Published by Stackpole Books, Inc
By Roger L. Fletcher
Illustrated by Samuel F. Manning
The purpose of this one-of-a-kind book is to present the lines and construction details of the original drift boats and river dories as spawned on Oregon’s McKenzie and Rogue Rivers. I wish to preserve the evolutionary lineage of their design. My research reveals that the history of the boats and their successive iterations are very much the stories of the people who built and used them -- their fishing interests, personalities, capabilities as craftsmen, and intended uses. It is impossible to separate the boats from the builders. The objective of this book, then, is to chronicle the logic of the boats’ evolution as it is reflected in the experiences of the individual boat builder, and to preserve the lines and construction detail of 10 historic drift boats. Each boat represent changes -- some subtle, others obvious – in form that followed function. The plans and detailed instructions provide sufficient detail that any one of the boats may be modeled to scale or built full size.
What People Are Saying
"An account of drift-boat evolution and design has been long overdue, but as this volume amply attests, well worth the wait. Roger Fletcher's research is as scrupulous, interesting, and useful as Sam Manning's first-rate illustrations. The result is a marvelous and absorbing book that combines history, biography, an aficionado's appreciation, and a practical guide to building what some of us consider the most elegant craft on moving water. An essential read for fishermen, river rats, and anyone who simply loves wooden boats." —Ted Leeson, author, Jerusalem Creek
"Roger got the job beautifully done, so these little river runners will live on for the pleasure of future generations as river runners, fishing platforms, or models." - Harold "Dynamite" Payson, author, boat builder and master modeler.
| Click here to see Grant McOmie's current story about my book (KATU-TV, Portland). The story involves Ray Heater and Roger Fletcher. To see the story as it appears on TV click on video. |
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Go here for views of this years McKenzie River Drift Boat Show at Eagle Rock Lodge, April 26.2008 |
For drift boat Plans, models and model kits, click on links below
Roger Fletcher and the Rivers Touch is dedicated to preserving and promoting the quiet wakes of drift boats on water, the most elegant of river craft.
Drift Boats and River Dories, the book
Hand Crafted Drift Boat Models
Photo by Brad Dimock during the launch of the Julius, Spring 2002. The hull was built here in September & October 2001 with bulkheads and decking completed in Flagstaff by Brad and friends that winter.
Grandson
scarfing his first panel.
Setting
the frames.
And it floats!
.