One of World Kayak Porland’s new features is going to be a fun interview session called “Eddy out with………” This is going to be a short interview session with local boaters and pros alike. I recently sat down with my son Jeff and we talked about doing this and who we should start with to kick it off. I suggested Rush Sturges as he just recently moved to Portland and he is Jeff’s favorite boater. Jeff had his doubts about whether Rush would have the time to do it, but in between his shenanigans with Tyler Bradt and a stint on the injured reserve, he came through as expected. Here is the interview:

Name- Rush Sturges

Years boating- 16

Have you ever had a love affair with a boat?  If so what boat and why?  I guess the Nomad has pretty much been my main kayak for almost 8 years… It’s stood the test of time and in my opinion is still the sickest creeker out there! 

What is your favorite local run or play spot?  Tell us a little bit about it.  I’m from the Salmon River in Nor Cal and I grew up surfing a wave called Oak Bottom. It’s not there anymore, so now I usually go to a spot called Ikes or Trip Point when they are flowing. I recently moved to the Portland area so i’m keen to see what types of spots are around here… Let me know if you have some suggestions. I’m much more into waves than holes!

What are your top two destinations that you have traveled to boat?  I would prob say Chile for creekin and Quebec for big wave surfing. They are pretty hard to beat! 

 

What is you single favorite piece of boating gear?  Kayaking is hard to do without all the pieces of equipment, so I guess I love the whole package. Helmet, dry deck, paddle, booties etc. However, the coolest new thing i’ve played with is the Rapid Air device which we used on the Congo. It goes in your life jacket and gives you 5-8 extra breaths of air! Pretty cool and certainly something I would like to utilize more. It’s kind of bulky and heavy but why not have extra air when you’re pushing the limits? I plan on using it more often… 

Best Apres boating burrito?  California Burrito!

 

Thanks again Rush for being so down to earth. We are so proud to have you as part of our little community!