by Ian Fodor-Davis | Feb 22, 2022 | Best Practices
Winter boating offers a unique opportunity to enjoy quiet waters, challenge yourself in a new environment, and relish the beauty of nature during colder months. This article is designed to provide winter boating advice that covers essential gear, safety tips, and practical strategies to help you stay warm, comfortable, and safe on the water. Whether you’re a seasoned paddler or trying winter boating for the first time, read on for tips that will prepare you for an unforgettable seasonal experience.
Embrace the Tranquility of Winter Boating
Spring flows and Summer floats are right around the corner. If you are a boater, you know this, and are likely getting excited thinking and dreaming. What pieces of gear you may need to upgrade or repair, what lines or rivers you may want to explore, or how excited you are about your first Middle Fork Permit. But this write up is not meant to go into the many details of the Spring boating season or your first multi day trip. Rather, it is meant to explore an intermediary, a temporary solution that many boaters are starting to need right about now.
Winter boating, to me, is that solution. It is somewhat of a different animal in some of the best ways, and in others, some of the scariest. Here are five tips to make your entry into winter boating a bit more comfortable, safe, and fun.
Winter boating can be so peaceful and beautiful
Winter Boating Advice
Perhaps this is the season to avoid the big stuff.
Getting on the water in the winter can be a great time to shake the rust off and just enjoy quiet time on your favorite sections of water (many of which normally have a constant cacophony of voices ricocheting down the sections like the Alberton Gorge). Treat the cold water and weather for what it is. Boat for the joy of it, knowing that this may not necessarily be the time to push the big, consequential lines that have a high chance of sending you swimming. Be extra cautious of hypothermia, and double down on the idea of dressing for the swim, not the weather.
Dress for Success: Layer Up and Stay Warm
Winter boating is so peaceful and tends to reignite that love of whitewater that may have been dormant while chasing powder turns and hockey pucks. But it should be viewed as more hazardous, both for yourself, and for any potential rescuers. My general rule of thumb is to dress so that I can stay in the for a minimum of 30 minutes completely comfortably. Dry suits (here for women’s suits) are not just a comfort for boating in the winter, but a mandatory piece of gear for cold water boating. There are many myths about air and water temperature, but the bottom line is that if it is cold water, be prepared for immersion and layer appropriately. My personal cold water layering list: Under my dry suit I wear 2-3 thick fleece layers, 1 lighter moisture wicking layer, and double, sometimes triple wool socks. I use NRS HydroSkin Socks on the outside of my dry suit to protect the booties and add extra warmth. All this insulation for my feet necessitates having a winter set of wet shoes just for my dry suit. In my dry bag I bring along an additional thick layer, a puffy jacket, ski gloves, NRS Maverick waterproof Neoprene gloves, sunscreen, extra wool socks, a warm beanie, a few high calorie snack bars, and a rain shell. Additional Tip: the rain shell is great to eliminate evaporative cooling. Wear it through the whitewater sections and remove it when the sun hits you, or when you get done with the splashes for the day.
Gear Check: Optimize Your Equipment
Perhaps you have a winter helmet that has ear protection and more insulation. Perhaps you have a PFD you prefer because it has fleece lined hand warming pockets. Whatever your gear and preferences may look like, this is the time of year to double check and re-think whether something is important to have with you on the water. This is the time of year to take extra time to evaluate why something may or may not be needed in your kit. Extra fleece hats and heavily insulated ski gloves may not be in every normal boating kit, but these are definitely nice, perhaps even necessary, for boating in the winter. Leave the sunscreen in your winter kit, remembering that you can still get sunburnt from snow/water glare with no protection. Fully waterproof gloves are great as well, but be warned- once your neoprene gloves are wet, they will likely remain wet for the rest of the day. Keep them in your dry bag for when you get chilly, unless you plan on wearing them all day.
Nutrition on the Water: Fuel Your Adventure
Food. All of the food.
Having something to eat can make all of the difference between a lovely day and a harrowing brush with hanger. Your caloric intake will need to be higher as your body is working to keep you warm, so bring some extra snacks. I love bringing a 64 oz Hydro Flask of hot tea as well, as it’s a glorious treat on those shady afternoons when you are starting to get chilled. Bring along warm food if possible, but warm or cold extra snacks will help keep you warm and comfortable, as well as stay safe. Proper caloric intake enables you to think clearly, and to deal more effectively with stressful situations and emergencies.
Safety First: Prioritize Your Well-Being
This will seem like a reiteration, and to be fair, it is. But safety of you and your party is the number one thing to pay attention to. If the weather seems like it may cause problems, perhaps wait until the next sunny day. If the flows are spiking above your comfort level, winter is not the time to push that comfort level. Have an evacuation plan and a hypo kit, especially if you are in a remote setting. Have extra gear for your friends and yourself. After all, you would rather have an extra set of gloves than deal with a horrific upstream wind that results in frostbite without them.
Winter Boating can and should be fun. There are many things to note about staying safe, comfortable, and therefore happy on winter boating trips. These are just a few, and this is in no way an exhaustive effort to cover all safety tips. Hopefully though, this will help get you started, or serve as a reminder should you already be a winter boating fanatic.
Ian staying warm, and thus very happy, on a recent lap.
We just got out to get some winter laps in ourselves, and we sure are getting excited for the upcoming season around here. Visit www.zootownsurfers.com to get your booking secured for the season.
Stay safe and warm out there, and I hope to see you on the water soon!
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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!
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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.
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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
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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
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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.
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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
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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.
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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!
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by Ian Fodor-Davis | May 19, 2021 | Best Practices
When you ask a river guide for insider tips, you’re tapping into a world of wild stories, hilarious mishaps, and unforgettable moments on the water. River guides are not only experts at navigating rapids—they’re great storytellers who bring each trip to life with genuine passion and quirky humor.
Questions You Should Ask Every River Guide
“What inspires you to work out here?”
Every guide has a story that’s unique as the river itself. If you get a bland answer, dig a little deeper—there’s usually more adventure beneath the surface.
“What is the most epic true story you’ve ever heard?”
For many guides, re-telling a great story is almost as thrilling as living it. Listen closely—you might catch a nugget of wisdom or a hint of local lore.
“If you could give your childhood self one piece of advice, what would it be?”
This one sparks some of the best conversations. It’s not just about the advice; it’s about the laughs and lessons shared along the way.
“What’s your favorite river?”
Be ready for a surprising answer. You might discover that the “best” river is more about personal connection than objective beauty.
Questions You Should Never Ask a River Guide
“So, what do you want to do with your life?”
Skip the career interrogation. A guide’s passion is right there in every paddle stroke—no need to question their choice.
“Has anyone ever died here?”
Often blurted out during a heart-stopping rapid, this one is best left unsaid if you want to keep the vibe light.
“How often do you shower?”
This, along with any political chatter, can kill the mood. Remember: the focus is on the river, not the nitty-gritty.
Bonus Tip: Keeping It Simple on the River
- Leave your phone at home.
Enjoy the moment without distractions.
- Soak in the scenery.
Let the natural beauty and friendly banter fill your day.
- Focus on the experience.
A good river trip is all about connection—with nature, your guide, and your fellow adventurers.
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