The Forks at Catahoula

Launch temps were in the upper 80's at the 9 am launch but we came prepared with humidity machetes. Launch options are currently good condition concrete boat ramp, new floating pier with 2 foot gun wall and old 2 foot wood bulkhead. Algae at the boat landing waterline is a very slippery orthopedic surgeon dream.
10 boats quickly paddled to the east side of the bayou as that's where all the shade was. Started a very leisurely paddle south alongside state of Louisiana property.

It was noted that the Atchafalaya Basin Primitive Campsite #22 is located here in the first east fork about 1500 feet south of the landing. It has unique qualities and characteristics, currently some of which make it both attractive while being simultaneously undesirable. Forewarned poison ivy. There are small islands carved out here and there.

The banks of these bayous have a quite a few majestic mature live oak trees whos large canopies hang out over the water. Most are large enough to paddle underneath as they extend well away and out from the slightly high angle banks. Easy to enjoy their big welcoming shade and calm from underneath. Mature Live Oak Age Factoid: 5 feet above ground tree diameter in inches multiplied by 4. Example: 3 foot 140 years old and a 6 footer almost 300!

Pest (wasps) and vegetation (giant salvinia) loads were very low.

Paddled around a westerly fork down on th e south end with hopes of making it around one of the long "islands" to no avail due to low water level. It was highly shaded and frankly disappointing that it wasn't passable. However 18" additional water and it looks very doable. In the slight chance its relavent the current level at Butte LaRose is 5.96 ft. The closest but currently inop gauge is Bayou Darby Near Lake Fausse Point Cut - 300507091355600. Failed in June 2023 at below 8'.

Enjoyed a slight tailwind for a while until we found a t-storm was creating said wind. Selected upper gear proceeded to the landing by passing one fork which remains non experienced. Oh well, I guess we'll have to come back again...