Bob

"TheKing ... please see the thread entitled "Sol Duc Fatality""

I read that. If he would have been wearing a wetsuit and PFD vs. waders he would have lived. I have never been in a boat on a river in waders , that is as foolish as it gets.

TheKing, it sounds like you've stumbled onto the wrong BB. This board is about fishing, the use of hard and soft boats and wearing waders. From your post's, I'm guessing you've never rowed a hard drift boat through a boulder garden.

Here's a link to a BB that sounds like a better fit for you, soft boats, wetsuits etc. Thanks!

http://p204.ezboard.com/fjswebfrm38

Kyle,

Nope I just think that safety needs to be kept in perspective. You newbies to the NW have everyone convinced it's the most dangerous thing going. You should try the wetsuit it fishes fine. No clothes , no rain gear no sinking if you have to swim. I mean since river saftey is paramount.

Hmmmm. Ok. I'm forty. I was born here. I'm done with this thread.

I have a 2 pc break down oar under the front seat. If I am ever worried about a drift I will assemble it before I leave. I don't think anyone really needs a break down spare. A full length spare if positioned in the boat right is not a big hassel.

I have had to use my spare a few times and I would get one the same length as your other oars so you won't have to have your arms too far apart when rowing!!

I use waders from a boat and most people I know that FISH do too because you're prone to get out on the beach and work a small stretch from the bank at times.

There is a difference between being on the river going down for the fun of it and being on the river for the purpose of fishing. While drifting a river and fishing you will purposely position the boat in areas that are somewhat perilous, in front of or slightly to the side of log jams, big boulders, and chutes, pulling hard on the oars to keep your position. If an oar snaps you will instantly start to spin and momentarily loose control because you're still pulling on the other oar through that stroke. This very situation demands a hightened sense of awareness and preparedness because 'Murphy' has been known to apply his principles in these very instances. Having backup gear is prudent. I've been fishing Alaska, Canada and Washington for 30 years. Backup resources and attention to detail are part of the reason I'm still around to partake in these discussions

Thanks for your advise, TC!