Jim Crystal

Favorite River: Salmon River Off-season Pursuit: Operates Salmon River Drifters What I love about being a guide: Sharing my backyard with people who have never seen it before.

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 started guiding because I ran out of friends and family who would go rafting with me. Now OTT books the guests, provides the gear, and transports us to and from the river. My favorite thing to do is take first timers and people who are nervous. Watching them go from apprehensive to having fun is fun for me. The reason I work for OTT is they sent me an email after I went on a trip with them. It said they were hiring guides and I was welcome to try out.

• Hometown: Boron, California
• Favorite rapid or stretch: Wooldridge, because it's splashy and technical
• Favorite part of a trip: Getting to know my guests
• Certifications: CPR and AED, Commercial Driver License, Wilderness First Aid