~~~~~~ RiverBill's Archives~~~~~~
April 2020

04-11-2020 - 04-20-2020

 

A WEBSITE FOR THE  BOATING COMMUNITY 

OF THE 

MISSISSIPPI, ILLINOIS, MISSOURI, MERAMEC AND KASKASKIA RIVERS

 

MONDAY

20 APRIL 2020

 

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

Fine Day on the River

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 

Hey Look ... A 2007 Jamaica Daze Cooler Cup

Yah Mon

Click pic to enlarge

 

 

Pictures of the Day..... were taken by Capt'n Jeff House

 

Fine day in the river with my buddy Al

RiverBill says... Thanks Jeff for letting us re-post your photos

 

 The Boathouse is Reopening Friday, May 1st

with "Pickup Service" and possible delivery!

 

Menu coming soon

 
Website.. N/A       Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Phone: 636 250 3300

 

 

Grafton Harbor

 

 

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

Grafton Harbor.... 618-786-PORT (7678)

 

Grafton Harbor River Adventure Cruises

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar !

Every Saturday & Sunday  Beginning May 2, 2020

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

 

 

First Mate is a boat brokerage located on the beautiful upper Mississippi.

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

 Yesteryears Pic of the Day

 

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

click pic to enlarge

 

Yesteryears Picture On This Day in 2019 ..... was sent to us by Rhone Gillis who hails out of the Alton MotorBoat Club

 

 

"River Road Mirror Finish”

 

Alton Marina

click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

Get Away From It All

Practice Social Distancing in a BOAT

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

Email: woodlandmarina1@gmail.com

Click here for Website        Click here for Facebook

 

 

River News !  

 

 

click pic to enlarge

 

We offer full fiberglass repair, high performance upgrades, transom & stringer rebuilds, service on older products, new & used parts department, an accessories department, as well as many other services to suit everyone's boating needs.

We continue to display our Yamaha Sport Boats + Crest, Mercury + Yamaha Outboards and Heritage & Haul Rite trailers

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor website      St. Charles Boat & Motor Facebook

 

04-08-20

SPRING SALES OFFERS | $2,000 Instant Savings on New Yamaha Boats; Zero Down, Zero Interest, Zero Payments for 3 Months; $7,500 Off 275 Series boats.

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED APRIL 15, 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

MILE 273.4/MILE 241.4 - LOCKAGE AND CREW CHANGE SPECIAL REQUIREMENT
Due to concerns regarding the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and effective immediately for L/D’s 24 and 25, in the vicinity of Mile 273.4 and 241.4: No industry personnel shall be allowed inside USACE lock control houses or other buildings during crew changes, except in the case of medical emergency. Crew changes will still be allowed, but industry personnel must go directly from the vehicle to the motor vessel. At both facilities (L/D’s 24/25) the crew van will be required to park outside of the exterior fenced area during the crew change. Also effective immediately Locks 24 and 25 will not accept incoming or outgoing boat mail. Industry personnel will be required to use their own facilities while navigating through the lock. Changes are effective immediately and until further notice. All navigation interest should be alert for, and abide by, any special instructions that may be issued by the lockmaster.

MILE 183.2 - BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION
Merchants Railroad Bridge; Work barges continue excavating around both left and right descending navigation piers and the right descending pier of the center span. Work barges should not encroach more than 50 feet into the navigation channel, at any time. For work barge locations, mariners are encouraged to contact the onsite work boat M/V KATHERINE OHARA via VHF-FM Channel 6 or 16 or by phone at (217) 248-9077.

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - Update
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Pool 5A (Mile 738.0 – Mile 728.6),

Pool 10 (Mile 647.8 – Mile 615.1),

Pool 11 (Mile 615.0 – Mile 583.0),

Pool 13 (Mile 556.6 – Mile 522.4),

Pool 14 (Mile 522.3 – Mile 493.3),

Pool 21 (Mile 343.1 – Mile 324.9),

Pool 22 (Mile 324.8 – Mile 301.2),

Pool 24 (Mile 301.1 – Mile 273.4),

Pool 25 (Mile 273.3 – Mile 241.4),

Pool 28 (Mile 185.4 – Mile 160.1) and

Pool 29 (Mile 160.0 – Mile 109.9).

Down-streaming operations are not recommended unless the vessel is equal to or greater than 75 feet in length and the vessel has a minimum of 1,800 h.p. Towboat operators should use caution, minimize wake where possible, and be experienced in high water operations. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris in the water and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate action to prevent any breakaways from occurring. Use caution in all passing and meeting situations and be mindful of all charted bridge navigational clearances. Buoys may have been dragged off station so remain cautious while transiting.

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - UPDATE
The following areas are in the high water action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Zone 15 (Mile 493.2 – Mile 482.9),

Zone 16 (Mile 482.8 – Mile 457.2),

Zone 17 (Mile 457.1 – Mile 437.1),

Zone 18 (Mile 437.0 – Mile 410.5) and

Zone 20 (Mile 364.1 – Mile 343.2).

 In St. Louis Harbor, south-bound tows greater than 600 feet in length, excluding the towboat, limit their transit to daylight hours. North-bound tows have enough horsepower to maintain a minimum of 3 MPH, on approach to the St. Louis Harbor Bridges. It is recommended that all towing vessels have a pilot onboard with recent high water experience with similar size tows, through St. Louis Harbor Bridges. All towing vessels should have a minimum of 250 h.p., for every 2,000 tons of cargo. Barges should not be carried on the hip. Down-streaming operations are not recommended unless the vessel is equal to or greater than 75 feet in length and the vessel has a minimum of 1,800 h.p. Mariners are advised to favor the center of the channel and proceed at their slowest safe operating speed based upon the prevailing conditions to minimize wake damage. Vessels should avoid laying up on levees or pushing in where railroad tracks are charted near the bank, assess bridge clearances in advance and ensure fleets are tendered at all times. Mariners should review anchoring requirements and pre-identify layup areas in the event of a river closure or barge breakaway. Mariners should ensure that moored vessels and barges are adequately secured with the anticipation of increased velocity and high water. Drift and debris may be a hazard to navigation and drag buoys off station

 

ILLINOIS RIVER

ILLINOIS WATERWAY - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - Update
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Zone 5 Havana (Mile 128.9 – Mile 102.0),

Zone 4 Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),

Zone 3 Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0),

 Zone 2 Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0) and

Zone 1 Grafton (Mile 9.0 – Mile 0.0).

 High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. Avoid laying up on saturated levees. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations if possible. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate actions to prevent breakaways. Exercise caution in all meeting and overtaking situations, as swift currents may be present. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting.


 

Click here  for the current "Local Notice To Mariners" report

 on the Navigation Center Website


 No new incident reports for the St. Louis area
 

Click here to go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for "all" incident reports    

 

River Gear For Sale............

 

Click here to buy your River T-shirts and Accessories on-line..

Delivered right to you mailbox in a few short days

 

RiverBills Facebook

Two FaceBook Pages for You

 

The "River News and Media" Page

Page contains river news, RiverBills Pictures of the Day, Upcoming River Events, info from RiverBills.com advertisers, etc..... Click here and check it out

 

The "Boaters Group" Page

It's a group for all the boaters on all the rivers near the "PORT OF ST. LOUIS AND BEYOND." It's a Public Group, open to anyone that wants to join in. A place to post your boating pictures, shout outs, questions, comments, etc.  Stay in touch with other boaters all year long.  Invite your Boating Friends. 

We have 5,958 members as of 04-19-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

Asian Carp Update

New Carp Fishing Method Tested In Kentucky........

 

A commercial fisherman in Kentucky recently tried out a different method for catching invasive Asian carp and ended up netting nearly 60,000 pounds of carp from one bay within a 48 hour period.

 

The technique, often called haul or beach seining, involves running a net out into the bay and scooping the fish to the bank, reeling in the net by winch and hand.

 

Wade Robbins, owner of Robbins Fishery, tested the method out in Pisgah Bay on Kentucky Lake from the afternoon of March 19 to the morning of March 21.  He said that the century old technique may be new to Kentucky, but the commercial anglers in Browning, Illinois perfected the technique for use against Asian carp........

 

Click here to read this news story from waterwaysjournal.net.  With Photo.

 

Flooding

Road Closures .......

 

It's that time of the year again. 

Just a few low lying roads in the St. Louis area are flooded at this time.  Check it out:

 

 • St. Charles County Road Closures..... click here

 • MODOT's Traveler information Map.... click here

 • Illinois Department of Transportation... click here

 

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Missouri River Management

Corps Offering Video Replacements For Public Meetings........

 

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Missouri River Water Management Division recently released four video presentations covering material that would typically be provided at public meetings held throughout the Missouri River Basin.

 

The Corps usually holds public meetings each spring and fall throughout the basin.  Fall meetings offer updates on the current year's runoff and reservoir operations and plans for the next year's runoff season.

 

The spring public meetings provide the status of mountain snowpack, the forecasted runoff for the year and discuss how operations for the year will meet the authorized purposes for the Missouri River Mainstem System.

 

The spring public meetings originally scheduled for April had been cancelled in order to reduce potential exposure to the COVID-19 virus.  The Corps will instead host virtual question and answer sessions later this month........

 

Click here to read more from waterwaysjournal.net.

 

Click here to visit the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers public meeting website

 

Land of Lincoln Power Squadron

On-Line Boating ABC's Class.......

 

 

 

Click here........ Port Charles Harbor website

Click here......Port Charles Harbor Facebook

 

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.

We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.

If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops  we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!

Did You Know ?
Maritime Signal Flag Lima

Ship is Under Quarantine....

 

 

 The yellow flag with black boxes in the upper right and lower left quadrants  – Signal Flag Lima – that is used to signify that the ship is under quarantine.

 

Source: Your First Port of Call

 

 

Looking Up the Mississippi River
Alton, IL to St. Paul, MN....

 

 

 

The Mississippi River is forecasted to "fall" (as of 4:00am this morning)
over the next week from Alton, IL to St. Paul Mn.

 

 

Check out RiverBills River Gages Page...

Alton, IL  to  St. Paul, MN ....  click here

Missouri River Management

Reductions Made In Runoff Forecast....  Still Above Normal....

 

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers reports that the wet soils in the majority of the Upper Missouri River Basin are increasing the odds of above-average runoff.

 

According to the Corps' April report, the possibility for flooding remains, especially in the Lower Missouri River Valley due to the continual high river stages along many of the uncontrolled tributaries downstream of the Missouri River Mainstem Reservoir System.

 

During March, the runoff into the Missouri River above Sioux City, Iowa was 5.5 million acre feet, which is close to two times the average.  The higher amount of runoff was attributed to plains snow melting over heavily saturated soil........

 

Click here to read this news report from billingsgazette.com.  With Photo and Graphs.

 

River History....

 

April 20, 2013 in River History

 

114 barges that were docked in south St. Louis County broke free in the Mississippi River over the weekend. Four of them hit the Jefferson Barracks Bridge and 11 sank. The Mississippi RIver had risen 25 feet over 25 days.

Mississippi River Cruising

Viking Has Sold Out One Of Six Cruises........

 

Some two years before shoving off, Viking has already sold out one of the six cruises scheduled for the Upper Mississippi River during the company's inaugural season in 2022.

 

Viking began taking reservations for their new vessel, the Viking Mississippi, which is scheduled to debut in August 2022 with cruises between New Orleans and St. Paul.

 

According to Viking's website, a 15 day October 2022 cruise has already sold out and sales are going strong for the remaining five excursions in 2022........

 

Click here to read this news tidbit from thetelegraph.com. 

 

Ohio River Near Warsaw, Kentucky

Recovery Effort On For Barge Worker That Fell Into The Ohio River........

 

According to the Gallatin County Sheriff Josh Neale, recovery efforts are underway for a barge worker that fell into the Ohio River near the Markland Dam.

 

Sheriff Neale reports that they received reports that a worker had fallen off of a barge around 10:30 am Thursday morning.  The barge had just locked through the Markland Dam. 

 

Reportedly, the barge worker was helping to straighten out ropes as the barge moved upriver when he fell.  The barge operators immediately responded with their rescue boat, but did not find the man........

 

Click here to read this news report from knoe.com.

 

 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Google Maps

 

 

The Markland Locks and Dam is a concrete dam bridge and locks spanning the Ohio River, linking Gallatin County, Kentucky and Switzerland County, Indiana.  
Click here to read more from Wikipedia online encyclopedia

 

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "October 2020" 

One month listing on the front page in the featured Classified Section

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

e-mail your info along with 6 pictures (max) to riverbill@prodigy.net.

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

We will bill you after the ad is on-line

 

 

OFFERING

THE SWINGING DOCK STEP

 

 

 

Swings out

to bridge the gap between the dock and your boat

for ease of loading and boarding

 

Swings out of the way

 to the

 "Walk Thru"

position on the dock

 

Little Johns Marine Service... click here

Little John's Moptorsports... click here

What's Going On This Week

3rd Chute Bar & Grill
211 W. Main St. Grafton, IL

 

 

Just a short walk from Grafton Harbor
Breakfast available every Saturday and Sunday morning from 8am till 12pm

 

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

03-24-20

Temporarily Closed

 

 

Alton Marina is the cover photo for the

2020 edition of Quimby's Cruising Guide

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

04-08-20

As everyone is aware, Governor Pritzker has extended the order that all Bars & Restaurants must discontinue dine in services, effective 3/17/2020 through a minimum of 4/30/2020. At this time, Bluff City Grill will remain closed without curbside or delivery services. We have taken this down time to ensure all our staff members are taking the necessary precautions to help slow/stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus. During this shut down, we have been working on many projects to reopen a stronger & more efficient establishment. We look forward to seeing everyone when the ban is lifted. If the ban continues further than 4/30/2020 (prayers we don't cross that bridge) we will revisit the idea of curbside services & keep everyone informed on that decision. If anyone has any questions in regard to a scheduled event please follow this link: https://bluffcitygrillalton.com/contact/ We truly appreciate everyone’s support during this trying time & ask everyone to come together as a community. Please support our community’s small businesses & continue to follow the guidelines the CDC & WHO has recommended to help end this pandemic. Stay Safe & Stay Healthy! #healthiswealth

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina


04-08-20

The Boathouse is Re-opening May 1st
with "Pickup Service" and possible delivery!
Menu coming soon

 

03-24-20
The harbor is open and I have a few slips available for rent.
New customers receive 25% off for 2020 season.

 

Website......  N/A
 
On the river as always xoxo The Boathouse Crew

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

03/20/2020
Calhoun Ferry Company’s priority is the health and safety of our crew and passengers.
We received a call today from the U.S. Coast Guard advising us that all passengers will be required to stay in their vehicles when crossing the ferry. This is in response to the restrictions placed on gatherings of 10 or more people. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted.
We are cleaning and disinfecting all crew areas and all ferry passes as we receive them.
Starting tomorrow 03/21/2020 we will be reducing our hours to eliminate the late night shift on Friday and Saturday. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted. Hours will be Monday through Saturday 5am to 9pm and Sunday 8am to 9pm.
We will all get through this together by working together for a better tomorrow. Stay safe!
Thank You,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

     

 

 

 

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

3-18-20
Because of the CDC recommendations the restaurant management has decided to close the restaurant this weekend until further notice.
MJB

 

 

The Duck Club is the Premier Private Yacht Club serving the Upper Mississippi River, Alton pool boating community. The Club is located at the South end of Dardenne Slough with direct channel access at mm22

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

Closed until further notice ....

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

03-24-20

The winery, gift shop, fuel dock and Grafton Oyster Bar are "Closed."

 

March 16, 2020
For the safety of our family, customers and employees, we at Grafton Harbor, have decided to close the gift shop and winery during this pandemic. We will keep you all in our love and prayers during this difficult time. Stay well everyone and thank you all so much for your support.

 

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar!

 

Every Saturday & Sunday

 Beginning May 2, 2020

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

We all know how hard the past year hit Grafton businesses. In light of the closures caused by the 2019 Flood and COVID-19, the Law Firm of Wittman & Lorton, P.C. and Preferred Title & Escrow, Inc. purchased 50 $100 gift cards to giveaway on our FB page. They also purchased 50 $100 gift cards from Grafton SkyTour. Starting March 23rd, and continuing for 50 days we will give away a $100 gift card to a Grafton restaurant or bar along with a $100 gift card to Grafton SkyTour sponsored by Wittman & Lorton and Preferred Title & Escrow! The goal is to encourage others during this difficult time to purchase gift cards from all Grafton businesses to be used once our businesses reopen! Make sure you visit The Grafton Illinois FB page daily: https://www.facebook.com/enjoygrafton/.
All you need to do is like and share Grafton Chamber of Commerce FB page each day to enter the daily giveaway. We thank everyone for your continued support of Grafton businesses! We can’t wait to see you come back again! Stay Safe

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

Closed Until Further Notice


 

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

04-11-20

Our office will move back to the river on Monday morning. The office door will be locked, you are welcome to come into the office one at a time. We will try and disinfectant after each person, as we do not want to make anyone ill, or nor do we want to get ill. Hope you realize why we are taking these precautions. If everyone works together, this may get over pretty soon. No one needs this to stretch out any longer than necessary. We need warm weather, sunshine and more boating. So wave at us at the end of the road..
 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

The old building has been torn down. 

 

Waiting on permits for new building.

 

"The plan is to keep it in the same location, maybe a little closer to the river and up about 7 ft higher. The building will be just a little smaller with a bigger deck."

 

Amanda

Kinder's Restaurant

 

Photo Gallery of tear down.. click here

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

.

March 7, 2020

Our gas dock is up and running for you.
Have a great weekend boaters!!

 

Reposted from Lake Center marina Facebook.... click here

 

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members in 2020 !
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook... click here.

 

Longshot Marina

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

04-18-20

Longshot Saloon..Closed

 

03-24-20

Marina is open.
Just got excavator delivered for spring and summer projects
 

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Opening May 2, 2020

 

Polestar Boating Center

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

03-24-20

Operating on a skeleton crew.
If there is a need or emergency, call 636 250-3008

 

Dock Rentals on the Mississippi River
Safe Harbor Yacht Sales
The Canvas Man, LLC
Vessel Surveyor / Marine Consulting
Quality Marine Repair

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 

03-31-20

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.


We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.
If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call 📞 and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops 🏢 we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!


 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

REOPENING IN THE SPRING FOR THE 2020 SEASON.

KEEP YOUR ANCHOR RIGHT HERE FOR UPDATES.

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

04-03-20

Happy Friday!
We are here for the weekend!
Call in ahead for food at 636-723-0005!

 

Click here for menu

3025 N MO-94, St. Charles, Missouri 63301

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

04-08-20

SPRING SALES OFFERS | $2,000 Instant Savings on New Yamaha Boats; Zero Down, Zero Interest, Zero Payments for 3 Months; $7,500 Off 275 Series boats.

 

03-23-20

St. Charles Boat & Motor update:
Due to the unprecedented time that the country is experiencing, we are implementing some additions to our normal routine:
At this time, we remain open for business, operating with a small staff. For the safety of our customers, our staff, and our families, in addition to our normal operations, we are offering some alternative means of interacting with us as well – for both purchasing products (from parts to a new boat) and for your service needs.
If you’d like to shop any new or used inventory with us with minimized social interaction, we can schedule individual appointments or send you a virtual video tour of a unit. You can always shop our inventory on our website as well, at www.stcharlesboat.com. We currently have some huge discounts on our in stock inventory! If you’re interested in a private appointment, please e-mail us at zeke@stcharlesboat.com or you can call us at 636-947-0106 during normal business hours.
For your service needs, we can schedule a touchless drop off and pick-up with you. For touchless drop off or pick-up, e-mail Jerry at jerry@stcharlesboat.com or Zeke at zeke@stcharlesboat.com for scheduling and instructions.
We realize that this too will pass and we can return to a more normal routine, which means getting back to boating for many of us!
We will keep our customer’s updated by posting on our website and Facebook page.

 

Winter Hours

  Tue - Fri..9am - 5pm

  Sat - 9am - 2pm

  Sun & Mon..Closed

 

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

04-09-19

We have a full beer cooler..
Let us know what you want us to stock..we are trying our best to be competitive versus across the bridge..there are only few that I cant...so check us out..part of being competitive is counting on you...this will go for groceries as well...let us know what you need..

 

 

02-27-20 Update..

Fat Boys Restaurant at Two Rivers Marina

Hi Bill,
They are diligently working to get things in order. The have been working long hours trying to get the building in shape, lots of painting and cleaning. It is going to happen, however they are a bit behind because of Illinois paperwork. I expect an opening sometime in March. They are keeping the name "Fat Boys".

Cindy Blaylock
Two Rivers Marina.

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

04-08-20

When you look across the harbor and can see the green peeking through on the tree line, you know summer is right around the corner!
Due to the recent events, we are doing our part in maintaining social distance. Harbor members can call ahead to get a fuel appointment, and splashing boats will be on a case by case basis.
We can’t prevent anyone from gathering, but we can avoid being a part of the problem by keeping VERY limited services.
We hope everyone is staying safe, and we look forward to seeing the river crowded with boaters when this calms down!!
Happy boating!

 

Wood marina Spring Promotion

Attention - New Slip Customers 50% Off Any Available Slip

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

Currently we are open. Although things may change. My wife is in healthcare sales so I may be working from home more. Service guys are currently working when work can be done outside of shop. Hope this helps I will Let you know if things change more.

Andy

 

 

Yacht Club tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on Higher ground !

 

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

Brussels Ferry............618 - 786-3636

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

Winfield Ferry.............618-  535-5759

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645  ..Closed for the Season

 

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 
3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Closed
Abigail's Tap Room Closed
Alton Marina Deli Closed
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Closed
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Reopening May 1st for Pickup Service & Possible delivery
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ MRH Resort.. Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Closed
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Closed
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Closed
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Closed
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Closed
LaRosa Cantina................................. Opening May 2, 2020
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

 

The WEEKEND

Sat, Sun... 18, 19 APRIL 2020

 

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

Longshot Marina Update

Longshot Saloon Pics

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Portage des Sioux

Sun Pic

 

The New Bar At the Longshot Saloon

 

 

 

New Showers

Click pic to enlarge

 

 

Pictures of the Day..... were sent to us by Andy Dallwitz, owner of Longshot Marina

 

Longshot Saloon Update:

Putting in three private bathrooms with showers, a laundry room and convienience store for slip holders and RV Park guests in the back one third of the Longshots Saloon
 

Docks and RV Park :

Focused on setting docks and making all the docks connect. Putting in an RV Park at Palasades. 
 

Mike's LaRosa Bar:

We plan on opening the LaRossa on May 2nd instead of the Longshot Saloon.

 

 

 

Longshot Marina website

 Longshot Saloon Facebook        Mike's LaRosa Bar Facebook

 

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Sun Pic

 

Click pic to enlarge

 

 

Picture of the Day..... was sent to us by Capt'n Brad Maher

 

 

 

Bald Eagles in the Nest

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Sat Pic

 

 

Click pic to enlarge

 

 

Pictures of the Day..... were sent to us by Capt'n Glen Whittaker

 

Bill,

Here's a few more bird pictures from the lock and dam near Alton. Look closely, there are three young eaglets in the nest.

Glen

 

The Rock River

Dixon, IL

Click pic to enlarge

 

 

Picture of the Day..... was sent to us by Capt'n Roy McKnight owner of Dixon Prop Shop in Dixon, IL.

 

Meanwhile

260 miles North of St. Louis

 

RiverBill says.... Great photo Roy, but hate to hear that you got snow yesterday

 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The Rock River is tributary of the Mississippi River with its confluence at Moline, IL.

 

Google maps

Dixon, IL

Boyhood home of Ronald Regan

 The Boathouse is Reopening Friday, May 1st

with "Pickup Service" and possible delivery!

 

Menu coming soon

 
Website...N/A     Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Phone: 636 250 3300

 

 

Grafton Harbor

 

 

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

Grafton Harbor.... 618-786-PORT (7678)

 

Grafton Harbor River Adventure Cruises

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar !

Every Saturday & Sunday  Beginning May 2, 2020

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

 

 

First Mate is a boat brokerage located on the beautiful upper Mississippi.

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

 Yesteryears Pic of the Day

Illinois River

Two Towboats Passing Grafton Harbor

click pic to enlarge

 

Yesteryears Picture On This Day in 2018 ..... was sent to us by Jan DeSherlia of Grafton Harbor

 

Aren't towboat captains amazing!

 

Alton Marina

click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

Get Away From It All

Practice Social Distancing in a BOAT

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

Email: woodlandmarina1@gmail.com

Click here for Website        Click here for Facebook

 

 

River News !  

 

 

Added Sunday

U.S. Army Corps Of Engineers

Corps Recognized For Flood Fight Efforts.........

 

ENR Midwest, a major engineering industry magazine, recently named the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers their "owner of the year" for the agency's handling of the 2019 flooding, their promotion of resilience projects and maintaining and improving the infrastructure the manage across the upper Midwest.

 

While the Corps is recognized for their work across the Upper Midwest, ENR Midwest singled out the Corps' Omaha District for their unique role in the flood fighting along the Missouri River, where several levee systems were breached and overrun.

 

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers is made up from 37,000 civilian and military personnel.  The Corps is the world's largest public engineering, design and construction management agency.  Their main goal is the management of the system of dams, canals, reservoirs and flood control structures across the nation........

 

Click here to read this news report from waterwaysjournal.net.

 

Added Sunday

Mississippi River At Grafton, Illinois

Take A Zip Line Tour Along The Mississippi River Bluffs........

 

Even though the state of Illinois is still under the statewide stay-at-home order, the end is in sight, and people are beginning to plan their adventures for later this summer.  In the Riverbend region, adventure is easily found at the Grafton Zip Line.

 

The Grafton Zip Line is located high above the Mississippi River Bluffs at Aeries Resort, which features a winery, restaurant, hotel, sky gondola tours in addition to the zip line.

 

The zip line runs participants over the trees and offers spectacular views of the confluence of the Mississippi and Illinois Rivers.  Zip line tours typically last around 2.5 hours........

 

Click here to read more from onlyinyourstate.com.

 

Added Sunday

Two Rivers Marina

Pool 24 of the Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

 

Reprinted from Missouri River Relief Facebook... click here

 

Added Sunday

Lake Of The Ozarks

Boat Catches Fire With Two Aboard........

 

On Saturday, April 18, a 20 foot boat caught fire and sank at the 2 Mile Marker of the Glaize Arm of the Lake of the Ozarks.  Lake Ozark Firefighters responded to the scene by boat and extinguished the fire.

 

Witnesses report that the 20 foot open bow boat caught fire and burned to the waterline.  The fire's cause was not immediately known.

 

There were two people aboard the vessel when the fire broke out, however, no injuries were reported.  The boat was towed to shore by Lake Tow........

 

Click here to read this news tidbit from lakeexpo.com.  With Photo. 

  

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED APRIL 15, 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

MILE 273.4/MILE 241.4 - LOCKAGE AND CREW CHANGE SPECIAL REQUIREMENT
Due to concerns regarding the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and effective immediately for L/D’s 24 and 25, in the vicinity of Mile 273.4 and 241.4: No industry personnel shall be allowed inside USACE lock control houses or other buildings during crew changes, except in the case of medical emergency. Crew changes will still be allowed, but industry personnel must go directly from the vehicle to the motor vessel. At both facilities (L/D’s 24/25) the crew van will be required to park outside of the exterior fenced area during the crew change. Also effective immediately Locks 24 and 25 will not accept incoming or outgoing boat mail. Industry personnel will be required to use their own facilities while navigating through the lock. Changes are effective immediately and until further notice. All navigation interest should be alert for, and abide by, any special instructions that may be issued by the lockmaster.

MILE 183.2 - BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION
Merchants Railroad Bridge; Work barges continue excavating around both left and right descending navigation piers and the right descending pier of the center span. Work barges should not encroach more than 50 feet into the navigation channel, at any time. For work barge locations, mariners are encouraged to contact the onsite work boat M/V KATHERINE OHARA via VHF-FM Channel 6 or 16 or by phone at (217) 248-9077.

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - Update
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Pool 5A (Mile 738.0 – Mile 728.6),

Pool 10 (Mile 647.8 – Mile 615.1),

Pool 11 (Mile 615.0 – Mile 583.0),

Pool 13 (Mile 556.6 – Mile 522.4),

Pool 14 (Mile 522.3 – Mile 493.3),

Pool 21 (Mile 343.1 – Mile 324.9),

Pool 22 (Mile 324.8 – Mile 301.2),

Pool 24 (Mile 301.1 – Mile 273.4),

Pool 25 (Mile 273.3 – Mile 241.4),

Pool 28 (Mile 185.4 – Mile 160.1) and

Pool 29 (Mile 160.0 – Mile 109.9).

Down-streaming operations are not recommended unless the vessel is equal to or greater than 75 feet in length and the vessel has a minimum of 1,800 h.p. Towboat operators should use caution, minimize wake where possible, and be experienced in high water operations. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris in the water and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate action to prevent any breakaways from occurring. Use caution in all passing and meeting situations and be mindful of all charted bridge navigational clearances. Buoys may have been dragged off station so remain cautious while transiting.

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - UPDATE
The following areas are in the high water action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Zone 15 (Mile 493.2 – Mile 482.9),

Zone 16 (Mile 482.8 – Mile 457.2),

Zone 17 (Mile 457.1 – Mile 437.1),

Zone 18 (Mile 437.0 – Mile 410.5) and

Zone 20 (Mile 364.1 – Mile 343.2).

 In St. Louis Harbor, south-bound tows greater than 600 feet in length, excluding the towboat, limit their transit to daylight hours. North-bound tows have enough horsepower to maintain a minimum of 3 MPH, on approach to the St. Louis Harbor Bridges. It is recommended that all towing vessels have a pilot onboard with recent high water experience with similar size tows, through St. Louis Harbor Bridges. All towing vessels should have a minimum of 250 h.p., for every 2,000 tons of cargo. Barges should not be carried on the hip. Down-streaming operations are not recommended unless the vessel is equal to or greater than 75 feet in length and the vessel has a minimum of 1,800 h.p. Mariners are advised to favor the center of the channel and proceed at their slowest safe operating speed based upon the prevailing conditions to minimize wake damage. Vessels should avoid laying up on levees or pushing in where railroad tracks are charted near the bank, assess bridge clearances in advance and ensure fleets are tendered at all times. Mariners should review anchoring requirements and pre-identify layup areas in the event of a river closure or barge breakaway. Mariners should ensure that moored vessels and barges are adequately secured with the anticipation of increased velocity and high water. Drift and debris may be a hazard to navigation and drag buoys off station

 

ILLINOIS RIVER

ILLINOIS WATERWAY - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - Update
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Zone 5 Havana (Mile 128.9 – Mile 102.0),

Zone 4 Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),

Zone 3 Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0),

 Zone 2 Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0) and

Zone 1 Grafton (Mile 9.0 – Mile 0.0).

 High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. Avoid laying up on saturated levees. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations if possible. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate actions to prevent breakaways. Exercise caution in all meeting and overtaking situations, as swift currents may be present. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting.


 

Click here  for the current "Local Notice To Mariners" report

 on the Navigation Center Website


 No new incident reports for the St. Louis area
 

Click here to go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for "all" incident reports    

 

River Gear For Sale............

 

Click here to buy your River T-shirts and Accessories on-line..

Delivered right to you mailbox in a few short days

 

RiverBills Facebook

Two FaceBook Pages for You

 

The "River News and Media" Page

Page contains river news, RiverBills Pictures of the Day, Upcoming River Events, info from RiverBills.com advertisers, etc..... Click here and check it out

 

The "Boaters Group" Page

It's a group for all the boaters on all the rivers near the "PORT OF ST. LOUIS AND BEYOND." It's a Public Group, open to anyone that wants to join in. A place to post your boating pictures, shout outs, questions, comments, etc.  Stay in touch with other boaters all year long.  Invite your Boating Friends. 

We have 5,954 members as of 04-18-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

Mississippi River Near Aledo, Illinois

April Snow Raises Flooding Concerns........

 

Flooding is once again threatening farmers in the river region, and Thursday night's snow accumulation of a few inches is raising those concerns.

 

According to farmer Kate Danner, who's farm is some 15 miles east of the Mississippi River, it seems that an inch of snow is worse than a half inch of rain because the cold temperatures change the dynamic.

 

The National Weather Service had placed that region in the significant river flooding category prior to the snow storm.  Danner says that flooding typically doesn't reach her fields, however, it does affect her marketing plans as river terminals become less reliable........

 

Click here to read this news report from brownfieldagnews.com

 

Boater Safety

Coast Guard:  Beware Of Cold Water Drowning........

 

The U.S. Coast Guard is reminding recreational boaters and paddlers of the dangers surrounding cold water drownings.  The air temperatures may be warming up, but the temperatures of the water can still be significantly colder than the ambient temperature.

 

The Coast Guard recommends to always wear a life jacket while out on the water, as there is no time to put one on when as accident or emergency occurs.  The best life jacket is the one that is worn.

 

Captain Nathan Coulter, chief of incident management for the 13th Coast Guard District says that hypothermia is a real concern, the true cause of most drownings this time of year is the quick loss of one's ability to swim or tread water due to cold water immersion........

 

Click here to read this news article from coastguardnews.com.  With Photo

 

Longshot Marina Update

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Portage des Sioux, Mo .......

 

 

 

The steel to set the docks at Longshot Marina was delivered on Friday.

Andy and crew are going to set all the docks next week.

 

Check out the Longshot Marina Website... click here

Flooding

Road Closures .......

 

It's that time of the year again. 

Just a few low lying roads in the St. Louis area are flooded at this time.  Check it out:

 

 • St. Charles County Road Closures..... click here

 • MODOT's Traveler information Map.... click here

 • Illinois Department of Transportation... click here

 

 

Click here........ Port Charles Harbor website

Click here......Port Charles Harbor Facebook

 

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.

We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.

If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops  we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!

River Shipping

Despite Disruptions, Ports Are Open For Business........

 

In just a few short months, the COVID-19 outbreak has made it quite clear that the interconnectedness of the global economy and the supply chains that drive it, as well as the resiliency of the ports and terminals that move the cargo.

 

Following a month or so of social distancing measures across the nation, ports and terminals are remaining for the most part fully functional.

 

Aaron Ellis, public affairs director for the American Association of Port Authorities says that in general, most North American ports are functional for cargo business, but have closed or restricted operations for passenger vessels, particularly cruise ships.........

 

Click here to read this news story from waterwaysjournal.com

 

Land of Lincoln Power Squadron

On-Line Boating ABC's Class.......

 

 

click pic to enlarge

 

We offer full fiberglass repair, high performance upgrades, transom & stringer rebuilds, service on older products, new & used parts department, an accessories department, as well as many other services to suit everyone's boating needs.

We continue to display our Yamaha Sport Boats + Crest, Mercury + Yamaha Outboards and Heritage & Haul Rite trailers

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor website      St. Charles Boat & Motor Facebook

 

04-08-20

SPRING SALES OFFERS | $2,000 Instant Savings on New Yamaha Boats; Zero Down, Zero Interest, Zero Payments for 3 Months; $7,500 Off 275 Series boats.

Mississippi River Management

Trump Administration Reviving Yazoo Flood Project........

 

The Trump administration has resurrected a World War II era flood control project that Mississippi politicians claim was unfairly smothered by the Environmental Protection Agency over a decade ago.

 

The Yazoo Pumps Project was conceived in 1941 by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and killed by the George W. Bush administration in 2008. 

 

The $440 million project would place a huge pumping station in the 1,550 square mile Yazoo Backwater Area to move floodwater from the semi-drained uplands into the Mississippi River during peak flood events.......

 

Click here to read this news article from eenews.net.  With Photo and Map.

US Army Corps of Engineers, St. Paul District

Equipment and Crew Headed to Illinois Waterway

Upcoming Lock Maintenance Projects .......

 

Reprinted from the  US Army Corps of Engineers St. Paul District Facebook... click here

 

Mississippi River At Quincy, Illinois

The Quincy Memorial Bridge Ranked As One Of The Worst In The Region........

 

Officials with the American Road and Transportation Builders Association has released their annual report on bridges, and they are hoping that that is will encourage discussion about the need for infrastructure projects amid the federal government's COVID-19 response.

 

Alison Black, the ARBTA's chief economist says that they know that transportation investment is one of the best ways to stimulate the economy, which will come in two waves.

 

Black says that the first wave involves contractors purchasing the raw materials necessary for the project in the local region.  The second, and longer run, comes as the infrastructure is improved, and  local businesses are more productive because the costs of transportation are lower, as is the costs for employees commuting........

 

Click here to read this news report from whig.com.  With Photo.

 

Wednesday, April 22, 2020

Missouri River Relief

Digital Symposium ..Water

 

Reprinted from Missouri River Relief Facebook... click here

 

1 Mississippi

Mini Series... Mississippi River Delta........

 

Be sure to add this mini-series to your upcoming watch list.
5 free mini episodes on the #MississippiRiver Delta.
Thanks Smithsonian Channel!
#LastCallForTheBayou
"The Mississippi River Delta is essential to the U.S. economy. It allows the passage of goods worldwide, and it's home to a $2.4 billion fishing industry.
It's also rapidly disappearing; every 100 minutes, wetland the size of a football field is lost to open water, presenting a huge environmental threat to America and to the coastal residents who call the area home.
Follow the stories of individuals who are experiencing this calamity firsthand and see how they're fighting to keep their cultures, livelihoods, and homes from washing away."
https://watch.smithsonianchannel.com/…/last-call-for-the-ba…

 

 

Reprinted from Wittmond Hotel Facebook Facebook... click here

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "October 2020" 

One month listing on the front page in the featured Classified Section

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

e-mail your info along with 6 pictures (max) to riverbill@prodigy.net.

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

We will bill you after the ad is on-line

 

 

OFFERING

THE SWINGING DOCK STEP

 

 

 

Swings out

to bridge the gap between the dock and your boat

for ease of loading and boarding

 

Swings out of the way

 to the

 "Walk Thru"

position on the dock

 

Little Johns Marine Service... click here

Little John's Moptorsports... click here

What's Going On This Week

3rd Chute Bar & Grill
211 W. Main St. Grafton, IL

 

 

Just a short walk from Grafton Harbor
Breakfast available every Saturday and Sunday morning from 8am till 12pm

 

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

03-24-20

Temporarily Closed

 

 

Alton Marina is the cover photo for the

2020 edition of Quimby's Cruising Guide

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

04-08-20

As everyone is aware, Governor Pritzker has extended the order that all Bars & Restaurants must discontinue dine in services, effective 3/17/2020 through a minimum of 4/30/2020. At this time, Bluff City Grill will remain closed without curbside or delivery services. We have taken this down time to ensure all our staff members are taking the necessary precautions to help slow/stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus. During this shut down, we have been working on many projects to reopen a stronger & more efficient establishment. We look forward to seeing everyone when the ban is lifted. If the ban continues further than 4/30/2020 (prayers we don't cross that bridge) we will revisit the idea of curbside services & keep everyone informed on that decision. If anyone has any questions in regard to a scheduled event please follow this link: https://bluffcitygrillalton.com/contact/ We truly appreciate everyone’s support during this trying time & ask everyone to come together as a community. Please support our community’s small businesses & continue to follow the guidelines the CDC & WHO has recommended to help end this pandemic. Stay Safe & Stay Healthy! #healthiswealth

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina


04-08-20

The Boathouse is Re-opening May 1st
with "Pickup Service" and possible delivery!
Menu coming soon

 

03-24-20
The harbor is open and I have a few slips available for rent.
New customers receive 25% off for 2020 season.

 

Website...N/A
 
On the river as always xoxo The Boathouse Crew

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

03/20/2020
Calhoun Ferry Company’s priority is the health and safety of our crew and passengers.
We received a call today from the U.S. Coast Guard advising us that all passengers will be required to stay in their vehicles when crossing the ferry. This is in response to the restrictions placed on gatherings of 10 or more people. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted.
We are cleaning and disinfecting all crew areas and all ferry passes as we receive them.
Starting tomorrow 03/21/2020 we will be reducing our hours to eliminate the late night shift on Friday and Saturday. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted. Hours will be Monday through Saturday 5am to 9pm and Sunday 8am to 9pm.
We will all get through this together by working together for a better tomorrow. Stay safe!
Thank You,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

     

 

 

 

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

3-18-20
Because of the CDC recommendations the restaurant management has decided to close the restaurant this weekend until further notice.
MJB

 

 

The Duck Club is the Premier Private Yacht Club serving the Upper Mississippi River, Alton pool boating community. The Club is located at the South end of Dardenne Slough with direct channel access at mm22

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

Closed until further notice ....

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

03-24-20

The winery, gift shop, fuel dock and Grafton Oyster Bar are "Closed."

 

March 16, 2020
For the safety of our family, customers and employees, we at Grafton Harbor, have decided to close the gift shop and winery during this pandemic. We will keep you all in our love and prayers during this difficult time. Stay well everyone and thank you all so much for your support.

 

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar!

 

Every Saturday & Sunday

 Beginning May 2, 2020

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

We all know how hard the past year hit Grafton businesses. In light of the closures caused by the 2019 Flood and COVID-19, the Law Firm of Wittman & Lorton, P.C. and Preferred Title & Escrow, Inc. purchased 50 $100 gift cards to giveaway on our FB page. They also purchased 50 $100 gift cards from Grafton SkyTour. Starting March 23rd, and continuing for 50 days we will give away a $100 gift card to a Grafton restaurant or bar along with a $100 gift card to Grafton SkyTour sponsored by Wittman & Lorton and Preferred Title & Escrow! The goal is to encourage others during this difficult time to purchase gift cards from all Grafton businesses to be used once our businesses reopen! Make sure you visit The Grafton Illinois FB page daily: https://www.facebook.com/enjoygrafton/.
All you need to do is like and share Grafton Chamber of Commerce FB page each day to enter the daily giveaway. We thank everyone for your continued support of Grafton businesses! We can’t wait to see you come back again! Stay Safe

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

Closed Until Further Notice


 

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

04-11-20

Our office will move back to the river on Monday morning. The office door will be locked, you are welcome to come into the office one at a time. We will try and disinfectant after each person, as we do not want to make anyone ill, or nor do we want to get ill. Hope you realize why we are taking these precautions. If everyone works together, this may get over pretty soon. No one needs this to stretch out any longer than necessary. We need warm weather, sunshine and more boating. So wave at us at the end of the road..
 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

The old building has been torn down. 

 

Waiting on permits for new building.

 

"The plan is to keep it in the same location, maybe a little closer to the river and up about 7 ft higher. The building will be just a little smaller with a bigger deck."

 

Amanda

Kinder's Restaurant

 

Photo Gallery of tear down.. click here

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

.

March 7, 2020

Our gas dock is up and running for you.
Have a great weekend boaters!!

 

Reposted from Lake Center marina Facebook.... click here

 

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members in 2020 !
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook... click here.

 

Longshot Marina

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

04-18-20

Longshot Saloon..Closed

 

03-24-20

Marina is open.
Just got excavator delivered for spring and summer projects
 

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Opening May 2, 2020

 

Polestar Boating Center

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

03-24-20

Operating on a skeleton crew.
If there is a need or emergency, call 636 250-3008

 

Dock Rentals on the Mississippi River
Safe Harbor Yacht Sales
The Canvas Man, LLC
Vessel Surveyor / Marine Consulting
Quality Marine Repair

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 

03-31-20

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.


We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.
If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call 📞 and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops 🏢 we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!


 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

REOPENING IN THE SPRING FOR THE 2020 SEASON.

KEEP YOUR ANCHOR RIGHT HERE FOR UPDATES.

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

04-03-20

Happy Friday!
We are here for the weekend!
Call in ahead for food at 636-723-0005!

 

Click here for menu

3025 N MO-94, St. Charles, Missouri 63301

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

04-08-20

SPRING SALES OFFERS | $2,000 Instant Savings on New Yamaha Boats; Zero Down, Zero Interest, Zero Payments for 3 Months; $7,500 Off 275 Series boats.

 

03-23-20

St. Charles Boat & Motor update:
Due to the unprecedented time that the country is experiencing, we are implementing some additions to our normal routine:
At this time, we remain open for business, operating with a small staff. For the safety of our customers, our staff, and our families, in addition to our normal operations, we are offering some alternative means of interacting with us as well – for both purchasing products (from parts to a new boat) and for your service needs.
If you’d like to shop any new or used inventory with us with minimized social interaction, we can schedule individual appointments or send you a virtual video tour of a unit. You can always shop our inventory on our website as well, at www.stcharlesboat.com. We currently have some huge discounts on our in stock inventory! If you’re interested in a private appointment, please e-mail us at zeke@stcharlesboat.com or you can call us at 636-947-0106 during normal business hours.
For your service needs, we can schedule a touchless drop off and pick-up with you. For touchless drop off or pick-up, e-mail Jerry at jerry@stcharlesboat.com or Zeke at zeke@stcharlesboat.com for scheduling and instructions.
We realize that this too will pass and we can return to a more normal routine, which means getting back to boating for many of us!
We will keep our customer’s updated by posting on our website and Facebook page.

 

Winter Hours

  Tue - Fri..9am - 5pm

  Sat - 9am - 2pm

  Sun & Mon..Closed

 

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

04-09-19

We have a full beer cooler..
Let us know what you want us to stock..we are trying our best to be competitive versus across the bridge..there are only few that I cant...so check us out..part of being competitive is counting on you...this will go for groceries as well...let us know what you need..

 

 

02-27-20 Update..

Fat Boys Restaurant at Two Rivers Marina

Hi Bill,
They are diligently working to get things in order. The have been working long hours trying to get the building in shape, lots of painting and cleaning. It is going to happen, however they are a bit behind because of Illinois paperwork. I expect an opening sometime in March. They are keeping the name "Fat Boys".

Cindy Blaylock
Two Rivers Marina.

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

04-08-20

When you look across the harbor and can see the green peeking through on the tree line, you know summer is right around the corner!
Due to the recent events, we are doing our part in maintaining social distance. Harbor members can call ahead to get a fuel appointment, and splashing boats will be on a case by case basis.
We can’t prevent anyone from gathering, but we can avoid being a part of the problem by keeping VERY limited services.
We hope everyone is staying safe, and we look forward to seeing the river crowded with boaters when this calms down!!
Happy boating!

 

Wood marina Spring Promotion

Attention - New Slip Customers 50% Off Any Available Slip

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

Currently we are open. Although things may change. My wife is in healthcare sales so I may be working from home more. Service guys are currently working when work can be done outside of shop. Hope this helps I will Let you know if things change more.

Andy

 

 

Yacht Club tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on Higher ground !

 

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

Brussels Ferry............618 - 786-3636

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

Winfield Ferry.............618-  535-5759

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645  ..Closed for the Season

 

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 
3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Closed
Abigail's Tap Room Closed
Alton Marina Deli Closed
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Closed
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Reopening May 1st for Pickup Service & Possible delivery
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ MRH Resort.. Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Closed
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Closed
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Closed
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Closed
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Closed
LaRosa Cantina................................. Opening May 2, 2020
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

 

FRIDAY

17 APRIL 2020

 

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

Pelicans on the River

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 

Click pic to enlarge

 

 

Pictures of the Day..... were sent to us by Capt'n Glen Whittaker

 

 

Hey Bill,

 

Last week, I found this pelican on the river near the Melvin Price Locks and Dam at Alton. I think this bird has learned how to water ski without a boat.

 

Glen

 

 The Boathouse is Reopening Friday, May 1st

with "Pickup Service" and possible delivery!

 

Menu coming soon

 
Website.. N/A        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Phone: 636 250 3300

 

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

Grafton Harbor.... 618-786-PORT (7678)

 

Grafton Harbor River Adventure Cruises

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar !

Every Saturday & Sunday  Beginning May 2, 2020

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

 

 

First Mate is a boat brokerage located on the beautiful upper Mississippi.

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

 Yesteryears Pic of the Day

Kinders Restaurant 2018

On And Sometimes In The Mississippi

 

click pic to enlarge

 

Yesteryears Picture On This Day in 2018 .....  was taken at Kinder's Restaurant at Golden Eagle, IL

 

It was Opening Day 2018

 

Bar Side enjoying the food and drink

(L/R) Phyllis, Carl, Mary and Pat

 

The Kinder Girls behind the Bar

(L/R) Jeni, Amanda, Jill and Carol

 

That's Jill's son, Landon, in the back row doing the photo bomb

 

RiverBills said:  I miss Kinder's... Big Time !

Photo actually from 4-16-18...  just had to post it today

 

Alton Marina

click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

Get Away From It All

Practice Social Distancing in a BOAT

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

Email: woodlandmarina1@gmail.com

Click here for Website        Click here for Facebook

 

 

River News !  

 

 

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED APRIL 15, 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

MILE 273.4/MILE 241.4 - LOCKAGE AND CREW CHANGE SPECIAL REQUIREMENT
Due to concerns regarding the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and effective immediately for L/D’s 24 and 25, in the vicinity of Mile 273.4 and 241.4: No industry personnel shall be allowed inside USACE lock control houses or other buildings during crew changes, except in the case of medical emergency. Crew changes will still be allowed, but industry personnel must go directly from the vehicle to the motor vessel. At both facilities (L/D’s 24/25) the crew van will be required to park outside of the exterior fenced area during the crew change. Also effective immediately Locks 24 and 25 will not accept incoming or outgoing boat mail. Industry personnel will be required to use their own facilities while navigating through the lock. Changes are effective immediately and until further notice. All navigation interest should be alert for, and abide by, any special instructions that may be issued by the lockmaster.

MILE 183.2 - BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION
Merchants Railroad Bridge; Work barges continue excavating around both left and right descending navigation piers and the right descending pier of the center span. Work barges should not encroach more than 50 feet into the navigation channel, at any time. For work barge locations, mariners are encouraged to contact the onsite work boat M/V KATHERINE OHARA via VHF-FM Channel 6 or 16 or by phone at (217) 248-9077.

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - Update
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Pool 5A (Mile 738.0 – Mile 728.6),

Pool 10 (Mile 647.8 – Mile 615.1),

Pool 11 (Mile 615.0 – Mile 583.0),

Pool 13 (Mile 556.6 – Mile 522.4),

Pool 14 (Mile 522.3 – Mile 493.3),

Pool 21 (Mile 343.1 – Mile 324.9),

Pool 22 (Mile 324.8 – Mile 301.2),

Pool 24 (Mile 301.1 – Mile 273.4),

Pool 25 (Mile 273.3 – Mile 241.4),

Pool 28 (Mile 185.4 – Mile 160.1) and

Pool 29 (Mile 160.0 – Mile 109.9).

Down-streaming operations are not recommended unless the vessel is equal to or greater than 75 feet in length and the vessel has a minimum of 1,800 h.p. Towboat operators should use caution, minimize wake where possible, and be experienced in high water operations. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris in the water and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate action to prevent any breakaways from occurring. Use caution in all passing and meeting situations and be mindful of all charted bridge navigational clearances. Buoys may have been dragged off station so remain cautious while transiting.

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - UPDATE
The following areas are in the high water action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Zone 15 (Mile 493.2 – Mile 482.9),

Zone 16 (Mile 482.8 – Mile 457.2),

Zone 17 (Mile 457.1 – Mile 437.1),

Zone 18 (Mile 437.0 – Mile 410.5) and

Zone 20 (Mile 364.1 – Mile 343.2).

 In St. Louis Harbor, south-bound tows greater than 600 feet in length, excluding the towboat, limit their transit to daylight hours. North-bound tows have enough horsepower to maintain a minimum of 3 MPH, on approach to the St. Louis Harbor Bridges. It is recommended that all towing vessels have a pilot onboard with recent high water experience with similar size tows, through St. Louis Harbor Bridges. All towing vessels should have a minimum of 250 h.p., for every 2,000 tons of cargo. Barges should not be carried on the hip. Down-streaming operations are not recommended unless the vessel is equal to or greater than 75 feet in length and the vessel has a minimum of 1,800 h.p. Mariners are advised to favor the center of the channel and proceed at their slowest safe operating speed based upon the prevailing conditions to minimize wake damage. Vessels should avoid laying up on levees or pushing in where railroad tracks are charted near the bank, assess bridge clearances in advance and ensure fleets are tendered at all times. Mariners should review anchoring requirements and pre-identify layup areas in the event of a river closure or barge breakaway. Mariners should ensure that moored vessels and barges are adequately secured with the anticipation of increased velocity and high water. Drift and debris may be a hazard to navigation and drag buoys off station

 

ILLINOIS RIVER

ILLINOIS WATERWAY - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - Update
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Zone 5 Havana (Mile 128.9 – Mile 102.0),

Zone 4 Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),

Zone 3 Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0),

 Zone 2 Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0) and

Zone 1 Grafton (Mile 9.0 – Mile 0.0).

 High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. Avoid laying up on saturated levees. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations if possible. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate actions to prevent breakaways. Exercise caution in all meeting and overtaking situations, as swift currents may be present. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting.


 

Click here  for the current "Local Notice To Mariners" report

 on the Navigation Center Website


 No new incident reports for the St. Louis area
 

Click here to go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for "all" incident reports    

 

River Gear For Sale............

 

Click here to buy your River T-shirts and Accessories on-line..

Delivered right to you mailbox in a few short days

 

RiverBills Facebook

Two FaceBook Pages for You

 

The "River News and Media" Page

Page contains river news, RiverBills Pictures of the Day, Upcoming River Events, info from RiverBills.com advertisers, etc..... Click here and check it out

 

The "Boaters Group" Page

It's a group for all the boaters on all the rivers near the "PORT OF ST. LOUIS AND BEYOND." It's a Public Group, open to anyone that wants to join in. A place to post your boating pictures, shout outs, questions, comments, etc.  Stay in touch with other boaters all year long.  Invite your Boating Friends. 

We have 5,949 members as of 04-17-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

Levees In St. Charles, Missouri

City Set To Raise Levees Higher........

 

The City of St. Charles, Missouri recently announced plans for substantially raising two levees in order to reduce flood related costs for residents and property owners and to draw in developers.

 

The city engineers intend to raise the Frenchtown and Elm Point Levees to protect against 500 year floods, or floods that have a 1 in 500 chance in occurring during any given year. Currently, the Frenchtown and Elm Point Levees can protect against floods that have a between a 4 - 5 percent chance of occurring in a year.

 

Local environmentalists have long opposed raising levees, which serves to constrict rivers, worsening flooding, however, Brad Temme, the St. Charles director if engineering says that raising the levees is necessary to protect property and reduce insurance costs.......

 

Click here to read this news report from stlpublicradio.org.  With Photo.

 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

Map courtesy stcharlescitymo.gov

Click map to enlarge

 

 

Map courtesy stcharlescitymo.gov

Click map to enlarge

 

More information available at the City of St. Charles website... click here

 

Flooding

Road Closures .......

 

It's that time of the year again. 

Just a few low lying roads in the St. Louis area are flooded at this time.  Check it out:

 

 • St. Charles County Road Closures..... click here

 • MODOT's Traveler information Map.... click here

 • Illinois Department of Transportation... click here

 

 

Click here........ Port Charles Harbor website

Click here......Port Charles Harbor Facebook

 

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.

We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.

If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops  we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!

Quimby's Cruising Guide

Virtual Town Tour Part 5: Alton, Illinois.......

 

Reprinted from Quimby's Cruising Guide ... click here

 

Mississippi River Cruising News

Viking Accepting Reservations For Mississippi River Cruises........

 

On Thursday, Viking announced that they have begun accepting reservations for their new Mississippi River cruises, which will commence during the summer of 2022.

 

The company's first custom cruise ship, the Viking Mississippi will debut in August of 2022, and is slated to cruise along the Mississippi River between St. Paul, Minnesota and New Orleans, Louisiana.

 

The currently scheduled ports of call for Viking's Mississippi River cruise include New Orleans, St. Francisville and Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Natches and Vicksburg, Mississippi, Memphis, Tennessee, St. Louis and Hannibal, Missouri, Burlington, Dubuque and Davenport, Iowa, La Crosse, Wisconsin and Red Wing and St. Paul, Minnesota........

 

Click here to read this news story from cruiseindustrynews.com.  With Photo

 

click pic to enlarge

 

We offer full fiberglass repair, high performance upgrades, transom & stringer rebuilds, service on older products, new & used parts department, an accessories department, as well as many other services to suit everyone's boating needs.

We continue to display our Yamaha Sport Boats + Crest, Mercury + Yamaha Outboards and Heritage & Haul Rite trailers

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor website      St. Charles Boat & Motor Facebook

 

04-08-20

SPRING SALES OFFERS | $2,000 Instant Savings on New Yamaha Boats; Zero Down, Zero Interest, Zero Payments for 3 Months; $7,500 Off 275 Series boats.

St. Louis District, US Army Corps of Engineers

We're Hiring ! .......

 

The St. Louis District has an exciting new job posting! The announcement is currently open and closes April 28, 2020. Please note: there are two vacancies. To apply visit https://www.usajobs.gov/GetJob/ViewDetails/565698300


Mississippi Valley Division (US Army Corps of Engineers)
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Headquarters

 

Reprinted from the St. Louis District, US Army Corps of Engineers Facebook... click here

 

 

The Hawg Pitt Barbecue Barn

Grafton, Illinois........

 

16 April 2020

Fresh Pork Steaks, Ribs, Pulled Pork and Chicken, Hawg Dawgs, Homewreckers. Homemade Baked Beans, Cole Slaw and Potato Salad. Pork and Chicken by the pound!!! Curbside Service and Drivethru around back

 

Reprinted from Hawg Pit Barbeque Barn Facebook... click here

 

 

The Wittmond Hotel

Brussel, Illinois........

 

Good morning! Hope you are all staying safe and healthy. Wittmond's will be serving a 3-course carryout meal for 2 starting tomorrow! (04-17-20).

 

This weekend's special: Dinner Salad, Fried Chicken with choice of potato and dessert for $20. Stay well!

 

 

Reprinted from Wittmond Hotel Facebook Facebook... click here

 

 

River History....

April 17, 2014 in River History

 

The Lewis and Clark statue was removed from the St. Louis Riverfront and moved to the Tyson Research Center for restoration after a six month dry-out period.
The statue will be relocated approximately 200 yards to the south of it's prior location and about 17 feet higher on Leonor K. Sullivan Boulevard. .


 

 

Mississippi River-Gulf Outlet News

Officials Want To Lower MR-GO Dam By 18 Feet........

 

Pm Wednesday, officials in the St. Bernard Parish Council voted to authorize the emergency removal of the top of the rock dam that closes of the Mississippi River-Gulf Outlet navigation channel.

 

The move is intended to allow sea water from Lake Borgne to enter the wetlands once again.  The council claims that the repeated opening of the Bonnet Carre' Spillway has damaged water quality in the channel and wetlands.

 

Parrish officials had submitted permit requests with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers and the Louisiana State Department of Natural Resources in February, but amended their state request into an emergency action this week........

 

Click here to read this news article from nola.com.  With Photos.

 

Boating Legislation

New Website Launched By Boating United, BoatPAC........

 

The recreational boating community, headed up by the National Marine Manufacturers Association and the Marine Retailers Association of the Americas recently announced that the Boating United grassroots advocacy website has been updated to be more effective in it's virtual advocacy efforts.

 

According to Nicole Vasilaros, NMMA senior vice president of government and legal affairs, the enhanced Boating United website will make the community's digital advocacy efforts considerably more effective.  The new website allows for the integration of Boating United and BoatPAC as well.

 

Matt Gruhn, MRAA president says that the recreational boating community faces a variety of challenges at every level of government each day, and thanks to the new Boating United tool, they are better equipped to educate and mobilize supporters to achieve advocacy victories for the boating community........

 

Click here to read this news article from boatignindustry.com

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "October 2020" 

One month listing on the front page in the featured Classified Section

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

e-mail your info along with 6 pictures (max) to riverbill@prodigy.net.

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

We will bill you after the ad is on-line

 

 

OFFERING

THE SWINGING DOCK STEP

 

 

 

Swings out

to bridge the gap between the dock and your boat

for ease of loading and boarding

 

Swings out of the way

 to the

 "Walk Thru"

position on the dock

 

Little Johns Marine Service... click here

Little John's Moptorsports... click here

What's Going On This Week

3rd Chute Bar & Grill
211 W. Main St. Grafton, IL

 

 

Just a short walk from Grafton Harbor
Breakfast available every Saturday and Sunday morning from 8am till 12pm

 

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

03-24-20

Temporarily Closed

 

 

Alton Marina is the cover photo for the

2020 edition of Quimby's Cruising Guide

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

04-08-20

As everyone is aware, Governor Pritzker has extended the order that all Bars & Restaurants must discontinue dine in services, effective 3/17/2020 through a minimum of 4/30/2020. At this time, Bluff City Grill will remain closed without curbside or delivery services. We have taken this down time to ensure all our staff members are taking the necessary precautions to help slow/stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus. During this shut down, we have been working on many projects to reopen a stronger & more efficient establishment. We look forward to seeing everyone when the ban is lifted. If the ban continues further than 4/30/2020 (prayers we don't cross that bridge) we will revisit the idea of curbside services & keep everyone informed on that decision. If anyone has any questions in regard to a scheduled event please follow this link: https://bluffcitygrillalton.com/contact/ We truly appreciate everyone’s support during this trying time & ask everyone to come together as a community. Please support our community’s small businesses & continue to follow the guidelines the CDC & WHO has recommended to help end this pandemic. Stay Safe & Stay Healthy! #healthiswealth

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina


04-08-20

The Boathouse is Re-opening May 1st
with "Pickup Service" and possible delivery!
Menu coming soon

 

03-24-20
The harbor is open and I have a few slips available for rent.
New customers receive 25% off for 2020 season.

 

Website... N/A

 

On the river as always xoxo The Boathouse Crew

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

03/20/2020
Calhoun Ferry Company’s priority is the health and safety of our crew and passengers.
We received a call today from the U.S. Coast Guard advising us that all passengers will be required to stay in their vehicles when crossing the ferry. This is in response to the restrictions placed on gatherings of 10 or more people. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted.
We are cleaning and disinfecting all crew areas and all ferry passes as we receive them.
Starting tomorrow 03/21/2020 we will be reducing our hours to eliminate the late night shift on Friday and Saturday. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted. Hours will be Monday through Saturday 5am to 9pm and Sunday 8am to 9pm.
We will all get through this together by working together for a better tomorrow. Stay safe!
Thank You,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

     

 

 

 

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

3-18-20
Because of the CDC recommendations the restaurant management has decided to close the restaurant this weekend until further notice.
MJB

 

 

The Duck Club is the Premier Private Yacht Club serving the Upper Mississippi River, Alton pool boating community. The Club is located at the South end of Dardenne Slough with direct channel access at mm22

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

Closed until further notice ....

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

03-24-20

The winery, gift shop, fuel dock and Grafton Oyster Bar are "Closed."

 

March 16, 2020
For the safety of our family, customers and employees, we at Grafton Harbor, have decided to close the gift shop and winery during this pandemic. We will keep you all in our love and prayers during this difficult time. Stay well everyone and thank you all so much for your support.

 

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar!

 

Every Saturday & Sunday

 Beginning May 2, 2020

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

We all know how hard the past year hit Grafton businesses. In light of the closures caused by the 2019 Flood and COVID-19, the Law Firm of Wittman & Lorton, P.C. and Preferred Title & Escrow, Inc. purchased 50 $100 gift cards to giveaway on our FB page. They also purchased 50 $100 gift cards from Grafton SkyTour. Starting March 23rd, and continuing for 50 days we will give away a $100 gift card to a Grafton restaurant or bar along with a $100 gift card to Grafton SkyTour sponsored by Wittman & Lorton and Preferred Title & Escrow! The goal is to encourage others during this difficult time to purchase gift cards from all Grafton businesses to be used once our businesses reopen! Make sure you visit The Grafton Illinois FB page daily: https://www.facebook.com/enjoygrafton/.
All you need to do is like and share Grafton Chamber of Commerce FB page each day to enter the daily giveaway. We thank everyone for your continued support of Grafton businesses! We can’t wait to see you come back again! Stay Safe

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

Closed Until Further Notice


 

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

04-11-20

Our office will move back to the river on Monday morning. The office door will be locked, you are welcome to come into the office one at a time. We will try and disinfectant after each person, as we do not want to make anyone ill, or nor do we want to get ill. Hope you realize why we are taking these precautions. If everyone works together, this may get over pretty soon. No one needs this to stretch out any longer than necessary. We need warm weather, sunshine and more boating. So wave at us at the end of the road..
 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

The old building has been torn down. 

 

Waiting on permits for new building.

 

"The plan is to keep it in the same location, maybe a little closer to the river and up about 7 ft higher. The building will be just a little smaller with a bigger deck."

 

Amanda

Kinder's Restaurant

 

Photo Gallery of tear down.. click here

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

.

March 7, 2020

Our gas dock is up and running for you.
Have a great weekend boaters!!

 

Reposted from Lake Center marina Facebook.... click here

 

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members in 2020 !
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook... click here.

 

Longshot Marina

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Longshot Saloon..Opening May 2, 2020

 

03-24-20

Marina is open.
Just got excavator delivered for spring and summer projects
Reopening Longshot Saloon on May 2nd

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Opening May 21, 2020

 

Polestar Boating Center

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

03-24-20

Operating on a skeleton crew.
If there is a need or emergency, call 636 250-3008

 

Dock Rentals on the Mississippi River
Safe Harbor Yacht Sales
The Canvas Man, LLC
Vessel Surveyor / Marine Consulting
Quality Marine Repair

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 

03-31-20

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.


We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.
If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call 📞 and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops 🏢 we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!


 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

REOPENING IN THE SPRING FOR THE 2020 SEASON.

KEEP YOUR ANCHOR RIGHT HERE FOR UPDATES.

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

04-03-20

Happy Friday!
We are here for the weekend!
Call in ahead for food at 636-723-0005!

 

Click here for menu

3025 N MO-94, St. Charles, Missouri 63301

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

04-08-20

SPRING SALES OFFERS | $2,000 Instant Savings on New Yamaha Boats; Zero Down, Zero Interest, Zero Payments for 3 Months; $7,500 Off 275 Series boats.

 

03-23-20

St. Charles Boat & Motor update:
Due to the unprecedented time that the country is experiencing, we are implementing some additions to our normal routine:
At this time, we remain open for business, operating with a small staff. For the safety of our customers, our staff, and our families, in addition to our normal operations, we are offering some alternative means of interacting with us as well – for both purchasing products (from parts to a new boat) and for your service needs.
If you’d like to shop any new or used inventory with us with minimized social interaction, we can schedule individual appointments or send you a virtual video tour of a unit. You can always shop our inventory on our website as well, at www.stcharlesboat.com. We currently have some huge discounts on our in stock inventory! If you’re interested in a private appointment, please e-mail us at zeke@stcharlesboat.com or you can call us at 636-947-0106 during normal business hours.
For your service needs, we can schedule a touchless drop off and pick-up with you. For touchless drop off or pick-up, e-mail Jerry at jerry@stcharlesboat.com or Zeke at zeke@stcharlesboat.com for scheduling and instructions.
We realize that this too will pass and we can return to a more normal routine, which means getting back to boating for many of us!
We will keep our customer’s updated by posting on our website and Facebook page.

 

Winter Hours

  Tue - Fri..9am - 5pm

  Sat - 9am - 2pm

  Sun & Mon..Closed

 

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

04-09-19

We have a full beer cooler..
Let us know what you want us to stock..we are trying our best to be competitive versus across the bridge..there are only few that I cant...so check us out..part of being competitive is counting on you...this will go for groceries as well...let us know what you need..

 

 

02-27-20 Update..

Fat Boys Restaurant at Two Rivers Marina

Hi Bill,
They are diligently working to get things in order. The have been working long hours trying to get the building in shape, lots of painting and cleaning. It is going to happen, however they are a bit behind because of Illinois paperwork. I expect an opening sometime in March. They are keeping the name "Fat Boys".

Cindy Blaylock
Two Rivers Marina.

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

04-08-20

When you look across the harbor and can see the green peeking through on the tree line, you know summer is right around the corner!
Due to the recent events, we are doing our part in maintaining social distance. Harbor members can call ahead to get a fuel appointment, and splashing boats will be on a case by case basis.
We can’t prevent anyone from gathering, but we can avoid being a part of the problem by keeping VERY limited services.
We hope everyone is staying safe, and we look forward to seeing the river crowded with boaters when this calms down!!
Happy boating!

 

Wood marina Spring Promotion

Attention - New Slip Customers 50% Off Any Available Slip

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

Currently we are open. Although things may change. My wife is in healthcare sales so I may be working from home more. Service guys are currently working when work can be done outside of shop. Hope this helps I will Let you know if things change more.

Andy

 

 

Yacht Club tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on Higher ground !

 

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

Brussels Ferry............618 - 786-3636

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

Winfield Ferry.............618-  535-5759

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645  ..Closed for the Season

 

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 
3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Closed
Abigail's Tap Room Closed
Alton Marina Deli Closed
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Closed
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Reopening May 1st for Pickup Service & Possible delivery
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ MRH Resort.. Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Closed
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Closed
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Closed
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Closed
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Opening May 2, 2020
LaRosa Cantina................................. Opening May 21, 2020
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

 

THURSDAY

16 APRIL 2020

 

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

 

Tuesday Ride

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 

 

Click pic to enlarge

 

 

Pictures of the Day..... were sent to us by Capt'n Mike Stanczak

 

 

Hey Bill,

 

Went out on the water Tuesday. Got some pictures Enterprise Island and Snake Chute.

 

Mike

 

 The Boathouse is Reopening Friday, May 1st

with "Pickup Service" and possible delivery!

 

Menu coming soon

 
Website... N/A        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Phone: 636 250 3300

 

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

Grafton Harbor.... 618-786-PORT (7678)

 

Grafton Harbor River Adventure Cruises

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar !

Every Saturday & Sunday  Beginning May 2, 2020

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

 

 

First Mate is a boat brokerage located on the beautiful upper Mississippi.

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

 Yesteryears Pic of the Day

When Rafting-Up Was The Thing To Do

 

click pic to enlarge

 

Yesteryears picture on this day in 2014 .....  was sent to us by Desmonclub

 

Flip flops, shorts!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Coming soon, swimsuits and the Mississippi River.
Another YEAH!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Have a good spring
 

 

 

Alton Marina

click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

Get Away From It All

Practice Social Distancing in a BOAT

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

Email: woodlandmarina1@gmail.com

Click here for Website        Click here for Facebook

 

 

River News !  

 

 

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED APRIL 15, 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

MILE 273.4/MILE 241.4 - LOCKAGE AND CREW CHANGE SPECIAL REQUIREMENT
Due to concerns regarding the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and effective immediately for L/D’s 24 and 25, in the vicinity of Mile 273.4 and 241.4: No industry personnel shall be allowed inside USACE lock control houses or other buildings during crew changes, except in the case of medical emergency. Crew changes will still be allowed, but industry personnel must go directly from the vehicle to the motor vessel. At both facilities (L/D’s 24/25) the crew van will be required to park outside of the exterior fenced area during the crew change. Also effective immediately Locks 24 and 25 will not accept incoming or outgoing boat mail. Industry personnel will be required to use their own facilities while navigating through the lock. Changes are effective immediately and until further notice. All navigation interest should be alert for, and abide by, any special instructions that may be issued by the lockmaster.

MILE 183.2 - BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION
Merchants Railroad Bridge; Work barges continue excavating around both left and right descending navigation piers and the right descending pier of the center span. Work barges should not encroach more than 50 feet into the navigation channel, at any time. For work barge locations, mariners are encouraged to contact the onsite work boat M/V KATHERINE OHARA via VHF-FM Channel 6 or 16 or by phone at (217) 248-9077.

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - Update
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Pool 5A (Mile 738.0 – Mile 728.6),

Pool 10 (Mile 647.8 – Mile 615.1),

Pool 11 (Mile 615.0 – Mile 583.0),

Pool 13 (Mile 556.6 – Mile 522.4),

Pool 14 (Mile 522.3 – Mile 493.3),

Pool 21 (Mile 343.1 – Mile 324.9),

Pool 22 (Mile 324.8 – Mile 301.2),

Pool 24 (Mile 301.1 – Mile 273.4),

Pool 25 (Mile 273.3 – Mile 241.4),

Pool 28 (Mile 185.4 – Mile 160.1) and

Pool 29 (Mile 160.0 – Mile 109.9).

Down-streaming operations are not recommended unless the vessel is equal to or greater than 75 feet in length and the vessel has a minimum of 1,800 h.p. Towboat operators should use caution, minimize wake where possible, and be experienced in high water operations. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris in the water and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate action to prevent any breakaways from occurring. Use caution in all passing and meeting situations and be mindful of all charted bridge navigational clearances. Buoys may have been dragged off station so remain cautious while transiting.

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - UPDATE
The following areas are in the high water action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Zone 15 (Mile 493.2 – Mile 482.9),

Zone 16 (Mile 482.8 – Mile 457.2),

Zone 17 (Mile 457.1 – Mile 437.1),

Zone 18 (Mile 437.0 – Mile 410.5) and

Zone 20 (Mile 364.1 – Mile 343.2).

 In St. Louis Harbor, south-bound tows greater than 600 feet in length, excluding the towboat, limit their transit to daylight hours. North-bound tows have enough horsepower to maintain a minimum of 3 MPH, on approach to the St. Louis Harbor Bridges. It is recommended that all towing vessels have a pilot onboard with recent high water experience with similar size tows, through St. Louis Harbor Bridges. All towing vessels should have a minimum of 250 h.p., for every 2,000 tons of cargo. Barges should not be carried on the hip. Down-streaming operations are not recommended unless the vessel is equal to or greater than 75 feet in length and the vessel has a minimum of 1,800 h.p. Mariners are advised to favor the center of the channel and proceed at their slowest safe operating speed based upon the prevailing conditions to minimize wake damage. Vessels should avoid laying up on levees or pushing in where railroad tracks are charted near the bank, assess bridge clearances in advance and ensure fleets are tendered at all times. Mariners should review anchoring requirements and pre-identify layup areas in the event of a river closure or barge breakaway. Mariners should ensure that moored vessels and barges are adequately secured with the anticipation of increased velocity and high water. Drift and debris may be a hazard to navigation and drag buoys off station

 

ILLINOIS RIVER

ILLINOIS WATERWAY - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - Update
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Zone 5 Havana (Mile 128.9 – Mile 102.0),

Zone 4 Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),

Zone 3 Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0),

 Zone 2 Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0) and

Zone 1 Grafton (Mile 9.0 – Mile 0.0).

 High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. Avoid laying up on saturated levees. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations if possible. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate actions to prevent breakaways. Exercise caution in all meeting and overtaking situations, as swift currents may be present. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting.


 

Click here  for the current "Local Notice To Mariners" report

 on the Navigation Center Website


 No new incident reports for the St. Louis area
 

Click here to go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for "all" incident reports    

 

River Gear For Sale............

 

Click here to buy your River T-shirts and Accessories on-line..

Delivered right to you mailbox in a few short days

 

RiverBills Facebook

Two FaceBook Pages for You

 

The "River News and Media" Page

Page contains river news, RiverBills Pictures of the Day, Upcoming River Events, info from RiverBills.com advertisers, etc..... Click here and check it out

 

The "Boaters Group" Page

It's a group for all the boaters on all the rivers near the "PORT OF ST. LOUIS AND BEYOND." It's a Public Group, open to anyone that wants to join in. A place to post your boating pictures, shout outs, questions, comments, etc.  Stay in touch with other boaters all year long.  Invite your Boating Friends. 

We have 5,947 members as of 04-16-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

Mississippi River At St. Louis, Missouri

KMOX Looking For Sweethearts Caught On Film.........

 

KMOX photographer Kevin Killeen was recently on the St. Louis riverfront taking photos for a story on Mississippi River conditions. 

 

After taking a photo of the Eads Bridge and the Mississippi River, he realized that he had photographed a couple skipping rocks into the river as well.

 

As Killeen snapped the camera's shutter, the couple embraced.  Now, KMOX is looking for the couple, as they would like to talk with them........

 

Click here to read this news story from kmox.com.  With Photos.

 

Flooding

Road Closures .......

 

It's that time of the year again. 

Just a few low lying roads in the St. Louis area are flooded at this time.  Check it out:

 

 • St. Charles County Road Closures..... click here

 • MODOT's Traveler information Map.... click here

 • Illinois Department of Transportation... click here

 

 

Click here........ Port Charles Harbor website

Click here......Port Charles Harbor Facebook

 

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.

We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.

If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops  we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!

News Release From BoatUS


Shall We Say Goodbye to ‘Small Craft Advisory’ and Hello to ‘Small Craft Warning’?
BoatUS supports proposal to simplify critical warning messages; NWS invites boaters to weigh in

SPRINGFIELD, Va., April 15, 2020 -- In a move that could simplify and potentially reduce misunderstanding of urgent weather messages used by recreational boaters to make critical boating safety decisions, the National Weather Service (NWS) has proposed renaming “Small Craft Advisory” to “Small Craft Warning” and is asking for boaters’ feedback. Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) urges boaters to speak up now by taking a NWS survey for recreational boaters at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/VZGX6BF. The survey closes May 24, 2020.

“Every day they go boating, boat owners check the weather and then make the decision to either head out or not,” said BoatUS Government Affairs Manager David Kennedy. “We think the name change will help clarify what this means, leading to a better understanding of the severity of a marine weather forecast, and help give recreational boaters the information they need to make smart choices about boating safely.”

For decades, NWS has used the Watch, Warning, and Advisory (WWA) system to alert users about forecasted hazards, but it has recognized this can be confusing. The proposal to rename a “Small Craft Advisory” to a “Small Craft Warning” is part of a larger effort to reduce the messages to just two flagship headline terms: Watch and Warning. NOAA also says the name change would better align with all other marine warnings – Gale, Storm, and Hurricane Force Wind – leading to greater understanding by recreational boaters.

Changing from an “advisory” to “warning” would not change the term’s definition or meaning. While there is no precise definition of a "small craft," today a “Small Craft Advisory” is issued when sustained wind speeds or frequent gusts have reached 20 to 33 knots and/or seas or waves 4 feet and greater and/or waves or seas are potentially hazardous. The requirements vary slightly by region, and local conditions may also dictate issuing a Small Craft Advisory.


###

 

This press release reprinted by permission of Scott Croft of BoatUS...click here

 

click pic to enlarge

 

We offer full fiberglass repair, high performance upgrades, transom & stringer rebuilds, service on older products, new & used parts department, an accessories department, as well as many other services to suit everyone's boating needs.

We continue to display our Yamaha Sport Boats + Crest, Mercury + Yamaha Outboards and Heritage & Haul Rite trailers

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor website      St. Charles Boat & Motor Facebook

 

04-08-20

SPRING SALES OFFERS | $2,000 Instant Savings on New Yamaha Boats; Zero Down, Zero Interest, Zero Payments for 3 Months; $7,500 Off 275 Series boats.

Mississippi River At Alton, Illinois

Alton Calls For Fed Help With Riverview Drive Project........

 

The repair and restoration of the collapsed retaining wall along Alton's Riverview Drive was recently submitted to a new Public Assistance Alternative Procedures pilot program, which will allow bidders to make offers on the project.

 

Bob Barnhart, the Alton Public Works Director says that the project is moving forward, however, it is not completely "sealed and done".

 

In order to receive the lowest cost offered to governments, officials are planning to register Alton as a member of the U.S. General Services Administration........

 

Click here to read this news report from thetelegraph.com.  With Photo.

 

US Coast Guard Auxiliary

Paddling Course........

 

Reprinted from US Coast Guard Auxiliary Facebook... click here

 

Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary

Almost Least Tern Nesting Season.......

 

 

Reprinted from RiverNands Migratory Bird Sanctuary Facebook... click here

 

The Waterways Journan

Free To A Good Home: 1938 Wicket Dam Maneuvering Boat........

 

Reprinted from US Coast Guard Auxiliary Facebook... click here

 

River History....

 

April 16, 2015 in River History

 

Riverside Bar and Grill at Palisades Yacht Club opened it's doors for business under the management of Jamie Larrison and Gary Strickland

Boater Education

In-Command Seamanship Training Shifts To The Internet.........

 

Captain David Fetherston, president and CEO of In-Command Seamanship Training says that they, along with Wickford Boat Rentals, are preparing for the summer season with educational courses being offered via the internet.

 

Captain Fetherston said that the In-Command Seamanship Training has become the symbol of excellence for many classroom and on-water training programs.

 

He adds that they are pleased to introduce the new In-Command Virtual Classroom, which will be available over the internet using ZOOM........

 

Click here to read this news article from boatingindustry.com.

Click here to visit the In-Command website.

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "October 2020" 

One month listing on the front page in the featured Classified Section

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

e-mail your info along with 6 pictures (max) to riverbill@prodigy.net.

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

We will bill you after the ad is on-line

 

 

OFFERING

THE SWINGING DOCK STEP

 

 

 

Swings out

to bridge the gap between the dock and your boat

for ease of loading and boarding

 

Swings out of the way

 to the

 "Walk Thru"

position on the dock

 

Little Johns Marine Service... click here

Little John's Moptorsports... click here

What's Going On This Week

3rd Chute Bar & Grill
211 W. Main St. Grafton, IL

 

 

Just a short walk from Grafton Harbor
Breakfast available every Saturday and Sunday morning from 8am till 12pm

 

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

03-24-20

Temporarily Closed

 

 

Alton Marina is the cover photo for the

2020 edition of Quimby's Cruising Guide

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

04-08-20

As everyone is aware, Governor Pritzker has extended the order that all Bars & Restaurants must discontinue dine in services, effective 3/17/2020 through a minimum of 4/30/2020. At this time, Bluff City Grill will remain closed without curbside or delivery services. We have taken this down time to ensure all our staff members are taking the necessary precautions to help slow/stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus. During this shut down, we have been working on many projects to reopen a stronger & more efficient establishment. We look forward to seeing everyone when the ban is lifted. If the ban continues further than 4/30/2020 (prayers we don't cross that bridge) we will revisit the idea of curbside services & keep everyone informed on that decision. If anyone has any questions in regard to a scheduled event please follow this link: https://bluffcitygrillalton.com/contact/ We truly appreciate everyone’s support during this trying time & ask everyone to come together as a community. Please support our community’s small businesses & continue to follow the guidelines the CDC & WHO has recommended to help end this pandemic. Stay Safe & Stay Healthy! #healthiswealth

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina


04-08-20

The Boathouse is Re-opening May 1st
with "Pickup Service" and possible delivery!
Menu coming soon

 

03-24-20
The harbor is open and I have a few slips available for rent.
New customers receive 25% off for 2020 season.

 

Website...N/A

 

On the river as always xoxo The Boathouse Crew

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

03/20/2020
Calhoun Ferry Company’s priority is the health and safety of our crew and passengers.
We received a call today from the U.S. Coast Guard advising us that all passengers will be required to stay in their vehicles when crossing the ferry. This is in response to the restrictions placed on gatherings of 10 or more people. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted.
We are cleaning and disinfecting all crew areas and all ferry passes as we receive them.
Starting tomorrow 03/21/2020 we will be reducing our hours to eliminate the late night shift on Friday and Saturday. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted. Hours will be Monday through Saturday 5am to 9pm and Sunday 8am to 9pm.
We will all get through this together by working together for a better tomorrow. Stay safe!
Thank You,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

     

 

 

 

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

3-18-20
Because of the CDC recommendations the restaurant management has decided to close the restaurant this weekend until further notice.
MJB

 

 

The Duck Club is the Premier Private Yacht Club serving the Upper Mississippi River, Alton pool boating community. The Club is located at the South end of Dardenne Slough with direct channel access at mm22

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

Closed until further notice ....

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

03-24-20

The winery, gift shop, fuel dock and Grafton Oyster Bar are "Closed."

 

March 16, 2020
For the safety of our family, customers and employees, we at Grafton Harbor, have decided to close the gift shop and winery during this pandemic. We will keep you all in our love and prayers during this difficult time. Stay well everyone and thank you all so much for your support.

 

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar!

 

Every Saturday & Sunday

 Beginning May 2, 2020

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

We all know how hard the past year hit Grafton businesses. In light of the closures caused by the 2019 Flood and COVID-19, the Law Firm of Wittman & Lorton, P.C. and Preferred Title & Escrow, Inc. purchased 50 $100 gift cards to giveaway on our FB page. They also purchased 50 $100 gift cards from Grafton SkyTour. Starting March 23rd, and continuing for 50 days we will give away a $100 gift card to a Grafton restaurant or bar along with a $100 gift card to Grafton SkyTour sponsored by Wittman & Lorton and Preferred Title & Escrow! The goal is to encourage others during this difficult time to purchase gift cards from all Grafton businesses to be used once our businesses reopen! Make sure you visit The Grafton Illinois FB page daily: https://www.facebook.com/enjoygrafton/.
All you need to do is like and share Grafton Chamber of Commerce FB page each day to enter the daily giveaway. We thank everyone for your continued support of Grafton businesses! We can’t wait to see you come back again! Stay Safe

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

Closed Until Further Notice


 

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

04-11-20

Our office will move back to the river on Monday morning. The office door will be locked, you are welcome to come into the office one at a time. We will try and disinfectant after each person, as we do not want to make anyone ill, or nor do we want to get ill. Hope you realize why we are taking these precautions. If everyone works together, this may get over pretty soon. No one needs this to stretch out any longer than necessary. We need warm weather, sunshine and more boating. So wave at us at the end of the road..
 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

The old building has been torn down. 

 

Waiting on permits for new building.

 

"The plan is to keep it in the same location, maybe a little closer to the river and up about 7 ft higher. The building will be just a little smaller with a bigger deck."

 

Amanda

Kinder's Restaurant

 

Photo Gallery of tear down.. click here

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

.

March 7, 2020

Our gas dock is up and running for you.
Have a great weekend boaters!!

 

Reposted from Lake Center marina Facebook.... click here

 

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members in 2020 !
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook... click here.

 

Longshot Marina

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Longshot Saloon..Opening May 2, 2020

 

03-24-20

Marina is open.
Just got excavator delivered for spring and summer projects
Reopening Longshot Saloon on May 2nd

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Opening May 21, 2020

 

Polestar Boating Center

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

03-24-20

Operating on a skeleton crew.
If there is a need or emergency, call 636 250-3008

 

Dock Rentals on the Mississippi River
Safe Harbor Yacht Sales
The Canvas Man, LLC
Vessel Surveyor / Marine Consulting
Quality Marine Repair

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 

03-31-20

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.


We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.
If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call 📞 and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops 🏢 we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!


 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

REOPENING IN THE SPRING FOR THE 2020 SEASON.

KEEP YOUR ANCHOR RIGHT HERE FOR UPDATES.

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

04-03-20

Happy Friday!
We are here for the weekend!
Call in ahead for food at 636-723-0005!

 

Click here for menu

3025 N MO-94, St. Charles, Missouri 63301

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

04-08-20

SPRING SALES OFFERS | $2,000 Instant Savings on New Yamaha Boats; Zero Down, Zero Interest, Zero Payments for 3 Months; $7,500 Off 275 Series boats.

 

03-23-20

St. Charles Boat & Motor update:
Due to the unprecedented time that the country is experiencing, we are implementing some additions to our normal routine:
At this time, we remain open for business, operating with a small staff. For the safety of our customers, our staff, and our families, in addition to our normal operations, we are offering some alternative means of interacting with us as well – for both purchasing products (from parts to a new boat) and for your service needs.
If you’d like to shop any new or used inventory with us with minimized social interaction, we can schedule individual appointments or send you a virtual video tour of a unit. You can always shop our inventory on our website as well, at www.stcharlesboat.com. We currently have some huge discounts on our in stock inventory! If you’re interested in a private appointment, please e-mail us at zeke@stcharlesboat.com or you can call us at 636-947-0106 during normal business hours.
For your service needs, we can schedule a touchless drop off and pick-up with you. For touchless drop off or pick-up, e-mail Jerry at jerry@stcharlesboat.com or Zeke at zeke@stcharlesboat.com for scheduling and instructions.
We realize that this too will pass and we can return to a more normal routine, which means getting back to boating for many of us!
We will keep our customer’s updated by posting on our website and Facebook page.

 

Winter Hours

  Tue - Fri..9am - 5pm

  Sat - 9am - 2pm

  Sun & Mon..Closed

 

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

04-09-19

We have a full beer cooler..
Let us know what you want us to stock..we are trying our best to be competitive versus across the bridge..there are only few that I cant...so check us out..part of being competitive is counting on you...this will go for groceries as well...let us know what you need..

 

 

02-27-20 Update..

Fat Boys Restaurant at Two Rivers Marina

Hi Bill,
They are diligently working to get things in order. The have been working long hours trying to get the building in shape, lots of painting and cleaning. It is going to happen, however they are a bit behind because of Illinois paperwork. I expect an opening sometime in March. They are keeping the name "Fat Boys".

Cindy Blaylock
Two Rivers Marina.

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

04-08-20

When you look across the harbor and can see the green peeking through on the tree line, you know summer is right around the corner!
Due to the recent events, we are doing our part in maintaining social distance. Harbor members can call ahead to get a fuel appointment, and splashing boats will be on a case by case basis.
We can’t prevent anyone from gathering, but we can avoid being a part of the problem by keeping VERY limited services.
We hope everyone is staying safe, and we look forward to seeing the river crowded with boaters when this calms down!!
Happy boating!

 

Wood marina Spring Promotion

Attention - New Slip Customers 50% Off Any Available Slip

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

Currently we are open. Although things may change. My wife is in healthcare sales so I may be working from home more. Service guys are currently working when work can be done outside of shop. Hope this helps I will Let you know if things change more.

Andy

 

 

Yacht Club tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on Higher ground !

 

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

Brussels Ferry............618 - 786-3636

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

Winfield Ferry.............618-  535-5759

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645  ..Closed for the Season

 

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 
3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Closed
Abigail's Tap Room Closed
Alton Marina Deli Closed
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Closed
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Reopening May 1st for Pickup Service & Possible delivery
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ MRH Resort.. Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Closed
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Closed
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Closed
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Closed
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Opening May 2, 2020
LaRosa Cantina................................. Opening May 21, 2020
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

 

WEDNESDAY

15 APRIL 2020

 

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

 

Shimmering Cross

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

Click pic to enlarge

 

 

Pictures of the Day..... were sent to us by Dorothy Miller....

 

Bill,

Felt like last night's sunset appeared to be giving us all a Blessing. A shining Cross glimmered through the trees for a least a minute! As if to say... God Bless America and All her people. Maybe a sign we will all be together soon waving, singing and dancing at the Boathouse.

 

And of course the final sunset!

 

Stay safe

Dorothy Miller
Staying home in
Portage Des Sioux

 

 

RiverBill says.... What a wonderful photo of the cross !

Thanks for sharing it with us Dorothy

 The Boathouse is Reopening Friday, May 1st

with "Pickup Service" and possible delivery!

 

Menu coming soon

 
Website..N/A        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Phone: 636 250 3300

 

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

Grafton Harbor.... 618-786-PORT (7678)

 

Grafton Harbor River Adventure Cruises

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar !

Every Saturday & Sunday  Beginning May 2, 2020

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

 

 

First Mate is a boat brokerage located on the beautiful upper Mississippi.

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

 Yesteryears Pic of the Day

 

The Band Rail

Click pic  to enlarge

 

Yesteryears Picture of the Day in 2007.... 

 

Opening night of Captain Jacks in 2007

 

Alton Marina

click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

Get Away From It All

Practice Social Distancing in a BOAT

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

Email: woodlandmarina1@gmail.com

Click here for Website        Click here for Facebook

 

 

River News !  

 

 

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED APRIL 15, 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

MILE 273.4/MILE 241.4 - LOCKAGE AND CREW CHANGE SPECIAL REQUIREMENT
Due to concerns regarding the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and effective immediately for L/D’s 24 and 25, in the vicinity of Mile 273.4 and 241.4: No industry personnel shall be allowed inside USACE lock control houses or other buildings during crew changes, except in the case of medical emergency. Crew changes will still be allowed, but industry personnel must go directly from the vehicle to the motor vessel. At both facilities (L/D’s 24/25) the crew van will be required to park outside of the exterior fenced area during the crew change. Also effective immediately Locks 24 and 25 will not accept incoming or outgoing boat mail. Industry personnel will be required to use their own facilities while navigating through the lock. Changes are effective immediately and until further notice. All navigation interest should be alert for, and abide by, any special instructions that may be issued by the lockmaster.

MILE 183.2 - BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION
Merchants Railroad Bridge; Work barges continue excavating around both left and right descending navigation piers and the right descending pier of the center span. Work barges should not encroach more than 50 feet into the navigation channel, at any time. For work barge locations, mariners are encouraged to contact the onsite work boat M/V KATHERINE OHARA via VHF-FM Channel 6 or 16 or by phone at (217) 248-9077.

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - Update
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Pool 5A (Mile 738.0 – Mile 728.6),

Pool 10 (Mile 647.8 – Mile 615.1),

Pool 11 (Mile 615.0 – Mile 583.0),

Pool 13 (Mile 556.6 – Mile 522.4),

Pool 14 (Mile 522.3 – Mile 493.3),

Pool 21 (Mile 343.1 – Mile 324.9),

Pool 22 (Mile 324.8 – Mile 301.2),

Pool 24 (Mile 301.1 – Mile 273.4),

Pool 25 (Mile 273.3 – Mile 241.4),

Pool 28 (Mile 185.4 – Mile 160.1) and

Pool 29 (Mile 160.0 – Mile 109.9).

Down-streaming operations are not recommended unless the vessel is equal to or greater than 75 feet in length and the vessel has a minimum of 1,800 h.p. Towboat operators should use caution, minimize wake where possible, and be experienced in high water operations. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris in the water and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate action to prevent any breakaways from occurring. Use caution in all passing and meeting situations and be mindful of all charted bridge navigational clearances. Buoys may have been dragged off station so remain cautious while transiting.

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - UPDATE
The following areas are in the high water action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Zone 15 (Mile 493.2 – Mile 482.9),

Zone 16 (Mile 482.8 – Mile 457.2),

Zone 17 (Mile 457.1 – Mile 437.1),

Zone 18 (Mile 437.0 – Mile 410.5) and

Zone 20 (Mile 364.1 – Mile 343.2).

 In St. Louis Harbor, south-bound tows greater than 600 feet in length, excluding the towboat, limit their transit to daylight hours. North-bound tows have enough horsepower to maintain a minimum of 3 MPH, on approach to the St. Louis Harbor Bridges. It is recommended that all towing vessels have a pilot onboard with recent high water experience with similar size tows, through St. Louis Harbor Bridges. All towing vessels should have a minimum of 250 h.p., for every 2,000 tons of cargo. Barges should not be carried on the hip. Down-streaming operations are not recommended unless the vessel is equal to or greater than 75 feet in length and the vessel has a minimum of 1,800 h.p. Mariners are advised to favor the center of the channel and proceed at their slowest safe operating speed based upon the prevailing conditions to minimize wake damage. Vessels should avoid laying up on levees or pushing in where railroad tracks are charted near the bank, assess bridge clearances in advance and ensure fleets are tendered at all times. Mariners should review anchoring requirements and pre-identify layup areas in the event of a river closure or barge breakaway. Mariners should ensure that moored vessels and barges are adequately secured with the anticipation of increased velocity and high water. Drift and debris may be a hazard to navigation and drag buoys off station

 

ILLINOIS RIVER

ILLINOIS WATERWAY - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - Update
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Zone 5 Havana (Mile 128.9 – Mile 102.0),

Zone 4 Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),

Zone 3 Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0),

 Zone 2 Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0) and

Zone 1 Grafton (Mile 9.0 – Mile 0.0).

 High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. Avoid laying up on saturated levees. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations if possible. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate actions to prevent breakaways. Exercise caution in all meeting and overtaking situations, as swift currents may be present. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting.


 

Click here  for the current "Local Notice To Mariners" report

 on the Navigation Center Website


 No new incident reports for the St. Louis area
 

Click here to go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for "all" incident reports    

 

River Gear For Sale............

 

Click here to buy your River T-shirts and Accessories on-line..

Delivered right to you mailbox in a few short days

 

RiverBills Facebook

Two FaceBook Pages for You

 

The "River News and Media" Page

Page contains river news, RiverBills Pictures of the Day, Upcoming River Events, info from RiverBills.com advertisers, etc..... Click here and check it out

 

The "Boaters Group" Page

It's a group for all the boaters on all the rivers near the "PORT OF ST. LOUIS AND BEYOND." It's a Public Group, open to anyone that wants to join in. A place to post your boating pictures, shout outs, questions, comments, etc.  Stay in touch with other boaters all year long.  Invite your Boating Friends. 

We have 5,943 members as of 04-15-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

 

Mississippi River Cruising News

Viking Cruise Line Will Be Stopping In Missouri........

 

Viking Cruise Lines intends to begin offering cruises along the Mississippi River starting in 2022.  The cruise is a 15 night, 1,100 plus mile cruise from New Orleans, Louisiana to St. Paul, Minnesota.

 

Viking's 386 passenger vessel, the Viking Mississippi will feature 193 staterooms on five decks and will offer amenities such as an infinity pool and programs and activities linked to regions along the river.

 

The itinerary will include stops in seven Mississippi River States:

○  Louisiana - Baton Rouge, Darrow, New Orleans and St. Francisville
○  Mississippi - Natchez and Vicksburg
○  Tennessee - Memphis
○  Missouri - Hannibal and St. Louis
○  Iowa - Burlington, Dubuque and Davenport
○  Wisconsin - La Crosse
○  Minnesota - Red Wing, St. Paul

 

Click here to read this news story from kmov.com.  With Photo.

 

Flooding

Road Closures .......

 

It's that time of the year again. 

Just a few low lying roads in the St. Louis area are flooded at this time.  Check it out:

 

 • St. Charles County Road Closures..... click here

 • MODOT's Traveler information Map.... click here

 • Illinois Department of Transportation... click here

 

 

Click here........ Port Charles Harbor website

Click here......Port Charles Harbor Facebook

 

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.

We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.

If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops  we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!

Mississippi And Missouri Rivers

Mississippi, Missouri Rivers Are "Most Endangered" U.S. Rivers........

 

On Tuesday, a new report was released that named the Upper Mississippi River and the Lower Missouri River as the most endangered waterways in the United States.

 

The Washington D.C.-based conservation organization, American Rivers, released their list of the 10 most endangered rivers in the U.S., naming the Upper Mississippi River in Minnesota, Wisconsin, Iowa, Illinois and Missouri as number 1.

 

The Lower Missouri River in Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa and Missouri took the number two spot.  American Rivers cites poor river management combined with severe flooding driven by changing climate conditions along both rivers........

 

Click here to read this news article from ksdk.com.  With Photo.

 

click pic to enlarge

 

We offer full fiberglass repair, high performance upgrades, transom & stringer rebuilds, service on older products, new & used parts department, an accessories department, as well as many other services to suit everyone's boating needs.

We continue to display our Yamaha Sport Boats + Crest, Mercury + Yamaha Outboards and Heritage & Haul Rite trailers

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor website      St. Charles Boat & Motor Facebook

 

04-08-20

SPRING SALES OFFERS | $2,000 Instant Savings on New Yamaha Boats; Zero Down, Zero Interest, Zero Payments for 3 Months; $7,500 Off 275 Series boats.

St Charles County Parks

Hideaway Harbor........

 

 

 

Reprinted from St Charles County Parks Facebook... click here

 

Mississippi River At Vicksburg, Mississippi

Barge Struck Mississippi River Bridge ........

 

Officials report that around 5 am Tuesday morning, an allision occurred between a barge and the Interstate 20 Mississippi River Bridge at Vicksburg, Mississippi.

 

Following the allision, both of the westbound Interstate 20 lanes were closed to allow crews to inspect the span for damage.  The bridge was reopened, but one lane remained closed for routing maintenance........

 

Click here to read this news tidbit from wapt.com.  With Video.

 

Big Muddy Adventures

Quarantine Island........

 

Reprinted from Big Muddy Adventure Facebook... click here

 

Upper Mississippi River

Corps Accepting Comments On Lake Pepin Plan........

 

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, St. Paul District has proposed the construction of a habitat rehabilitation project at the head of Lake Pepin along the Mississippi River using dredged material from the river.

 

Last week, the Corps released their draft Environmental Assessment foe the project, and they are accepting public comments on the plan through May 11.

 

Instead of hosting a public meeting amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the Corps will release a presentation on the proposed project on their public notice website on April 22 at noon........

 

Click here to read more from dredgingtoday.com.  With Photo.

 

River History....

 

April 15, 2009 in River History

 

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, St. Louis, MO District has informed the proprietors of the Sherwood Marina in St. Charles County, MO, on the Mississippi River, that their lease was being revoked effective 15 April.

 

Photo Courtesy Wikipedia

 

 

April 14, 1912 in Maritime History

RMS Titanic Strikes Iceberg....

 

Late on the night of April 14, 1912, the "unsinkable" passenger vessel, the RMS Titanic struck an iceberg.  The vessel was on her maiden voyage from Southampton to New York.

 

The Titanic sank several hours later, at around 2:30 am on April 15, 1912.  Out of the 2,224 people aboard the vessel, 1,514 were claimed by the sea.

 

In the years since, strides have been made in design and construction methods, resulting in better built ships.  Modern vessels also boast more lifeboat capacity than passengers aboard as well as improved communication and threat detection systems........

 

Click here to read this news article from marinelink.com.  With Photo.

 

Boat Manufacturer

Polaris Altering Boat Building Strategy........

 

Polaris Inc. has announced that they have made the strategic decision to focus their marine investment and growth efforts on their flagship brands.

 

This change in strategy means that Polaris will stop the manufacture of the Rinker, Striper and Larson FX boat brands at the company's Syracuse, Indiana facility in June.

 

The company will continue production on their Bennington, Godfrey and Hurricane boat brands at the two manufacturing facilities located in Elkhart, Indiana........

 

Click here to read this news report from boatingindustry.com. 

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "October 2020" 

One month listing on the front page in the featured Classified Section

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

e-mail your info along with 6 pictures (max) to riverbill@prodigy.net.

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

We will bill you after the ad is on-line

 

 

OFFERING

THE SWINGING DOCK STEP

 

 

 

Swings out

to bridge the gap between the dock and your boat

for ease of loading and boarding

 

Swings out of the way

 to the

 "Walk Thru"

position on the dock

 

Little Johns Marine Service... click here

Little John's Moptorsports... click here

What's Going On This Week

3rd Chute Bar & Grill
211 W. Main St. Grafton, IL

 

 

Just a short walk from Grafton Harbor
Breakfast available every Saturday and Sunday morning from 8am till 12pm

 

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

03-24-20

Temporarily Closed

 

 

Alton Marina is the cover photo for the

2020 edition of Quimby's Cruising Guide

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

04-08-20

As everyone is aware, Governor Pritzker has extended the order that all Bars & Restaurants must discontinue dine in services, effective 3/17/2020 through a minimum of 4/30/2020. At this time, Bluff City Grill will remain closed without curbside or delivery services. We have taken this down time to ensure all our staff members are taking the necessary precautions to help slow/stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus. During this shut down, we have been working on many projects to reopen a stronger & more efficient establishment. We look forward to seeing everyone when the ban is lifted. If the ban continues further than 4/30/2020 (prayers we don't cross that bridge) we will revisit the idea of curbside services & keep everyone informed on that decision. If anyone has any questions in regard to a scheduled event please follow this link: https://bluffcitygrillalton.com/contact/ We truly appreciate everyone’s support during this trying time & ask everyone to come together as a community. Please support our community’s small businesses & continue to follow the guidelines the CDC & WHO has recommended to help end this pandemic. Stay Safe & Stay Healthy! #healthiswealth

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina


04-08-20

The Boathouse is Re-opening May 1st
with "Pickup Service" and possible delivery!
Menu coming soon

 

03-24-20
The harbor is open and I have a few slips available for rent.
New customers receive 25% off for 2020 season.

 

Website....N/A

 

On the river as always xoxo The Boathouse Crew

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

03/20/2020
Calhoun Ferry Company’s priority is the health and safety of our crew and passengers.
We received a call today from the U.S. Coast Guard advising us that all passengers will be required to stay in their vehicles when crossing the ferry. This is in response to the restrictions placed on gatherings of 10 or more people. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted.
We are cleaning and disinfecting all crew areas and all ferry passes as we receive them.
Starting tomorrow 03/21/2020 we will be reducing our hours to eliminate the late night shift on Friday and Saturday. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted. Hours will be Monday through Saturday 5am to 9pm and Sunday 8am to 9pm.
We will all get through this together by working together for a better tomorrow. Stay safe!
Thank You,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

     

 

 

 

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

3-18-20
Because of the CDC recommendations the restaurant management has decided to close the restaurant this weekend until further notice.
MJB

 

 

The Duck Club is the Premier Private Yacht Club serving the Upper Mississippi River, Alton pool boating community. The Club is located at the South end of Dardenne Slough with direct channel access at mm22

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

Closed until further notice ....

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

03-24-20

The winery, gift shop, fuel dock and Grafton Oyster Bar are "Closed."

 

March 16, 2020
For the safety of our family, customers and employees, we at Grafton Harbor, have decided to close the gift shop and winery during this pandemic. We will keep you all in our love and prayers during this difficult time. Stay well everyone and thank you all so much for your support.

 

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar!

 

Every Saturday & Sunday

 Beginning May 2, 2020

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

We all know how hard the past year hit Grafton businesses. In light of the closures caused by the 2019 Flood and COVID-19, the Law Firm of Wittman & Lorton, P.C. and Preferred Title & Escrow, Inc. purchased 50 $100 gift cards to giveaway on our FB page. They also purchased 50 $100 gift cards from Grafton SkyTour. Starting March 23rd, and continuing for 50 days we will give away a $100 gift card to a Grafton restaurant or bar along with a $100 gift card to Grafton SkyTour sponsored by Wittman & Lorton and Preferred Title & Escrow! The goal is to encourage others during this difficult time to purchase gift cards from all Grafton businesses to be used once our businesses reopen! Make sure you visit The Grafton Illinois FB page daily: https://www.facebook.com/enjoygrafton/.
All you need to do is like and share Grafton Chamber of Commerce FB page each day to enter the daily giveaway. We thank everyone for your continued support of Grafton businesses! We can’t wait to see you come back again! Stay Safe

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

Closed Until Further Notice


 

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

04-11-20

Our office will move back to the river on Monday morning. The office door will be locked, you are welcome to come into the office one at a time. We will try and disinfectant after each person, as we do not want to make anyone ill, or nor do we want to get ill. Hope you realize why we are taking these precautions. If everyone works together, this may get over pretty soon. No one needs this to stretch out any longer than necessary. We need warm weather, sunshine and more boating. So wave at us at the end of the road..
 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

The old building has been torn down. 

 

Waiting on permits for new building.

 

"The plan is to keep it in the same location, maybe a little closer to the river and up about 7 ft higher. The building will be just a little smaller with a bigger deck."

 

Amanda

Kinder's Restaurant

 

Photo Gallery of tear down.. click here

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

.

March 7, 2020

Our gas dock is up and running for you.
Have a great weekend boaters!!

 

Reposted from Lake Center marina Facebook.... click here

 

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members in 2020 !
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook... click here.

 

Longshot Marina

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Longshot Saloon..Opening May 2, 2020

 

03-24-20

Marina is open.
Just got excavator delivered for spring and summer projects
Reopening Longshot Saloon on May 2nd

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Opening May 21, 2020

 

Polestar Boating Center

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

03-24-20

Operating on a skeleton crew.
If there is a need or emergency, call 636 250-3008

 

Dock Rentals on the Mississippi River
Safe Harbor Yacht Sales
The Canvas Man, LLC
Vessel Surveyor / Marine Consulting
Quality Marine Repair

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 

03-31-20

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.


We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.
If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call 📞 and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops 🏢 we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!


 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

REOPENING IN THE SPRING FOR THE 2020 SEASON.

KEEP YOUR ANCHOR RIGHT HERE FOR UPDATES.

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

04-03-20

Happy Friday!
We are here for the weekend!
Call in ahead for food at 636-723-0005!

 

Click here for menu

3025 N MO-94, St. Charles, Missouri 63301

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

04-08-20

SPRING SALES OFFERS | $2,000 Instant Savings on New Yamaha Boats; Zero Down, Zero Interest, Zero Payments for 3 Months; $7,500 Off 275 Series boats.

 

03-23-20

St. Charles Boat & Motor update:
Due to the unprecedented time that the country is experiencing, we are implementing some additions to our normal routine:
At this time, we remain open for business, operating with a small staff. For the safety of our customers, our staff, and our families, in addition to our normal operations, we are offering some alternative means of interacting with us as well – for both purchasing products (from parts to a new boat) and for your service needs.
If you’d like to shop any new or used inventory with us with minimized social interaction, we can schedule individual appointments or send you a virtual video tour of a unit. You can always shop our inventory on our website as well, at www.stcharlesboat.com. We currently have some huge discounts on our in stock inventory! If you’re interested in a private appointment, please e-mail us at zeke@stcharlesboat.com or you can call us at 636-947-0106 during normal business hours.
For your service needs, we can schedule a touchless drop off and pick-up with you. For touchless drop off or pick-up, e-mail Jerry at jerry@stcharlesboat.com or Zeke at zeke@stcharlesboat.com for scheduling and instructions.
We realize that this too will pass and we can return to a more normal routine, which means getting back to boating for many of us!
We will keep our customer’s updated by posting on our website and Facebook page.

 

Winter Hours

  Tue - Fri..9am - 5pm

  Sat - 9am - 2pm

  Sun & Mon..Closed

 

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

04-09-19

We have a full beer cooler..
Let us know what you want us to stock..we are trying our best to be competitive versus across the bridge..there are only few that I cant...so check us out..part of being competitive is counting on you...this will go for groceries as well...let us know what you need..

 

 

02-27-20 Update..

Fat Boys Restaurant at Two Rivers Marina

Hi Bill,
They are diligently working to get things in order. The have been working long hours trying to get the building in shape, lots of painting and cleaning. It is going to happen, however they are a bit behind because of Illinois paperwork. I expect an opening sometime in March. They are keeping the name "Fat Boys".

Cindy Blaylock
Two Rivers Marina.

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

04-08-20

When you look across the harbor and can see the green peeking through on the tree line, you know summer is right around the corner!
Due to the recent events, we are doing our part in maintaining social distance. Harbor members can call ahead to get a fuel appointment, and splashing boats will be on a case by case basis.
We can’t prevent anyone from gathering, but we can avoid being a part of the problem by keeping VERY limited services.
We hope everyone is staying safe, and we look forward to seeing the river crowded with boaters when this calms down!!
Happy boating!

 

Wood marina Spring Promotion

Attention - New Slip Customers 50% Off Any Available Slip

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

Currently we are open. Although things may change. My wife is in healthcare sales so I may be working from home more. Service guys are currently working when work can be done outside of shop. Hope this helps I will Let you know if things change more.

Andy

 

 

Yacht Club tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on Higher ground !

 

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

Brussels Ferry............618 - 786-3636

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

Winfield Ferry.............618-  535-5759

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645  ..Closed for the Season

 

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 
3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Closed
Abigail's Tap Room Closed
Alton Marina Deli Closed
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Closed
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Reopening May 1st for Pickup Service & Possible delivery
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ MRH Resort.. Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Closed
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Closed
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Closed
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Closed
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Opening May 2, 2020
LaRosa Cantina................................. Opening May 21, 2020
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

 

TUESDAY

14 APRIL 2020

 

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

 

The Road To Lake Center Marina

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

Click pic to enlarge

 

 

Picture of the Day..... was taken yesterday afternoon

 

 

The entrance to Lake Center Marina

Trees all in a row

Looking all nice and green

 

Check them out... click here

 

 The Boathouse is Reopening Friday, May 1st

with "Pickup Service" and possible delivery!

 

Menu coming soon

 
Website..N/A        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Phone: 636 250 3300

 

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

Grafton Harbor.... 618-786-PORT (7678)

 

Grafton Harbor River Adventure Cruises

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar !

Every Saturday & Sunday  Beginning May 2, 2020

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

 

 

First Mate is a boat brokerage located on the beautiful upper Mississippi.

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

 Yesteryears Pic of the Day

 

Deserados at Hoppies Marina

Headed Back To Harbor Point Yacht Club

Click pic  to enlarge

 

Yesteryears Picture of the Day in 2018.... was sent to us by Captain Scott Hawkins

 

 

Made it to Hoppies Marina (from Florida). Will be back Friday to Harbor Point for the summer.
 

Captain Scott Hawkins

 

Alton Marina

click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

Get Away From It All

Practice Social Distancing in a BOAT

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

Email: woodlandmarina1@gmail.com

Click here for Website        Click here for Facebook

 

 

River News !  

 

 

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED APRIL 08, 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

MILE 273.4/MILE 241.4 - LOCKAGE AND CREW CHANGE SPECIAL REQUIREMENT
Due to concerns regarding the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and effective immediately for L/D’s 24 and 25, in the vicinity of Mile 273.4 and 241.4: No industry personnel shall be allowed inside USACE lock control houses or other buildings during crew changes, except in the case of medical emergency. Crew changes will still be allowed, but industry personnel must go directly from the vehicle to the motor vessel. At both facilities (L/D’s 24/25) the crew van will be required to park outside of the exterior fenced area during the crew change. Also effective immediately Locks 24 and 25 will not accept incoming or outgoing boat mail. Industry personnel will be required to use their own facilities while navigating through the lock. Changes are effective immediately and until further notice. All navigation interest should be alert for, and abide by, any special instructions that may be issued by the lockmaster.

MILE 183.2 - BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION
Merchants Railroad Bridge; Work barges continue excavating around both left and right descending navigation piers and the right descending pier of the center span. Work barges should not encroach more than 50 feet into the navigation channel, at any time. For work barge locations, mariners are encouraged to contact the onsite work boat M/V KATHERINE OHARA via VHF-FM Channel 6 or 16 or by phone at (217) 248-9077.

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - Update
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Pool 2 (Mile 847.5 – Mile 815.2),

 Pool 3 (Mile 815.1 – Mile 796.9),

Pool 6 (Mile 728.5 – Mile 714.3),

Pool 7 (Mile 714.2 – Mile 702.5),

Pool 8 (Mile 702.4 – Mile 679.2),

Pool 9 (Mile 679.1 – Mile 647.9),

Pool 10 (Mile 647.8 – Mile 615.1),

Pool 11 (Mile 615..0 – Mile 583.0),

Pool 13 (Mile 556.6 – Mile 522.4),

Pool 14 (Mile 522.3 – Mile 493.3),

Pool 15 (Mile 493.2 – Mile 482.9),

Pool 16 (Mile 482.8 – Mile 457.2),

Pool 21 (Mile 343.1 – Mile 324.9),

Pool 22 (Mile 324.8 – Mile 301.2),

Pool 24 (Mile 301.1 – Mile 273.4),

Pool 25 (Mile 273.3 – Mile 241.4) and

Pool 26 (Mile 241.1 – Mile 200.5).

Down-streaming operations are not recommended unless the vessel is equal to or greater than 75 feet in length and the vessel has a minimum of 1,800 h.p. Towboat operators should use caution, minimize wake where possible, and be experienced in high water operations. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris in the water and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate action to prevent any breakaways from occurring. Use caution in all passing and meeting situations and be mindful of all charted bridge navigational clearances. Buoys may have been dragged off station so remain cautious while transiting.

 

ILLINOIS RIVER

ILLINOIS WATERWAY - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - Update
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Zone 6 Copperas (Mile 145.5 – Mile 129.0),

Zone 5 Havana (Mile 128.9 – Mile 102.0),

Zone 4 Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),

Zone 3 Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0),

 Zone 2 Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0) and

Zone 1 Grafton (Mile 9.0 – Mile 0.0).

 High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. Avoid laying up on saturated levees. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations if possible. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate actions to prevent breakaways. Exercise caution in all meeting and overtaking situations, as swift currents may be present. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting.


 

Click here  for the current "Local Notice To Mariners" report

 on the Navigation Center Website


 No new incident reports for the St. Louis area
 

Click here to go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for "all" incident reports    

 

River Gear For Sale............

 

Click here to buy your River T-shirts and Accessories on-line..

Delivered right to you mailbox in a few short days

 

RiverBills Facebook

Two FaceBook Pages for You

 

The "River News and Media" Page

Page contains river news, RiverBills Pictures of the Day, Upcoming River Events, info from RiverBills.com advertisers, etc..... Click here and check it out

 

The "Boaters Group" Page

It's a group for all the boaters on all the rivers near the "PORT OF ST. LOUIS AND BEYOND." It's a Public Group, open to anyone that wants to join in. A place to post your boating pictures, shout outs, questions, comments, etc.  Stay in touch with other boaters all year long.  Invite your Boating Friends. 

We have 5,939 members as of 04-14-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

Pool 26 of Mississippi River At Grafton, Illinois

City Affected By Last Year's Flood Struggling To Deal With COVID-19........

 

Communities along the Mississippi River that are still feeling the effects of the prolonged flooding of 2019 are now feeling additional financial strain due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

Grafton, Illinois and other river communities are in debt from spending hundreds of thousands of dollars on sandbags, raising levees and other flood-fighting efforts.  Grafton Mayor Rick Eberlin says that they are still waiting for the Federal Emergency Management Agency to reimburse the city for last year's flood fighting costs.

 

Eberlin says that the effects of last year's flooding was bad, but the coronavirus outbreak and what it has done to the community is like "we were down and had been stomped and kicked and kicked some more"........

 

Click here to read this news report from bnd.com.  With Video.

 

Flooding

Road Closures .......

 

It's that time of the year again. 

Just a few low lying roads in the St. Louis area are flooded at this time.  Check it out:

 

 • St. Charles County Road Closures..... click here

 • MODOT's Traveler information Map.... click here

 • Illinois Department of Transportation... click here

 

 

Click here........ Port Charles Harbor website

Click here......Port Charles Harbor Facebook

 

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.

We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.

If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops  we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!

Mississippi River Near New Orleans. Louisiana

Corps Closed Some Bonnet Carre' Spillway Bays........

 

On Monday, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers began closing some of the bays in the Bonnet Carre' Spillway, slightly reducing the amount of freshwater flowing into Lake Pontchartrain.

 

The closure comes only 10 days after crews opened the structure.  The volume of water flowing along the Mississippi River at New Orleans has begun to ease.

 

As of Friday, officials had opened 90 of the spillway's 350 bays, allowing 80,000 cfs of freshwater to flow into the lake.  This is just a little more than 6 percent of the river's flow........

 

Click here to read this news report from nola.com.  With Photo.

 

click pic to enlarge

 

We offer full fiberglass repair, high performance upgrades, transom & stringer rebuilds, service on older products, new & used parts department, an accessories department, as well as many other services to suit everyone's boating needs.

We continue to display our Yamaha Sport Boats + Crest, Mercury + Yamaha Outboards and Heritage & Haul Rite trailers

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor website      St. Charles Boat & Motor Facebook

 

04-08-20

SPRING SALES OFFERS | $2,000 Instant Savings on New Yamaha Boats; Zero Down, Zero Interest, Zero Payments for 3 Months; $7,500 Off 275 Series boats.

Missouri River At St. Charles, Missouri

Officials Cancel Fourth Of July Celebration / Riverfest........

 

The City of St. Charles, Missouri has announced that they have cancelled their Fourth of July parade and Riverfest celebration later this summer due to health concerns.

 

The Riverfest Celebration had been scheduled for July 3rd and 4th.

 

Officials say that they have cancelled the events out of an abundance of caution, as well as the uncertainty about where things will end up.  Officials say that planning the event at this point would be too difficult, and it is best to make the decision now........

 

Click here to read this news article from kmov.com.  With Video.

 

Missouri Fishing News

MDC Has Extended Facility Closures, Trout Tag Waivers

Free Fishing Permit Waiver Ends Tomorrow.........

 

The Missouri Department of Conservation has announced that their facility closures, as well as the cancellations of public events have been extended through April 30th.

 

The MDC has also announced that the daily trout tag waiver has been extended at trout parks until further notice.  The free fishing permit waiver, however, will be ending on April 15.

 

The MDC is extending the temporary closures of their facilities and cancelled public events and programs until April 30th in accordance with state and federal guidelines........

 

Click here to read this news article from lakenewsonline.com. 

 

Today at 7:00PM

Virtual Big Muddy Speaker Series

Hosted on zoom and live-streamed on facebook.......

 

 

Reprinted from Big Muddy Speaker Series Facebook... click here

Missouri River Relief

Hands On Interactive Lessons.......

 

 

Reprinted from Missouri River Relief Facebook... click here

Missouri River Relief

The Missouri River Habits & Eccentricities.......

 

 

Reprinted from Missouri River Relief Facebook... click here

Lake Of The Ozarks

COVID-19 May Torpedo Party Cove-Like Gatherings........

 

The coronavirus outbreak could spell the end of the Lake of the Ozarks' Party Cove, the party spot once described by the St. Louis Post Dispatch as the "giant petri dish of debauchery".

 

The Missouri State Highway Patrol had stated that recreational boating is allowed under the Stay and Home Order, however, all social gathering and distancing rules are still in effect.

 

Captain John Hotz, spokesman for the Missouri State Highway Patrol says that social gatherings with wore than 10 people are in violation of Governor Mike Parson's stay-at-home order........

 

Click here to read this news story from stltoday.com.  With Photo.

 

Columbia River Near Kalama, Washington

Ship Wake Caused $1 Million Damage To Marina........

 

Early Monday morning, a large vessel travelling along the Columbia River at Kalama, Washington caused an estimated $1 million in damages to the boats and docks at the Port of Kalama.

 

the marina is sheltered from the river by a breakwater jetty, but the passing vessel created a swell and suction of the water, which affected the marina between a 4 and 5 am.

 

Some of the boats in the marina were tossed up onto docks.  The port owner and insurance providers are working to assess the damage. The marina had recently spent $4.5 million on renovations........

 

Click here to read this news article from tdn.com.  With Photos

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "October 2020" 

One month listing on the front page in the featured Classified Section

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

e-mail your info along with 6 pictures (max) to riverbill@prodigy.net.

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

We will bill you after the ad is on-line

 

 

OFFERING

THE SWINGING DOCK STEP

 

 

 

Swings out

to bridge the gap between the dock and your boat

for ease of loading and boarding

 

Swings out of the way

 to the

 "Walk Thru"

position on the dock

 

Little Johns Marine Service... click here

Little John's Moptorsports... click here

What's Going On This Week

3rd Chute Bar & Grill
211 W. Main St. Grafton, IL

 

 

Just a short walk from Grafton Harbor
Breakfast available every Saturday and Sunday morning from 8am till 12pm

 

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

03-24-20

Temporarily Closed

 

 

Alton Marina is the cover photo for the

2020 edition of Quimby's Cruising Guide

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

04-08-20

As everyone is aware, Governor Pritzker has extended the order that all Bars & Restaurants must discontinue dine in services, effective 3/17/2020 through a minimum of 4/30/2020. At this time, Bluff City Grill will remain closed without curbside or delivery services. We have taken this down time to ensure all our staff members are taking the necessary precautions to help slow/stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus. During this shut down, we have been working on many projects to reopen a stronger & more efficient establishment. We look forward to seeing everyone when the ban is lifted. If the ban continues further than 4/30/2020 (prayers we don't cross that bridge) we will revisit the idea of curbside services & keep everyone informed on that decision. If anyone has any questions in regard to a scheduled event please follow this link: https://bluffcitygrillalton.com/contact/ We truly appreciate everyone’s support during this trying time & ask everyone to come together as a community. Please support our community’s small businesses & continue to follow the guidelines the CDC & WHO has recommended to help end this pandemic. Stay Safe & Stay Healthy! #healthiswealth

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina


04-08-20

The Boathouse is Re-opening May 1st
with "Pickup Service" and possible delivery!
Menu coming soon

 

03-24-20
The harbor is open and I have a few slips available for rent.
New customers receive 25% off for 2020 season.

 

Website... N/A

 

On the river as always xoxo The Boathouse Crew

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

03/20/2020
Calhoun Ferry Company’s priority is the health and safety of our crew and passengers.
We received a call today from the U.S. Coast Guard advising us that all passengers will be required to stay in their vehicles when crossing the ferry. This is in response to the restrictions placed on gatherings of 10 or more people. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted.
We are cleaning and disinfecting all crew areas and all ferry passes as we receive them.
Starting tomorrow 03/21/2020 we will be reducing our hours to eliminate the late night shift on Friday and Saturday. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted. Hours will be Monday through Saturday 5am to 9pm and Sunday 8am to 9pm.
We will all get through this together by working together for a better tomorrow. Stay safe!
Thank You,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

     

 

 

 

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

3-18-20
Because of the CDC recommendations the restaurant management has decided to close the restaurant this weekend until further notice.
MJB

 

 

The Duck Club is the Premier Private Yacht Club serving the Upper Mississippi River, Alton pool boating community. The Club is located at the South end of Dardenne Slough with direct channel access at mm22

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

Closed until further notice ....

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

03-24-20

The winery, gift shop, fuel dock and Grafton Oyster Bar are "Closed."

 

March 16, 2020
For the safety of our family, customers and employees, we at Grafton Harbor, have decided to close the gift shop and winery during this pandemic. We will keep you all in our love and prayers during this difficult time. Stay well everyone and thank you all so much for your support.

 

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar!

 

Every Saturday & Sunday

 Beginning May 2, 2020

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

We all know how hard the past year hit Grafton businesses. In light of the closures caused by the 2019 Flood and COVID-19, the Law Firm of Wittman & Lorton, P.C. and Preferred Title & Escrow, Inc. purchased 50 $100 gift cards to giveaway on our FB page. They also purchased 50 $100 gift cards from Grafton SkyTour. Starting March 23rd, and continuing for 50 days we will give away a $100 gift card to a Grafton restaurant or bar along with a $100 gift card to Grafton SkyTour sponsored by Wittman & Lorton and Preferred Title & Escrow! The goal is to encourage others during this difficult time to purchase gift cards from all Grafton businesses to be used once our businesses reopen! Make sure you visit The Grafton Illinois FB page daily: https://www.facebook.com/enjoygrafton/.
All you need to do is like and share Grafton Chamber of Commerce FB page each day to enter the daily giveaway. We thank everyone for your continued support of Grafton businesses! We can’t wait to see you come back again! Stay Safe

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

Closed Until Further Notice


 

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

04-11-20

Our office will move back to the river on Monday morning. The office door will be locked, you are welcome to come into the office one at a time. We will try and disinfectant after each person, as we do not want to make anyone ill, or nor do we want to get ill. Hope you realize why we are taking these precautions. If everyone works together, this may get over pretty soon. No one needs this to stretch out any longer than necessary. We need warm weather, sunshine and more boating. So wave at us at the end of the road..
 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

The old building has been torn down. 

 

Waiting on permits for new building.

 

"The plan is to keep it in the same location, maybe a little closer to the river and up about 7 ft higher. The building will be just a little smaller with a bigger deck."

 

Amanda

Kinder's Restaurant

 

Photo Gallery of tear down.. click here

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

.

March 7, 2020

Our gas dock is up and running for you.
Have a great weekend boaters!!

 

Reposted from Lake Center marina Facebook.... click here

 

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members in 2020 !
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook... click here.

 

Longshot Marina

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Longshot Saloon..Opening May 2, 2020

 

03-24-20

Marina is open.
Just got excavator delivered for spring and summer projects
Reopening Longshot Saloon on May 2nd

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Opening May 21, 2020

 

Polestar Boating Center

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

03-24-20

Operating on a skeleton crew.
If there is a need or emergency, call 636 250-3008

 

Dock Rentals on the Mississippi River
Safe Harbor Yacht Sales
The Canvas Man, LLC
Vessel Surveyor / Marine Consulting
Quality Marine Repair

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 

03-31-20

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.


We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.
If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call 📞 and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops 🏢 we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!


 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

REOPENING IN THE SPRING FOR THE 2020 SEASON.

KEEP YOUR ANCHOR RIGHT HERE FOR UPDATES.

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

04-03-20

Happy Friday!
We are here for the weekend!
Call in ahead for food at 636-723-0005!

 

Click here for menu

3025 N MO-94, St. Charles, Missouri 63301

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

04-08-20

SPRING SALES OFFERS | $2,000 Instant Savings on New Yamaha Boats; Zero Down, Zero Interest, Zero Payments for 3 Months; $7,500 Off 275 Series boats.

 

03-23-20

St. Charles Boat & Motor update:
Due to the unprecedented time that the country is experiencing, we are implementing some additions to our normal routine:
At this time, we remain open for business, operating with a small staff. For the safety of our customers, our staff, and our families, in addition to our normal operations, we are offering some alternative means of interacting with us as well – for both purchasing products (from parts to a new boat) and for your service needs.
If you’d like to shop any new or used inventory with us with minimized social interaction, we can schedule individual appointments or send you a virtual video tour of a unit. You can always shop our inventory on our website as well, at www.stcharlesboat.com. We currently have some huge discounts on our in stock inventory! If you’re interested in a private appointment, please e-mail us at zeke@stcharlesboat.com or you can call us at 636-947-0106 during normal business hours.
For your service needs, we can schedule a touchless drop off and pick-up with you. For touchless drop off or pick-up, e-mail Jerry at jerry@stcharlesboat.com or Zeke at zeke@stcharlesboat.com for scheduling and instructions.
We realize that this too will pass and we can return to a more normal routine, which means getting back to boating for many of us!
We will keep our customer’s updated by posting on our website and Facebook page.

 

Winter Hours

  Tue - Fri..9am - 5pm

  Sat - 9am - 2pm

  Sun & Mon..Closed

 

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

04-09-19

We have a full beer cooler..
Let us know what you want us to stock..we are trying our best to be competitive versus across the bridge..there are only few that I cant...so check us out..part of being competitive is counting on you...this will go for groceries as well...let us know what you need..

 

 

02-27-20 Update..

Fat Boys Restaurant at Two Rivers Marina

Hi Bill,
They are diligently working to get things in order. The have been working long hours trying to get the building in shape, lots of painting and cleaning. It is going to happen, however they are a bit behind because of Illinois paperwork. I expect an opening sometime in March. They are keeping the name "Fat Boys".

Cindy Blaylock
Two Rivers Marina.

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

04-08-20

When you look across the harbor and can see the green peeking through on the tree line, you know summer is right around the corner!
Due to the recent events, we are doing our part in maintaining social distance. Harbor members can call ahead to get a fuel appointment, and splashing boats will be on a case by case basis.
We can’t prevent anyone from gathering, but we can avoid being a part of the problem by keeping VERY limited services.
We hope everyone is staying safe, and we look forward to seeing the river crowded with boaters when this calms down!!
Happy boating!

 

Wood marina Spring Promotion

Attention - New Slip Customers 50% Off Any Available Slip

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

Currently we are open. Although things may change. My wife is in healthcare sales so I may be working from home more. Service guys are currently working when work can be done outside of shop. Hope this helps I will Let you know if things change more.

Andy

 

 

Yacht Club tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on Higher ground !

 

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

Brussels Ferry............618 - 786-3636

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

Winfield Ferry.............618-  535-5759

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645  ..Closed for the Season

 

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 
3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Closed
Abigail's Tap Room Closed
Alton Marina Deli Closed
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Closed
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Reopening May 1st for Pickup Service & Possible delivery
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ MRH Resort.. Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Closed
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Closed
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Closed
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Closed
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Opening May 2, 2020
LaRosa Cantina................................. Opening May 21, 2020
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

 

MONDAY

13 APRIL 2020

 

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

 

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 

  

River Side of Cross                              Back Side of Cross

Click pic to enlarge

 

 

Pictures of the Day..... were sent to us by Christie Mary Jo

 

 

A must see in Godfrey/Grafton!

This is located at the top of the bluff (hiked up) on the River Road.

Amazing!!!

 

 

 

RiverBill says....  What a View !

Thanks for letting us re-post your photos Christie.

The cross is located on the grounds of Immaculate Heart of Mary Oblate Fathers Novitiate on the bluffs of Pool 26 high above the Great River Road overlooking Mississippi River.

 

The first picture is looking up-river and I think the island lined up with the cross is Piasa Island.

click here for Google map

 

 The Boathouse is Reopening Friday, May 1st

with "Pickup Service" and possible delivery!

 

Menu coming soon

 
Website...N/A        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Phone: 636 250 3300

 

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

Grafton Harbor.... 618-786-PORT (7678)

 

Grafton Harbor River Adventure Cruises

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar !

Every Saturday & Sunday  Beginning May 2, 2020

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

 

 

First Mate is a boat brokerage located on the beautiful upper Mississippi.

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

 Yesteryears Pic of the Day

 

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

At Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Click pic  to enlarge

 

Yesteryears Picture of the Day in 2019..... was posted on RiverBills Boaters Group by Capt'n Mark Newlin

 

Sun Set In The Rain

 

Alton Marina

click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

Get Away From It All

Practice Social Distancing in a BOAT

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

Email: woodlandmarina1@gmail.com

Click here for Website        Click here for Facebook

 

 

River News !  

 

 

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED APRIL 08, 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

MILE 273.4/MILE 241.4 - LOCKAGE AND CREW CHANGE SPECIAL REQUIREMENT
Due to concerns regarding the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and effective immediately for L/D’s 24 and 25, in the vicinity of Mile 273.4 and 241.4: No industry personnel shall be allowed inside USACE lock control houses or other buildings during crew changes, except in the case of medical emergency. Crew changes will still be allowed, but industry personnel must go directly from the vehicle to the motor vessel. At both facilities (L/D’s 24/25) the crew van will be required to park outside of the exterior fenced area during the crew change. Also effective immediately Locks 24 and 25 will not accept incoming or outgoing boat mail. Industry personnel will be required to use their own facilities while navigating through the lock. Changes are effective immediately and until further notice. All navigation interest should be alert for, and abide by, any special instructions that may be issued by the lockmaster.

MILE 183.2 - BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION
Merchants Railroad Bridge; Work barges continue excavating around both left and right descending navigation piers and the right descending pier of the center span. Work barges should not encroach more than 50 feet into the navigation channel, at any time. For work barge locations, mariners are encouraged to contact the onsite work boat M/V KATHERINE OHARA via VHF-FM Channel 6 or 16 or by phone at (217) 248-9077.

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - Update
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Pool 2 (Mile 847.5 – Mile 815.2),

 Pool 3 (Mile 815.1 – Mile 796.9),

Pool 6 (Mile 728.5 – Mile 714.3),

Pool 7 (Mile 714.2 – Mile 702.5),

Pool 8 (Mile 702.4 – Mile 679.2),

Pool 9 (Mile 679.1 – Mile 647.9),

Pool 10 (Mile 647.8 – Mile 615.1),

Pool 11 (Mile 615..0 – Mile 583.0),

Pool 13 (Mile 556.6 – Mile 522.4),

Pool 14 (Mile 522.3 – Mile 493.3),

Pool 15 (Mile 493.2 – Mile 482.9),

Pool 16 (Mile 482.8 – Mile 457.2),

Pool 21 (Mile 343.1 – Mile 324.9),

Pool 22 (Mile 324.8 – Mile 301.2),

Pool 24 (Mile 301.1 – Mile 273.4),

Pool 25 (Mile 273.3 – Mile 241.4) and

Pool 26 (Mile 241.1 – Mile 200.5).

Down-streaming operations are not recommended unless the vessel is equal to or greater than 75 feet in length and the vessel has a minimum of 1,800 h.p. Towboat operators should use caution, minimize wake where possible, and be experienced in high water operations. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris in the water and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate action to prevent any breakaways from occurring. Use caution in all passing and meeting situations and be mindful of all charted bridge navigational clearances. Buoys may have been dragged off station so remain cautious while transiting.

 

ILLINOIS RIVER

ILLINOIS WATERWAY - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - Update
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Zone 6 Copperas (Mile 145.5 – Mile 129.0),

Zone 5 Havana (Mile 128.9 – Mile 102.0),

Zone 4 Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),

Zone 3 Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0),

 Zone 2 Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0) and

Zone 1 Grafton (Mile 9.0 – Mile 0.0).

 High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. Avoid laying up on saturated levees. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations if possible. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate actions to prevent breakaways. Exercise caution in all meeting and overtaking situations, as swift currents may be present. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting.


 

Click here  for the current "Local Notice To Mariners" report

 on the Navigation Center Website


 No new incident reports for the St. Louis area
 

Click here to go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for "all" incident reports    

 

River Gear For Sale............

 

Click here to buy your River T-shirts and Accessories on-line..

Delivered right to you mailbox in a few short days

 

RiverBills Facebook

Two FaceBook Pages for You

 

The "River News and Media" Page

Page contains river news, RiverBills Pictures of the Day, Upcoming River Events, info from RiverBills.com advertisers, etc..... Click here and check it out

 

The "Boaters Group" Page

It's a group for all the boaters on all the rivers near the "PORT OF ST. LOUIS AND BEYOND." It's a Public Group, open to anyone that wants to join in. A place to post your boating pictures, shout outs, questions, comments, etc.  Stay in touch with other boaters all year long.  Invite your Boating Friends. 

We have 5,938 members as of 04-13-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

Sad News

Kenneth M. Walker.......

 

 

Reprinted from RiverBills Facebook.

click here for Obituary

 

Flooding

Road Closures .......

 

It's that time of the year again. 

Just a few low lying roads in the St. Louis area are flooded at this time.  Check it out:

 

 • St. Charles County Road Closures..... click here

 • MODOT's Traveler information Map.... click here

 • Illinois Department of Transportation... click here

 

 

Click here........ Port Charles Harbor website

Click here......Port Charles Harbor Facebook

 

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.

We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.

If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops  we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!

Inland Waterway Infrastructure

Lock And Dam Projects Could Help Revive Economy........

 

Inland marine industry advocates have long claimed that maintaining, refurbishing and where needed, the replacing of America's aging lock and dam infrastructure with modern efficient structures is a necessity.

 

In this time of social distancing, lockdowns and other measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, Congress still has to do their jobs. 

 

The House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee and Senate Environment and Public Works Committee are working on this year's Water Resources Development Act, which can create plenty of construction jobs........

 

Click here to read this op/ed piece from waterwaysjournal.net.

 

Tuesday, April 14, 2020

Virtual Big Muddy Speaker Series

Hosted on zoom and live-streamed on facebook.......

 

 

Reprinted from Big Muddy Speaker Series Facebook... click here

click pic to enlarge

 

We offer full fiberglass repair, high performance upgrades, transom & stringer rebuilds, service on older products, new & used parts department, an accessories department, as well as many other services to suit everyone's boating needs.

We continue to display our Yamaha Sport Boats + Crest, Mercury + Yamaha Outboards and Heritage & Haul Rite trailers

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor website      St. Charles Boat & Motor Facebook

 

04-08-20

SPRING SALES OFFERS | $2,000 Instant Savings on New Yamaha Boats; Zero Down, Zero Interest, Zero Payments for 3 Months; $7,500 Off 275 Series boats.

Monday April 13, 2020

Missouri Flood Recovery

Flood Recovery Advisory Meeting Will Be Online........

 

The Flood Recovery Advisory Working Group in Jefferson City, Mo has announced that they will be hosting a meeting at 1 pm on Monday, April 13th. 

 

Due to concerns over the spread of COVID-19, this meeting will be open to the public only online.  The public will be able to make comments during the meeting.

 

The meeting will be broadcast live online and recorded for later viewing.  The FRAWG will announce a call-in number during the public comment portion of the meeting........

 

Click here to read this news article from kfvs12.com.  With Photo.

 

Mississippi River History

Steamboat Brought Epidemic To Quincy In 1833........

 

In early 1833, General Winfield Scott and 22 federal and volunteer troops returned to Quincy, Illinois aboard a barge being towed by the steamboat Warrior after the conclusion of the short lived Black Hawk War.

 

Apparently, there was another passenger aboard the barge, a bacterium that kick off the cholera epidemic of 1833.  Eventually, it would become evident that the nation's waterways were the method of transport for the disease.

 

The town became aware of the disease when it claimed its first victim, Mrs. Sarah Stamper of Quincy.  She was the sister of Dr. Joseph Ralston and Judge James Harvey Ralston, who were early Quincy settlers and prominent citizens in the town........

 

Click here to read this news story from whig.com.

 

Mississippi River At Memphis, Tennessee

Corps Starting Design Phase For New Drydock........

 

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has started the process for the construction of a new drydock that will be used for the inspection and repair of Corps and Coast Guard vessels.

 

The design contract was awarded to Bristol Harbor Group of Bristol, R.I. for the design of a new 1,600 to 2,000 to drydock which will replace the aging 400 ton drydock 1015 at the Ensley Engineer Yard in Memphis, Tennessee.

 

According to Tim Marshall, the infrastructure and safety program manager for the operations division of the Corps' Memphis Engineer District, the drydocks are all over 50 years old, and the replacement will have updated modern controls, as well as a new docking system that will increase efficiency........

 

Click here to read this news article from waterwaysjournal.net.  With Photo.

River History....

 

April 13, 2011 in River History

 

Terry Carver, master of the towboat involved in a collision with a tanker on the Mississippi River in New Orleans, was sentenced for “creating a hazardous condition” onboard the towboat Mel Oliver in violation of the Ports and Waterways Safety Act.
Carver had left the vessel three days prior to the accident to drive 13 hours to confront his girlfriend. There were no other properly licensed employees left onboard to operate the Mel Oliver at the time Carver left the towboat.
Carver received a three years probation sentence.
The accident spilled 280,000 gallons of oil into the river. The Mel Oliver was pushing a barge loaded with fuel oil when it suddenly changed course and veered into the path of the ship Tintomara.

 

Mississippi River Near Dorena, Missouri

The Dorena-Hickman Ferry Has Reopened........

 

Sunday morning, the Dorena-Hickman Ferry resumed service after the Mississippi River floodwaters retreated from the Kentucky Landing in Hickman Harbor.

 

The Dorena-Hickman Ferry had been closed since March 18th.  The ferry typically has to close when the Mississippi River reaches 44 feet on the Cairo gauge.

 

The Dorena-Hickman Ferry links Missouri Route A and Route 77 near Dorena, Missouri with Kentucky 1354 at Hickman, Kentucky........

 

Click here to read this news story from kfvs12.com.  With Photo

 

Lake Of The Ozarks

Some LOTO Waterfront Restaurants Open For Dockside Pickup........

 

The Coronavirus outbreak has people working from home, kids schooling at home, inadvertently bringing about an early start to the boating season at the Lake of the Ozarks.

 

Be it locals working from home feeling the urge to get out on the water or second homeowners riding out the COVID-19 outbreak at the Lake, the Lake is been quite busy for an early April.

 

Plenty of these boaters spending a beautiful day on the water are looking for a place to get a bite to eat.  Some of the LOTO waterfront restaurant/bars have delayed opening due to the COVID-19 outbreaks, however, some establishments are open and offering dockside/to go service........

 

Click here to read more from lakeexpo.com.  With Photo.

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "October 2020" 

One month listing on the front page in the featured Classified Section

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

e-mail your info along with 6 pictures (max) to riverbill@prodigy.net.

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

We will bill you after the ad is on-line

 

 

OFFERING

THE SWINGING DOCK STEP

 

 

 

Swings out

to bridge the gap between the dock and your boat

for ease of loading and boarding

 

Swings out of the way

 to the

 "Walk Thru"

position on the dock

 

Little Johns Marine Service... click here

Little John's Moptorsports... click here

What's Going On This Week

3rd Chute Bar & Grill
211 W. Main St. Grafton, IL

 

 

Just a short walk from Grafton Harbor
Breakfast available every Saturday and Sunday morning from 8am till 12pm

 

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

03-24-20

Temporarily Closed

 

 

Alton Marina is the cover photo for the

2020 edition of Quimby's Cruising Guide

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

04-08-20

As everyone is aware, Governor Pritzker has extended the order that all Bars & Restaurants must discontinue dine in services, effective 3/17/2020 through a minimum of 4/30/2020. At this time, Bluff City Grill will remain closed without curbside or delivery services. We have taken this down time to ensure all our staff members are taking the necessary precautions to help slow/stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus. During this shut down, we have been working on many projects to reopen a stronger & more efficient establishment. We look forward to seeing everyone when the ban is lifted. If the ban continues further than 4/30/2020 (prayers we don't cross that bridge) we will revisit the idea of curbside services & keep everyone informed on that decision. If anyone has any questions in regard to a scheduled event please follow this link: https://bluffcitygrillalton.com/contact/ We truly appreciate everyone’s support during this trying time & ask everyone to come together as a community. Please support our community’s small businesses & continue to follow the guidelines the CDC & WHO has recommended to help end this pandemic. Stay Safe & Stay Healthy! #healthiswealth

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina


04-08-20

The Boathouse is Re-opening May 1st
with "Pickup Service" and possible delivery!
Menu coming soon

 

03-24-20
The harbor is open and I have a few slips available for rent.
New customers receive 25% off for 2020 season.

 

Website...N/A
 
On the river as always xoxo The Boathouse Crew

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

03/20/2020
Calhoun Ferry Company’s priority is the health and safety of our crew and passengers.
We received a call today from the U.S. Coast Guard advising us that all passengers will be required to stay in their vehicles when crossing the ferry. This is in response to the restrictions placed on gatherings of 10 or more people. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted.
We are cleaning and disinfecting all crew areas and all ferry passes as we receive them.
Starting tomorrow 03/21/2020 we will be reducing our hours to eliminate the late night shift on Friday and Saturday. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted. Hours will be Monday through Saturday 5am to 9pm and Sunday 8am to 9pm.
We will all get through this together by working together for a better tomorrow. Stay safe!
Thank You,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

     

 

 

 

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

3-18-20
Because of the CDC recommendations the restaurant management has decided to close the restaurant this weekend until further notice.
MJB

 

 

The Duck Club is the Premier Private Yacht Club serving the Upper Mississippi River, Alton pool boating community. The Club is located at the South end of Dardenne Slough with direct channel access at mm22

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

Closed until further notice ....

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

03-24-20

The winery, gift shop, fuel dock and Grafton Oyster Bar are "Closed."

 

March 16, 2020
For the safety of our family, customers and employees, we at Grafton Harbor, have decided to close the gift shop and winery during this pandemic. We will keep you all in our love and prayers during this difficult time. Stay well everyone and thank you all so much for your support.

 

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar!

 

Every Saturday & Sunday

 Beginning May 2, 2020

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

We all know how hard the past year hit Grafton businesses. In light of the closures caused by the 2019 Flood and COVID-19, the Law Firm of Wittman & Lorton, P.C. and Preferred Title & Escrow, Inc. purchased 50 $100 gift cards to giveaway on our FB page. They also purchased 50 $100 gift cards from Grafton SkyTour. Starting March 23rd, and continuing for 50 days we will give away a $100 gift card to a Grafton restaurant or bar along with a $100 gift card to Grafton SkyTour sponsored by Wittman & Lorton and Preferred Title & Escrow! The goal is to encourage others during this difficult time to purchase gift cards from all Grafton businesses to be used once our businesses reopen! Make sure you visit The Grafton Illinois FB page daily: https://www.facebook.com/enjoygrafton/.
All you need to do is like and share Grafton Chamber of Commerce FB page each day to enter the daily giveaway. We thank everyone for your continued support of Grafton businesses! We can’t wait to see you come back again! Stay Safe

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

Closed Until Further Notice


 

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

04-11-20

Our office will move back to the river on Monday morning. The office door will be locked, you are welcome to come into the office one at a time. We will try and disinfectant after each person, as we do not want to make anyone ill, or nor do we want to get ill. Hope you realize why we are taking these precautions. If everyone works together, this may get over pretty soon. No one needs this to stretch out any longer than necessary. We need warm weather, sunshine and more boating. So wave at us at the end of the road..
 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

The old building has been torn down. 

 

Waiting on permits for new building.

 

"The plan is to keep it in the same location, maybe a little closer to the river and up about 7 ft higher. The building will be just a little smaller with a bigger deck."

 

Amanda

Kinder's Restaurant

 

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

.

March 7, 2020

Our gas dock is up and running for you.
Have a great weekend boaters!!

 

Reposted from Lake Center marina Facebook.... click here

 

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members in 2020 !
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook... click here.

 

Longshot Marina

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Longshot Saloon..Opening May 2, 2020

 

03-24-20

Marina is open.
Just got excavator delivered for spring and summer projects
Reopening Longshot Saloon on May 2nd

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Opening May 21, 2020

 

Polestar Boating Center

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

03-24-20

Operating on a skeleton crew.
If there is a need or emergency, call 636 250-3008

 

Dock Rentals on the Mississippi River
Safe Harbor Yacht Sales
The Canvas Man, LLC
Vessel Surveyor / Marine Consulting
Quality Marine Repair

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 

03-31-20

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.


We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.
If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call 📞 and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops 🏢 we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!


 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

REOPENING IN THE SPRING FOR THE 2020 SEASON.

KEEP YOUR ANCHOR RIGHT HERE FOR UPDATES.

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

04-03-20

Happy Friday!
We are here for the weekend!
Call in ahead for food at 636-723-0005!

 

Click here for menu

3025 N MO-94, St. Charles, Missouri 63301

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

04-08-20

SPRING SALES OFFERS | $2,000 Instant Savings on New Yamaha Boats; Zero Down, Zero Interest, Zero Payments for 3 Months; $7,500 Off 275 Series boats.

 

03-23-20

St. Charles Boat & Motor update:
Due to the unprecedented time that the country is experiencing, we are implementing some additions to our normal routine:
At this time, we remain open for business, operating with a small staff. For the safety of our customers, our staff, and our families, in addition to our normal operations, we are offering some alternative means of interacting with us as well – for both purchasing products (from parts to a new boat) and for your service needs.
If you’d like to shop any new or used inventory with us with minimized social interaction, we can schedule individual appointments or send you a virtual video tour of a unit. You can always shop our inventory on our website as well, at www.stcharlesboat.com. We currently have some huge discounts on our in stock inventory! If you’re interested in a private appointment, please e-mail us at zeke@stcharlesboat.com or you can call us at 636-947-0106 during normal business hours.
For your service needs, we can schedule a touchless drop off and pick-up with you. For touchless drop off or pick-up, e-mail Jerry at jerry@stcharlesboat.com or Zeke at zeke@stcharlesboat.com for scheduling and instructions.
We realize that this too will pass and we can return to a more normal routine, which means getting back to boating for many of us!
We will keep our customer’s updated by posting on our website and Facebook page.

 

Winter Hours

  Tue - Fri..9am - 5pm

  Sat - 9am - 2pm

  Sun & Mon..Closed

 

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

04-09-19

We have a full beer cooler..
Let us know what you want us to stock..we are trying our best to be competitive versus across the bridge..there are only few that I cant...so check us out..part of being competitive is counting on you...this will go for groceries as well...let us know what you need..

 

 

02-27-20 Update..

Fat Boys Restaurant at Two Rivers Marina

Hi Bill,
They are diligently working to get things in order. The have been working long hours trying to get the building in shape, lots of painting and cleaning. It is going to happen, however they are a bit behind because of Illinois paperwork. I expect an opening sometime in March. They are keeping the name "Fat Boys".

Cindy Blaylock
Two Rivers Marina.

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

04-08-20

When you look across the harbor and can see the green peeking through on the tree line, you know summer is right around the corner!
Due to the recent events, we are doing our part in maintaining social distance. Harbor members can call ahead to get a fuel appointment, and splashing boats will be on a case by case basis.
We can’t prevent anyone from gathering, but we can avoid being a part of the problem by keeping VERY limited services.
We hope everyone is staying safe, and we look forward to seeing the river crowded with boaters when this calms down!!
Happy boating!

 

Wood marina Spring Promotion

Attention - New Slip Customers 50% Off Any Available Slip

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

Currently we are open. Although things may change. My wife is in healthcare sales so I may be working from home more. Service guys are currently working when work can be done outside of shop. Hope this helps I will Let you know if things change more.

Andy

 

 

Yacht Club tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on Higher ground !

 

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

Brussels Ferry............618 - 786-3636

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

Winfield Ferry.............618-  535-5759

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645  ..Closed for the Season

 

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 
3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Closed
Abigail's Tap Room Closed
Alton Marina Deli Closed
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Closed
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Reopening May 1st for Pickup Service & Possible delivery
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ MRH Resort.. Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Closed
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Closed
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Closed
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Closed
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Opening May 2, 2020
LaRosa Cantina................................. Opening May 21, 2020
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

 

THE WEEKEND

SAT, SUN...11, 12 APRIL 2020

 

Easter Weekend

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

 

Social Distancing River Style

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Sun Pic

 

 

 

 

Click pic to enlarge

 

 

Pictures of the Day..... were sent to us by Capt'n Craig Jungels

 

 

Had to check if 521 is still there and break out of the house. Yep sure was but very few out... So great to get toes in the sand..! Stay safe our river peeps.

 

Craig

 

 

JET SKI TRAILER STOLEN

Sat Pic

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

at Two Branch Marina

 

 

My trailer was stolen from Two Branch marina sometime between Tuesday night & Wednesday morning. It was the trailer only....2015 Triton aluminum double jet ski trailer with aluminum storage box.
PLEASE SHARE THIS & HELP ME FIND IT

 

Mike Potter

 

 The Boathouse is Reopening Friday, May 1st

with "Pickup Service" and possible delivery!

 

Menu coming soon

 
Website..N/A        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Phone: 636 250 3300

 

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

Grafton Harbor.... 618-786-PORT (7678)

 

Grafton Harbor River Adventure Cruises

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar !

Every Saturday & Sunday  Beginning May 2, 2020

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

 

 

First Mate is a boat brokerage located on the beautiful upper Mississippi.

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

 Yesteryears Pic of the Day

Sat Pic

 

Paddling From the Gulf of Mexico to the Arctic Ocean

 

 

Click pic  to enlarge

 

Yesteryears Picture of the Day in 2015.....  Were sent to us by Dave McMahan
 

Bill and friends of pool 26,

 

We met these 6 young men who are paddling from the Gulf to the Arctic Ocean. They stopped at Sherwood Harbor, had some beers and good times.

 

Jarred, Adam, Luke, Winchell, Dan, and John.

 

Great young men that work helping troubled youths and took time off to go up the great Mississippi River. They are pulling out tomorrow morning.

 

Thanks,

Dave, Sue, Jim, Dorothy, and Tommy

 

 

RiveBill says....  The guys continued paddling north up the Mississippi River and various other rivers and lakes of the United State and Canada finally arriving on the shores of the Arctic Ocean in September 2015.   They paddled 5200 miles, 244 days.

 

Check it out.....     http://www.rediscoverna.com/

 

Alton Marina

click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

Get Away From It All

Practice Social Distancing in a BOAT

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

Email: woodlandmarina1@gmail.com

Click here for Website        Click here for Facebook

 

 

River News !  

 

 

Added Sunday

Hide-a-way Harbor Update

Reader Commentary / Update........

 

Reprinted from RiverBills Boaters Group Facebook... click here

 

RIverBIll says.... Thanks for the update Mark !

Added Sunday

Johns Boat Harbor

Office Moving Back To The River........

 

 

Reprinted from John's Boat harbor Facebook... click here

Added Sunday

Upcoming Events.... Tuesday, April 14, 2020

Virtual Big Muddy Speaker Series

Hosted on zoom and live-streamed on facebook.......

 

 

Reprinted from Big Muddy Speaker Series Facebook... click here

Added Sunday

Upper Mississippi River

Locks 16 and 17 Temporarily Closed........

 

Officials have closed down Locks 16 and 17 along the Upper Mississippi River due to the crest of floodwater moving downstream.  Lock and Dam No.16 is located near Muscatine, Iowa and Lock and Dam No.17 is located near New Boston, Illinois.

 

Lock No.16 was taken out of service on April 8th.  It is scheduled to remain closed until 7 am on April 15th.  Lock No.17 was scheduled to close on April 10, but it's reopening date had not been determined.

 

Unless heavy rainfall or rapid snowmelt occurs, the Upper Mississippi River is expected to drop below flood stage after this crest passes through........

 

Click here to read this news report from waterwaysjournal.net. 

 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

As of 4:00AM Sunday morning

 

As of 4:00AM Sunday morning

 

 

Added Sunday

Mississippi River At Rock Island, Illinois

The Mississippi River Was Cresting Saturday

Rainfall Could Push River Higher....

 

According to meteorologist Andy Ervin with the National Weather Service, Davenport, the Mississippi River at Lock and Dam No.15, Rock Island was at 17.95 feet, but was forecasted to reach 18 feet due to local rainfall.

 

Ervin said that as of 6:30 pm Saturday, the crest was moving through the Quad Cities, but with the rainfall expected throughout the weekend, there is a chance that the Mississippi River at Lock and Dam No.15 could reach the major flood stage of 18 feet.

 

Ervin added that if the Mississippi River does hit 18 feet, it will be because of local runoff and not because of anything heading in from upstream.  He says that the Mississippi River is expected to fall to 17 feet by Thursday........

 

Click here to read this news story from qctimes.com

 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

As of 4:00AM Sunday morning

 

Added Sunday

Mississippi River Near New Orleans, Louisiana

More Bays Opened On The Bonnet Carre' Spillway........

 

Last week, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, New Orleans District continued opening bays at the Bonnet Carre' Spillway.  This move has held the level of the Mississippi River at New Orleans' Carrollton Gauge at 16.5 feet as of April 9th.

 

On April 9th, the Corps had opened 50 of the Spillway's 350 bays, allowing 50,000 cubic feet per second to flow into the Spillway.  The Bonnet Care Spillway was designed and constructed to prevent the Mississippi River from exceeding a flow of 1.25 million cfs past New Orleans.  This flow rate typically corresponds to about 17 feet on the Carrollton Gauge.

 

On April 3rd, the Corps had begun to slowly open the Bonnet Carre' Spillway.  At that time, Corps officials had expected to have the spillway operating for about a month.  This is the fourth time i three years that the Corps has opened the spillway, which diverts Mississippi River into Lake Pontchartrain and on into the Gulf of Mexico........

 

Click here to read this news story from waterwaysjournal.net.

 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 

 

 

Added Sunday

A Bit of Missouri River History

Missouri River At Washington, Missouri

A Look Back At The Old Highway 47 Bridge Demolition........

 

One year ago, thousands of onlookers packed the Washington, Missouri riverfront, rooftops and even backyards for the best possible vantage point for the demolition of the Old Highway 47 Bridge.

 

Thursday, April 11, 2019 was the last day that the 83 year old steel bridge across the Missouri River at Washington, Missouri was standing.  The span had long been an icon representing Washington, having been depicted on logos, signs and artwork all across town.

 

It took just 145 pounds of explosives formed into 750 linear charges to drop the span into the river below.  According to Jeremy Frye, project manager for Marschel Wrecking, the blast went off without a hitch........

 

Click here to read this news article from emissourian.com.  With Photo.

 

 

Click here........ Port Charles Harbor website

Click here......Port Charles Harbor Facebook

 

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.

We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.

If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops  we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED APRIL 08, 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

MILE 273.4/MILE 241.4 - LOCKAGE AND CREW CHANGE SPECIAL REQUIREMENT
Due to concerns regarding the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and effective immediately for L/D’s 24 and 25, in the vicinity of Mile 273.4 and 241.4: No industry personnel shall be allowed inside USACE lock control houses or other buildings during crew changes, except in the case of medical emergency. Crew changes will still be allowed, but industry personnel must go directly from the vehicle to the motor vessel. At both facilities (L/D’s 24/25) the crew van will be required to park outside of the exterior fenced area during the crew change. Also effective immediately Locks 24 and 25 will not accept incoming or outgoing boat mail. Industry personnel will be required to use their own facilities while navigating through the lock. Changes are effective immediately and until further notice. All navigation interest should be alert for, and abide by, any special instructions that may be issued by the lockmaster.

MILE 183.2 - BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION
Merchants Railroad Bridge; Work barges continue excavating around both left and right descending navigation piers and the right descending pier of the center span. Work barges should not encroach more than 50 feet into the navigation channel, at any time. For work barge locations, mariners are encouraged to contact the onsite work boat M/V KATHERINE OHARA via VHF-FM Channel 6 or 16 or by phone at (217) 248-9077.

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - Update
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Pool 2 (Mile 847.5 – Mile 815.2),

 Pool 3 (Mile 815.1 – Mile 796.9),

Pool 6 (Mile 728.5 – Mile 714.3),

Pool 7 (Mile 714.2 – Mile 702.5),

Pool 8 (Mile 702.4 – Mile 679.2),

Pool 9 (Mile 679.1 – Mile 647.9),

Pool 10 (Mile 647.8 – Mile 615.1),

Pool 11 (Mile 615..0 – Mile 583.0),

Pool 13 (Mile 556.6 – Mile 522.4),

Pool 14 (Mile 522.3 – Mile 493.3),

Pool 15 (Mile 493.2 – Mile 482.9),

Pool 16 (Mile 482.8 – Mile 457.2),

Pool 21 (Mile 343.1 – Mile 324.9),

Pool 22 (Mile 324.8 – Mile 301.2),

Pool 24 (Mile 301.1 – Mile 273.4),

Pool 25 (Mile 273.3 – Mile 241.4) and

Pool 26 (Mile 241.1 – Mile 200.5).

Down-streaming operations are not recommended unless the vessel is equal to or greater than 75 feet in length and the vessel has a minimum of 1,800 h.p. Towboat operators should use caution, minimize wake where possible, and be experienced in high water operations. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris in the water and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate action to prevent any breakaways from occurring. Use caution in all passing and meeting situations and be mindful of all charted bridge navigational clearances. Buoys may have been dragged off station so remain cautious while transiting.

 

ILLINOIS RIVER

ILLINOIS WATERWAY - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - Update
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Zone 6 Copperas (Mile 145.5 – Mile 129.0),

Zone 5 Havana (Mile 128.9 – Mile 102.0),

Zone 4 Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),

Zone 3 Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0),

 Zone 2 Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0) and

Zone 1 Grafton (Mile 9.0 – Mile 0.0).

 High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. Avoid laying up on saturated levees. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations if possible. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate actions to prevent breakaways. Exercise caution in all meeting and overtaking situations, as swift currents may be present. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting.


 

Click here  for the current "Local Notice To Mariners" report

 on the Navigation Center Website


 No new incident reports for the St. Louis area
 

Click here to go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for "all" incident reports    

 

River Gear For Sale............

 

Click here to buy your River T-shirts and Accessories on-line..

Delivered right to you mailbox in a few short days

 

RiverBills Facebook

Two FaceBook Pages for You

 

The "River News and Media" Page

Page contains river news, RiverBills Pictures of the Day, Upcoming River Events, info from RiverBills.com advertisers, etc..... Click here and check it out

 

The "Boaters Group" Page

It's a group for all the boaters on all the rivers near the "PORT OF ST. LOUIS AND BEYOND." It's a Public Group, open to anyone that wants to join in. A place to post your boating pictures, shout outs, questions, comments, etc.  Stay in touch with other boaters all year long.  Invite your Boating Friends. 

We have 5,933 members as of 04-11-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

Missouri State Highway Patrol

Recreational Boating........

 

 

Reprinted from Missouri State Highway Patrol Facebook... click here

 

Reader Commentary

New Boat Registration........

 

RiverBill says... Thanks for the info Mark !

Flooding

Road Closures .......

 

It's that time of the year again. 

Just a few low lying roads in the St. Louis area are flooded at this time.  Check it out:

 

 • St. Charles County Road Closures..... click here

 • MODOT's Traveler information Map.... click here

 • Illinois Department of Transportation... click here

 

click pic to enlarge

 

We offer full fiberglass repair, high performance upgrades, transom & stringer rebuilds, service on older products, new & used parts department, an accessories department, as well as many other services to suit everyone's boating needs.

We continue to display our Yamaha Sport Boats + Crest, Mercury + Yamaha Outboards and Heritage & Haul Rite trailers

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor website      St. Charles Boat & Motor Facebook

 

04-08-20

SPRING SALES OFFERS | $2,000 Instant Savings on New Yamaha Boats; Zero Down, Zero Interest, Zero Payments for 3 Months; $7,500 Off 275 Series boats.

Asian Carp Update

Grass Carp Discovered In Lake Huron Tributary........

 

On Friday, Michigan officials announced the discovery of an invasive grass carp that is capable of reproducing in a tributary of Lake Huron.

 

According to the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, the fish was discovered on March 17th during a routine survey of the Tittabawassee River below the Dow Dam.  The river flows into Saginaw Bay.

 

The Michigan DNR reports that this is the first documented catch of an Asian carp that was capable of reproducing.  Crews searched the area, but found o more grass carp.........

 

Click here to read this news report from bnd.com. 

 

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Woodland Marina

Doing Our Part In Maintaining Social Distance........

 

 

Reprinted from Woodland Marina Facebook... click here

Missouri River Relief

Virtual River Time.......

 

 

Reprinted from Missouri River Relief ... click here

River History....

 

April 11, 2011 in River History

 

In the wee hours of Monday morning, the Alton Fire Department was called out to the Alton Marina to battle a boat fire at the end of I dock. It seems that the fire was started when lightning struck the 30 foot tall sailboat mast. The vessel was burned nearly to the water line. Luckily, the 34 foot Seafarer was in the second to last slip on I dock, which kept the potential damages to a minimum. There were no injuries reported........

Source: thetelegraph.com.

US Army Corps of Engineers, Rock Island District

Closures Extended Through May 31.......

 

 

Reprinted from the US Army Corps of Engineers, Rock Island District Facebook... click here

 

Upcoming Events.... June 19 -22, 2020

Illinois Free Fishing Days........

 

 

Reprinted from I Fish Illinois Facebook... click here

 

Drag Boat Racing

Wheatland Inaugural Drag Boat Spring Nationals Postponed........

 

 

Reprinted from the Kentucky Drag Boat Association Facebook... click here

 

Boat Manufacturer

Brunswick Companies Step Up Against COVID-19........

 

Brunswick Corporation and several of it's subsidiaries are stepping up to help the people on the front lines of the COVID-19 fight.

 

David Foulkes, Brunswick Corporation chief executive officer says that during this difficult time, it is important to look for ways to assist employees, customers and the communities where we live and work.

 

The Brunswick Boat Group is donating 15,000 masks to first responders in the communities surrounding their boat manufacturing facilities.

 

Mercury Marine donated over 11,000 masks to local hospitals and emergency responders near their Find Du Lac, Wisconsin headquarters.........

 

Click here to read more from boatingindustry.com.

 

Boat Manufacturer

Correct Craft Stepping Up During Pandemic........

 

The Correct Craft group has joined in the fight against the COVID-19 outbreak.  The company and it's subsidiaries are working to help fill the need for personal protective equipment in local communities across the nation.

 

○  Centurion & Supreme Boats have donated much needed PPE to supply Memorial Hospital and Doctor’s Hospital in  Modesto, Calif.
○  Centurion & Supreme is also making approximately 1,000 face shields to donate to their local health care community.
○  The Nautique team is making an impact by sewing face masks for local health care facilities. Their upholstery department team offered up home sewing machines and fabrics to be used as part of this process. Nautique also purchased additional sewing machines and fabric to produce the masks.
○  Orlando Health reached out to Nautique because they had special medical fabric but no capacity in their supply chain to convert them into masks. Nautique is converting the fabric into masks for the hospital.
○  Watershed Innovation and Nautique partnered together to produce medical quality face shields. Coca-Cola Florida donated plastic in rolls of 1,700 pounds but needed a facility and machinery that could maneuver these rolls. These plastic rolls are being laser cut into manageable sections in Correct Craft facilities.
○  Parker Boats has donated N95 certified face masks and protective suits to healthcare facilities in Beaufort, N.C.

 

Click here to read more from boatingindustry.com.

 

Boat Show News

Palm Beach Boat Show Postpones Rescheduling........

 

The 35th annual Palm Beach International Boat Show was scheduled for May 14 - 17, 2020 along Flagler Drive in Downtown West Palm Beach.  The show has been postponed until further notice.

 

The postponement was decided upon following Florida Governor Ron DeSantis' executive order that instituted a statewide stay at home mandate through at least April 30th.

 

Andrew Doole, President of Informa Markets U.S. Boat Shows and George Gentile, President of the Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County released a joint statement stating that they will be monitoring the situation and will announce an update on the show's statue on April 17th........

 

Click here to read this news article from boatingindustry.com.

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "October 2020" 

One month listing on the front page in the featured Classified Section

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

e-mail your info along with 6 pictures (max) to riverbill@prodigy.net.

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

We will bill you after the ad is on-line

 

 

OFFERING

THE SWINGING DOCK STEP

 

 

 

Swings out

to bridge the gap between the dock and your boat

for ease of loading and boarding

 

Swings out of the way

 to the

 "Walk Thru"

position on the dock

 

Little Johns Marine Service... click here

Little John's Moptorsports... click here

What's Going On This Week

3rd Chute Bar & Grill
211 W. Main St. Grafton, IL

 

 

Just a short walk from Grafton Harbor
Breakfast available every Saturday and Sunday morning from 8am till 12pm

 

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

03-24-20

Temporarily Closed

 

 

Alton Marina is the cover photo for the

2020 edition of Quimby's Cruising Guide

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

04-08-20

As everyone is aware, Governor Pritzker has extended the order that all Bars & Restaurants must discontinue dine in services, effective 3/17/2020 through a minimum of 4/30/2020. At this time, Bluff City Grill will remain closed without curbside or delivery services. We have taken this down time to ensure all our staff members are taking the necessary precautions to help slow/stop the spread of the COVID-19 virus. During this shut down, we have been working on many projects to reopen a stronger & more efficient establishment. We look forward to seeing everyone when the ban is lifted. If the ban continues further than 4/30/2020 (prayers we don't cross that bridge) we will revisit the idea of curbside services & keep everyone informed on that decision. If anyone has any questions in regard to a scheduled event please follow this link: https://bluffcitygrillalton.com/contact/ We truly appreciate everyone’s support during this trying time & ask everyone to come together as a community. Please support our community’s small businesses & continue to follow the guidelines the CDC & WHO has recommended to help end this pandemic. Stay Safe & Stay Healthy! #healthiswealth

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina


04-08-20

The Boathouse is Re-opening May 1st
with "Pickup Service" and possible delivery!
Menu coming soon

 

03-24-20
The harbor is open and I have a few slips available for rent.
New customers receive 25% off for 2020 season.

 

Website....N/A

 

On the river as always xoxo The Boathouse Crew

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

03/20/2020
Calhoun Ferry Company’s priority is the health and safety of our crew and passengers.
We received a call today from the U.S. Coast Guard advising us that all passengers will be required to stay in their vehicles when crossing the ferry. This is in response to the restrictions placed on gatherings of 10 or more people. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted.
We are cleaning and disinfecting all crew areas and all ferry passes as we receive them.
Starting tomorrow 03/21/2020 we will be reducing our hours to eliminate the late night shift on Friday and Saturday. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted. Hours will be Monday through Saturday 5am to 9pm and Sunday 8am to 9pm.
We will all get through this together by working together for a better tomorrow. Stay safe!
Thank You,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

     

 

 

 

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

3-18-20
Because of the CDC recommendations the restaurant management has decided to close the restaurant this weekend until further notice.
MJB

 

Sat, April 18

Counntry & Western Night

7:00 PM

 

The Duck Club is the Premier Private Yacht Club serving the Upper Mississippi River, Alton pool boating community. The Club is located at the South end of Dardenne Slough with direct channel access at mm22

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

Closed until further notice ....

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

03-24-20

The winery, gift shop, fuel dock and Grafton Oyster Bar are "Closed."

 

March 16, 2020
For the safety of our family, customers and employees, we at Grafton Harbor, have decided to close the gift shop and winery during this pandemic. We will keep you all in our love and prayers during this difficult time. Stay well everyone and thank you all so much for your support.

 

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar!

 

Every Saturday & Sunday

 Beginning May 2, 2020

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

We all know how hard the past year hit Grafton businesses. In light of the closures caused by the 2019 Flood and COVID-19, the Law Firm of Wittman & Lorton, P.C. and Preferred Title & Escrow, Inc. purchased 50 $100 gift cards to giveaway on our FB page. They also purchased 50 $100 gift cards from Grafton SkyTour. Starting March 23rd, and continuing for 50 days we will give away a $100 gift card to a Grafton restaurant or bar along with a $100 gift card to Grafton SkyTour sponsored by Wittman & Lorton and Preferred Title & Escrow! The goal is to encourage others during this difficult time to purchase gift cards from all Grafton businesses to be used once our businesses reopen! Make sure you visit The Grafton Illinois FB page daily: https://www.facebook.com/enjoygrafton/.
All you need to do is like and share Grafton Chamber of Commerce FB page each day to enter the daily giveaway. We thank everyone for your continued support of Grafton businesses! We can’t wait to see you come back again! Stay Safe

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

Closed Until Further Notice


 

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

04-11-20

Our office will move back to the river on Monday morning. The office door will be locked, you are welcome to come into the office one at a time. We will try and disinfectant after each person, as we do not want to make anyone ill, or nor do we want to get ill. Hope you realize why we are taking these precautions. If everyone works together, this may get over pretty soon. No one needs this to stretch out any longer than necessary. We need warm weather, sunshine and more boating. So wave at us at the end of the road..
 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

The old building has been torn down. 

 

Waiting on permits for new building.

 

"The plan is to keep it in the same location, maybe a little closer to the river and up about 7 ft higher. The building will be just a little smaller with a bigger deck."

 

Amanda

Kinder's Restaurant

 

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

.

March 7, 2020

Our gas dock is up and running for you.
Have a great weekend boaters!!

 

Reposted from Lake Center marina Facebook.... click here

 

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members in 2020 !
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook... click here.

 

Longshot Marina

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Longshot Saloon..Opening May 2, 2020

 

03-24-20

Marina is open.
Just got excavator delivered for spring and summer projects
Reopening Longshot Saloon on May 2nd

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Opening May 21, 2020

 

Polestar Boating Center

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

03-24-20

Operating on a skeleton crew.
If there is a need or emergency, call 636 250-3008

 

Dock Rentals on the Mississippi River
Safe Harbor Yacht Sales
The Canvas Man, LLC
Vessel Surveyor / Marine Consulting
Quality Marine Repair

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 

03-31-20

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.


We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.
If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call 📞 and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops 🏢 we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!


 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

REOPENING IN THE SPRING FOR THE 2020 SEASON.

KEEP YOUR ANCHOR RIGHT HERE FOR UPDATES.

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

04-03-20

Happy Friday!
We are here for the weekend!
Call in ahead for food at 636-723-0005!

 

Click here for menu

3025 N MO-94, St. Charles, Missouri 63301

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

04-08-20

SPRING SALES OFFERS | $2,000 Instant Savings on New Yamaha Boats; Zero Down, Zero Interest, Zero Payments for 3 Months; $7,500 Off 275 Series boats.

 

03-23-20

St. Charles Boat & Motor update:
Due to the unprecedented time that the country is experiencing, we are implementing some additions to our normal routine:
At this time, we remain open for business, operating with a small staff. For the safety of our customers, our staff, and our families, in addition to our normal operations, we are offering some alternative means of interacting with us as well – for both purchasing products (from parts to a new boat) and for your service needs.
If you’d like to shop any new or used inventory with us with minimized social interaction, we can schedule individual appointments or send you a virtual video tour of a unit. You can always shop our inventory on our website as well, at www.stcharlesboat.com. We currently have some huge discounts on our in stock inventory! If you’re interested in a private appointment, please e-mail us at zeke@stcharlesboat.com or you can call us at 636-947-0106 during normal business hours.
For your service needs, we can schedule a touchless drop off and pick-up with you. For touchless drop off or pick-up, e-mail Jerry at jerry@stcharlesboat.com or Zeke at zeke@stcharlesboat.com for scheduling and instructions.
We realize that this too will pass and we can return to a more normal routine, which means getting back to boating for many of us!
We will keep our customer’s updated by posting on our website and Facebook page.

 

Winter Hours

  Tue - Fri..9am - 5pm

  Sat - 9am - 2pm

  Sun & Mon..Closed

 

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

04-09-19

We have a full beer cooler..
Let us know what you want us to stock..we are trying our best to be competitive versus across the bridge..there are only few that I cant...so check us out..part of being competitive is counting on you...this will go for groceries as well...let us know what you need..

 

 

02-27-20 Update..

Fat Boys Restaurant at Two Rivers Marina

Hi Bill,
They are diligently working to get things in order. The have been working long hours trying to get the building in shape, lots of painting and cleaning. It is going to happen, however they are a bit behind because of Illinois paperwork. I expect an opening sometime in March. They are keeping the name "Fat Boys".

Cindy Blaylock
Two Rivers Marina.

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

04-08-20

When you look across the harbor and can see the green peeking through on the tree line, you know summer is right around the corner!
Due to the recent events, we are doing our part in maintaining social distance. Harbor members can call ahead to get a fuel appointment, and splashing boats will be on a case by case basis.
We can’t prevent anyone from gathering, but we can avoid being a part of the problem by keeping VERY limited services.
We hope everyone is staying safe, and we look forward to seeing the river crowded with boaters when this calms down!!
Happy boating!

 

Wood marina Spring Promotion

Attention - New Slip Customers 50% Off Any Available Slip

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

Currently we are open. Although things may change. My wife is in healthcare sales so I may be working from home more. Service guys are currently working when work can be done outside of shop. Hope this helps I will Let you know if things change more.

Andy

 

 

Yacht Club tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on Higher ground !

 

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

Brussels Ferry............618 - 786-3636

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

Winfield Ferry.............618-  535-5759

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645  ..Closed for the Season

 

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 
3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Closed
Abigail's Tap Room Closed
Alton Marina Deli Closed
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Closed
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Reopening May 1st for Pickup Service & Possible delivery
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ MRH Resort.. Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Closed
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Closed
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Closed
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Closed
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Opening May 2, 2020
LaRosa Cantina................................. Opening May 21, 2020
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

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