Jim Crystal

This was just a summer job, and now it is my career. I enjoy seeing the smiles and excitement on everyone’s faces when they get to go on our trips. I love hearing about their experiences at the end. How were the rapids? Did you ride the bull? How was fishing? How big of a fish did you catch? I can truly say I love my job and the people I work with.

• Hometown: Merlin, Oregon
• Favorite rapid or stretch: Mule Creek Canyon on the Rogue River
• Favorite part of a trip: All of it, especially the lodge trips. The lodges are great!

I started my guiding career in summer of 2017. I carry the name as a 3rd generation river guide. I enjoy this job over the rest because our customers always show up to have a fun time and the vibes are good. I work with OTT to uphold our traditions and saga as one of the best whitewater experiences in the world.

• Hometown: City of Rogue River
• Favorite rapid or stretch: Inner-tubing the Class IVs, Mule Creek Canyon and Blossom Bar
• Favorite part of a trip: Stargazing
• Certifications: CPR and AED, IRF Level III Trip Leader

I was born and raised in Merlin. OTT and the Rogue River were my backyard, and I have a deep and rich history with the company stemming back to my childhood. Guiding well requires a ceaseless drive to improve, and I love that element of the craft. OTT is truly a team-based approach to wilderness adventure and, like sport, it’s a beautiful thing to see the guides working as a cohesive unit in service of making these experiences magical for guests.

• Hometown: Portland, Oregon
• Favorite rapid or stretch: Fawn Falls to the Submarine Hole on the Illinois River
• Favorite part of a trip: Connecting with people and seeing them grow from trepidation to triumph over the course of a trip!
• Certifications: CPR and AED