Old Hickory Dam

[thehick176]

Hey fellas, do any of you happen to know the hours of operation for the lock at Old Hickory dam? Thanks in advance!

[nofish]

Not sure when it opens but it closes to recreational traffic at 9:30. There's a number you can call and they'll tell you. Someone here will probably post it.

[thehick176]

9:30, really? I thought it was later than that. I'll be comin through there friday evening to check some of my spots for smallmouth. I appreciate the reply.

[Travis C.]

I had thought they start aronud 5:30am but never knew the cut off time.

You better quit locking thru to win those tourney's.

[thehick176]

I wouldnt do such a thing Travis! Everyone knows the Smallmouth fishing down there is horrible anyway, right?

[Dakota]

Call 847-3281 it's the lock master #. I think u can lock thru at 6am?

[thehick176]

Thanks Dakota. I'm more worried about their closing time rather than what time they open up. I'll be coming from the lake down to the river that evening

[Dakota]

Ah ok. I usually call ahead about 10 minutes. Sometimes it will speed up the lock thru time. U may know that already?

Originally Posted by thehick176

Thanks Dakota. I'm more worried about their closing time rather than what time they open up. I'll be coming from the lake down to the river that evening

[Buccaneer]

0600 is when they open. Keep the lockmaster phone number on your cell.

[Fishaholic]

Any tips for locking through in a small boat? I got a little 16 ft tracker with a 25. Boat handling I know a lot about, locks I know nothing.

[thehick176]

Its no big deal really but I can see where some might be intimidated by the lock. If your coming from the lake, on the inside of the wingwall there are sets of steps built into the wall. There is a green cord/wire hanging by the first set of steps that you come to, just give it a tug and you'll hear a horn go off letting the lockmaster know your there. Once he opens the gates all the way he will blow another horn letting you know to enter. Once your inside, there are multiple yellow buoys on both sides for you to tie your boat to. Stay tied up until they drop the water and get the gates open on the other side. They will blow another horn when its safe to untie and pull out. Pretty cool experience for someone who has never done it.

If you have any other questions or concerns feel free to ask. You know anyone here will help

If going back up make sure to have a sharp knife in case you tie to the wrong thing,I generally hold it not tie,still makes me nervous.
Have never locked thru old hickory but many on the ohio river.Those also have traffic lights,for a go after pulling chain,rope,and horn blast.