Shore Dive Overview: Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park

•Location: Mattawa River, Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park, Ontario, Canada

•Coordinates: 46.300374, -78.875027

•Dive Type: Freshwater Lake Dive

•Depth Range:

•Minimum: 6 feet (2 meters)

•Maximum: 15 feet (4.5 meters)

•Dive Duration: 30-60 minutes (depending on current and exploration time)

Historical Context

Voyageurs and Fur Trade

•The Mattawa River was a vital segment of the historic fur trade route in Canada, serving Indigenous peoples, European explorers, and Voyageurs for over 250 years.

•Canoes navigated this river as part of a larger network connecting the Great Lakes to the St. Lawrence River.

•The rapids and chutes of the Mattawa were some of the most challenging waters along this route.

Logging Industry

•During the 19th century, the river played a key role in the logging industry, with white pine logs floated downstream to sawmills.

•Divers may encounter remnants of this era, such as submerged logs or tools like peavey hooks.

Access

Entry Steps:

1.Parking:

•Park at the boat launch inside Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park.

•Ample parking is available for unloading gear and preparing for the dive.

2.Gearing Up:

•Assemble dive gear near the water’s edge.

3.Entry:

•Enter from the boat launch’s gradual slope. This makes for an easy walk-in entry point.

Dive Plan

•Starting Point: Begin your dive at the boat launch, descending along the sloping riverbed.

•Route: Follow the gentle current downstream, exploring the rocky bothttps://shotlinediving.com/wp-content/uploads/52895851813_b64678c0f7_c.jpg, submerged logs, and tape grass habitats.

•Features to Observe:

•Fish and invertebrates in their natural habitats.

•Artifacts and remnants of the fur trade or logging eras.

Visibility

•Typical Range: 10 to 20 feet (3 to 6 meters)

•Best Time: Early summer (May-June), before plankton blooms reduce Visibility.

Equipment Recommendations

•Dive Light:

•Essential for exploring dark, tea-colored waters and enhancing Visibility around underwater features.

•Exposure Protection:

•A 7mm wetsuit is recommended for comfort, as the river’s temperature can remain cool year-round.

•Surface Marker Buoy (SMB):

•Strongly advised due to potential boat traffic on the Mattawa River.

Diving Tips

•Dive with a Buddy: Always bring a partner for enhanced safety in darker water conditions.

•Monitor Current: While gentle, the current can influence navigation, so plan your dive accordingly.

•Artifacts: Handle with care and follow local regulations regarding removal or preservation of historical items.

Key Dive Features

1.Underwater Landscape:

•Rocky riverbed adorned with natural habitats like tape grass and sponges.

2.Historical Artifacts:

•Submerged logs and tools from the logging era may be visible.

•Potential remnants linked to the Voyageurs’ fur trade activities.

3.Aquatic Life:

•Varieties of fish and invertebrates, contributing to a vibrant freshwater ecosystem.

Practical Information

•Dive Costs:

•Ontario Parks Day-Use Fee: Ranges from $6 to $21, depending on vehicle and group size.

•Seasonality:

•Best conditions occur in late spring to early summer.

•Winter ice diving is possible but requires specialized training and equipment.

Resources & Links

1.Ontario Parks – Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park:

Samuel de Champlain Park for up-to-date fees and access conditions.

2.Mattawa River Historical Information:

Mattawa River History for context on the river’s significance.

3.North Bay Scuba Club:

North Bay Scuba Club for diving services and equipment rentals.

Conclusion

Diving the Mattawa River in Samuel de Champlain Provincial Park offers a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in Canadian history while enjoying a serene and accessible underwater environment. Whether you’re exploring remnants of the fur trade, submerged logs from the logging era, or simply admiring the aquatic life, this dive site delivers a memorable experience. Its rich history and natural beauty make it a must-visit location for divers in Ontario.

Tags

Shore Dive, Mattawa River Dive, Samuel de Champlain Park, Ontario Diving, Historical Dive, Recreational Dive, Freshwater Dive, Canadian Fur Trade History.