Meet JRA RiverRat Steve Forrest

Steve Forrest, a 58 year old RiverRat from Powhatan County, is self-employed in the advertising and marketing biz when he’s not in his canoe. Here’s his story about his relationship with the James River:

Nobody went to the James River when I was a kid. It wasn’t until I was in college at VCU and the early days of the James River Park System that I went down to the river.  Then, it was a cool place to hike, rock-hop and swim. One day, I took a fishing pole with me and things just snowballed from there. I’d rather fish for Smallmouth bass on the James River than just about anything else. Unless it’s fly-fishing for shad below the fall line during the spawning run.

I patrol the seven mile section of the James between Cartersville in Cumberland County and Belmead in Powhatan County. It’s a predominantly flat stretch that is ideal for beginner paddlers or anyone looking for some relaxing river time. (Take out at Westview for a quick 5 mile paddle.) I chose this stretch because it’s close to where I live and I want to get to know it better. I paddle a solo canoe on most patrols. If it’s windy, I’ll take the kayak.

Becoming a RiverRat was a no-brainer for me. I figured that since I’m out on the river so much anyway, I might as well help the folks at JRA. While working the JRA booth at the Banff Film Festival and helping out at JRA’s James RiverFest this year, I really enjoyed sharing what knowledge I have with people who genuinely want to know more about the river. I learn some things, too, which is a bonus. 

Anyone with an interest in the James River should become a RiverRat. For river veterans and those who are just becoming interested and passionate about the James, the program is a great way to get more involved, share and learn from JRA staff and fellow RiverRats. You get a nice hat, too.

Learn more about the RiverRat program at www.jrava.org/get-involved/volunteer/riverrats