6-12-2012; Anchorage at Harpeth Island, Ashland City, TN

After staying a 3rd day at Clarksville, we went for our walk, got some ice, and were back on the river by 8:30.  We had our first lock of the year at Mile 148.7-Cheatham Lock and Dam.  It has floating bollards and we went up 26'.  All went smooth.  We did have to wait for an on coming tow that was changing crew just before the lock.  After about 40 minutes, the Lock Master said he would let us lock through first because the tow was taking so long.  We thanked him and were in and out of the lock withing 20 minutes.  Our anchorage was only about 6 miles after the lock just behind Harpeth Island.  This anchorage was a lot like Dover Island; deeper water but good protection from the wind.  We got to our anchorage about 13:00.

N36 17.639
W87 07.015

CO's comments:  I was amazed at the barge traffic that is on the Cumberland River.  The other night (after dark) I saw several fisherman sitting in the middle of the channel on a curve.  A tow came by pushing 12 barges, started around the bend, and then saw the fisherman.    It is the first time in a long time that I have heard the "5 Blasts" from a tow.  This means get out of my way now or you will be run over as I can't stop!

Clarksville new marina that was supposed to open in 2010.  It is not open yet but they are getting close.

This boater had a nice lift put in for his boat instead of a dock.  The lift and installation probably cost more than the boat!

Sun set on 6-12-2012 by Harpeth Island

Reflection of the sun starting on Ashland City buildings.                                                                            

Aft view from our anchorage.  Beware of shoaling when traveling up stream and entering this anchorage.   Some boaters have put up a volley ball net at the point and the water is only about knee deep.