In the soft light of evening, a herd of bighorn is clamoring down the rocks toward the creek for water. In the rain a black bear shakes off the water and ambles toward a berry patch. No matter what time of day, what season, or what the weather, wildlife- viewing opportunities abound along the river. The land is alive. Still, successful wildlife watching requires some information, some planning, the right equipment, and at least a little bit of luck.
Sound travels far over the water.
Keep your voice low when you're looking for wildlife, and keep all noise to a minimum. If you can stay quiet, floating silently on a river can be a great way to approach wildlife. Get out early. Getting out on the river early gives you the best chance to see deer moving back into the trees after a night of feeding along the riverbank or a black bear that's been digging for insects and grubs on a hillside during the darkness. Stay out late.