My 2 cents

"RIVER RIGHT" is usually oriented from a downstream perspective, so Matt's meaning look to your right as you paddle upstream. I know picky, picky. I don't remember the current being real difficult on the French River till you're past your exit to Baptism Ck. I missed it and paddled my 17.5' Voyager all the way to the falls on the French %(%^%(&$ :'(. Yes, I had my hands full. But like Jimbo's story, I saw parts of the park not many have seen  :D.

You might want to put your hammock up where Jimbo told you to stop and ponder a short-cut. Then the next morning do as he said and continue the portage to Cashe Lake.

I noted 9 portages on the Cashe River From Cashe Lake to Kawnipi, 4 below the portage to Ferguson Lake. The portage to Ferguson Lake might be an option if the traveling is slow or the perch are biting on the Cashe River. Cashe Lake to Kawnipi took me 10 hrs in spring conditions carrying 1# of leaches and way too much stuff. Met Matt that trip and he was like "wow, you got too much stuff"  ;D I did.

You'll like the trip I think. It's remote. Watch your pace & maps, eat & drink. Enjoy it all. The portages aren't a race. You'll be back again.