I am curious about the motivations behind class V kayakers, and how you guys would react to losing your class IV - V rivers. This questions stems from me being a Missouri boater.

I know a hole in a class III rapid I would always hit if I could only paddle class III. Luckily I don't have to limit my whitewater pallet :)

Personally I think the canyons inherent with class 5 runs are just more interesting... deeper and more fun.

As I age, I know I'll be back to those class III runs.  There's still something cool about floating effortlessly through a forest. 

I'll never get tired of that, and class III runs are great for that.  If I only had more time I would do them more, but it's all about priorities for me.

Hard to say, but probably wouldn't get out as much.  I like the physicalness (sp?) of it and class II/III boating makes it a little harder to enjoy that aspect.  I'd be stoked to get my son on class II/III however so that would help.

The plain fact of the matter is that the longer you paddle class V, the harder it gets to keep paddling class V. Whether it's other life commitments taking away the time you need to feel comfortable on hard whitewater, injuries, or just the fact that after many years you will almost certainly have seen wayyy more things that are likely to give you pause before dropping into the gnar. Some people are better than others at striking the right balance of fear vs. ego while also continuing to paddle at a rate that will keep them uninjured but also honed to the proper mental and physical edge to perform at a high level. But no level of dedication can ultimately overcome the relentless advance of time. In the end, it often boils down to learning to gracefully allow time and the river to wear the rough edges off your ego, so that you can embrace the overall experience and the challenges you can find on easier whitewater. If the ego doesn't give, the boating will.

+1

not a class V boater -- but I love boating V any chance i get.  I like the ego bruising and knowing that our earth doesn't really give a damn about me.  That said, I would probably stop boating if there were only III, just because there are other options for getting that insignificant feeling.  Like, climbing any trad route, or hiking around Ranier or hanging with my family :-).

Leland, this is the first time I saw the photo you posted (haven't had internet)  That photo just puts a smile on my face, thanks so much!

I have decided to paddle specifically just in the bedroom, it seems less and more dangerous all at the same time...

We all miss you, too, Kyle!!!!!!!!!! I think about you a lot, brotha. I'll definitely paddle with you on the Ohane next year. I still hope to rock the rivers when I'm old ;) I am being serious when I say that. I paddled with a guy this year who has paddled the Payette for 30 years. We paddled the top ten of the NF and I was humbled as I watched that guy sort of 'laze' through the stuff like he was going for a walk in the park. 30 years or not the Payette is the Payette!! Respect. I admire your fire, Kyle. Can't wait for the Ohane!! Love ya, buddy. I mean, geezer ;) love ya...