Aug 18

Ottawa IL to Henry IL 35 miles and one lock


As is normal we arose early had half a muffin apiece and I had two cups of coffee while I finished preparing the boat to leave.  This involves plotting the course for the day, checking the power, rolling up the hoses, and power cords and checking all the ropes.  The only catch this morning was a stuck power cord.  Had to really tug to get it off but off it came and everything looks ok.  

The very first thing on the trip was Starved Rock Lock and Dam that required 1.5 hours to get though.  After that all was good.  Fuel usage averaged 6 miles per gallon. That means a current with us.  The River has changed now it has occasional limestone cliffs and mostly sand bars.  It looks like the Mississippi with lots of good spots to stop and put up a tent.  Chicago is long gone and now mostly grain elevators and country.

Things seen today

  • 3 bald eagles
  • About 40 egrets. (They we’re in flocks so hard to count)
  • 1 pelican our first on this trip it is good to see
  • 2 big jumping fish
  • 6 barges even talked to one 
  • 11 fishing boats 
  • 8 Bridges


After arriving at the dock we walked into town to check thing out.  Bought a drink semi cold and donut holes then sat in a park for a snack.  Went back to the boat to cook dinner and now I am sitting in some cool shade watch ribs slowly cook.







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