Salmon River Drift Boat

[AKSkim]

Drift boats...

I have been considering a drift boat this year. I have observed that on the Salmon River the primary craft is constructed of aluminum and I have seen none of the pretty Clacker Craft multi coloured fiberglass boats. With the high flows rates, it appeared drift boating maybe the way to go.

This spring while at All Season’s Sports I got to inspect a couple of different anchors, the obvious weight aside I was intrigued by the style each demonstrated. Just adding to the interest...

No I have not rowed a boat (minus last summer when I was showing my kids how to) in more than almost 35 years.. I use to own a couple of 8 ft “prams” and 14 ft row boat. Adding more interest...

I am wondering why those guides on the Salmon River use aluminum boats vs. a fiberglass? Cost or the ability to hold up to the daily grind and ramming of rocks…???

George O’Brien cooks burgers onboard his Salmon River drift boat for his clients.. NOW THAT creature comfort really got my interest...

I had seen a photo of Matt Supinski’s boat with a nice propane heater onboard, an important winter steelhead fishing amenity… BIG CREATURE COMFORT…

Seriously, I would like to hear from those that own drift boats that would be willing to educate me, and maybe head me in the right direction. Over all length, hull thickness, manufacturer, width, types of seats and seating arrangement, oars, important creature comforts, amenities, heaters, grills and other important items.

I also saw a drift boat attachment for an outboard motor… hummm a serious creature comfort… or would it be considered too gouache for the Salmon River?

As always, more than willing to wear an ascot on a drift boat.

AK Skim