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:

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:

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

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

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.

Connect with Zach

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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

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

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

In this end-of-year edition, Zach tackles the nitty-gritty of personal rescue equipment (PRE), specifically nerding out on the materials and dimensions of flip lines. The show moves into a masterclass on cataraft frame setup and a high-stakes discussion on the realities of recovering heavy gear boats in swift water—a scenario Zach describes as "a marathon, not a sprint." To wrap things up, Zach clarifies the often-confused vocabulary between Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and Personal Rescue Equipment (PRE).

Nerd-Out: Flipline Materials

A viewer asked about making a custom flip line from 5mm braided HMPE (Dyneema). While the material is incredibly strong (often stronger than the carabiners it's attached to), Zach warns that thin diameter rope is punishing on the hands. A flip line's primary job is to be grabbed under duress. Zach’s preference is a slightly wider, low-friction webbing that slides easily over carabiners for mechanical advantage systems but remains easy to grip when you're standing on an overturned floor.

The Reality of Gear Boat Recovery

Recovering a flipped gear boat in continuous, swift water (like the Alsek or certain sections of the Grand Canyon) is one of the most exhausting tasks in rafting. Zach emphasizes:

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

Zach kicks off the show with a look at a new throw bag from Sockdolager, modified with 5/16" Sterling rope for a better grip—available now at River Hardware. He then tackles a deep dive into river safety, specifically why running rivers during the "first big flood" of the season is a recipe for disaster due to debris and taxed search-and-rescue resources. The episode takes a personal turn as Zach explains his unique career path from teaching engineering to owning Northwest Rafting Company, followed by an extensive technical clinic on boat selection. He compares the Wing Jumbo to the Air Outfitter 2 for the Chetco River and breaks down why an 11-foot Sotar Legend is the "sports car" of catarafts for day trips in the Pacific Northwest.

Thanks for joining this episode of the Gear Garage Live Show. Whether you’re debating between a cataraft or a raft for your next purchase, or wondering if you should head out on that flood-stage run, Zach’s advice remains: prioritize stability, trusted partners, and the right tool for the job.

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

On this Friday night Gear Garage Live, Zach digs into a full batch of viewer questions about gear, boats, and how much stuff you really need to drag down the river. From minimalist multi-day setups to the realities of owning a dory, this one is all about making smarter, simpler choices on and off the water.

He also shares some honest opinions on helmets, packrafts, and winter runs in Oregon and Washington, plus a behind-the-scenes look at why show notes and transcripts aren’t as simple as they sound.

If you’ve ever wondered whether you’re bringing way too much stuff, if a dory is really the next boat you need, or how worried to be about your wetsuit pants, this episode is for you.

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 checks in from Bangkok on his way to Bhutan and dives into winter rafting on the Rogue River, dialing in oar length for wide boats, and how to think about whitewater rescue courses. He also shares thoughts on oar tethers and how they can help keep you in the boat when things get spicy.

Zach starts with a behind-the-scenes look at NWRC’s Bhutan cultural and paddling trips, then answers questions about late-fall and winter rafting on the Rogue River. He walks through his oar length equation (distance between oarlocks × 1.63) using a Highside Pro-XT and Sawyer MX-LG oars as a real-world example, and explains why frame width and seat height matter as much as the math. The conversation wraps with custom oar tethers, the Oar Snubber concept, and why “whitewater rescue” for boaters is different from traditional “swiftwater rescue” for first responders.

Thanks for hanging out for another Gear Garage Live session. If you’re dreaming about winter on the Rogue, dialing in your oar length, or maybe heading to Bhutan, this episode will help you think through safety, comfort, and boat setup so you can enjoy the river season all year long.

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

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 dives into rescue education for both guides and private boaters, explores the world of hard-to-find pins and clips, and answers questions about rowing progression when you don’t live near a river. He also shares thoughts on Rally Crew, community-building, and how to keep learning after a Class III rowing school.

Zach opens with a look at NWRC’s expanded rescue curriculum, including the Rescue 3 Whitewater Rescue Technician course for guides and the Class III Safety & Rescue Clinics designed specifically for private boaters. From there, the show slides into a deep gear rabbit hole—comparing old-school Klaviy-style pins and clips, discussing DIY stirrup options, and talking through why certain sleeves just don’t cut it. The episode wraps with progression advice for boaters in gear-limited states, plus new ways to connect with paddlers through Rally Crew and regional instructors.

Thanks for tuning in! Whether you’re hunting for rare pins and clips, exploring new rescue education, or figuring out how to keep progressing without a local river, this episode offers practical next steps for safer, more confident boating.

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

The Professional River Guide Series is a video series featuring conversations with seasoned river professionals, aimed at continuing education for professional working river guides. From whitewater safety and rigging tips to leadership, river history, and guiding philosophy, we dive into the knowledge that makes great guides even better. Whether you're gearing up for your first season or have decades on the water, these talks will keep your skills sharp and your stoke high.

Today's discussion is with Zach Collier, Aaron Cavagnolo and Mark Hirst.

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