The elusive river rat, (or river runner if you don't like comparing things to rodents). We're not that elusive actually, mainly we go unnoticed in the general public. Its easy to tell why. Without our life jackets, dry suits, helmets, paddles, and boats, we blend in with the rest of society. You could have one living next to you. But not to fear we don't bite. Well, at least not the last three I run into.
But, what is it that we do? Besides look awesome! Well, we're outdoor enthusiasts. Anything outdoors might catch our interests. Many are park rangers. For must of us being outside, away from crowds and out of cell range, is our medicine (or drug). Many work all winter long so that they can play all summer long. Heck, some how I found myself driving a large yellow people mover. Others never leave a river for long. They either bundle up in layers and boat all winter long, or take their cues from birds and migrate. Still others don't care if the water they play on is liquid or frozen. Ah, the ski bums. Relax, not all river runners play hooky in the summer. I know many that have full time jobs, and use their passion for the rivers to ease stress. Lastly don't for get the adrenalin junkies. The crazy ones looking for the next world record drop off a waterfall, or the river less traveled.
How do you find a River Rat/Runner? Easy, find a river. One of us will float by eventually. If that doesn't work, then look for the fishing accesses. The rafters and fishermen are easy to spot in their large rubber or PVC plastic boats. Kayakers usually hang around the rougher or white water parts.
How do you become a river rat/runner? Well there are kayaking classes, rafting shops, guiding companies, and the river locals (you might find them in the local pub/bar). But, just get out there. Take a camera and/or a fishing pole and get your feet wet. Hang out at the local surfing spots or guide shops and show them your love for the river(s). That's how I got hired on to my current summer work place. I will worn you though, rivers are not places to be taken lightly. They kill people every year, so respect them.
In short river rats/runners are people with a love for the rivers of the world, and the riders of the world greatest Highways.
Talk to you later,
Yeti
But, what is it that we do? Besides look awesome! Well, we're outdoor enthusiasts. Anything outdoors might catch our interests. Many are park rangers. For must of us being outside, away from crowds and out of cell range, is our medicine (or drug). Many work all winter long so that they can play all summer long. Heck, some how I found myself driving a large yellow people mover. Others never leave a river for long. They either bundle up in layers and boat all winter long, or take their cues from birds and migrate. Still others don't care if the water they play on is liquid or frozen. Ah, the ski bums. Relax, not all river runners play hooky in the summer. I know many that have full time jobs, and use their passion for the rivers to ease stress. Lastly don't for get the adrenalin junkies. The crazy ones looking for the next world record drop off a waterfall, or the river less traveled.
How do you find a River Rat/Runner? Easy, find a river. One of us will float by eventually. If that doesn't work, then look for the fishing accesses. The rafters and fishermen are easy to spot in their large rubber or PVC plastic boats. Kayakers usually hang around the rougher or white water parts.
How do you become a river rat/runner? Well there are kayaking classes, rafting shops, guiding companies, and the river locals (you might find them in the local pub/bar). But, just get out there. Take a camera and/or a fishing pole and get your feet wet. Hang out at the local surfing spots or guide shops and show them your love for the river(s). That's how I got hired on to my current summer work place. I will worn you though, rivers are not places to be taken lightly. They kill people every year, so respect them.
In short river rats/runners are people with a love for the rivers of the world, and the riders of the world greatest Highways.
Talk to you later,
Yeti
Comments
Post a Comment