Jam,

It's not lack of respec t at all it is just that times have changed. Back then no one thought anything of floating the wildest water around in a wooden drifter with a single pair of oars and no life jacket. I never knew anyone that died on the rivers either. We grew up on the river . It is only in the last 10 or 15 years that people have come to the conclusion that you had to have a welded aluminum boat to float anything safely and enough safety gear for an expedition in each boat. But then again most of the people floating now did not grow up on theses rivers. Take what you feel you need and more power to you. It's just not that hard or dangerous if you use your head.

Keeping things in perspective it's probably at least a million time more dangerous driving to the river. Yet I do not see people wearing nomex suits, helmuts driving trucks with full roll cages and 3 pt restraints. But if you forget your PFD or a 3rd oar you are reckless.