Built on a Lifetime of River Experience
Outdoor Voyagers isn't a startup — it's the continuation of a family legacy on the Salmon River that spans generations.
How Outdoor Voyagers Came to Be
A family legacy, a lifetime on the river, and a commitment to doing things differently.
Where It Started
Jared Black grew up on the Salmon River. His family — specifically his grandfather Rex and uncle Rob — ran R&R Outdoors for over 20 years, guiding thousands of guests down the same stretch of river that Outdoor Voyagers runs today. Jared spent his childhood on the water, learning to read rapids, set up camp, and take care of people in the backcountry.
From Passion to Experience
After years of guiding and working in the outdoor industry, Jared built a deep understanding of what makes a river trip great — and what makes one fall short. He saw how large operations often prioritized volume over experience, and how the personal touch that made his family's trips special was getting lost.
The Opportunity to Build Something Different
When the chance came to start his own outfitting company on the Salmon River, Jared took it — not to build the biggest operation, but to build the best experience. Outdoor Voyagers was founded on the idea that a river trip should feel personal, not factory-made.
Why Outdoor Voyagers Exists
Outdoor Voyagers exists because Jared believes that the best river trips happen when the guides actually care — about the guests, about the river, and about the experience. Every trip is designed to feel like you're floating with friends who happen to be experts, not strangers running a business.
The Moment That Shaped Everything
There wasn't one single moment — it was a lifetime of them. Watching his grandfather greet guests by name. Seeing his uncle cook dinner over a Dutch oven while telling stories. Learning that the river isn't just a place to have fun — it's a place to connect. Those moments shaped how Outdoor Voyagers operates today.
What That Means for You
It means your trip won't feel like a transaction. It means your guides will know your name, your kids' names, and what kind of adventure you're looking for. It means the food will be good, the gear will be right, and the experience will be something your family talks about for years.
Come Float With Us
Experience the Salmon River with a team that's been doing this for generations.