Joe Wheeler to Columbus, MS

We departed Joe Wheeler along with a group of 22 boats Friday morning heading north on the Tennessee River.  We got through the Wheeler Lock without any delays; however, the Wilson Lock was working on a large tow causing a 3+ hour delay.   

The lock master took a couple pictures of our group along with a dozen bass boats. 

We thought it strange to have bass boats going through the lock, but it turns our there was a huge bass tournament going on at the park adjacent to the Florence Harbor Marina, which is where we were headed.  Needless to say, it was hectic getting into our dock.  

The next morning, the tournament continued with a 6am start.  Yep, that's about 125 bass boats waiting to be released!

Sunday morning we had a easy 43 mile run to Aqua Yacht Harbor were we joined 45 other looper boats.  Some were planning on leaving their boat and heading home for Thanksgiving while others were continuing with their journey south.  

Leaving Aqua Yacht Harbor is the start of our 8 day run to Mobile Bay!  We have daily runs now averaging 60 miles a day, staying at marinas or anchoring each night.  

Early start from Aqua. 

Once we got back out into the river we found ourselves in a thick blanket of fog.  We could have turned back, but with  radar and two chart plotters guiding our way, we continued on at idle speed for 2 hours until the fog lifted.   We went through 3 locks and made it to Midway Marina well before dark.  

Tuesday morning we left Midway at dawn for a 58 mile run with 4 locks to Columbus Marina. 

We got into Columbus Marina shortly before dark.  It was a little tricky getting in but we got great instruction from Steve at the marina.  The next morning we were up again before light.  There were 5 other loopers leaving with us before sunrise.....two of which went aground waiting for the tow to clear the lock.  Luckily they were able to get themselves off.

Only 6 more travel days to Mobile Alabama!!