Stoke on the Water: Downwind Hood River

Highly recommend Joel for anyone looking to get their downwind "sea legs" on. His appreciation and respect for the river are matched only by his infectious downwind stoke and solid instruction skills. We really enjoyed our time with Joel and felt safe and comfortable learning from him in this new environment. Looking forward to more. Thanks Joel!!
Jul 7th, 2023

Joel accommodated our needs and adjusted to my friends and I skill level quickly so we did not waste any time going over things we were already comfortable with. He was educated to our progression in the time we had. I appreciated his guidance and top quality equipment. I will definitely be back for more.
Jun 15th, 2023

I initially went to Joel with stoke on the water for his downwind prep class, in which I learned a ton!! I absolutely will be continuing my education with him. And will be also getting my wife and daughter some classes with him. Extremely knowledgeable, and one of the safest paddlers I know.
Apr 1st, 2023

An all around fantastic experience in a unique part of the world. This is the perfect way to be introduced to downwinding in the gorge. Joel has a wealth of experience and knowledge about the river and is happy to give you that information. I really felt like he put us in a scenario that was challenging but also where we could find progress and "stoke". Your paddling ego might get knocked down a few notches at first but when you start to link some waves together it really is a fantastic feeling and rush. Joel is generous with his time and you can tell his goal is your success and desire to get back on the water. He's also just a great person to be out on the water with as well. Highly recommended!
Apr 1st, 2023

I highly recommend Joel Yang as a guide and downwind instructor. I took a clinic on downwind prep with him and knew he was the guide for me, so I added the progression packet for my next trip. It was an incredible experience learning about downwinding and having him share his knowledge of the water. He also shared numerous tips with me from safety, to gear, to equipment, and techniques along the way. Thank you Joel for all you did to support me in my journey to get on the water and experience some downwind on the Columbia River! I felt safe and supported every bit of the way and got to see the magic of Hood River too. It was exhilarating and humbling all at the same time to be on this body of water with the force of the wind! Ill definitely be back for more of Stoke on the Water!
Dec 12th, 2022