Exploring the headwaters

[lfunk11]

So I boat on an impounded lake and I know you can go up the headwaters of the river that flows into the lake, but at some point it gets shallow and rocky. There are major rapids that people go down along the river. How do I as a beginner boater safely go up the headwaters a little bit? I have a depth guage, but if there is a rock hanging out I won't likely know until I hit it. There are big boulders around here so I am sure there are some in the river as well. I have no plans on going anywhere near the rapids - just exploring the lake a little bit. There are two other headwaters sections to explore of different smaller streams, but they should be much easier to explore.

I plan on asking someone at the marina, but I am sure their answer will be "Sure, you will be safe going up a little ways". Sorry if this a dumb question - I doubt there are any charts or maps of the lake available.

Its Cheat Lake in WV if anyone knows.

 

[oldjeep]

Re: Exploring the headwaters

Should be able to find some river depth charts, or interactive depth monitoring online.
Is this the river?
http://www.lrp.usace.army.mil/Portals/72/docs/navigation/MonongahelaRiverNavigationChart.pdf

 

[moosehead]

Re: Exploring the headwaters

Glad you are out and exploring in your new Crownie. I believe more pics are in order and you have a great opportunity to capture some this Labor Day weekend?

We have similar conditions in our Colorado River headwaters feeding into Lake Granby. While many runabouts and cuddies will drop anchor just below the River in a shallow basin, it would be both unwise and unsafe to venture further upriver in skinny water littered with boulders, trees, and other unforseen damage-inducing obstacles.

It would be much more effective to drop anchor/tie ashore in friendly waters, and either wade upstream and hike along the river banks, or perhaps take a tin john boat for exploring up river. Watch what others do in your area. The kids will love it (in calm waters only), fishing might be tremendous, and your new Crownie will stay pristine.

 

[lfunk11]

Re: Exploring the headwaters

Its not the Mon River that was posted above. Its the Cheat River. I am pretty sure its not too shallow right at where it narrows since there are some homes with docks there. I may just need to see where other boats are heading that are similar to mine.

I need to put up more pics of the boat - I literally have been out on it twice for about 20 minutes each time. I have had all these other commitments, but I have the whole holiday weekend to have fun on the boat. Of course they are calling for scattered showers/storms each day!

I think this is from the headwaters section - I know this is a waverunner, but I have seen many vids on youtube that I think are from the same area. Unfortunately I don't really know anyone with a boat around here - will need to make friends at the marina.

Cheat Lake, West Virginia - YouTube

 

[lfunk11]

Re: Exploring the headwaters

went up a good ways and found a beach along the river, big rocks along shore, and a bunch of boats tied up with a live band on a big houseboat! Was a good time, but had to leave since I had my kids with me and it seemed as though things were heading a direction where my kids did not need to see. They were setting up a big screen to show videos when we left - not sure what they were going to show, but I didn't want te kids to see.

 

[foodfisher]

Re: Exploring the headwaters

from what I hear about West "by God" Virginia, It's best your chillen experience everything in "your" presence.