Nov 9 Demopolis to Bobby's Fish Camp

Nov 9


Back on the water today with a VERY early start.  Big group leaving Demopolis before first light as lockmaster said to come down as a group.  Told us to be there by 6 and we’ll be coming out lock in daylight.   Our group of 10 boats got through the lock and then split into groups of similar speed.    Fast boats or ones like us willing to make a LONG day of it were headed to Bobby’s Fish Camp – almost 100 miles away.  Slower boats would anchor further upstream at Bashi Creek.  We were the next to last boat to arrive at Bobby’s at 4:15. Last boat came in right at 4:45 just minutes before sunset.    Only that one lock in Demopolis to get through then just winding river scenery.   Nice day.  Started off very cold around freezing but as the sun came out it warmed into the lower 60’s.  Our enclosed flybridge along with the dark fabric  on the bimini top turns it into a greenhouse once the sun is out.  Hit a milestone today – we are now over 4000 miles into our trip – roughly 2/3 done.

Dressed up for the cold weather. 

We had 5 tows pass us so this seems like a little busier section of river.  Even had one going downstream we needed to pass.    I was hoping with a big group we would hook up with someone with AIS but that didn’t work out.  Only issue was a tow coming around one of the tight curves.   Saw him in plenty of time to communicate and work out passing directions but was surprised when the first barge suddenly poked out from the curve.

Tow passing us late in afternoon

Sometimes you forget just how small you are when compared to even a small tow

Bobby’s Fish Camp is an iconic stopping place for loopers.   Nothing special – just a 150’ floating dock where boats can tie up.  Seven boats rafted up tonight.  Interestingly they charge the same rate if you’re tied to the dock or the 3^rd boat out rafted – pretty good racket but it’s the only place   between Demopolis and Mobile you can actually tie up.  Otherwise this entire 200 mile stretch requires anchoring and there’s a very limited number of places.  Bobby’s is an old fish camp established in 1956 known for their “World’s Best Catfish”.  We opted for a shrimp platter and a catfish filet platter.    We’re not typically catfish eaters as it can too often be mushy and taste “muddy”, but this was some of the better catfish we’ve eaten.  

Bobby's fish camp

The dock at Bobby's

Journey for Nov 10