Zak Sears
Riggins,Idaho
Summary
Extensive 25 years of professional experience on Idaho's wild and scenic rivers, committed to advocacy, education, and action that safeguards river environments for future generations.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
Work History
Steelhead/Salmon Fishing Guide
Rapid River Outfitters
Riggins, Idaho
01.2021 - 06.2026
- Guided hundreds of clients each season to enhance their fishing experience.
- Managed care and handling of hatchery and wild fish to ensure optimal health and safety.
- Educated anglers on Idaho salmon and steelhead life cycles, fish and wildlife land management strategies, and public lands.
Lead Instructor
Swiftwater Safety Institute
, USA/Norway
01.2010 - Current
- Built curriculum and organized courses to align instruction with educational goals.
- Designed engaging lesson plans and interactive activities that enhanced student understanding and retention.
- Facilitated communication among outfitters, administration, students, and rescue services to optimize program operations.
- Collaborated with Forest Service and BLM land managers to ensure safe operations on public lands.
River Guide
Idaho
01.1999 - Current
- Led trout fishing trips on Middle Fork of Salmon River, enhancing participant engagement and enjoyment.
- Facilitated group dynamics and decision-making for large wilderness expeditions, ensuring safety and cohesion.
- Built and maintained relationships with hundreds of visitors each season to improve guest experience.
- Presented educational talks on natural and cultural history, land management, fish and wildlife, and natural resources, enriching visitor knowledge and appreciation.
- Coordinated event logistics by organizing transportation, supplies, and schedules for smooth operations.
- Resolved team disputes through open communication and collaboration.
- Addressed challenges in team dynamics to ensure effective collaboration.
Advocate
01.2017 - Current
- Advocated for conservation of public lands and waterways in the greater South Fork Salmon area, enhancing protection efforts.
- Collaborated with user groups and the Payette National Forest Service to develop actionable land management strategies for sustainable use.
- Served as public witness and submitted standing affidavits during Stibnite Gold Project hearings, contributing to legal proceedings.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Environmental Science
University of Idaho
Moscow, ID01-2011
Skills
- Idaho rivers expertise
- Environmental education
- Conservation advocacy
- Project management
- Public speaking
- Community outreach
- Emergency response
- Organizational skills
- Adaptability
- Communication skills
- Written communication
- Cultural awareness
Hobbies and Interests
- Angling
- Idaho's native fish populations
- Wilderness and public lands
- Communities that depend on Idaho's Wild and Scenic rivers
- Expedition Kayaking
- Historical wooden boat building
References
Caleb Zurstadt
East Zone Fisheries Biologist Payette National Forest Service 208-630-4576 caleb.zurstadt@usda.gov
Kevin Colburn
National Stewardship Director American Whitewater 828-712-4825 kevin@americanwhitewater.org
Fred Coriell
Associate Attourney / Board Member at Save the South Fork Salmon 208-315-3630
fredcoriell@gmail.com
Timeline
Steelhead/Salmon Fishing Guide
Rapid River Outfitters
01.2021 - 06.2026
Advocate
01.2017 - Current
Lead Instructor
Swiftwater Safety Institute
01.2010 - Current
River Guide
Idaho
01.1999 - Current
Bachelor of Science - Environmental Science
University of Idaho