Lake Rousseau
Class: typically flat water, 1-2 mph
Put-in: Goldendale Ave Boat Ramp
Take-Out: Same as put-in.
Directions: The boat ramp is located south of Dunnellon Fl and west of SR 41 on 488. Go north on Goldendale Ave and follow it to the end....Map of Area
Parking: Paved parking.
Facilities: boat launch.
Park Fee: none
Trip Time: 5-6 hours round trip
It is about 2.5 miles from the put-in to where the waters start to open up into the lake. Many birds and aquatic plants can be see on the way. The hyacinth can be a problem, but they are also beautiful when they are blooming.
But one of the most spectacular sites is the eagles. We spotted four in all, two adults and two juveniles. Seeing them in their natural surroundings made the trip.
Power boats stay to the marked channels, and stay aware of the many trees and stumps under the water. The kayaks, on the other hand, can venture to places they are unable to go. The trees are remnets of what was there when the area was flooded creating the lake. But, you still have to be aware of what is under the water, so watch out for snags.
It is a leisure paddle even though the water is higher than it has been in a few years. The current is moving a little faster now with it getting up to 1.5 knots in the lake. There is no public take-out on the lake so you have to paddle back to the put-in point.
Fishing is allowed on the Withlacoochee River.
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