Alligator Tug Wreck – Catfish Lake, Ontario, Canada

4 min read

Site Overview #

Location: Catfish Lake, Ontario, Canada
Coordinates: 45°56’56.64″N, 78°32’51.90″W

Historical Significance:
The wreck at Catfish Lake is believed to be that of an alligator tug, a specialized vessel used primarily in marine construction and dredging operations during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Alligator tugs were designed to operate in shallow waters, with their distinctive long, narrow hulls and rear-mounted paddlewheels that earned them their name. These vessels played a crucial role in maintaining navigable waterways and constructing water-related infrastructure in Ontario’s lakes and rivers.

Dive Type: Shore Dive

Dive Site Features #

Entry Point:

Shoreline Access: The dive site is accessible from the shore of Catfish Lake. The entry point is likely from a nearby clearing or dock, providing easy access to the wreck. The lake’s calm waters make it suitable for shore entry.
Gradual Entry: The shoreline offers a gradual descent into the water, with the lakebed gently sloping towards the wreck site.

Wreck Overview:

Alligator Tug Wreck: The wreck is identified as an alligator tug, a type of vessel designed for dredging and marine construction. The wreck’s key features include the remnants of its paddlewheel, the flat, narrow hull, and possibly the dredging equipment that would have been mounted on the vessel.
Size and Structure: The wreck is expected to be relatively small, with a length of around 50 to 60 feet (15 to 18 meters). The low-slung hull and the large paddlewheel are the most distinctive aspects of the wreck, though the structure may be partially buried or deteriorated due to age and sediment accumulation.

Lake Bottom:

Silty Bottom: The lakebed around the wreck is primarily silty, typical of Ontario’s freshwater lakes. Divers should be cautious not to disturb the sediment, which can reduce visibility.
Vegetation: The area around the wreck may be overgrown with aquatic plants, providing habitat for fish and other wildlife. This adds an element of natural beauty to the dive and offers opportunities for underwater photography.

Visibility #

Conditions:

Visibility: Visibility in Catfish Lake can vary but generally ranges from 10 to 20 feet, depending on weather conditions and the level of silt disturbance. The relatively shallow depth and calm waters often result in good visibility, particularly in the summer months.

Additional Tips #

Equipment:

Dive Light: A dive light is recommended to explore the interior of the wreck and illuminate details of the paddlewheel and other features.
Wetsuit: A wetsuit is advisable due to the cooler water temperatures, especially in spring and fall.

Safety:

Buoyancy Control: Maintaining good buoyancy control is essential to avoid disturbing the silt around the wreck, which can significantly reduce visibility.
Dive with a Buddy: Always dive with a buddy, particularly when exploring wrecks or other potentially hazardous underwater environments.

Points of Interest #

Wreck Exploration:

Paddlewheel: The most notable feature of the alligator tug is its rear-mounted paddlewheel, which should be a primary focus of the dive. Although it may be partially buried or deteriorated, the paddlewheel represents a unique aspect of this specialized vessel.
Hull Structure: The flat, narrow hull of the alligator tug is another key feature. Divers can explore the remains of the hull, including any exposed internal structures or compartments.
Dredging Equipment: If present, the remnants of the dredging equipment, such as booms or cranes, offer additional points of interest.

Natural Environment:

Aquatic Life: The wreck site is likely home to various fish species and aquatic plants. The wreck itself may serve as an artificial reef, attracting a variety of freshwater species and enhancing the biodiversity of the area.
Underwater Photography: The combination of historical wreckage and natural scenery makes this site an excellent location for underwater photography.

RESOURCES & LINKS #

Google Maps Location: Catfish Lake, Ontario, Canada
Local Dive Shops: Contact dive shops in nearby towns or cities for information on equipment rentals, guided dives, and local conditions.
Ontario Historical Society: Reach out to historical societies or maritime museums in Ontario for more information on the history of alligator tugs and their role in the region.

CONCLUSION #

The wreck of the alligator tug in Catfish Lake offers a unique and historically significant dive experience. This site provides an opportunity to explore a rare type of vessel that played an important role in Ontario’s marine construction and dredging history. The combination of the wreck’s distinctive features, the clear waters of Catfish Lake, and the surrounding natural beauty make this an ideal dive site for those interested in both history and underwater exploration.