Day 56 - November 8, 2012: South to anchorage at Kemp's Landing

We arose to a bright, clear, sunny day and departed early for the Demopolis Lock. It turned out we were the only boat to enter, and we were greeted by a pair of herons hoping for a fish breakfast. These birds can be quite regal while still, and quite majestic in flight. Right after I took this picture, one swooped down and plucked a small fish from the water.

Pair of herons looking for food in the lock

The Tenn Tom in this area becomes somewhat less interesting with lower banks, fewer trees, and evidence of erosion from the fast boats that throw large wakes. Other than a paper plant south of Demopolis, and a couple of bridges, we saw virtually no evidence of civilization.

Our planned anchorage was at Kemp's Landing. It turned out to be a short man-made inlet, perpendicular to the river, with steel docking piles and a conveyor belt set up for loading barges. It was also clearly abandoned and beginning to rust away. I tied up at the loading piles to avoid having to drop the anchor. While not so picturesque, and despite no interesting sunset, it made a good safe and quiet place to spend the night.

Kemp's Landing at MM 172