I've owned 4 Clacks and have one now. I've rowed and owned most makes and models of boats in the 40 years I've been rowing rivers. There are no perfect boats, but don't be frightened away from glass boats. The 16 Clack is the best rowing driftboat out there. I bought the 18 Clackamax because I like the extra room and also load it with camping gear for the Deschutes, John Day, etc.

The standard sided Clack has slightly lower sides than most aluminum boats and it's really easy to get in and out of. It is VERY capable indesign and function of the OP rivers. If you're young and don't mind the higher sides and might want to use your new boat on the Deschutes, you might consider the Clack high side boat.

The (somewhat) new bottom design of the Clackacrafts moved it into an equal of the metal boats for tracking, rowing, etc. But the low water capabilities of glass boats far exceeds the aluminum boats. Lavros are well built, but don't row as well as a Clack. Older Clacks - pre dimpled bottom/tunnel hull - frankly don't row very well.

[/quote]
Why not call Clackacraft and see if they have any Forks area guides that are running their boats and then get their take.
[/quote]

Pretty sure Jeff Woodward (sp?) runs a Clack. I think it's a Clack Max too. Te 18 footer. Most the guys tell me that boat is too big, but I'm sure he loves the room.

JD

Woodward rows a Willie, except when the Hog Quest boys are in town.

So do I. As for the whole denting vs shattering debate, I'd prefer a dent. Although they are hard to come by, and I hit rocks on a regular basis.... Occasionally with great authority.

The only Forks guide that I can think of that runs a Clack is Jim Kerr. Why? I have no idea.... It probably has something to do with flyfishing. I rowed it and was unimpressed. I think he likes their trade-in program.

There's a contingent of Hyde supporters in Forks. The wide rear end supports an angler in the back better than a Willie does. They still row poorly, in my opinion. It's up to the user to determine if the sacrifice is justifiable. They also dent easier than a Willie.

Otherwise most of us gun Willie's. Most notably the 30 yr+ veterans like Craig Hunley, Larry Scott, etc.

And then there's Bob. His Wild Hair looks pretty wicked, but I've never rowed it. It obviously works, and well, for him...