Canoe Trip July 8, 2011
Ken and Brian left on board the SS Yahara about 9:30 from River Road 2nd bridge.
It was a sunny warm day about 84 degrees at game time. We found high grass on the banks which made it difficult to see beyond the river boundaries. Within the first hour we scared up a group of turkeys and a few deer bedding down. In total we saw one or more deer on three separate occasions. In one instance a deer resting in tall grass was startled and crossed the river about 30 yards from our canoe. The river level was a bit low and the ride would have been much better with another foot in depth. We viewed grass growing in the river in places where the sun was most prevalent, but a lot less grass then in the Western Green corridor. Bugs were a challenge. BRING BUG SPRAY. Water was a nice temperature and VERY CLEAN. There were several areas where the water level was such that we needed to pull the canoe to higher water. It is easy to see big rocks in the river ahead; however the hidden rocks below the surface of dark water will eat you up. BE CAREFUL. There were three good size blockages on this route and pretty much forced paddlers to portage or walk around the debris. The route took about two hours. Take bottled water and always pack your valuables in a plastic bag. A nice time was had by all! Safe travels to you……………..
Brian Tkachuk and Ken Woode