A clean run of Buckskin Mary, a Class III rapid on the Lower Deschutes River, rowing our 14-foot SOTAR Classic ST.
Video: Lower Deschutes, Buckskin Mary on the SOLWYRX Paddlesports YouTube channel.
Disclosure: SOLWYRX Paddle Gear sells SOTAR gear, and I earn money when you buy it here. SOTAR also sponsors me as an athlete.
How Buckskin Mary works
At Buckskin Mary the water squeezes between piles of rock, and a wave train builds to a bigger wave at the bottom (ROW Adventures). In a loaded raft, the move I use is simple: set up straight, stay in the tongue, and hit that last wave square so it doesn't knock you sideways.
It's the same trip as Whitehorse Rapid, and the Lower Deschutes is a great multi-day river for building rowing skills, with enough real rapids to keep you honest and plenty of flat water to practice in between.
The boat
A 14' SOTAR Classic ST is the do-it-all size: big enough for gear and a crew, still small enough to row on technical water. My Classic ST buyer's guide covers every size from 10' to 18'.
Source: ROW Adventures, Understanding the Whitewater on the Deschutes River
Personal trip report: flows, wood and hazards change, and what worked for me that day isn't a rule for your boat or group. Check current conditions, scout, and boat within your training.
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Updated October 28, 2026 · By Jacob Linkhart, owner of SOLWYRX Paddle Gear · Spot a mistake? Email me and I'll fix it.
