[portnavi2]

I got into paddling in CO last summer and am looking for experienced paddlers that are willing to take a newbie for some easy runs when the weather warms up. I have mostly paddled at pump house and the big bend. Please contact me if interested.

 

[LSB]

Buzzards get jaded about newbies that aint putting out.
Best to offer them beers or shuttle services or some other favors.

 

[deepsouthpaddler]

You might want to look into Colorado Whitewater www.coloradowhitewater.org . They have club trips that cater to new boaters in the class II-III range. They also have some instruction here and there. Good way to meet folks at your skill level and get some runs under your belt.

 

[mattoak]

Do your research. Show up at the easy runs, make friends, offer beers, ask to join a group for a run. Do not overestimate / under-disclose your experience and skills when asking to join a group for an "easy" run. Be honest. Better for them to allow you to join thinking the worst will happen (you swimming and them collecting your gear) and knowing they need to take it slow and show you the lines, etc. That way, if you are better than they expect, they are happy. If you do the opposite, and pretend to be competent but keep swimming and losing your paddle / boat, they will despise you for lying, making them do more work than they hoped for, and won't want you joining their group again next time.