Maine Guide: Robert Starbird A.K.A. “King of the North”
Name: Robert Starbird A.K.A. “King of the North”
Hometown: Temple, Maine
Age of First Rafting Trip: 45
(First day of training 5/17/13)
Year you started guiding at Northern Outdoors: Spring of 2013
What type of guiding do you do?
Whitewater Rafting, Hiking, Leadership Programs
What do you enjoy most about working at Northern Outdoors?
Has to be the people! I have never meet such a close knit, caring, safety conscience group of people. Being a outsider to the group I was taken in with open arms to a family of folks like no other. Every step of the way they have not only been there for myself but I noticed how much they are there for the clients and the group as a whole. From the top of the ladder to the bottom, these folks sure know how to have a fun time while treating you like family.
What is your favorite river to guide, and your favorite rapid on that river?
DEAD RIVER!!!!! No two runs are ever the same and you just never know what you will get until you are there. ‘Satan’s Hole’ is certainly no exception, with it’s unpredictable nature, it gives you a ride of a lifetime.
What’s your classic Northern Outdoors memory?
So many!! Surfing “Exterminator Rapid” on the “Nob” during Level 2 training was one I will never forget. Surfing “Satan’s Hole” on the “Dead” is also another that rings in my mind. Northern Outdoors continues to create memories that I will bring with me though the rest of my days. Thank you guys!
Where do you adventure when you are not working?
All over the “Blue Mountains” of Maine! Kayaking, canoeing, hiking, biking, spelunking, prospecting, etc. If it is outside, that is where I will be.
What do you do in the off-season when you’re not guiding for Northern Outdoors?
I work for Starbird Explorations, my own company specializing in Recreational Guiding, M.A.T.C. thru Maine Guide Service part time for the Kennebec River Ferry service. I also outsource for other companies for design and logistics involving off season guiding trips including Northern Outdoors.
Tell us about any certifications, special talents, guide awards.
Level 2 Whitewater Guide License, Recreational Guide License, Commercial Boat Operator’s License.
One loud loon / owl call.
2015 Kennebec Part Time Guide of the Year award from Northern Outdoors.
What rivers have you run outside of Maine?
No need to! Everything anyone would look for in a river run can all be found right here in our great State of Maine!
Which Kennebec River Brewery beer is your top choice after a day on the river?
Let ‘er Drift Summer Ale is good stuff!
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