Zach spent over 20 years as an outdoor guide and professional bush pilot. These experiences gave Zach his inspiration for his artwork. Zach had the opportunity to get face to face with the wildlife species of the west.

Zach said, It is the close interaction with the animals, their personalities I try to capture not just the horns, claws and teeth.

Zach used watercolor paint, both transparent and opaque, exclusively to bring the animals and fish to life. Zach perfected the use of canvas board for his paintings, which eliminated the need for glass. Most people viewing his original artwork don't realize they are watercolor because of the vividness of the colors and lack of glass.

Before his death, Zach was working on a scientific fish coffee table book. Kerry Pride, his wife, finished the project with help of family and friends. All proceeds from this book go to the Zach Babat Memorial Foundation, which provides art scholarships for Montana and Alaska youth.