Mike Gehrman, your host, built his first Mckenzie river boat at age 11. The Mckenzie was a 10 minute walk from his home so the river was where he spent his spare time. In 1958, he began guiding fly fishermen on the Mckenzie.
In college he lettered in crew, studied fish and game and graduated from OSU with a teaching degree. He taught school and guided in the summers until he became director of one of Multnomah County’s outdoor school programs.
In 1977 experience began to merge, and he commenced construction of Talapas, the 51 foot canoe that would hold a full classroom of students. Over the years, students have claimed that his field trips are “the best they’ve ever been on.” In 1981 he formed WyEast Expeditions.
A river is a dynamic experience. Mike’s satisfaction comes in helping folks to enjoy what he grew up with.