Middle Fork of the Salmon Camps | Gear Garage Live Show

This podcast is the audio version of the Gear Garage live show, where Zach answers submitted questions and talks shop on technical rafting. In this episode, Zach dives into the logistics of camp selection on the Middle Fork, discusses PFD innovations, and shares technical tips for raft maintenance.

Episode Summary

Zach starts the episode by highlighting the 40th anniversary of Clackamas River Festival and encouraging boaters to participate in the community races. The main technical discussion focuses on the Middle Fork of the Salmon, specifically how to navigate the camp lottery system and choose sites that accommodate larger groups and diverse frame setups.

The conversation shifts to safety gear, where Zach reviews the new NRS Vector PFD. He provides an honest critique of its flotation profile and comfort for rowers. He also answers a detailed question about raft repair, specifically how to deal with delaminating floors and when it's time to retire a vintage boat versus performing a major patch job.

The episode wraps up with a discussion on the value of subscribers for gear testing, explaining how a larger community allows him to get his hands on the newest equipment—like the NRS Vector—to provide unbiased reviews for the rafting public.

Topics and links that Zach talked about in this episode

• River Logistics: Planning for Middle Fork Salmon camps.
• Gear Reviews: The NRS Vector PFD and its design features.
• Maintenance: Using Stabond adhesive for structural raft repairs.
• Community: Participating in local whitewater festivals.

Key Questions and Discussion Points

• Topic: Trip Planning. "How do I choose the best camps on the Middle Fork for a 12-person group?"
• Topic: PFD Design. "Is the NRS Vector a suitable replacement for the Zen or the Green Jacket?"
• Topic: Repair. "What is the best way to fix a 12-inch floor delamination on an old Hypalon boat?"
• Topic: Channel Growth. "How do gear companies decide which influencers get to test new equipment?"

Connect with Zach

• Instagram
• YouTube

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.