John,
Welcome to the group.... would like to see the square ender... I built a 16' a couple years ago & run it pretty hard. I have lots of fishing buddies up in Portland.....

Sorry John, can't help you with the Nehalum... I don't know that one - I stick pretty much with the McKenzie, Willamette, and the Rogue. If Amato says it's OK - I'd go for it.

John. Yes we drift the Trask. Lorens is a popular drift accessed by another primitive slide that is rough on boats as well, but if you take it easy you will be fine. Similar situation as the Beaver slide on the Nehalem. The drift is moderate. Just remember to go to the left when you put the boat in. There is a big rock at the top right after you put the boat in. The left channel has just enough room to squeeze through. You can take out at 101 about 1/8 of a mile above hwy 101.The lower Wilson is easy as well. Your boat is probably small enough that it will handle the slides just fine but try and bring a buddy to help. When I say slide, I mean that you are sliding your boat down the actual bank over rocks, dirt, etc. They are not wood slides like you at other launches. You can call Tillamook Sporting Goods for a shuttle. Hope this helps! RD