Shore Dive – Frenchman’s Creek Drift Dive

Type

Drift Dive

Depth

•Minimum: 10 feet (3 meters)

•Maximum: 30 feet (9 meters)

Drift Details

•Duration: Approximately 45 minutes

•Drift Speed: ~2.5 km/h (1.5 mph)

Description

This dive offers a leisurely drift experience through a fascinating underwater environment. The lakebed is a field of bleached zebra mussel shells, creating a stark and unique landscape. Divers can also expect to encounter numerous fish and discarded bottles along the way. The bothttps://shotlinediving.com/wp-content/uploads/52895851813_b64678c0f7_c.jpg is densely covered in sharp zebra mussel shells, so thick wet gloves or dry gloves are essential for protection.

Access

This dive requires two cars for logistical efficiency and is best done with three people.

1.Parking and Setup:

•Park both cars at the boat launch and assemble your gear.

•Have one person stay with the gear while the other two drive both cars to the Frenchman’s Creek Drift EXIT, as marked on the map.

2.Return to Entry:

•Leave one car at the exit point and return to the Frenchman’s Creek Drift ENTRY with the other car.

3.Start the Dive:

•Gear up at the entry point and swim out far enough from the shore to clear the weeds.

•Once you surface, locate the dock, which is a visible landmark and lies just before the exit point.

Visibility

•Ranges between 10 to 30 feet (3 to 9 meters).

•Optimal Visibility is achieved after a few dry days with no recent rain, as runoff can reduce water clarity.

Notable Features

•Bleached Zebra Mussel Shell Field: A striking underwater feature unique to this dive.

•Abundant Fish: Look for local species that are often curious about divers.

•Bottles and Debris: Scattered remnants of historical and modern activity.

Diving Safety and Recommendations

•Protective Gear: Wear thick gloves to prevent cuts from sharp zebra mussel shells.

•Navigation: Keep an eye out for the dock near the exit point to ensure you finish at the right location.

•Dive with a Buddy: As with all drift dives, diving with a buddy is highly recommended for safety and mutual support.

Additional Tips

•Plan your dive after several dry days for the best underwater Visibility.

•Ensure that your transportation setup is prepared in advance for smooth entry and exit logistics.

•Carry a dive flag to alert nearby boaters of your presence in the water.

Conclusion

The Frenchman’s Creek Drift Dive offers an exciting yet manageable underwater adventure. From the fascinating zebra mussel shell fieldsto abundant fish and historical artifacts, this dive is perfect for enthusiasts of all skill levels looking to explore a unique part of the underwater world. Proper preparation, including gloves and careful navigation, will ensure a safe and memorable dive experience.