“Niq with a Q” joined the Wet Planet Team in 2019. He splits his time between raft guiding and working as a whitewater photographer, shooting photos of Wet Planet Trips. Niq grew up in South Carolina near the Chattooga River and started his whitewater career after he graduated from Clemson University. He got a job at a local rafting outfitter on the Chattooga through a friend and never looked back.
When has always love to paint and draw. From mural work at breweries to helmet design for friends, the river and the outdoors is one source of artistic inspiration.
“Most of my work now is painting, whether acrylic or oil, it’s almost always related to nature and the outdoors, from abstract landscapes of my favorite rapids to intergalactic constellation works. Working in the outdoors is a heavy influence on my work, it’s almost impossible for it not to effect me.”
“My wife and I went for our 20-year anniversary and had an amazing experience! It was our first time and definitely won’t be the last. When they say they take care of everything, they really mean it. Wet Planet is organized, their equipment is in good condition, and there is a big focus on safety and enjoying the experience. Our guide Niq was fantastic, very knowledgeable, experienced, friendly, kept everything safe and interesting all day. He’d make sure we were prepared for each of the rapids and was clear on what to do…I got a kick out of some of the names for them. He also made sure we could make informed decisions about the optional cliff jump and Husum Falls. Will definitely request him on our next trip. The river is gorgeous and the views are amazing, it’s a beautiful area. Looking forward to coming back.” – Nicholas B. (Tripadvisor, 7/15/21)
“Awesome experience! Went with some friends for a birthday celebration, and Wet Planet did not disappoint. Very thorough orientation and safety education, solid equipment and awesome tour. The views from the White Salmon river were incredible; truly such a beautiful part of the PNW. Our guide Niq was awesome – super knowledgeable, a great captain of our ship, and full of fun info about the area and its history. We had such a great time, can’t wait to go again.” – Madelaine B.(Google, 5/29/23)
Interested in becoming part of the Wet Planet Team? Check out our Employment Opportunities.
You can join Niq on both half day and full day trips on the White Salmon River, Class V rafting trips on the Hood River and Wind River in the spring, and mutli-day rafting trips on Idaho’s Salmon River and Oregon’s Owyhee River.
Check out Niq’s Staff Spotlight!
