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Fast Fred Ruddock dropping second ledge of Broken Nose on Middle Ocoee with happy guests

Hydrology and Hazards of Broken Nose
explained by kayaker and river guide Fast Fred Ruddock

Hydrology and Hazards of Broken Nose Rapid

301 - Ocoee River Hydrology and Hazards covers many of the rapids of the Ocoee River. This article covers Broken Nose rapid on the Middle Ocoee. Broken Nose is one of the two highest rated rapids of the Middle Ocoee. Both Broken Nose and Table Saw are rated calss III+ at normal flow between 1,200 and 1,600 cfs. It is debatable if either becomes class IV at the cut off level of 3,000 cfs for commercial activities on the Ocoee River. Most would agree the nature of the Middle become class IV above 4,000 cfs. The nature of the world is impermanence. These features are subject to change over time or quickly during high water events. Be informed and be safe out there people.


Video of Broken Nose Rapid's Hydrology and Hazards

The above video features a lot of information of interest to guides and private boaters. The hydrology of Broken Nose is examined and explained. Broken Nose is a virtual playground for intermediate and above kayakers. Many young guides struggle to master Broken Nose. While experienced guides can run it smoothly and easily. Pro tip don't even look at Kimberly's Rock. This is especially true if you are a trainee or new guide. Whitewater activities come with inherent risks.

The five major eddies used by kayakers are explained in detail. And as a bonus eddies 6, 7, and 8 are also explored. Broken Nose features and s-wave over the first ledge in the entrance. Water is pushing river right into the rocks along the bank. If an appropiate left angle is maintained the final two ledges are easily run between eddy number five and Coffee Break Rock. However Coffee Break Rock pins are often the setup for an unintentional surf at the bottom ledge hole.

Brave and skilled kayakers enjoy surfing the ledge hole just above eddy 5. If you do this watch for raft traffic and have the skills to get out of the way. Be aware of the river right safety eddy just below the final ledge of Broken Nose. This is a terrible place for kayakers. Young guides trying to impress their trip leaders have run over private boaters. These guides lack both judgement and skill. There is an alternative safety position on shallow rocks to the right. Many young trip leaders also lack judgement and train new guides to do dumb things like run over boaters. This of course upens the company to lawsuits. Intentional collisions can have legal consequences.

Continue reading to learn more about the hydrology and hazards of the Ocoee River.

Fast Fred Ruddock in Ecuador overlooking Otavalo

Got Questions About This Ocoee River Rafting Guide?

I am Fast Fred Ruddock and I would be happy to give you honest answers to your questions about rafting or the Ocoee River. You may email me directly with your questions or concerns at fastfredruddock@gmail.com and if you would like to come rafting with me be sure to check out Fast Fred Rafts for the latest details.

When I started this online Ocoee River Rafting Guide in 2016 there were none available online or in print. I'd like to this this is still the best Ocoee River Rafting Guide available. That said feedback is always welcomed and this is a constant work in progress.

ABOUT ME

I began rafting whitewater when I was young during the early 1970 with my family. We had several of our own rafts between my parents, grandparents, aunts, and uncles. My family loved playing in the water; I grew up rafting, sailing, and surfing. As I grew older and technology improved I began to get serious about kayaking and creek boating as well. I became an ACA certified kayak instructor and have shared the sport with countless others over the years. Living along the banks of the Green River in North Carolina I have access to some of the best world class rapids to hone my skills.

During my long off-season from rafting I primarily travel solo through Latin America. Ecuador is likely my favorite country to visit but I also enjoy Peru, Guatemala, and Mexico. Working as a river guide in the southeast during summers in North America I don't earn a lot of money and live close to the federal poverty level. In spite of this I live a rich life on a frugal budget. If you would like to learn more about traveling in Latin America or maybe some frugal travel tips visit Fast Fred Travels.

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MY TRAVEL & VIDEO GEAR

Curious about how I can travel so light or what I use on the river? Want to know more about the gear I carry abroad on my extend trips in Latin America or while rafting and kayaking? Here's your chance to dig into my Amazon shop for an inside look. If you make purchases via this shop I will get a very small commission but it will not increase your price what so ever.

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