Kayaking Below OH Dam
 

I'm thinking about putting in below the dam and paddling up Mansker Creek. Bad idea?

My main concern is being able to paddle from the mouth of Mansker Creek back upstream to the truck. Forecast is for two or more generators, discharge of 20,000 CFS.

20,000 is a bit much for a kayak I would think. If you parked on the Hendersonville side of the dam, could you carry your yak down the Mansker creek? Or you could access it from Gallatin road. Our kayak guys could help you out better than I can....just some suggestions.

I've often thought about parking at Tractor Suppy on Centerpointe and walking across the field behind it to Mansker. Not sure how easy it would be to get a kayak across there, but it's a thought. Do they make a set a wheels you could strap on one end?

Just depends on your physical capabilities. I consider myself a strong paddler, don't confuse that with being in shape, athletic, or strong in general I wouldn't want to give the wrong impression. I've paddled below Old Hickory under 2 generators and 20,000 cfs. I've floated down a mile and a half or two miles and paddled up against it. The key is finding eddies to tuck up in on the way back and keeping a good rhythm using your torso in your stroke, having a good lightweight efficient paddle, long powerful steady strokes are the key. Also staying close to the bank is a must, as it seems the current is slower, and you can easily hop out and get on the bank if needed. 20,000 cfs is about max though.

IF they are running good flow just put in a Mansker Park off Caldwell. The water backs up all the way to the park and its not a far paddle out to the river.

I have waded from there to the river a ton and it's not really all that far. Heck as a kid my grandparents lived off by the dickerson road/hwy 41 bridge that crosses Manskers and I'd walk from that bridge all the way to the river. Then again I may not be normal when it comes to fishing.

Put it this way...if you drive over hwy 386/Vietnam Veterans and the water down there is up out of banks then you have a route from the park. If its not then you may have limited dragging but can still make it no issue.