In Today’s Newsletter: From first descents and manatee encounters to rescue skills that could save a pinned boat, this week’s newsletter is packed with adventure, inspiration and practical paddling knowledge.

Kayaker Tyler Bradt turns heads by completing the first packraft descent of the Little White Salmon River, including Spirit Falls.

You’ll never forget an encounter with one of these gentle giants.

A: Just like any other rescue skill, it’s essential that you’ve practiced it before you get into a high-pressure situation. You can watch as many videos and read as many articles as you want, but there’s no better teacher than working through it with your own hands.

Of equal importance is staying in practice. It’s a good idea to refresh your (muscle) memory every so often, especially when it involves setting up gear you don’t often use. All this advice applies to using a Z-drag setup to haul a boat that has been pinned or wrapped.

In this article we’ll go over how to set up and use a Z-drag, but don’t leave it there. Gather the gear and get practicing.

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