Before The HornIndependent river companion

Safety

Below a hydropower dam, generation raises the river by several feet within minutes, and it does not wait for anyone to get out of the way. These rules apply on every tailwater; each water's own page adds what is true there — warning sirens, cold water, local hazards.

  • Never go alone

    Bring a partner. If you must fish alone, tell someone where and when you expect to return, and stay within sight of the bank.

  • Wear a wader belt

    A cinched wader belt buys you minutes when water pushes in. It's the single cheapest piece of gear you own.

  • Leave early, not on time

    Wave arrival times are planning figures for when water begins to rise — it keeps rising after that. Build your exit around the earliest number, not the latest.

Safety for your water

This app is advance notice, not a warning system. Always verify current dam status with the operating authority (USACE Mobile District) before entering any river.