Key Components of a Minimal Rafting Pin Kit

Minimal Pin Kit: What Every Boater Should Carry

By: Zach, November 23, 2025

A pin kit doesn’t need to be complicated to be useful. If you’re running Class III or stepping into Class IV you can solve most real-world problems with a compact,...

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Using a Z-Rig to pull on a wrapped raft in Blossom Bar Rapid

Setting Up a 3:1 Mechanical Advantage System for Raft Recovery

By: Zach, October 26, 2025

The 3:1 mechanical advantage system, commonly known as the Z-drag or Z-rig, is a straightforward method that increases the pulling force on a rope attached to a raft. This system...

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Podcast

Elisha McArthur: What Makes A Good Instructor

May 21, 2025

In this episode of Safety First with Danger Tate, we dive into a conversation with Elisha McArthur, co-founder of Canyon River Instruction and Worldwide Women of Whitewater. Elisha shares how...

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Podcast

Michele Crockett: Private Boaters Guide to Trip Planning

March 13, 2025

Get ready for an information packed episode of Safety First with Danger Tate. Tate talks with the river trip planning expert, Michele Crockett. She is the co-founder of RiverBent. Michele...

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Boat Smith 2025: High Water, Big Rapids, and Epic Times

By: Tate Tomlinson, February 20, 2025

What a year at Boat Smith! The water raged, the vibes soared, and the festivities kept the stoke high. This marked my first time at the event, and honestly, I...

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Pro Tip: Meeting and Keeping Paddling Friends

By: Tate Tomlinson, February 6, 2025

Finding people to paddle with can feel overwhelming and stressful, especially if you’ve just moved to a new town. The good news? There are plenty of strategies for making and...

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Pro Tips: Whitewater Kayaking In A Large Group

By: Tate Tomlinson, January 30, 2025

Our friend Howard (AKA How Pow) has nine tips for kayaking in a large group. "Although larger groups can have their issues, with a few precautions they can be awesome....

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Many sandal choices

Gear Reviews: River Sandals

By: Michael Hughes, November 14, 2024

There are a bunch of river footwear options out there. Closed-toe shoes offer the most protection and tend to have the best and stickiest soles for traction. However, when it's...

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Raft, oars, frames..CHECK

Pro Tips: First Trip of the Season

By: Michael Hughes, March 21, 2024

The sun is shining, the snow is starting to melt, permits have been issued, and that means rafting season is almost here! Time to go through your gear, inflate your...

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Flip practice in a whitewater rescue course

River Raft Guide Certifications: Rescue, First Aid, and IRF

By: K.M. Collins, June 3, 2023

Top commercial river companies want to hire top performing guides. And one of the best ways to demonstrate you are a top performer is whitewater credentials. On a side note,...

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