For more episodes of the Sawyer On-Water Podcast ➡️ ⁠Sawyer On-Water Podcast⁠

🔗 Episode Links:

• ⁠Sawyer Paddles and Oars⁠
• ⁠BikeKraft
• Go Wildly Podcast

In loving memory of Larry Koster, "Live Like Larry"

1956-2023, Guiding Since: 1984

The Rogue River Blues

⭐️ Special Thanks

• Annovation

📝 Summary

In this episode of the Sawyer On-Water podcast, host Zac Kauffman talks with Emily and Heather, co-hosts of the Go Wildly Podcast. They discuss their personal journeys in outdoor adventures, the importance of storytelling, and the role of community in fostering a love for nature. The conversation highlights the significance of connecting with elders, the evolution of river guiding, and the need for initiatives to encourage newcomers to the river community. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to embrace outdoor activities and build connections within their communities.

🎬 Chapters

00:00 Welcome to the Sawyer On-Water Podcast

01:08 The Go Wildly Podcast - Emily & Heather

05:17 The Start of the Go Wildly Podcast

11:39 Starting a Podcast

17:41 The Importance of Storytelling in Outdoor Adventures

22:05 When Zac met Emily's Dad

24:45 The Evolution of Rafting Gear and Industry History

29:15 Finding the River vs. Growing Up on the River

32:20 River Connections and River Stories - Larry Koster

40:43 River Weddings

43:18 Getting Started on the River

48:21 Using the River to Grow the River Towns

51:49 Meeting People on the River

53:41 See you on the Water!

56:40 Rapid Questions in the Rapid

Sawyer Paddles & Oars. High-quality handcrafted paddles and oars since 1967 🛶

➡️ For paddles and oars, visit our website: ⁠https://paddlesandoars.com⁠

➡️ For all your river gear needs, visit our retail store: ⁠https://sawyerstation.com⁠

🎥 Watch more episodes of the Sawyer On-Water Podcast here: ⁠Sawyer On-Water Podcast Playlist⁠

See you on the water! 🌊

For more episodes of the Sawyer On-Water Podcast ➡️ Sawyer On-Water Podcast

🔗 Episode Links:

• Sawyer Paddles and Oars
• Nantahala Outdoor Center (NOC)
• Brad's Podcast → B-Flow Sessions: The Whitewater Kayaking Podcast | Apple Podcasts | Spotify

⭐️ Special Thanks

• Wild Oregon Girl: https://www.wildoregongirl.com/
• Annovation: https://annovation.io/

📝 Summary

In this episode of the Sawyer On-Water podcast, Brad Burden and Zac explore the rich history and vibrant community surrounding the Nantahala River in North Carolina. They discuss Brad's journey from a young river guide to an instructor, the economic impact of outdoor recreation in the area, and the multi-sport opportunities available. The conversation also highlights the legacy of Olympic athletes who have trained on the river, the importance of mentorship in the paddlesports community, and the life lessons learned from navigating the river. Additionally, they touch on the resilience of the river community in the face of challenges and the ongoing efforts to conserve and protect these natural resources for future generations.

🎬 Chapters

00:00 Heartbeat of The Nantahala River

01:16 Brad's Journey

03:11 From Raft Guiding to Kayaking Instructor

04:51 River Guiding is a Global Skill

06:23 Kayaking Instructor Process

08:24 Economic Impact of the Nantahala River

10:58 Multi-Sport Opportunities

12:00 Nantahala's Olympic Connection and Youth Development

14:46 History of the Nantahala River

16:23 Growing Up with the River

20:31 Life Lessons from the River

21:08 Influential Figures on the Nantahala

24:03 Nantahala Stories

27:57 Life Lessons from the River - Part 2

30:30 Conservation and Community Resilience

34:13 The Power of the River Community

37:13 See You On the Water!

38:05 The Nantahala Falls

Sawyer Paddles & Oars. High-quality handcrafted paddles and oars since 1967 🛶

➡️ For paddles and oars, visit our website: https://paddlesandoars.com

➡️ For all your river gear needs, visit our retail store: https://sawyerstation.com

🎥 Watch more episodes of the Sawyer On-Water Podcast here: Sawyer On-Water Podcast Playlist

See you on the water! 🌊

For more episodes of the Sawyer On-Water Podcast ➡️ YouTube Playlist

🔗 Episode Links:

• Sawyer Paddles and Oars: https://paddlesandoars.com

📝 Summary

In this episode, Zac interviews Bruce Bergstrom, the second owner of Sawyer, discussing the history of the company, the impact of Ralph Sawyer, and the innovations in paddle and oar production. Bruce shares insights on the challenges of transitioning ownership, the importance of family and community in the business, and the merger with Smoker Oars. The conversation also touches on manufacturing processes, staff training, and the legacy of quality craftsmanship that continues to define Sawyer today.

🎬 Chapters

• 00:00 Welcome to the Sawyer On-Water Podcast

• 00:26 Bruce Bergstrom: Sawyer's 2nd Owner

• 02:46 Transitioning Ownership from Ralph Sawyer to Bruce

• 10:05 The Connection of Bruce and Zac

• 15:58 Relocating the Sawyer Factory

• 20:48 Staffing Challenges

• 23:20 Optimizing Production

• 26:03 The Merger of Sawyer and Smoker

• 32:55 The SOU Paddle Art Project

• 34:43 The Art of Varnishing

• 38:23 Blending Wood and Composite

• 40:35 The Story of the Sawyer SquareTop

• 43:06 Sawyer's Production Manager

• 46:46 The Legacy of Ralph Sawyer

• 51:36 See you on the water!

• 52:58 Rapid Rapid Questions

Sawyer Paddles & Oars. High-quality handcrafted paddles and oars since 1967 🛶

➡️ For paddles and oars, visit our website: https://paddlesandoars.com

➡️ For all your river gear needs, visit our retail store: https://sawyerstation.com

🎥 Watch more episodes of the Sawyer On-Water Podcast here: YouTube Playlist

See you on the water! 🌊

For more episodes of the Sawyer On-Water Podcast ➡️ https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHJyjGqzjhytKCJMLNBIJclimojUFMdxh

🔗 Episode Links

OnWater Apps: onwaterapp.com | paddleways.com

Sawyer Paddles and Oars: paddlesandoars.com

📝 Summary

In this conversation, Zac and Alex discuss the innovative technology behind Onwater Apps: Paddleways and OnWater Fish Maps, focusing on enhancing water-based recreation experiences. They explore the need for better tools for paddlers and anglers, the importance of community engagement, and the role of education and safety in outdoor activities. Alex shares insights into the app's features, including mapping, data sourcing, and the unique fish identification technology that aids conservation efforts. The discussion emphasizes the significance of connecting people with nature while ensuring responsible use of water resources.

🎬 Chapters

00:00 Welcome and intro to the OnWater Apps

01:45 Recreation Technology for Rivers

05:07 Etiquette and Education for New Boaters

07:21 What does the app do

09:52 Why it was created

10:54 Where does the data come from

13:56 The Role of Technology on the River

16:57 Education and Safety in Water Recreation

19:50 Integrating Local Knowledge and Community Resources

22:51 Wildfire Awareness and Environmental Considerations

25:58 The Future of Fishing Technology and Community Science

29:06 The Mission of OnWater

32:15 The OnWater Fishing App

36:47 See you on the River!

38:46 Rapid Questions in the Rapid

#sawyer #sawyerpaddle #sawyerpaddles #sawyeroar #sawyeroars #sawyerpaddlesandoars #riverguides #river #rivercommunity #sawyerpodcast #fishing #riversafety #outdoorlifestyle #rivertrips #whitewater #riveradventures #rafting #whitewaterrafting #adventure #outdooradventure #nature #Oregon #oregonadventures #riverecosystems #conservation #riversafety #Onwater #watersports #Paddleways #fishingapp #riverrecreation #outdoortech #rivercommunity #riverconservation #fishingdata #rivernavigation #rectech #recreationtech

Sawyer Paddles & Oars. High-quality handcrafted paddles and oars since 1967 🛶

➡️ For paddles and oars, visit our website: https://paddlesandoars.com

➡️ For all your river gear needs, visit our retail store: https://sawyerstation.com

🎥 Watch more episodes of the Sawyer On-Water Podcast here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHJyjGqzjhytKCJMLNBIJclimojUFMdxh

See you on the water! 🌊

For more episodes of the Sawyer On-Water Podcast ➡️ https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHJyjGqzjhytKCJMLNBIJclimojUFMdxh

🔗 Episode Links:
Andras Outfitters
Sawyer Paddles and Oars

📝 Summary

In this episode of the Sawyer On-Water podcast, Zac and Jim Andras, explore the intricacies of winter fishing, particularly steelhead fishing, and the challenges posed by fluctuating water levels and changing river ecosystems. The discussion highlights the impact of dam removals on river habitats, the importance of sustainable fishing practices, and the role of conservation organizations in protecting these vital resources. Personal anecdotes about family life as a fishing guide and memorable river incidents provide insight into the joys and challenges of this lifestyle, emphasizing the need for safety and awareness on the water.

🎬 Chapters

00:00 Welcome to the Sawyer On-Water Podcast

00:51 Jim's Background and Fishing on the Rogue River

04:42 Impact of River Changes on Fishing

06:13 The Evolution of the Rogue River

09:57 Dam Removal on the Rogue River

13:32 Sustainable Fishing

21:28 A Fly Fishing Family

25:51 Jim's River Stories

34:47 Rapid Questions in the Rapid

36:43 See you on the Water!

38:35 Bonus Clip

#sawyer #sawyerpaddle #sawyerpaddles #sawyeroar #sawyeroars #sawyerpaddlesandoars #riverguides #river #rivercommunity #sawyerpodcast #fishing #riversafety #outdoorlifestyle #rivertrips #whitewater #riveradventures #rafting #whitewaterrafting #adventure #outdooradventure #nature #Oregon #oregonadventures #winterfishing #steelhead #riverecosystems #damremoval #sustainablefishing #conservation #familyfishing #riversafety

Sawyer Paddles & Oars. High-quality handcrafted paddles and oars since 1967 🛶

➡️ For paddles and oars, visit our website: https://paddlesandoars.com/

➡️ For all your river gear needs, visit our retail store: https://sawyerstation.com/

🎥 Watch more episodes of the Sawyer On-Water Podcast here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHJyjGqzjhytKCJMLNBIJclimojUFMdxh

See you on the water! 🌊

👀 Watch episodes of the Sawyer On-Water Podcast:

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHJyjGqzjhytKCJMLNBIJclimojUFMdxh

🔗 Episode Links:

Helfrich McKenzie Rafting: https://www.helfrichmckenzierafting.com/
Sawyer Paddles and Oars: https://paddlesandoars.com/

📝 Summary

In this episode of the Sawyer On-Water podcast, Zac interviews Jonnie Helfrich, a seasoned river guide with 50 years of experience on the McKenzie River. They discuss the river's unique features, its economic impact on the surrounding community, the challenges of guiding, and the importance of engaging with guests. Jonnie shares insights on the generational legacy of river guiding, the art of entertaining guests, and the future of the industry. The conversation highlights the beauty of the McKenzie River and the joy of sharing it with others.

🎬 Chapters

00:00 Welcome to the McKenzie River

02:59 McKenzie River Fishing

03:51 Economic Impact of the River and a boat ramp PSA

09:01 Whitewater Canoeing

10:59 The Beauty of Getting on the River

12:08 Entertaining Guides and Expert Guides

16:32 The 10 Year Guiding Challenge

19:16 Multi-Day Trip Challenges

22:04 The Helfrich Guiding Legacy

25:54 The River Legacy and Raising a Family on the River

30:39 Wildfires and Rafting

31:40 Seasonality Challenges

34:08 Teachers as Raft Guides

38:25 Jonnie's Sawyer Paddle

40:45 River Rescue Story

42:17 See you on the Water!

➡️ For paddles and oars, visit our website: https://paddlesandoars.com/➡️ For all your river gear needs, visit our retail store: https://sawyerstation.com/

🎥 Watch more episodes of the Sawyer On-Water Podcast here: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHJyjGqzjhytKCJMLNBIJclimojUFMdxh

See you on the water! 🌊

Watch the episode on ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠!

Recreational Boating Incidents and Fatalities in Oregon

Oregon State Marine Board

Sawyer Paddles & Oars

In this episode, Zac is joined by Priscilla from the Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB) and Luke from Curry County Aquatic Safety (a program supported in part by Grant funds from the Oregon State Marine Board) to discuss various aspects of water safety, the role of the Marine Board, and the importance of life jackets. They delve into community outreach programs, the risks associated with stand-up paddleboarding on rivers, and the importance of educating young people about water safety. The conversation highlights the collaborative efforts necessary to improve safety on Oregon's rivers and the resources available to the public.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to the Sawyer On-Water Podcast

00:48 Intro of Priscilla, Luke, and the Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB)

02:02 What does the Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB) do?

05:11 Oregon State Marine Board (OSMB) Training Programs

07:31 Getting a Life Jacket that Fits and River Safety Programs

10:48 Loaner Life Jacket Stations

15:08 The Importance of Life Jackets

16:37 Stand-Up Paddleboarding Safety Concerns

23:50 Cold Water Immersion and Safety Awareness

27:19 The Importance of Life Jackets (Part 2)

34:23 Youth Education and Water Safety Programs

39:34 Community Engagement

41:28 Program Info and Resources

42:50 See you on the water!

43:26 Rapid Rapid Questions

Watch with video on ⁠⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠⁠!

North Umpqua Outfitters

Warrior Impact

Sawyer Paddles & Oars

In this episode of the Sawyer On-Water Podcast, Zac and Dustin discuss the life of river guides and the impact of outdoor experiences on veterans. They explore Dustin's journey from guiding to owning an outfitting company, the challenges faced in the industry, and the importance of community outreach and veteran programs. The conversation also highlights memorable river stories and the significance of building relationships with your community.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to the Sawyer On-Water Podcast

00:55 Dustin's Journey into Guiding and Veteran Programs

04:51 Veterans River Programs

09:32 Life-changing Impacts of the River

14:55 Transitioning from Guide to Outfitter Owner

18:25 River Logistics and Guest Expectations

22:51 Embracing Change & The Challenges of River Trips

27:00 Building Community and Relationships in Outfitting

30:19 What it takes to be an Outfitter

36:01 Memorable River Experiences

42:05 See you on the Water!

43:53 Intro to Rapid Questions

44:40 Rapid Rapid Questions

Watch with video on ⁠⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠⁠!

Willie Boats

North River Boats

Sawyer Paddles & Oars

This conversation explores the collaboration between Willie Drift Boats and North River Boats, focusing on their history, customization processes, and the impact of employee ownership on company culture. The discussion highlights the importance of user feedback in boat design and the legacy of craftsmanship in the paddle sports industry.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to the Sawyer On-Water Podcast

01:10 The Merger of Willie Boats and North River Boats

03:15 Complementary Operations and Product Lines

05:28 Employee Ownership and Its Impact

07:48 The Legacy of Willie Drift Boats

10:01 Local River Connections

11:34 Drift Boat Walkthrough with Ron

16:49 The Willie Boats Line

17:42 Willie & Sawyer Light Oar

19:34 Willie's Manufacturing

21:36 See you on the Water!

Watch with video on ⁠⁠YouTube⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠Spotify⁠⁠!

Rogue Rafting Company

Fishin Oregon

Sawyer Paddles & Oars

In this conversation, Ben Banson shares his journey from a student to a full-time outfitter, discussing the intricacies of whitewater rafting and fishing on the Rogue River. He highlights the seasonal transitions in his business, the unique experiences of fall fishing, and the challenges faced during COVID and wildfires. Ben also emphasizes the importance of community collaborations, family life as an outfitter, and memorable river experiences, offering valuable advice for aspiring guides.

Chapters

00:00 Welcome to the Sawyer On-Water Podcast

02:16 Ben Banson's Journey into Guiding

05:08 Getting Started as a Guide

09:33 Year-Round River Adventures

12:09 The Evolution of Guiding and Business

15:13 Transitioning from Guide to Owner

18:29 Fishing in the Rogue River Canyon

20:42 Challenges in the Outdoor Industry

23:45 Zip, Dip, and Sip Adventure Package

26:02 Raising a Family as a Commercial Guide

29:50 Humbling Experiences for Guides

34:29 Advice for Aspiring Guides

38:48 Rapid Fire Questions: Adventures and Favorites

40:42 We'll See You on the Water