Location:
Lake Clear, Ontario, Canada
GPS Coordinates:
Specific GPS coordinates not provided; approximately 150 meters straight out from shore.
Depth:
- Shallow Section: Platform located at a depth suitable for beginner divers.
Accessibility:
- Shore entry available with easy access to the platform area.
Site Overview #
Description:
The Lake Clear Training Platform dive site is a well-established location used primarily for scuba training purposes. This site is particularly popular for open water certification courses, offering a controlled environment where trainees can practice essential diving skills without the risk of kicking up excessive silt. The centerpiece of the site is an 8’ by 8’ wooden platform that rests on the lakebed, approximately 150 meters straight out from the shore.
The platform serves as a stable, flat area where new divers can focus on mastering their buoyancy, mask clearing, regulator recovery, and other foundational skills. This site is designed to be both practical and engaging for novice divers, with various small artifacts placed around the platform to provide additional interest during training sessions.
Underwater Features:
- Training Platform: The main feature of this dive site is the wooden platform on the bottom of the lake. It offers a safe, stable surface for practicing scuba skills.
- Artifacts: Scattered around the platform are several interesting objects intended to capture the attention of trainee divers. Among these is a submerged bicycle, a favorite for divers looking to test their underwater navigation or simply have a bit of fun.
- Crayfish Population: Lake Clear is known for its healthy crayfish population. The site is home to an abundance of these creatures, making it a popular location for the annual crayfish hunt held in mid-June. Divers can observe or participate in this event, adding a unique ecological element to their diving experience.
Visibility:
- Varies depending on weather conditions, but generally good due to the relatively shallow depth and stable conditions around the platform.
Water Temperature:
- Seasonal Variation: Water temperatures vary throughout the year, with cooler conditions in spring and fall and warmer temperatures in the summer, making it an ideal training site during warmer months.
Safety and Hazards:
- Shallow Depth: The shallow nature of the site makes it ideal for beginner divers; however, care should be taken to avoid stirring up silt, which could reduce visibility.
- Crayfish Hunt: During the annual crayfish hunt, divers should be aware of others in the water and exercise caution to avoid any unnecessary disturbances to the environment or other divers.
Accessibility:
- Shore Entry: The site is easily accessible from the shore, with a straightforward swim out to the platform. This makes it convenient for training sessions and repeat dives.
Experience Level:
- Beginner Friendly: This site is ideal for beginner divers, especially those undergoing initial training. The controlled environment and shallow depth provide a comfortable and safe introduction to scuba diving.
Events:
- Annual Crayfish Hunt: Held in mid-June, this event draws divers who come to collect crayfish from the lake. It’s a unique and exciting opportunity to engage with the local aquatic life in a responsible and sustainable manner.
Tags:
- #ShoreDive
- #ScubaTraining
- #LakeClearDiving
- #BeginnerDiver
- #UnderwaterArtifacts
- #CrayfishHunt
- #OntarioDiving
- #ShallowDive
Conclusion:
The Lake Clear Training Platform is an excellent shore dive site, particularly suited for beginner divers and those undergoing scuba certification. The combination of a dedicated training platform, interesting underwater artifacts, and a thriving crayfish population makes this site both practical and enjoyable. With its easy access and shallow depth, it offers a safe and controlled environment for divers to develop their skills while also providing opportunities for fun and unique underwater experiences.
