Petawawa River Dive Site Report

IDENTIFICATION & SITE INFORMATION

Location:

Petawawa River, Village of Petawawa, Ontario, Canada

Access Point:

Via North Street, opposite the golf course

Maximum Depth:

35 feet (10.7 meters)

Optimal Diving Depth:

10 to 20 feet (3 to 6 meters)

SITE OVERVIEW

The Petawawa River dive site is situated in a pool below the final rapids of the river, adjacent to a golf course. This dynamic and varied site offers a blend of natural and man-made underwater features, providing an engaging experience for divers of all skill levels.

KEY FEATURES

Shallow Platform

•Depth: 4 to 6 feet (1.2 to 1.8 meters)

•Description:

A wide, shallow area extending approximately 40 meters from the shore. This platform is ideal for entry, initial descent, and dive preparation, offering a stable and easy starting point.

Clay Wall

•Height: 3 to 6 feet (0.9 to 1.8 meters)

•Description:

A distinct drop-off at the edge of the shallow platform. The clay wall serves as a visual and structural highlight, with variations in height adding interest for exploration.

Upstream Terrain

•Description:

Diving upstream from the clay wall, the bothttps://shotlinediving.com/wp-content/uploads/52895851813_b64678c0f7_c.jpg transitions from sandy to gravelly, and eventually to boulder-strewn areas near the rapids. This diverse substrate creates an engaging environment for divers interested in underwater landscapes.

Downstream Area

•Description:

Moving downstream from the clay wall, divers encounter submerged logs over a sandy bothttps://shotlinediving.com/wp-content/uploads/52895851813_b64678c0f7_c.jpg. This area is rich in aquatic life, with many fish hiding among the logs. Divers should exercise caution due to the presence of lost fishing lures.

Far Side of the Pool

•Description:

The far side features darker, more varied terrain, including rocky, sandy, and Bark-covered areas—a relic of the river’s logging history. Scattered golf balls from the nearby golf course add a quirky aspect to this section.

CURRENTS & Visibility

•Currents:

Variable currents can occur, with occasional surges near the rapids increasing water velocity and altering direction. Divers should be prepared for these changes, especially closer to the rapids.

•Visibility:

Generally good, but conditions can fluctuate based on recent weather and water levels.

MARINE LIFE

The site is home to a variety of freshwater species, including bass and other fish. The submerged logs and boulders provide excellent habitats, ensuring divers can enjoy encounters with the local aquatic life.

SAFETY AND HAZARDS

•Currents:

Unpredictable currents, especially near the rapids, can make navigation challenging.

•Fishing Lures:

Lost lures in the logs pose potential hazards; divers should proceed carefully.

•Golf Balls:

While not hazardous, the golf balls scattered across the site are a notable and unusual feature.

CONCLUSION

The Petawawa River dive site is a must-visit for divers looking for a varied and dynamic underwater experience. With features like the clay wall, changing upstream and downstream terrains, and relics of the river’s logging history, the site offers a fascinating blend of natural beauty and historical intrigue.

The shallow depths and accessible entry points make it suitable for divers of all levels, while the site’s diverse underwater features provide plenty to explore. Be prepared for the currents and remain cautious around submerged hazards to ensure a safe and enjoyable dive.

Tags:

#PetawawaRiverDiving

#FreshwaterDiving

#UnderwaterExploration

#DivingOntario

#ClayWallDiving

#DynamicDiveSites

#RiverDiveCanada