Gear Garage Live Show | December 11th, 2023

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

• Check out the Makita Blower Adaptor at River Hardware
• River Radius Podcast

Questions that Zach covered in the Q&A section of this episode

Topic: MFS log jams

What are your thoughts regarding the upper MFS log jams come late May 2024? I imagine it's up to mother nature but are there talks of humans removing some/all of the log jams?

Will the forest service adjust private boater permits if they're still there and 'impassible' for rafts wanting to launch at Boundary or will they say 'figure it out' and permit holds will have to launch lower down, such as flying in to Indian? Keep up the great show, Zman.

Topic: Boat Recommendation

First off, I’ve been enjoying your YouTube channel for a while now and taking in every bit I can. Great content!
I know you’ve mentioned how so many people ask you what should I buy, what’s best for me, and the similar types of questions.

Right now I’m boating a 12’ Aire Wave Destroyer with a DRL River Gypsies frame. I need to look for something bigger for my wife and I for day trips and the occasional multi day trips. 14’ cataraft seems to be what I keep coming back to. Now for my question, If you were looking for a “new” 14’ cat and frame what would you look at?

I live in SW Colorado and my home water is the Dolores River so primarily cold shallow water.

Topic: Power Banks Solar

I've resisted this for a while, but I'm coming to the conclusion I need to equip my raft with a power bank and solar array. Ideally I'd like to have both and related gear in a single ammo can.

Have you investigated this/do you have recommendations?

Thanks for your show.

Topic: Wooden Dory - Illinois

Hey, I was looking at Fretwater Boats wooden dory called the doryak. I am a very mediocre boater but have an interest in the Illinois River. Also love floating wooden boats.

As far as I know, there hasn’t been a wooden boat down the illy. The doryak is small, agile and can go down the Grand Canyon, seems like the boat for the illy. What are your thoughts?

If you have questions for the next episode, send them our way on our online form!