Learn To Use A Throw Bag By:Ben Atherton

Throw bags are an essential tool for any swiftwater scenario, whether it’s scouting a rapid, or setting up a live bait rescue, throw bags are always needed. Using throw bags can be quite the daunting task but with these simple steps you should feel more prepared. 

Step One: Have your throw bag 

As obvious as this step sounds, it’s commonly skipped. I’ve heard of and experienced many events where I could not help because I didn’t have a rope. For example, on Wilson Creek in North Carolina I was on a guided trip and we got out to scout. While the entire group walked along a large slick rock to get to the bottom of the rapid a kid fell in. Only our guide had a rope and he missed his toss. Although the swimmer was fine, he could have been hurt.

Step 2: Practice Throwing 

Being able to throw a bag well will mean that you can be more accurate, and throw further. The only way to get better is to practice! First, throw a bag to a partner without using the rope. Try and figure out how you feel comfortable throwing and holding the bag. Then, slowly back up and work on long throws. Once you’ve done this you’re ready for the next step.

Step Three: Throw The Bag With Rope

Using the skills that you’ve just learned, throw the bag while using the rope. With most bags you will need to unclip a buckle, pull a string, and open the bag. Grab the end of the rope with you’re non-throwing hand. Next, wrap it around your waist while making sure that it opens downstream. In other words, the bag needs to be on the downstream side of your body belay. And finally throw your rope to your target, which should be just upstream of a swimmer. Now that your rope is out, you’re going to need to put it back in your bag.

Step 4: Return Your Rope To Your Bag

Once it’s been thrown your rope has to be returned to its bag. Now you may want to make neat coil, or just ball it up, but neither one is good. Place the flaked rope behind you and pull the bag over your shoulder and hold it between two fingers. Finally shove the rope in bit by bit using you index finger and thumb. Now close the bag for the next use