Hydrology and Hazards of Table Saw Rapid

301 - Ocoee River Hydrology and Hazards covers many of the rapids of the Ocoee River. This article covers Table Saw rapid on the Middle Ocoee. Table Saw is the second of the two highest-rated rapids on the Middle Ocoee. Both Broken Nose and Table Saw are rated class III+ at normal flows between 1,200 and 1,600 cfs.

The video above features a lot of information of interest, especially to raft guides. The hydrology of Table Saw is examined and explained. Table Saw is the steepest rapid on the Middle Ocoee and likely the entire Ocoee River. The best-known hazard here is Prudential Rock. This rock does have a sieve, although the hole is under the waterline even at low water. Additionally, the rock is quite undercut.

Table Saw features many eddies of interest to kayakers. Rafters, on the other hand, want to be certain to maintain a left angle as they crash through the breaking wave at the top. Failure to maintain this angle will result in hitting or pinning at Prudential Rock. Unpinning a raft here can be tricky.

Deep Dive: Underwater Exam

Watch on YouTube: A deep look into the hazards of Table Saw

Also, be aware of the Guide Ejector wave, as it can kick or pop you out of the raft?intentionally or otherwise. Losing your position here will likely blow your entry angle, causing your raft to crash directly into Prudential Rock.

A tragic accident occurred at Table Saw in 2019. A senior guide hit Prudential Rock, causing several guests to swim. A rookie guide from another company attempted a rescue by throwing a rope but was unable to maintain his grip. Sadly, the loose rope entangled one of the swimmers, resulting in a fatality.