Jim Crystal

My best friend Bill Narus introduced me to Eric Smith, who got me started guiding during my master’s program at SOU. As a coach and teacher, I respect and enjoy seeing guests take on the challenges of whitewater and be willing to try difficult things in beautiful places. OTT lets me guide a variety of wild and scenic rivers in different environments and in different types of boats. It’s never the same trip. Always a new adventure and a new challenge with amazing people.

• Hometown: Winston, Oregon
• Favorite rapid or stretch: Upper and Lower Island on the North Umpqua
• Favorite part of a trip: All of it
• Certifications: Wilderness First Responder, CPR and AED, Swiftwater Rescue Technician, Commercial Driver License, Trip Leader Certification

I started guiding in the summer of 2019, I had no idea what I was doing at the time but I loved every second of it. I fell in love with OTT and the river and it's a place I never want to leave. The Rogue River Canyon is one of the most beautiful places in the world and I love going down there regardless of the trip. The amount of amazing people and connections I've made over the years are some I will never forget.

• Hometown: Portland, Oregon
• Favorite rapid or stretch: Wright Creek
• Favorite part of a trip: The confidence the guest gets from the beginning of a trip to the end
• Certifications: Wilderness First Responder, CPR and AED

Started working for OTT when I was 16 years old. Guided through my college years, then continued to guest-guide for many years. I enjoy both the camaraderie and friendships I have made with the staff and clients, and introducing new customers to the unique and special river experience.

• Hometown: Portland, Oregon
• Favorite rapid or stretch: Split Rock Rapid on day 3 of the Main Salmon
• Favorite part of a trip: Watching others gain confidence and start to enjoy paddling the rapids in IKs
• Certifications: CPR and AED