Rogue Life

Josh St. John – Klamath Falls, Oregon

Josh St. John lives and grew up in Klamath Falls, Oregon. Today he works for the Union Pacific Railroad and visits the Rogue at least once a year. He has been floating the Rogue River since he was a young kid and first rowed the Rogue River at ten years old.

The Interview

What is your connection to the Rogue River?

I’m a recreational boater.

How long have you been floating the Rogue?

I grew up on the Rogue river. My first trip down the Wild and Scenic Rogue was when I was 6. My family and I spent at least one trip a year on the lower Rogue when I was growing up. Every year we took at least one trip down the river whether it was in the spring or summer. My first trip rowing my own raft down was when I was 10 years old. From there myself and my brother Tim Gibilisco have been running rivers ever since. Having kayaked or rafted over 120 rivers and creeks since, the Rogue River is where it all started.

What are the best qualities of the Rogue?

I love the remoteness of the Rogue River. The scenery and wildlife is amazing also. I just like the feeling that you get when leaving the put-in, that you will not be hearing the sounds of busy civilization. It’s just you and the river.

Favorite places on the Rogue?

I really like to stay at Horseshoe Bend when I can. Most of my trips are in the fall now a days. The fishing is usually decent around there in the fall and I like waking up and looking for wildlife across the river grazing in the grassy meadow.

Is there a sense of community on the Rogue?

I have met some amazing people down on the Rogue. That being said you do see some familiar faces every once in awhile.

How has the Rogue shaped your life?

Growing up on the Rogue River is where my grass roots began. Since those early days it was the Rogue where my river running began. I have been on many adventures since then whether kayaking or rafting.

What is the personality of the Rogue?

One the best overnight trips you can do. Good for family and friends. Intermediate rapids, with one rapid requiring some river running skill and knowledge.