, topped with a generous amount of shredded Pepperjack cheese and diced jalapeño.
Bonus Tricks for Extra Flavor
- Boost the Broth: Add bouillon cubes or a splash of homemade bone broth.
- Side Dish Idea: Serve with Dutch oven cornbread—try tossing in green chilis and cheddar cheese to impress your friends.
Other Cold-Weather Meal Ideas
- Posole: For a more involved prep and a rich, quality meal.
- Mac & Cheese with Bratwursts: Ideal if you want to relax by the fire with a beer.
Related Posts:
Refuel with Rafting Missoula Adventures!
Enjoy hearty recipes to warm up after your chilly river adventures. Discover Rafting Missoula →
by Ian Fodor-Davis | Jul 2, 2021 | Best Practices
Understanding proper river etiquette is essential for anyone who enjoys boating and river adventures. Rivers are a privilege, offering wild, beautiful environments that must be respected by all.
In this guide, we’ll cover key principles—including the Leave No Trace philosophy, river-specific regulations, water level awareness, and basic river etiquette—to ensure that you and your fellow boaters help keep these natural spaces pristine.
At the Boat Ramp
-
Designate a Specific Area:
Keep your boats and gear confined to a concentrated space. This practice leaves room for other groups at the boat ramp.
-
Avoid Obstruction:
Do not spread out across the entire put-in area or block the boat ramp with vehicles and trailers.
-
Be Prepared:
Only put your boat on the ramp when you’re ready to move it into the water. This prevents unnecessary congestion and delays.
At Camp
-
Manage Your Gear:
Ensure you have proper disposal systems for trash and human waste, as well as firepans, fire blankets, and food storage systems. Note that regulations may vary by river or season.
-
Plan Ahead:
Know your campsites and avoid last-chance camping at undeveloped sites. Instead, concentrate your activities within designated, developed campsites.
-
Prevent Microtrash:
Be vigilant about small debris such as food particles, wrappers, and zip ties. Even tiny items can degrade the quality of river camps and harm the habitat.
On the Water
-
Be Courteous:
When you encounter another group on the water, a friendly nod, wave, or quick chat about camps, rapids, or the weather can make a big difference.
-
Respect Navigation:
Look upstream before pulling out of an eddy. If another group is approaching, allow them to pass and maintain adequate space.
-
Fishing Etiquette:
Avoid letting fishing lines interfere with other boats and refrain from casting directly in front of another vessel in the current.
-
Passing Protocol:
Communicate clearly when passing another group. If you see a group trying to pass you, consider pulling into an eddy to allow them to pass safely.
-
Safety First:
If you come upon a risky situation, pull over and assess the conditions. Likewise, if you’re involved in a risky scenario, send one person upstream to signal to others to stop and evaluate the situation.
By following these guidelines, you’re not only embracing good river etiquette but also helping to preserve the natural beauty and safety of our rivers for everyone. Respect for the river and fellow boaters ensures that these wild and beautiful places remain enjoyable for generations to come.
Related Posts:
Enhance Your Experience with Rafting Missoula!
Learn the do’s and don’ts to keep the river safe and fun for everyone. Discover Rafting Missoula →
by Ian Fodor-Davis | Jul 2, 2021 | Best Practices
When planning a river trip with your little adventurers, creating the perfect kids rafting packing list is key to a smooth day on the water. Whether it’s your first time or you’re a seasoned river guide, this guide will help you pack all the essentials to ensure a fun, safe, and stress-free outing. While these suggestions come from what many experienced parents have learned over time, they are also flexible enough to be tailored based on weather, temperature, and trip length.
Essential Items for a Day Trip
Snacks
- Kiddo’s Favorite Snack: Keep hunger at bay with the snacks they love. A happy, well-fed child means a happier day on the river!
Sun Protection
- Sunscreen: Protect your kiddos from sunburns.
- Sun Hats and Shirts: Extra layers of sun protection keep them comfortable and safe. A well-protected child is ready for an adventure.
Hydration
- Water Bottle: Staying hydrated is crucial—even for a day trip. Ensure your kids have plenty of water available.
Footwear
- Good Shoes: Choose waterproof, comfortable shoes with heel straps to ensure stability on slippery surfaces.
Additional Items for Multi-Day Trips
Snacks and Dietary Needs
- Extra Snacks: For picky eaters or those with special dietary concerns, pack extra snacks to keep energy levels up over long days.
Extended Sun Protection
- More Sun Hats and Shirts: Kids might lose or forget items along the way. Having backups ensures they’re always protected.
Cold-Weather Gear
- Camp Layers: For trips in high-elevation or cooler conditions—even in summer—pack a few warm layers (preferably fleece or wool) for the evenings.
- Good Camp Shoes: Bring dry sneakers, booties, or flip-flops for comfort during downtime at camp.
Medications
- Daily Medications: If your child needs any daily meds, divide your supply between your personal gear and a secure spot (like a first-aid kit or cooler) to ensure you’re always prepared—even if one supply runs out.
Final Tips
Remember, when it comes to packing for a river trip, less is more. It’s easy to overpack or forget something, especially with kids. After each trip, you’ll likely fine-tune your kids rafting packing list as you learn which items are truly essential and which can be left behind next time. Embrace the “We-Should-Have-Brought-That” moments as part of the adventure, and enjoy every river journey with your little explorers!
Related Posts:
Rafting With Kids: Essential Tips for a Safe Family Adventure
Your Guide to Floating the Blackfoot River with Kids: Safety & Fun Tips
Family Adventures Begin with Rafting Missoula!
Plan the perfect trip with our essential packing tips for family rafting. Discover Rafting Missoula →
