~~~~~~ RiverBill's Archives~~~~~~
May 2020

05-11-2020 - 05-20-2020

 

A WEBSITE FOR THE  BOATING COMMUNITY 

OF THE 

MISSISSIPPI, ILLINOIS, MISSOURI, MERAMEC AND KASKASKIA RIVERS

 

WEDNESDAY

20 May 2020

 

"NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK"

May 16 - 22

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 

click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture of the Day..... was sent to us by Capt'n Brad Maher who hails out of the Alton Motor Boat Club at Piasa Creek of the Mississippi River

 

RiverBill,

Gates back up at Melvin Price and sounds like a ton of water coming down the Illinois river. Some areas to the north got 8 inches of rain.

Brad Maher
Alton Motorboat Club.

 

Click here for the current River Level and forecast at Alton, IL

 

Illinois River

 

Never Know What You Might See

on Hwy 94

.

.

click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture of the Day..... was taken yesterday evening on Hwy 94 near Hyw 370 in St. Charles.

 

You just don't usually see a large boat parked in the middle of Hyw 94 ! When I got closer and pulled into the filling station to take a couple of pictures I seen the driver and "follow truck" where there getting eats and drinks for the trip.

 

Destination unknown

The Boathouse Is Open

 

Tiki Bar opens this weekend!!!!

Thur 11am- 10pm,   Fri 11am- 10pm,   Sat 11am
 

Entertainment:

Sat .. Dawn Turlington @ 1pm riverside tiki deck.
Jambone @ 6-10pm riverside tiki deck
Sun...
Pat Liston @ 2-5 riverside tiki deck
Gypsy Soul 7-11 riverside tiki deck
Mon...
TBA

Foodies: Pork Steaks Saturday, Sunday, Monday.
Chicken Tenders and Chicken Sandwich and coleslaw are back on the menu.

The Boathouse is a happy , positive place filled with great energy.
We work very hard to ensure you have a great time.

Here again it is a CHOICE to visit.
Reservations are best again... you must be here when reservations are scheduled or we will release the table. If you are messaging LOOK at all the page info. Please I am pretty sure we answered your question already.  See you on the river.

 

We are Officially Setup With Online Ordering!
You Can Now Order Your Favorite Food and Drinks Through Our Online Ordering.
Click on "Shop Now" or Simply Use this Link Below
https://www.restaurantlogin.com/api/fb/z0q_xp


Website.. N/A        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Boathouse Restaurant: 636 250 3300      Boathouse Office:636.250.3800

OPEN        OPEN          OPEN

 

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

Grafton Harbor.... 618-786-PORT (7678)

 

 

First Mate is a boat brokerage located on the beautiful upper Mississippi.

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

 Yesteryears Pic of the Day

 

Grafton Flood Party

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 

Wayne Draper of the 3rd Chute, Mary Tiemann of RiverBills.com and Brad Hagen of the Grafton Oyster Bar. They are standing in front of the Grafton Shuttle that Brad was driving

 

 

click pic to enlarge

 

The Pictures On This Day in 2019..... were taken at the Grafton Flood Party. 2019 Grafton Flood Party.

 

Alton Marina

click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

Email: woodlandmarina1@gmail.com

Click here for Website        Click here for Facebook

 

The Grafton Oyster Bar

is OPEN For Carry Out

Thur, Fri, Sat & Sun This Week

BOAT-IN AND CARRY OUT !


OPEN THURS THRU SUNDAY 11AM-8PM

 

Menu..  click here  

Website.. click here   Facebook.. click here

 

River News !  

 

 

 

Click here........ Port Charles Harbor website

Click here......Port Charles Harbor Facebook

 

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.

We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.

If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops  we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED May 20, 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

UPPER MISSISSIPPI RIVER - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - UPDATE
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:
Zone 24 (Mile 301.1 – Mile 273.4) and
Zone 25 (Mile 273.3 – Mile 241.4).
The following areas are in the high water action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:
Pool 28 (Mile 185.0 – Mile 160.1) and
Pool 29 (Mile 160.0 – Mile 109.9).
Down-streaming operations are not recommended unless the vessel is equal to or greater than 75 feet in length and the vessel has a minimum of 1,800 h.p. A buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate action to prevent breakaways from occurring.
Exercise caution in all passing and meeting situations and be mindful of all charted bridge navigational clearances. Navigation buoys may have ben dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting. In St. Louis Harbor (Mile 184.0 – Mile 179.0), south-bound tows greater than 600 feet in length, excluding the towboat, limit their transit to daylight hours. All towing vessels should have a minimum of 250 h.p., for every 2,000 tons of cargo. If a towing vessel has barges in tow loaded to more than 2,000 tons, it should have a minimum of 250 h.p., for every 2,000 tons of cargo.

MILE 183.2 - BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION
Merchants Railroad Bridge; Work barges continue excavating around both left and right descending navigation piers and the right descending pier of the center span. Work barges should not encroach more than 50 feet into the navigation channel, at any time. For work barge locations, mariners are encouraged to contact the onsite work boat M/V KATHERINE OHARA via VHF-FM Channel 6 or 16 or by phone at (217) 248-9077.

 

ILLINOIS RIVER

ILLINOIS WATERWAY CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - UPDATE
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex: Zone 4 Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3), Zone 3 Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0), Zone 2 Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0) and Zone 1 Grafton (Mile 9.9 – Mile 0.0). The following areas are in the high water action phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex: Zone 7 Peoria (Mile 187.0 – Mile 145.6) Zone 6 Copperas Creek (Mile 145.5 – Mile 129.0) and Zone 5 Havana (Mile 128.9 – Mile 102.0). High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. Laying up on saturated levees is prohibited. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations if possible. Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate actions to prevent breakaways. Exercise caution in all meeting and overtaking situations, as swift currents may be present. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting. Recreational traffic is discouraged.

.

Click here  for the current "Local Notice To Mariners" report

 on the Navigation Center Website


 No new incident reports for the St. Louis area
 

Click here to go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for "all" incident reports    

 

River Gear For Sale............

 

Click here to buy your River T-shirts and Accessories on-line..

Delivered right to you mailbox in a few short days

 

click pic to enlarge

 

We offer full fiberglass repair, high performance upgrades, transom & stringer rebuilds, service on older products, new & used parts department, an accessories department, as well as many other services to suit everyone's boating needs.

We continue to display our Yamaha Sport Boats + Crest, Mercury + Yamaha Outboards and Heritage & Haul Rite trailers

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor website      St. Charles Boat & Motor Facebook

 

 

RiverBills Facebook

Two FaceBook Pages for You

 

The "River News and Media" Page

Page contains river news, RiverBills Pictures of the Day, Upcoming River Events, info from RiverBills.com advertisers, etc..... Click here and check it out

 

The "Boaters Group" Page

It's a group for all the boaters on all the rivers near the "PORT OF ST. LOUIS AND BEYOND." It's a Public Group, open to anyone that wants to join in. A place to post your boating pictures, shout outs, questions, comments, etc.  Stay in touch with other boaters all year long.  Invite your Boating Friends. 

We have 6,107 members as of 05-20-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

Illinois River At Peoria, Illinois

Living Lands & Waters Cleaning Up The Illinois River........

 

The Living Lands & Waters crew is currently docked along the Illinois River at Peoria, Illinois, and are working away to remove trash from the Illinois River and it's banks.

 

Chad Pregracke, LL&W president and founder says that if you see several flat bottomed boats out on the water full of garbage, they're here to clean up and leave the place better than when they found it.

 

Since it's founding in 1997, Pregracke and his crew has cleaned up close to 11 million pounds of trash from the rivers across Mid-America.  His fleet has expanded as well, including five barges, two towboats and six 30 foot workboats.........

 

Click here to read more from centralillinoisproud.com. With Photo

 

More !

Living Lands & Waters Cleaning Up The Illinois River........

 

Reprinted from Living lands and Waters Facebook... click here

 

Website         40% Off - New Members        Facebook

 

Illinois River Near Ottawa, Illinois

The Wayward Barge Stuck Under A Bridge Has Been Recovered........

 

At around 3 am Monday, a half loaded barge was reported missing and was found to be pinned against a pier underneath the Veterans Memorial Bridge in Ottawa, Illinois. 

 

Members of the Illinois Department of Transportation, ADM, the U.S. Coast Guard and responders from Ottawa worked together to recover the barge.  It has since been towed away.

 

According to Tom Hufnagel, operations engineer with IDOT, the barge ended up against a shore wall.  The span remained open to vehicular traffic, however, the Illinois Department of Transportation will be inspecting the bridge for any damage........

 

Click here to read this news story from mywebtimes.com.  With Photo.

 

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Mississippi River At Hannibal, Missouri

Changes Adds $34,382 To Riverfront Renovation Project........

 

Changes to the Hannibal Riverfront Renovation project intended to protect electrical infrastructure during future flooding events will add $34,382 to the total cost of the project.

 

This change order, which is the third one so far, had been approved by the Hannibal City Council during Tuesday night's meeting.  The latest change order increases the project's price tag to $6,695,285.  The original contract cost was $6,648,000

 

The change order was requested to better protect electrical infrastructure located east of the downtown flood levee from flooding.  The latest cost addition will be paid for by the Hannibal Board of Public Works........

 

Click here to read this news article from whig.com.

 

U.S. Coast Guard News

Commander Mick Scott Taking Over Sector Upper Mississippi River........

 

This month, the U.S. Coast Guard will be making leadership changes for the U.S. Coast Guard Sector Upper Mississippi River, which includes the Riverbend region.

 

Captain Scott Stoermer, the current commander, and incoming Commander Mick Scott, the current deputy commander talked about the leadership change on Monday during the first session of this year's FreightWeekSTL, which is a conference for the region's transportation and logistics industries.

 

Scott will be taking over the Sector Upper Mississippi River in late May........

 

Click here to read this news tidbit from thetelegraph.com.

 

River History....


May 20, 1804 in River History


Meriwether Lewis arrived in St. Charles from St. Louis in preparation for their expedition, not by boat as William Clark did a few days earlier, but instead via St. Charles Rock Road.

FYI: St. Charles Rock Road is the current name of what was the first road to traverse present-day St. Louis County, Missouri between St. Louis and St. Charles (source Wikipedia Encyclopedia )

 

Historic Vessel Wrecks

Judge Rules Scavengers May Open Titanic To Retrieve Marconi Radio.........

 

Federal District Judge, Rebecca Beach Smith recently ruled that RMS Titanic, Inc may proceed with their plans to cut into the Titanic shipwreck and attempt to retrieve the Marconi wireless telegraph machine used to send out distress calls 108 years ago,.

 

In the order, Judge Smith said that RMS Titanic Inc, the court-designated salvage firm for the Titanic made the case for having enough historical value to justify sending the specially equipped robot into the wreck.  The remotely operated submersible will be outfitted with the tools needed to cut into the deckhouse, if necessary.

 

In her ruling, Judge Smith says that retrieving the Marconi wireless telegraph machine "will contribute to the legacy left by the indelible loss of the Titanic, those who survived, and those who gave their lives in the sinking"........

 

Click here to read this news article from yahoo.com.  With Photo.

 

News Release From BoatUS


SPRINGFIELD, Va., May 19, 2020 – Recreating outdoors has become an important survival tool in the era of the coronavirus pandemic, and recreational boaters are no different. The nationwide on-water towing fleet with more than 600 red response vessels, TowBoatUS, expects this Memorial Day holiday weekend to be a busy one, responding to an increased number of requests for assistance by recreational boaters.
“While there are some locations where recreational boating hasn’t quite returned yet, those will be the exception this Memorial Day weekend,” said BoatUS Vice President of Towing Services John Condon. “Boating is an approved activity and boaters are social distancing, so we believe they will be on the water in a big way, trying to get to back to what’s familiar and enjoyable with the family.”
Condon predicts calls for assistance over VHF channel 16, cellphone and via the time-saving BoatUS App by recreational boaters experiencing engine breakdowns, dead batteries, running aground or needing a tow home will be up 20%. “We think that’s a conservative number,” he added.
Calls for assistance to BoatUS’s 24-hour dispatch is a traditional barometer of the nation’s on-water boating activity.
To prevent having to call TowBoatUS for help, ensure your boat is ready to go and spring commissioning is fully completed. Breakdowns this early in the season are often attributed to rushing to get the boat in the water.
If you’re trailering to the launch ramp for the first time, BoatUS dispatch reports the No. 1 request for roadside Trailer Assist service is for flat tires/no spare. Wheel bearings and trailer axle troubles follow, so be sure all three of these are up to snuff before you go.

What to do if the best laid plans collide with the unexpected? Be prepared by having a BoatUS on-water Unlimited Towing membership for freshwater boaters for just $85 per year or $159 for saltwater boaters. Included are more than 25 benefits and discounts, a subscription to BoatUS Magazine, free DSC-VHF radio registration, and more. Boaters without a towing membership face an average nationwide cost of $750 per towing incident.


###

 

This press release reprinted by permission of Scott Croft of BoatUS...click here

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "October 2020" 

One month listing on the front page in the featured Classified Section

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

e-mail your info along with 6 pictures (max) to riverbill@prodigy.net.

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

We will bill you after the ad is on-line

 

 

OFFERING

THE SWINGING DOCK STEP

 

 

 

Swings out

to bridge the gap between the dock and your boat

for ease of loading and boarding

 

Swings out of the way

 to the

 "Walk Thru"

position on the dock

 

Little Johns Marine Service... click here

Little John's Moptorsports... click here

What's Going On This Week

3rd Chute Bar & Grill
211 W. Main St. Grafton, IL

 

5-13-20

3rd Chute is taking applications for all positions both locations we are opening Alton Friday message on Facebook thank you

Wayne Draper

 

Just a short walk from Grafton Harbor


Breakfast available every Saturday and Sunday morning from 8am till 12pm

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

03-24-20...Temporarily Closed

 

 

Alton Marina is the cover photo for the

2020 edition of Quimby's Cruising Guide

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

05-13-20

We are so grateful Madison County is supporting Businesses Opening Back Up! In light of Madison County opening with guidelines, Bluff City Grill will continue to remain closed at this time. We plan to announce an Opening date as soon as we have one! Due to our licensing being both County & State, we are not able to just open our doors with the decision made by Madison County, but hopefully this gets the ball rolling. Choosing to go against the State’s order could result in ... See More

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina


OPEN   OPEN   OPEN

 

Thurs- Sun open at 11am
Thurs..close at 9
Fri..... close at 9
Sat.....close at 10
Sun....close at 9

Hours change on Memorial Day weekend
 

Boathouse Restaurant... 636-250-3300

Boathouse Office...........636-250-3800

 

Weather may change bands .

 

Website.... N/a
 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

03/20/2020
Calhoun Ferry Company’s priority is the health and safety of our crew and passengers.
We received a call today from the U.S. Coast Guard advising us that all passengers will be required to stay in their vehicles when crossing the ferry. This is in response to the restrictions placed on gatherings of 10 or more people. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted.
We are cleaning and disinfecting all crew areas and all ferry passes as we receive them.
Starting tomorrow 03/21/2020 we will be reducing our hours to eliminate the late night shift on Friday and Saturday. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted. Hours will be Monday through Saturday 5am to 9pm and Sunday 8am to 9pm.
We will all get through this together by working together for a better tomorrow. Stay safe!
Thank You,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

     

 

 

 

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

3-18-20
Because of the CDC recommendations the restaurant management has decided to close the restaurant this weekend until further notice.
MJB

 

 

The Duck Club is the Premier Private Yacht Club serving the Upper Mississippi River, Alton pool boating community. The Club is located at the South end of Dardenne Slough with direct channel access at mm22

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

05-11-20

We want to thank everyone who came out to eat & drink on Saturday. I'm very excited to annouce we will be opening back to normal starting next Tuesday, May 19th.
We will have our new COVID-19 shirts available for $15 each.

 

Bingo..... May 21st


 

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

 

May 1, 2020

Grafton Harbor is OPEN!! Please come check out our variety of packaged liquor, treats for the kids, gift shop and ships store!! If you would like curb service call: 618-786-7678.
Friday Open until 5:00
Saturday 11:00 - 5:00
Sunday 11:00 - 4:00

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar!

 

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

We all know how hard the past year hit Grafton businesses. In light of the closures caused by the 2019 Flood and COVID-19, the Law Firm of Wittman & Lorton, P.C. and Preferred Title & Escrow, Inc. purchased 50 $100 gift cards to giveaway on our FB page. They also purchased 50 $100 gift cards from Grafton SkyTour. Starting March 23rd, and continuing for 50 days we will give away a $100 gift card to a Grafton restaurant or bar along with a $100 gift card to Grafton SkyTour sponsored by Wittman & Lorton and Preferred Title & Escrow! The goal is to encourage others during this difficult time to purchase gift cards from all Grafton businesses to be used once our businesses reopen! Make sure you visit The Grafton Illinois FB page daily: https://www.facebook.com/enjoygrafton/.
All you need to do is like and share Grafton Chamber of Commerce FB page each day to enter the daily giveaway. We thank everyone for your continued support of Grafton businesses! We can’t wait to see you come back again! Stay Safe

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

05-08-20

BOAT-IN AND CARRY OUT !

OPEN FRIDAY THRU SUNDAY 11AM-8PM

Expanding our hours next week to include Thursday. Please call ahead to place your order @ 618-786-3000.

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

05-18-20

Had a question about the pump out. At least that is working. Remember what you are working with and be careful. Pat and Julio got it going today. Maybe the weather will improve for the week end. See you at the end of the road.

 

05-16-20

Know everyone is curious when our bath rooms will open. Not for awhile I am sorry to report. We cannot open until we can make sure you guys are all safe. We do not have the necessary supplies to keep it completely sanitized on a daily basis. Also the Missouri DNR just sent us a new email regarding EPA new guidelines on our water systems. SO will order another blue box, sorry for the inconvenience, but not going to be forever we hope.
Think positive.

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

The old building has been torn down. 

 

Waiting on permits for new building.

 

"The plan is to keep it in the same location, maybe a little closer to the river and up about 7 ft higher. The building will be just a little smaller with a bigger deck."

 

Amanda

Kinder's Restaurant

 

Photo Gallery of tear down.. click here

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

.

March 7, 2020

Our gas dock is up and running for you.
Have a great weekend boaters!!

 

Reposted from Lake Center marina Facebook.... click here

 

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members in 2020 !
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook... click here.

 

Liberty Harbor

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

2020 Slip Rates

Click here

 

Contact Jerry

636-734-1929

 

E-mail Liberty Harbor.. libertyinstl@yahoo.com

 

Longshot Marina

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

04-18-20

Longshot Saloon..Closed

 

03-24-20

Marina is open.
Just got excavator delivered for spring and summer projects
 

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

05-12-20

Opening Memorial Day Weekend with live music Saturday-Monday

Becky Dallwitz
Longshot Marina

Polestar Boating Center

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

03-24-20

Operating on a skeleton crew.
If there is a need or emergency, call 636 250-3008

 

Dock Rentals on the Mississippi River
Safe Harbor Yacht Sales
The Canvas Man, LLC
Vessel Surveyor / Marine Consulting
Quality Marine Repair

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 

05-09-20

Gas dock and boat ramp are open.  See you soon !

 

03-31-20

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.


We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.
If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call 📞 and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops 🏢 we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!


 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

04-28-20

It’s official! We’re opening for the 2020 Watersports season this Friday, May 1st. Call us at 314-800-5695 to reserve your rental in advance. Visit our website www.stljetski.com for our updated social distancing process.

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

 

Store Hours

Sun..... 10-9

M-Th....10-10

Fri Sat..10-11

Call ahead for an order

or come in !

 

636-723-0005!

 

Click here for menu

3025 N MO-94, St. Charles, Missouri 63301

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

05-01-20

Wanting to re-power your boat? Don’t miss out on this great promotion. Call us for details...click here

 

04-08-20

SPRING SALES OFFERS | $2,000 Instant Savings on New Yamaha Boats; Zero Down, Zero Interest, Zero Payments for 3 Months; $7,500 Off 275 Series boats.

 

03-23-20

St. Charles Boat & Motor update:
Due to the unprecedented time that the country is experiencing, we are implementing some additions to our normal routine:
At this time, we remain open for business, operating with a small staff. For the safety of our customers, our staff, and our families, in addition to our normal operations, we are offering some alternative means of interacting with us as well – for both purchasing products (from parts to a new boat) and for your service needs.
If you’d like to shop any new or used inventory with us with minimized social interaction, we can schedule individual appointments or send you a virtual video tour of a unit. You can always shop our inventory on our website as well, at www.stcharlesboat.com. We currently have some huge discounts on our in stock inventory! If you’re interested in a private appointment, please e-mail us at zeke@stcharlesboat.com or you can call us at 636-947-0106 during normal business hours.
For your service needs, we can schedule a touchless drop off and pick-up with you. For touchless drop off or pick-up, e-mail Jerry at jerry@stcharlesboat.com or Zeke at zeke@stcharlesboat.com for scheduling and instructions.
We realize that this too will pass and we can return to a more normal routine, which means getting back to boating for many of us!
We will keep our customer’s updated by posting on our website and Facebook page.

 

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

05-18-19

The Two Rivers Marina Boat club will be holding a membership drive/meeting Saturday, May 23, 2020 at 11:00 a.m. at the Two Rivers Boat Club pavilion.. This is a great opportunity to get involved!!!

 

 

02-27-20 Update..

Fat Boys Restaurant at Two Rivers Marina

Hi Bill,
They are diligently working to get things in order. The have been working long hours trying to get the building in shape, lots of painting and cleaning. It is going to happen, however they are a bit behind because of Illinois paperwork. I expect an opening sometime in March. They are keeping the name "Fat Boys".

Cindy Blaylock
Two Rivers Marina.

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 

Woodland Marina Spring Promotion

Attention -

New Slip Customers

50% Off Any Available Slip

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

3-25-20

Due the COVID-19 outbreak the service yard is experiencing delays in shipping which is causing a slight backup. If you have any questions or concerns please email the service manager Jeff Digman.
jeff@yachtclubstl.com.
Shop and office will be closed to customer walk-ins. Please just give us a call or email!
Thank you

 

Yacht Club tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on Higher ground !

 

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

Brussels Ferry............618 - 786-3636

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

Winfield Ferry.............618-  535-5759

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645  ..Closed for the Season

 

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 

3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Closed
Abigail's Tap Room Closed
Alton Marina Deli Closed
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Closed
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Open
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ Longshot Marina Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Closed
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Open
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Open
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Open for Carryouts
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Closed
Mike's LaRosa@ Longshot Marina Opening Memorial Day Weekend
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

 

TUESDAY

19 May 2020

 

"NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK"

May 16 - 22

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

Our Lady of the Rivers

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 

click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture of the Day..... was posted by Capt'n Mark Newlin on RiverBills Boaters Group yesterday

 

Water is coming back up.  Going over the road to the shrine yesterday afternoon.

 

Click here for the current Grafton River Level and forecast

 

 

RiverBill says.... Thanks for the update Mark !

 

Grounded

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

click pic to enlarge

 

Another Update:

 

Hi River Bill,

Like David Young, I also had problems at the top of chute 4. On Friday evening, I was about three quarters of the way through to the Mississippi when I grounded hard. I was unable to float, push or power off. A big thank you to the greatguys at TowBoat US who got me away and towed me back to Sioux Harbor, arriving just before dark. Also a big thank you to the boater who couldn’t reach me to help out but hung around until I got freed up.

TowBoat US could not get their boat in from the top of the chute and had to go around and take me out the way I came in, so as David Young said, the area is a BIG problem now!

Dan Maher

 

The Boathouse Is Open

 

We are Officially Setup With Online Ordering!
You Can Now Order Your Favorite Food and Drinks Through Our Online Ordering.
Click on "Shop Now" or Simply Use this Link Below
https://www.restaurantlogin.com/api/fb/z0q_xp


Website.. N/A        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Boathouse Restaurant: 636 250 3300      Boathouse Office:636.250.3800

OPEN        OPEN          OPEN

 

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

Grafton Harbor.... 618-786-PORT (7678)

 

 

First Mate is a boat brokerage located on the beautiful upper Mississippi.

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

 Yesteryears Pic of the Day

 

Grafton Flood Party

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture On This Day in 2019..... was sent to us by Capt'n Tim Crawford

 

RiverBill,

It took Gumption to get there. 2019 Grafton Flood Party.

Tim

 

 

RiverBill says.... A little flood water won't stop real river rats

Alton Marina

click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

Email: woodlandmarina1@gmail.com

Click here for Website        Click here for Facebook

 

The Grafton Oyster Bar

is OPEN For Carry Out

Thur, Fri, Sat & Sun This Week

BOAT-IN AND CARRY OUT !


OPEN THURS THRU SUNDAY 11AM-8PM

 

Menu..  click here  

Website.. click here   Facebook.. click here

 

River News !  

 

 

 

Click here........ Port Charles Harbor website

Click here......Port Charles Harbor Facebook

 

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.

We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.

If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops  we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED May 13, 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

.MILE 183.2 - BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION
Merchants Railroad Bridge; Work barges continue excavating around both left and right descending navigation piers and the right descending pier of the center span. Work barges should not encroach more than 50 feet into the navigation channel, at any time. For work barge locations, mariners are encouraged to contact the onsite work boat M/V KATHERINE OHARA via VHF-FM Channel 6 or 16 or by phone at (217) 248-9077.

ILLINOIS RIVER

ILLINOIS WATERWAY - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - Update
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:
Zone 7 Peoria (Mile 187.0 – Mile 145.6),
Zone 5 Havana (Mile 128.9 – Mile 102.0),
Zone 4 Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),
Zone 3 Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0) and
Zone 2 Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0).
High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. Laying up on saturated levees is prohibited. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations if possible.
Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate actions to prevent breakaways. Exercise caution in all meeting and overtaking situations, as swift currents may be
present. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting.

MISSOURI RIVER

The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Washington Reach (Mile 100.0 – Mile 0.0) and

Jefferson Reach (Mile 200.0 – Mile 100.0).
Mariners should use caution and minimize wake. Laying up on saturated levees is prohibited. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations, remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be mindful of all bridge
navigational clearances and aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred. Take appropriate action to prevent any breakaways from occurring. Use caution in all passing and meeting situations as swift currents may be present. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station so remain alert while transiting. Recreational traffic is discouraged.

.

 

Click here  for the current "Local Notice To Mariners" report

 on the Navigation Center Website


 No new incident reports for the St. Louis area
 

Click here to go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for "all" incident reports    

 

River Gear For Sale............

 

Click here to buy your River T-shirts and Accessories on-line..

Delivered right to you mailbox in a few short days

 

click pic to enlarge

 

We offer full fiberglass repair, high performance upgrades, transom & stringer rebuilds, service on older products, new & used parts department, an accessories department, as well as many other services to suit everyone's boating needs.

We continue to display our Yamaha Sport Boats + Crest, Mercury + Yamaha Outboards and Heritage & Haul Rite trailers

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor website      St. Charles Boat & Motor Facebook

 

 

RiverBills Facebook

Two FaceBook Pages for You

 

The "River News and Media" Page

Page contains river news, RiverBills Pictures of the Day, Upcoming River Events, info from RiverBills.com advertisers, etc..... Click here and check it out

 

The "Boaters Group" Page

It's a group for all the boaters on all the rivers near the "PORT OF ST. LOUIS AND BEYOND." It's a Public Group, open to anyone that wants to join in. A place to post your boating pictures, shout outs, questions, comments, etc.  Stay in touch with other boaters all year long.  Invite your Boating Friends. 

We have 6,099 members as of 05-19-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

Mississippi River In The Riverbend

Heavy Storms Send Riverbend Rivers Into Floodstage.........

 

The heavy rainfall over the weekend has sent the rivers in the Riverbend into flood stage. As of 5 am Saturday, the Mississippi River at the Melvin Price Locks and Dam, the Mississippi River was at 15.63 feet.  By 1 am Monday, the river river had risen over five feet to the flood stage of 21 feet.

 

By 4 pm Monday, the Mississippi River was at 21.9 feet, with a crest of 23.5 feet expected be early Wednesday morning.  The Mississippi River is expected to fall below flood stage by early Friday morning.

 

The Mississippi River in Grafton also rose rapidly over the weekend, shooting from 16.53 feet at 1 pm Saturday to the flood stage of 18 feet by 5 am Sunday.  By 4 pm Monday, the River had risen to 20.6 feet, with a crest of 21.2 feet expected by Tuesday evening.........

 

Click here to read this news report from thetelegraph.com.  With Photos.

 

 

Website         40% Off - New Members        Facebook

 

Mississippi River At Alton, Illinois

The Amphitheater Is Still Planning For A Partial Season........

 

Last week, the COVID-19 pandemic prompted the cancellation of the Fireworks on the Mississippi Festival at the Liberty Bank Alton Amphitheater.  The good news is that the head of the Amphitheater Commission says that they are still planning for a partial schedule for the 2020 season.

 

According to Robert Stephan, the fireworks festival is the only cancellation set in stone.  He adds that it remains to be seen which of the events will survive as the schedule is still being changed.

 

Stephan states that they are still in talks with a national musical act, but are not able to announce who or when due to the current COVID-19 pandemic.  Stephan says that both parties remain flexible, and are hopefully announcing who and a date within the next few weeks........

 

Click here to read this news article from altondailynews.com.  With Photo and Audio.

 

Obituary Raymond DeClue

August 20, 1957 - May 15, 2020........

 

.

Reprinted from Paul Funeral Home... click here

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

Re-Opening Today........

 

05-11-20

I'm very excited to announce we will be opening back to normal starting next Tuesday, May 19th.
We will have our new COVID-19 shirts available for $15 each.

 

Bingo..... May 21st


 

Mississippi State Highway Patrol News Release

Memorial Day Weekend........

 

MISSOURI STATE HIGHWAY PATROL
a division of the
DEPARTMENT OF PUBLIC SAFETY

Troop F Headquarters - 2920 North Shamrock Road - Jefferson City, MO 65102

NEWS RELEASE
 

For further information please contact: Sergeant Scott White
(573) 751-1000
F200502
May 18, 2020

EMPHASIS: Troop F Prepares For Memorial Day Weekend


Captain Corey J. Schoeneberg, commanding officer of Troop F, announces that Troop F will be participating in enforcement operations throughout the Memorial Day weekend. The goal of the operations is to promote safety and reduce traffic crashes. Throughout the holiday weekend, troopers within Troop F and throughout the state will be participating in Operation C.A.R.E. (Crash Awareness & Reduction Effort). Troopers will be watching for all traffic violations and will be especially vigilant regarding distracted driving, impaired driving, aggressive driving, excessive speed, and seat belt violations. Troopers also will be available to help motorists in need of assistance. This year's counting period for the holiday weekend begins at 6 p.m., Friday, May 22, and ends at 11:59 p.m., Monday, May 25, 2020.

In addition to Operation C.A.R.E., Troop F will participate in special enforcement operations during the peak travel periods on Friday, May 22, and Monday, May 25 on Interstate 70, U.S. Highway 63, U.S. Highway 54, U.S. Highway 50, and Missouri Highway 5.

Too many people die in traffic crashes each year in Missouri. The choices you make when you’re behind the wheel matter. Make good choices, so you’ll never have to say, “If I could just go back …”

The Memorial Day weekend is also an unofficial start to the boating season. Boating is a great pastime and troopers want everyone to enjoy themselves in a safe manner. Troop F troopers will be targeting all boating violations and will be especially vigilant regarding careless watercraft operations throughout the entire holiday weekend. Never operate a boat while you are impaired, and never ride with an impaired operator. Please be courteous to others on the water, wear a life jacket, and obey the law regarding safe operation of a vessel and no wake zones. Troopers will also be available to help boaters in need of assistance.

Watercraft operators must consider the effect their actions have on others: Share the waterway and use common sense, good judgment, and courtesy to ensure the safety of all. Life jackets save lives. Wear It!!

Follow Troop F on Twitter for the most current news @MSHPTrooperF

 

Reprinted from the Missouri State Highway Patrol.. click here

Source: Wikipedia

Click here for Map

 

River History....


May 19, 1937 in River History


The St. Paul District completes the construction of the lock at Lock and Dam 7 in La Crescent, Minnesota.

Source: US Army Corps of Engineers

 

 

 

 

PS: we had the wrong date on yesterday's edition for the completion of Winfield Lock and Dam.  It was May 18, 1939. Not 1979

Mississippi River Near Ste. Genevieve, Missouri

Cave City Sand Building Private Port........

 

Cave City Sand is constructing a private port along the Mississippi River at Ste. Genevieve, Missouri, as well as a proppant and industrial sand processing facility.

 

According to chief executive officer, Josh Lehde, Cave City Sand expects to break ground on the 780 acre facility this summer, following two years of design, engineering and permitting work.

 

Because of market conditions and the overall project schedule, the port will go in before the sand processing facility.  The green field site at Upper Mississippi River Ile Marker 135 has 1.6 miles of river frontage, and permitted space for fleeting 50 barges........

 

Click here to read this news report from waterwaysjournal.net.

Duck Boat News

Senator Hawley Calls On Coast Guard To Adopt NTSB Recommendations........

 

Recently, U.S. Senator Josh Hawley penned a letter to Admiral Karl L. Schultz, Commandant of the U.S. Coast Guard requesting the adoption of the National Transportation Safety Board's recommendations released in last month's report on the 2018 duck boat sinking on Table Rock Lake.

 

In the letter, Hawley says that the accident on Table Rock Lake and the subsequent loss of 17 lives may have been avoided if the NTSB's recommendations, which date as far back as 1999, had been adopted and enforced.

 

Hawley wrote that the common sense safety measures are necessary to prevent more families from meeting the same tragic end.  he adds that it is within the Admiral's power to guarantee that the term "duck boat" is not synonymous with "floating metal death trap"........

 

Click here to read this news story from kfvs12.com. With Photo.

 

Boating News

Sailors Stuck At Sea Aboard Small Boats During Pandemic........

 

During the course of a year, it is estimated that there are some 10,000 small boats sailed by individuals and families exploring the oceans around the world.  During one couple's five day, 750 mile sailing voyage from Sri Lanka to the Maldives, the world had changed

 

Leslie and Andrew Godfrey did not have internet access during their trip, and did not learn that the COVID-19 virus had grown to pandemic status.  Between March 7 and 12, ports began closing at a rate no small vessel could keep pace with.

 

By the time the Godfreys arrived in the Maldives, a state of emergency had been declared.  Officials have isolated boats in one area, delivering basic supplies and permitting access to a deserted atoll.  At this time, the Godfreys are really unable to go forward with their journey or back........

 

Click here to read this article from stltoday.com.  With Photo and Video.

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "October 2020" 

One month listing on the front page in the featured Classified Section

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

e-mail your info along with 6 pictures (max) to riverbill@prodigy.net.

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

We will bill you after the ad is on-line

 

 

OFFERING

THE SWINGING DOCK STEP

 

 

 

Swings out

to bridge the gap between the dock and your boat

for ease of loading and boarding

 

Swings out of the way

 to the

 "Walk Thru"

position on the dock

 

Little Johns Marine Service... click here

Little John's Moptorsports... click here

What's Going On This Week

3rd Chute Bar & Grill
211 W. Main St. Grafton, IL

 

5-13-20

3rd Chute is taking applications for all positions both locations we are opening Alton Friday message on Facebook thank you

Wayne Draper

 

Just a short walk from Grafton Harbor


Breakfast available every Saturday and Sunday morning from 8am till 12pm

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

03-24-20...Temporarily Closed

 

 

Alton Marina is the cover photo for the

2020 edition of Quimby's Cruising Guide

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

05-13-20

We are so grateful Madison County is supporting Businesses Opening Back Up! In light of Madison County opening with guidelines, Bluff City Grill will continue to remain closed at this time. We plan to announce an Opening date as soon as we have one! Due to our licensing being both County & State, we are not able to just open our doors with the decision made by Madison County, but hopefully this gets the ball rolling. Choosing to go against the State’s order could result in ... See More

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina


OPEN   OPEN   OPEN

 

Thurs- Sun open at 11am
Thurs..close at 9
Fri..... close at 9
Sat.....close at 10
Sun....close at 9

Hours change on Memorial Day weekend
 

Boathouse Restaurant... 636-250-3300

Boathouse Office...........636-250-3800

 

Weather may change bands .

 

Website.... N/a
 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

03/20/2020
Calhoun Ferry Company’s priority is the health and safety of our crew and passengers.
We received a call today from the U.S. Coast Guard advising us that all passengers will be required to stay in their vehicles when crossing the ferry. This is in response to the restrictions placed on gatherings of 10 or more people. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted.
We are cleaning and disinfecting all crew areas and all ferry passes as we receive them.
Starting tomorrow 03/21/2020 we will be reducing our hours to eliminate the late night shift on Friday and Saturday. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted. Hours will be Monday through Saturday 5am to 9pm and Sunday 8am to 9pm.
We will all get through this together by working together for a better tomorrow. Stay safe!
Thank You,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

     

 

 

 

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

3-18-20
Because of the CDC recommendations the restaurant management has decided to close the restaurant this weekend until further notice.
MJB

 

 

The Duck Club is the Premier Private Yacht Club serving the Upper Mississippi River, Alton pool boating community. The Club is located at the South end of Dardenne Slough with direct channel access at mm22

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

05-11-20

We want to thank everyone who came out to eat & drink on Saturday. I'm very excited to annouce we will be opening back to normal starting next Tuesday, May 19th.
We will have our new COVID-19 shirts available for $15 each.

 

Bingo..... May 21st


 

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

 

May 1, 2020

Grafton Harbor is OPEN!! Please come check out our variety of packaged liquor, treats for the kids, gift shop and ships store!! If you would like curb service call: 618-786-7678.
Friday Open until 5:00
Saturday 11:00 - 5:00
Sunday 11:00 - 4:00

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar!

 

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

We all know how hard the past year hit Grafton businesses. In light of the closures caused by the 2019 Flood and COVID-19, the Law Firm of Wittman & Lorton, P.C. and Preferred Title & Escrow, Inc. purchased 50 $100 gift cards to giveaway on our FB page. They also purchased 50 $100 gift cards from Grafton SkyTour. Starting March 23rd, and continuing for 50 days we will give away a $100 gift card to a Grafton restaurant or bar along with a $100 gift card to Grafton SkyTour sponsored by Wittman & Lorton and Preferred Title & Escrow! The goal is to encourage others during this difficult time to purchase gift cards from all Grafton businesses to be used once our businesses reopen! Make sure you visit The Grafton Illinois FB page daily: https://www.facebook.com/enjoygrafton/.
All you need to do is like and share Grafton Chamber of Commerce FB page each day to enter the daily giveaway. We thank everyone for your continued support of Grafton businesses! We can’t wait to see you come back again! Stay Safe

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

05-08-20

BOAT-IN AND CARRY OUT !

OPEN FRIDAY THRU SUNDAY 11AM-8PM

Expanding our hours next week to include Thursday. Please call ahead to place your order @ 618-786-3000.

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

05-16-20

Know everyone is curious when our bath rooms will open. Not for awhile I am sorry to report. We cannot open until we can make sure you guys are all safe. We do not have the necessary supplies to keep it completely sanitized on a daily basis. Also the Missouri DNR just sent us a new email regarding EPA new guidelines on our water systems. SO will order another blue box, sorry for the inconvenience, but not going to be forever we hope.
Think positive.



 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

The old building has been torn down. 

 

Waiting on permits for new building.

 

"The plan is to keep it in the same location, maybe a little closer to the river and up about 7 ft higher. The building will be just a little smaller with a bigger deck."

 

Amanda

Kinder's Restaurant

 

Photo Gallery of tear down.. click here

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

.

March 7, 2020

Our gas dock is up and running for you.
Have a great weekend boaters!!

 

Reposted from Lake Center marina Facebook.... click here

 

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members in 2020 !
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook... click here.

 

Liberty Harbor

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

2020 Slip Rates

Click here

 

Contact Jerry

636-734-1929

 

E-mail Liberty Harbor.. libertyinstl@yahoo.com

 

Longshot Marina

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

04-18-20

Longshot Saloon..Closed

 

03-24-20

Marina is open.
Just got excavator delivered for spring and summer projects
 

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

05-12-20

Opening Memorial Day Weekend with live music Saturday-Monday

Becky Dallwitz
Longshot Marina

Polestar Boating Center

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

03-24-20

Operating on a skeleton crew.
If there is a need or emergency, call 636 250-3008

 

Dock Rentals on the Mississippi River
Safe Harbor Yacht Sales
The Canvas Man, LLC
Vessel Surveyor / Marine Consulting
Quality Marine Repair

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 

05-09-20

Gas dock and boat ramp are open.  See you soon !

 

03-31-20

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.


We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.
If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call 📞 and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops 🏢 we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!


 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

04-28-20

It’s official! We’re opening for the 2020 Watersports season this Friday, May 1st. Call us at 314-800-5695 to reserve your rental in advance. Visit our website www.stljetski.com for our updated social distancing process.

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

 

Store Hours

Sun..... 10-9

M-Th....10-10

Fri Sat..10-11

Call ahead for an order

or come in !

 

636-723-0005!

 

Click here for menu

3025 N MO-94, St. Charles, Missouri 63301

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

05-01-20

Wanting to re-power your boat? Don’t miss out on this great promotion. Call us for details...click here

 

04-08-20

SPRING SALES OFFERS | $2,000 Instant Savings on New Yamaha Boats; Zero Down, Zero Interest, Zero Payments for 3 Months; $7,500 Off 275 Series boats.

 

03-23-20

St. Charles Boat & Motor update:
Due to the unprecedented time that the country is experiencing, we are implementing some additions to our normal routine:
At this time, we remain open for business, operating with a small staff. For the safety of our customers, our staff, and our families, in addition to our normal operations, we are offering some alternative means of interacting with us as well – for both purchasing products (from parts to a new boat) and for your service needs.
If you’d like to shop any new or used inventory with us with minimized social interaction, we can schedule individual appointments or send you a virtual video tour of a unit. You can always shop our inventory on our website as well, at www.stcharlesboat.com. We currently have some huge discounts on our in stock inventory! If you’re interested in a private appointment, please e-mail us at zeke@stcharlesboat.com or you can call us at 636-947-0106 during normal business hours.
For your service needs, we can schedule a touchless drop off and pick-up with you. For touchless drop off or pick-up, e-mail Jerry at jerry@stcharlesboat.com or Zeke at zeke@stcharlesboat.com for scheduling and instructions.
We realize that this too will pass and we can return to a more normal routine, which means getting back to boating for many of us!
We will keep our customer’s updated by posting on our website and Facebook page.

 

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

04-09-19

We have a full beer cooler..
Let us know what you want us to stock..we are trying our best to be competitive versus across the bridge..there are only few that I cant...so check us out..part of being competitive is counting on you...this will go for groceries as well...let us know what you need..

 

 

02-27-20 Update..

Fat Boys Restaurant at Two Rivers Marina

Hi Bill,
They are diligently working to get things in order. The have been working long hours trying to get the building in shape, lots of painting and cleaning. It is going to happen, however they are a bit behind because of Illinois paperwork. I expect an opening sometime in March. They are keeping the name "Fat Boys".

Cindy Blaylock
Two Rivers Marina.

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 

Woodland Marina Spring Promotion

Attention -

New Slip Customers

50% Off Any Available Slip

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

3-25-20

Due the COVID-19 outbreak the service yard is experiencing delays in shipping which is causing a slight backup. If you have any questions or concerns please email the service manager Jeff Digman.
jeff@yachtclubstl.com.
Shop and office will be closed to customer walk-ins. Please just give us a call or email!
Thank you

 

Yacht Club tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on Higher ground !

 

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

Brussels Ferry............618 - 786-3636

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

Winfield Ferry.............618-  535-5759

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645  ..Closed for the Season

 

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 

3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Closed
Abigail's Tap Room Closed
Alton Marina Deli Closed
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Closed
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Open
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ Longshot Marina Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Closed
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Reopening Tue, May 19
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Closed
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Open for Carryouts
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Closed
Mike's LaRosa@ Longshot Marina Opening Memorial Day Weekend
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

 

MONDAY

18 May 2020

 

"NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK"

May 16 - 22

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

Sunday Sunset

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 

 

click pic to enlarge

 

The Pictures of the Day..... were sent to us by Capt'n Brad Maher who hails out of the Alton Motor Boat Club on Piasa Creek

 

 

 

 

Grounded

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

click pic to enlarge

 

 

Hey River Bill,

We were out yesterday to get our fix of Voo Doo Shrimp, Crawfish Enchiladas and Long Island Iced Tea at the Grafton Oyster Bar. Upon returning the Yacht Club, we went up the slough between the Illinois and the Mississippi and were grounded near the top before reaching the main channel of the Mississippi. We tried to find some deeper water, but gave up, floated off and turned around. Another boat was grounded there as well and two more boats warned us off. I’ve been boating up that slough for35 years and never had a problem. It’s a BIG problem now.

David Young

 

The Boathouse Is Open

 

We are Officially Setup With Online Ordering!
You Can Now Order Your Favorite Food and Drinks Through Our Online Ordering.
Click on "Shop Now" or Simply Use this Link Below
https://www.restaurantlogin.com/api/fb/z0q_xp


Website.. N/A        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Boathouse Restaurant: 636 250 3300      Boathouse Office:636.250.3800

OPEN        OPEN          OPEN

 

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

Grafton Harbor.... 618-786-PORT (7678)

 

 

First Mate is a boat brokerage located on the beautiful upper Mississippi.

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

 Yesteryears Pic of the Day

 

The River Travels of Mike Stanczak

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Flood of 2019

Went to Grafton Wednesday

 had to do some parallel parking at the 3rd chute

 

Almost ran a STOP sign ! LOL

click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture On This Day in 2019..... were sent to us by Capt'n Mike Stanczak

 

 

RiverBill says.... With the reflection in the water

Looks like it spells "EIOB"

Ha Ha

Alton Marina

click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

Email: woodlandmarina1@gmail.com

Click here for Website        Click here for Facebook

 

The Grafton Oyster Bar

is OPEN For Carry Out

Thur, Fri, Sat & Sun This Week

BOAT-IN AND CARRY OUT !


OPEN THURS THRU SUNDAY 11AM-8PM

 

Menu..  click here  

Website.. click here   Facebook.. click here

 

River News !  

 

 

 

Click here........ Port Charles Harbor website

Click here......Port Charles Harbor Facebook

 

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.

We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.

If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops  we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED May 13, 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

.MILE 183.2 - BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION
Merchants Railroad Bridge; Work barges continue excavating around both left and right descending navigation piers and the right descending pier of the center span. Work barges should not encroach more than 50 feet into the navigation channel, at any time. For work barge locations, mariners are encouraged to contact the onsite work boat M/V KATHERINE OHARA via VHF-FM Channel 6 or 16 or by phone at (217) 248-9077.

ILLINOIS RIVER

ILLINOIS WATERWAY - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - Update
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:
Zone 7 Peoria (Mile 187.0 – Mile 145.6),
Zone 5 Havana (Mile 128.9 – Mile 102.0),
Zone 4 Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),
Zone 3 Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0) and
Zone 2 Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0).
High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. Laying up on saturated levees is prohibited. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations if possible.
Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate actions to prevent breakaways. Exercise caution in all meeting and overtaking situations, as swift currents may be
present. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting.

MISSOURI RIVER

The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Washington Reach (Mile 100.0 – Mile 0.0) and

Jefferson Reach (Mile 200.0 – Mile 100.0).
Mariners should use caution and minimize wake. Laying up on saturated levees is prohibited. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations, remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be mindful of all bridge
navigational clearances and aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred. Take appropriate action to prevent any breakaways from occurring. Use caution in all passing and meeting situations as swift currents may be present. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station so remain alert while transiting. Recreational traffic is discouraged.

.

 

Click here  for the current "Local Notice To Mariners" report

 on the Navigation Center Website


 No new incident reports for the St. Louis area
 

Click here to go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for "all" incident reports    

 

River Gear For Sale............

 

Click here to buy your River T-shirts and Accessories on-line..

Delivered right to you mailbox in a few short days

 

click pic to enlarge

 

We offer full fiberglass repair, high performance upgrades, transom & stringer rebuilds, service on older products, new & used parts department, an accessories department, as well as many other services to suit everyone's boating needs.

We continue to display our Yamaha Sport Boats + Crest, Mercury + Yamaha Outboards and Heritage & Haul Rite trailers

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor website      St. Charles Boat & Motor Facebook

 

 

RiverBills Facebook

Two FaceBook Pages for You

 

The "River News and Media" Page

Page contains river news, RiverBills Pictures of the Day, Upcoming River Events, info from RiverBills.com advertisers, etc..... Click here and check it out

 

The "Boaters Group" Page

It's a group for all the boaters on all the rivers near the "PORT OF ST. LOUIS AND BEYOND." It's a Public Group, open to anyone that wants to join in. A place to post your boating pictures, shout outs, questions, comments, etc.  Stay in touch with other boaters all year long.  Invite your Boating Friends. 

We have 6,091 members as of 05-18-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

Mississippi River Near St. Louis, Missouri

An Overturned Boat Was Not Distressed........

 

At around 6:40 pm on Wednesday, May 6, 2020 responders with the Columbia Fire Department investigated a report of a possible overturned boat near the Illinois bank of the Mississippi River north of Interstate 255.

 

The report was made by a person in the area of Grant Drive in Jefferson Barracks Park on the Missouri side of the river.  The witness was not certain if it was indeed a boat that was spotted.

 

By 7:20 pm, it was determined that the vessel was an out-of-commission sailboat that had been there for several weeks.  There was no emergency, nor further actions necessary........

 

Click here to read this news story from republictimes.net.  With Map.

 

The Mississippi, Missouri and Illinois Rivers

Forecasted to Rise........

 

The weekend rainfall is causing the Mississippi, Illinois and Missouri Rivers to rise quickly over the next few days !

 

The Mississippi River at Winfield, Grafton and Alton are all forecasted to be in "Minor Flood Stage" this week.

 

The Illinois River at Hardin is forecasted to be in "Minor Flood Stage" this week and places like LaGrange is forecasted to be at "Major Flood Stage."

 

The Missouri River at St. Charles and Washington are forecasted to be in "Minor Flood Stage.

 

Click here latest River Levels Charts 

 Click here latest National Weather Service River Level Graphs

 

 

Website         40% Off - New Members        Facebook

 

 

Grafton Ferry Update........

 

The Grafton Ferry is closed and will open for the season when Stay At Home restrictions are lifted.

 

Reprinted from rivers and routes... click here 

 

Illinois River Near La Salle, Illinois

On The Rise Again........

 

The Illinois River is on the way up again, and is expected to rise at La Salle until Tuesday night.  The river is expected to flood roads in Peru, Utica and La Salle, as well as threaten the La Salle pump station.

 

The heavy rainfall Saturday and Sunday added to the already high river levels.  The Illinois River is expected to be about 10.5 feet above flood stage at 30.5 feet around 7 pm Tuesday night, and then it is expected to start to fall.

 

The Illinois River at Utica, Illinois is forecasted to be just shy of threatening structures by about a half a foot.  The river at Ottawa is forecasted to go as high as 7.5 feet above flood stage........

 

Click here to read this news report from newstrib.com.  With Graph.

 

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Mississippi River At St. Louis, Missouri

A Look Back At The Great Fire Of 1849........

 

Over the night of May 17 - 18, 1849, St. Louis' Great Fire broke out along the St. Louis riverfront after crewmembers from the steamboat White Cloud extinguished a mattress fire, aired it out on the deck and dragged it back into a cabin.

 

The crewmen must have missed an ember, as flames burst through the passenger deck around 10 pm.  The watchmen on the landing rang the alarm bells, and volunteers of Fire Co. No.5 arrived in time to see fire jumping from the White Cloud to the adjacent steamboat, the Edward Bates.

 

The Bates burned free of it's mooring along the riverfront now known as Laclede's Landing, drifted downstream, spreading fire along the way.  In a half hour's time, some 23 steamboats were burning along the St. Louis riverfront........

 

Click here to read this news story from stltoday.com.  With Photo.

 

Winfield Lock and Dam

 

River History....


May 18, 1979 in River History



1st day of operation for Winfield Lock and Dam No.25 on the Mississippi River at Winfield, Mo

 

Lake Of The Ozarks

Seven Lake Of The Ozarks Hotspots For Sale........

 

Anyone looking to operate a restaurant, run a marina or a cruise boat operation now has an opportunity, as some iconic lakefront and off the water commercial venues around the Lake of the Ozarks are available.

 

A few of the businesses that are up for sale include:

 

○  Beavers At The Dam

○  J.J.'s At The Copper Pot

○  Mexicali Blues

○  Niangua Falls

○  Top Sider

○  Tropic Island Cruises

○  T's Fish Tales Bar & Grill

 

Click here to read more from lakeexpo.com.  With Photos

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "October 2020" 

One month listing on the front page in the featured Classified Section

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

e-mail your info along with 6 pictures (max) to riverbill@prodigy.net.

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

We will bill you after the ad is on-line

 

 

OFFERING

THE SWINGING DOCK STEP

 

 

 

Swings out

to bridge the gap between the dock and your boat

for ease of loading and boarding

 

Swings out of the way

 to the

 "Walk Thru"

position on the dock

 

Little Johns Marine Service... click here

Little John's Moptorsports... click here

What's Going On This Week

3rd Chute Bar & Grill
211 W. Main St. Grafton, IL

 

5-13-20

3rd Chute is taking applications for all positions both locations we are opening Alton Friday message on Facebook thank you

Wayne Draper

 

Just a short walk from Grafton Harbor


Breakfast available every Saturday and Sunday morning from 8am till 12pm

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

03-24-20...Temporarily Closed

 

 

Alton Marina is the cover photo for the

2020 edition of Quimby's Cruising Guide

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

05-13-20

We are so grateful Madison County is supporting Businesses Opening Back Up! In light of Madison County opening with guidelines, Bluff City Grill will continue to remain closed at this time. We plan to announce an Opening date as soon as we have one! Due to our licensing being both County & State, we are not able to just open our doors with the decision made by Madison County, but hopefully this gets the ball rolling. Choosing to go against the State’s order could result in ... See More

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina


OPEN   OPEN   OPEN

 

Thurs- Sun open at 11am
Thurs..close at 9
Fri..... close at 9
Sat.....close at 10
Sun....close at 9

Hours change on Memorial Day weekend
 

Boathouse Restaurant... 636-250-3300

Boathouse Office...........636-250-3800

 

Weather may change bands .

 

Website.... N/a
 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

03/20/2020
Calhoun Ferry Company’s priority is the health and safety of our crew and passengers.
We received a call today from the U.S. Coast Guard advising us that all passengers will be required to stay in their vehicles when crossing the ferry. This is in response to the restrictions placed on gatherings of 10 or more people. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted.
We are cleaning and disinfecting all crew areas and all ferry passes as we receive them.
Starting tomorrow 03/21/2020 we will be reducing our hours to eliminate the late night shift on Friday and Saturday. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted. Hours will be Monday through Saturday 5am to 9pm and Sunday 8am to 9pm.
We will all get through this together by working together for a better tomorrow. Stay safe!
Thank You,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

     

 

 

 

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

3-18-20
Because of the CDC recommendations the restaurant management has decided to close the restaurant this weekend until further notice.
MJB

 

 

The Duck Club is the Premier Private Yacht Club serving the Upper Mississippi River, Alton pool boating community. The Club is located at the South end of Dardenne Slough with direct channel access at mm22

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

05-11-20

We want to thank everyone who came out to eat & drink on Saturday. I'm very excited to annouce we will be opening back to normal starting next Tuesday, May 19th.
We will have our new COVID-19 shirts available for $15 each.

 

Bingo..... May 21st


 

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

 

May 1, 2020

Grafton Harbor is OPEN!! Please come check out our variety of packaged liquor, treats for the kids, gift shop and ships store!! If you would like curb service call: 618-786-7678.
Friday Open until 5:00
Saturday 11:00 - 5:00
Sunday 11:00 - 4:00

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar!

 

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

We all know how hard the past year hit Grafton businesses. In light of the closures caused by the 2019 Flood and COVID-19, the Law Firm of Wittman & Lorton, P.C. and Preferred Title & Escrow, Inc. purchased 50 $100 gift cards to giveaway on our FB page. They also purchased 50 $100 gift cards from Grafton SkyTour. Starting March 23rd, and continuing for 50 days we will give away a $100 gift card to a Grafton restaurant or bar along with a $100 gift card to Grafton SkyTour sponsored by Wittman & Lorton and Preferred Title & Escrow! The goal is to encourage others during this difficult time to purchase gift cards from all Grafton businesses to be used once our businesses reopen! Make sure you visit The Grafton Illinois FB page daily: https://www.facebook.com/enjoygrafton/.
All you need to do is like and share Grafton Chamber of Commerce FB page each day to enter the daily giveaway. We thank everyone for your continued support of Grafton businesses! We can’t wait to see you come back again! Stay Safe

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

05-08-20

BOAT-IN AND CARRY OUT !

OPEN FRIDAY THRU SUNDAY 11AM-8PM

Expanding our hours next week to include Thursday. Please call ahead to place your order @ 618-786-3000.

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

05-16-20

Know everyone is curious when our bath rooms will open. Not for awhile I am sorry to report. We cannot open until we can make sure you guys are all safe. We do not have the necessary supplies to keep it completely sanitized on a daily basis. Also the Missouri DNR just sent us a new email regarding EPA new guidelines on our water systems. SO will order another blue box, sorry for the inconvenience, but not going to be forever we hope.
Think positive.



 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

The old building has been torn down. 

 

Waiting on permits for new building.

 

"The plan is to keep it in the same location, maybe a little closer to the river and up about 7 ft higher. The building will be just a little smaller with a bigger deck."

 

Amanda

Kinder's Restaurant

 

Photo Gallery of tear down.. click here

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

.

March 7, 2020

Our gas dock is up and running for you.
Have a great weekend boaters!!

 

Reposted from Lake Center marina Facebook.... click here

 

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members in 2020 !
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook... click here.

 

Liberty Harbor

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

2020 Slip Rates

Click here

 

Contact Jerry

636-734-1929

 

E-mail Liberty Harbor.. libertyinstl@yahoo.com

 

Longshot Marina

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

04-18-20

Longshot Saloon..Closed

 

03-24-20

Marina is open.
Just got excavator delivered for spring and summer projects
 

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

05-12-20

Opening Memorial Day Weekend with live music Saturday-Monday

Becky Dallwitz
Longshot Marina

Polestar Boating Center

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

03-24-20

Operating on a skeleton crew.
If there is a need or emergency, call 636 250-3008

 

Dock Rentals on the Mississippi River
Safe Harbor Yacht Sales
The Canvas Man, LLC
Vessel Surveyor / Marine Consulting
Quality Marine Repair

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 

05-09-20

Gas dock and boat ramp are open.  See you soon !

 

03-31-20

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.


We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.
If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call 📞 and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops 🏢 we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!


 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

04-28-20

It’s official! We’re opening for the 2020 Watersports season this Friday, May 1st. Call us at 314-800-5695 to reserve your rental in advance. Visit our website www.stljetski.com for our updated social distancing process.

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

 

Store Hours

Sun..... 10-9

M-Th....10-10

Fri Sat..10-11

Call ahead for an order

or come in !

 

636-723-0005!

 

Click here for menu

3025 N MO-94, St. Charles, Missouri 63301

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

05-01-20

Wanting to re-power your boat? Don’t miss out on this great promotion. Call us for details...click here

 

04-08-20

SPRING SALES OFFERS | $2,000 Instant Savings on New Yamaha Boats; Zero Down, Zero Interest, Zero Payments for 3 Months; $7,500 Off 275 Series boats.

 

03-23-20

St. Charles Boat & Motor update:
Due to the unprecedented time that the country is experiencing, we are implementing some additions to our normal routine:
At this time, we remain open for business, operating with a small staff. For the safety of our customers, our staff, and our families, in addition to our normal operations, we are offering some alternative means of interacting with us as well – for both purchasing products (from parts to a new boat) and for your service needs.
If you’d like to shop any new or used inventory with us with minimized social interaction, we can schedule individual appointments or send you a virtual video tour of a unit. You can always shop our inventory on our website as well, at www.stcharlesboat.com. We currently have some huge discounts on our in stock inventory! If you’re interested in a private appointment, please e-mail us at zeke@stcharlesboat.com or you can call us at 636-947-0106 during normal business hours.
For your service needs, we can schedule a touchless drop off and pick-up with you. For touchless drop off or pick-up, e-mail Jerry at jerry@stcharlesboat.com or Zeke at zeke@stcharlesboat.com for scheduling and instructions.
We realize that this too will pass and we can return to a more normal routine, which means getting back to boating for many of us!
We will keep our customer’s updated by posting on our website and Facebook page.

 

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

04-09-19

We have a full beer cooler..
Let us know what you want us to stock..we are trying our best to be competitive versus across the bridge..there are only few that I cant...so check us out..part of being competitive is counting on you...this will go for groceries as well...let us know what you need..

 

 

02-27-20 Update..

Fat Boys Restaurant at Two Rivers Marina

Hi Bill,
They are diligently working to get things in order. The have been working long hours trying to get the building in shape, lots of painting and cleaning. It is going to happen, however they are a bit behind because of Illinois paperwork. I expect an opening sometime in March. They are keeping the name "Fat Boys".

Cindy Blaylock
Two Rivers Marina.

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 

Woodland Marina Spring Promotion

Attention -

New Slip Customers

50% Off Any Available Slip

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

3-25-20

Due the COVID-19 outbreak the service yard is experiencing delays in shipping which is causing a slight backup. If you have any questions or concerns please email the service manager Jeff Digman.
jeff@yachtclubstl.com.
Shop and office will be closed to customer walk-ins. Please just give us a call or email!
Thank you

 

Yacht Club tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on Higher ground !

 

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

Brussels Ferry............618 - 786-3636

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

Winfield Ferry.............618-  535-5759

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645  ..Closed for the Season

 

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 

3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Closed
Abigail's Tap Room Closed
Alton Marina Deli Closed
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Closed
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Open
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ Longshot Marina Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Closed
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Reopening Tue, May 19
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Closed
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Open for Carryouts
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Closed
Mike's LaRosa@ Longshot Marina Opening Memorial Day Weekend
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

 

THE WEEKEND

Sat, Sun...16, 17 May 2020

 

"NATIONAL SAFE BOATING WEEK"

May 16 - 22

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

Mississippi River at Kimmswick, Mo

Sun Pic

 

click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture of the Day..... was sent to us by Claudia Burris who hails out of Hoppie's Marina in Kimmswick, Mo

 

 

Hi Bill!

It’s a great day down at Hoppie’s Marina! I got my boat in! Hope to see you soon! Come down and see us!


Claudia Ruth Burris
Hoppie’s Marina Correspondent

 

 

 

RiverBill says.... Congrats Claudia !

 

 New Fire and Rescue dock

Mississippi River at Kimmswick, Mo

Sun Pic

 

click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture of the Day..... was sent to us by Claudia Burris who hails out of Hoppie's Marina in Kimmswick, Mo

 

 

Hi Bill!

It was just another beautiful day on the river! Here’s the view from my boat where you can see the new Fire and Rescue dock in Kimmswick. This facility will improve Rock Community Fire District’s ability to effect water rescues and to fight both water- and land-based fires. This project was made possible by the cooperative effort between Rock Fire District, the Anheuser Estate and the City of Kimmswick, according to Kimmswick Mayor Phil Stang.

See you on the river!

Claudia Ruth Burris
Hoppie’s Marina Correspondent

 

 

 

Claudia wrote that the new Fire and Rescue dock is a few feet upriver from Hoppies Marina.

Friday Night Sunset

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Sun Pic

 

click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture of the Day..... was taken by Capt'nErnie Moretti who hails out of the Yacht Club of St. Louis in the cruiser  " Livin' on Spongecake"

 

 

Hi Bill...

Friday night sunset from bank of Dardenne Slough at YC-STL. Some beautiful things haven’t changed.

 

Ernie

 

Buoy Tender

Loading Dock Bar & Grill

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Sat Pic

 

click pic to enlarge

 

The Pictures of the Day..... were taken by Capt'n Gina Allen

 

We love Grafton.

There is something magical about our river. I don’t imagine I could ever put it into words.

 

Gina

 

North Shore Marina

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Sat Pic

 

 

Vinnie and Brad

 

click pic to enlarge

 

The Pictures of the Day..... were taken Friday evening at North Shore Marina.

 

 

The Boathouse Is Open

Thur, Fri, Sat & Sun This Week

Thurs- Sun Open at 11am
Thurs, Fri & Sun..close at 9
Sat....close at 10

Hours change on Memorial Day weekend
 

This Weekend's Bands

  Sat...May 16...TNT  Teddy and Tony.....2pm

Sun...May 17...Ticket To The Beatles... 3pm

 

We are Officially Setup With Online Ordering!
You Can Now Order Your Favorite Food and Drinks Through Our Online Ordering.
Click on "Shop Now" or Simply Use this Link Below
https://www.restaurantlogin.com/api/fb/z0q_xp


Website.. N/A        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Boathouse Restaurant: 636 250 3300      Boathouse Office:636.250.3800

OPEN        OPEN          OPEN

 

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

Grafton Harbor.... 618-786-PORT (7678)

 

 

First Mate is a boat brokerage located on the beautiful upper Mississippi.

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

 Yesteryears Pic of the Day

 

More of the River Travels of

Capt'n Carl Tiemann 2019

 

Flood of 2019

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

The Yacht Club of St. Louis

 

The Boathouse Food and Deck

 

click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture On This Day in 2019..... were sent to us by Capt'n Carl Tiemann who hails out of Park Carl on Wilson Road Slough in St. Charles County, Mo

 

Alton Marina

click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

Email: woodlandmarina1@gmail.com

Click here for Website        Click here for Facebook

 

The Grafton Oyster Bar

is OPEN For Carry Out

Thur, Fri, Sat & Sun This Week

BOAT-IN AND CARRY OUT !


OPEN FRIDAY THRU SUNDAY 11AM-8PM

 

5-14-20

We are open this week Thursday through Sunday from 11am to 8pm for carry out. Great weather and great food. Sounds like a road trip to Grafton this weekend!! Look forward to seeing you. Place your order by calling 618-786-3000.

Our specials for this weekend, Friday through Sunday include

Jumbo fried pretzel with beer cheese dipping sauce. $9.99

.50 cent chicken wings are back by popular demand with the following sauces, Asian BBQ, Cajun Tequila, Voodoo, Jalapeno Honey Mustard and Spicy tropical fusion!!

Panko fried shrimp with a sweet chili citrus dipping sauce.
Half dozen $10.99 / Dozen $15.99

Cajun Chicken Parmesan over linguini pasta $13.99

Choose the family style option which includes chicken parmesan over linguini pasta, house salad with choice of dressings and bread and butter for $50.00. Feeds four or more..
 

Menu..  click here  

Website.. click here   Facebook.. click here

 

River News !  

 

 

 

Added Sunday

Mississippi River At Alton, Illinois

Officials Discuss Future Of Amphitheater Schedule........

 

On Wednesday, the Alton Amphitheater Commission held a meeting to discuss future scheduled events at the Liberty Bank Alton Amphitheater.  The council had voted unanimously to cancel events scheduled for July 3rd, which would have included performances from the Air Force Band and the Alton Municipal Band.

 

The commission did approve postponing the annual Fireworks on the Mississippi, with the intention of rescheduling them for later in the year, potentially in September during the Alton Expo.

 

The commission is still planning events for August, September and October 2020, including the Food Truck Festival, the Alton Expo, Jazz and Wine Festival as well as other events........

 

Click here to read this news report from advantagenews.com.  With Photo.

 

The Alton Amphitheater is a short walk from Alton Marina

Added Sunday

Illinois River Shipping

Towboat Workers Practicing Social Distancing........

 

Towboat crews have adopted some safety precautions to protect their employees from the COVID-19 pandemic.  Aboard a towboat captained by Russ Edwards, deckhands Aaron Rusher and Cayden Edwards put on protective masks

 

Edwards is hoping that the extra step will help keep his crew safer in the already dangerous and challenging work environment along the Mississippi River.  Edwards says that most of the interactions with the crew are during the transfer process with the line boats.

 

The crew members of the line boats, which are larger towboats that ply the Illinois River from St. Louis to Chicago and beyond, work in close proximity with the Trumbull crew.  Trumbull River Services operates out of Lacon, Illinois and offers fleeting services........

 

Click here to read this news article from bnd.com. 

 

Added Sunday

Mississippi River At St. Louis, Missouri

A Look Back At The History Of The SS Admiral........

 

The SS Admiral was a fixture along the Mississippi River at St. Louis for many decades, and her story has more twists and turns than the Mississippi River on which she used to cruise.

 

The Admiral's hull dated to 1907. The vessel , then known as the Albatross, was constructed to ferry railroad cars across the Mississippi River at Vicksburg, Mississippi.

 

Streckfus purchased the steamer and constructed the five deck stainless steel streamlined structure for day cruises.  The first cruise from the St. Louis Levee departed on June 12, 1940.

 

Fast Forward to May 16, 1979, which was the day that ended the Admiral's cruising career, when a U.S. Coast Guard inspector's hammer went through the Admiral's corroded hull........

 

Click here to read this news story from stltoday.com.  With Photos.

 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

The SS Admiral's Final Journey

Converting the SS Admiral Riverboat to scrap metal

A series of photos showing the progress of converting the SS Admiral Riverboat to scrap metal in 2011

      Photos by Ken Goode.... click here
 

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 


 

Reprinted from John's Boat Harbor Facebook... click here

Added Sunday

The Buffalo Gnats are Back

Home Made Repellant.....

 

The Buffalo gnats are back ! Below are a few homemade repellents.....

 

Vanilla Repellent:

Gnats hate the smell of Vanilla. You can apply vanilla repellent over the exposed areas of your body to make sure they are not attacked by gnats.

To make the repellent, you need to buy pure vanilla extract from the market. Make sure that the vanilla extract that you have brought is sugarless. After this take 10 ml of vanilla extract and mix it with 10 ml of water.

Stir the solution so that the vanilla and water get mixed properly. Then dip a cotton ball in the solution and it apply the mixture over the exposed areas of your body using the cotton ball.

Note: Please note that high concentrations of vanilla may cause skin irritation. Also some please are allergic to vanilla so it is better to test the solution by applying it in small quantity over skin before using it actually.

RiverBill says.....  I like to put my mixture in a small spray bottle

 

 

Citronella oil Spray:

Citronella oil is one of few things that gnats and other breeds of flies hate the most. You can prepare a spray from Citronella oil that you can use to deter gnats.

To make the spray you need:

An empty spray bottle
Citronella oil
Dish soap
To make the spray, mix two cups of water with two spoons of the oil add 3 – 6 drops of dish soap. Pour the mixture in the spray bottle and you are ready with your own anti gnat natural spray.

You can spray this mixture around your home, near your plants or near garbage cans. The best thing about the mixture is that it is harmless for your pets or plants and on top of it will leave a pleasant citrus like smell around your home

 


How to Treat a Gnat Bite:

If unfortunately you get bitten by a gnat. Then you may experience that the bitten area will begin to swell and becomes itchy. To treat the byte you should:

• Wash the bite with soap and water as early as possible. This will help you to get rid of any bacteria that the gnat bite might have injected.
• Next, apply an antiseptic cream.
• If the bite is very itchy, you can have an oral anti itch medicine.
• You can also use an icepack to reduce the pain

 

Reprinted from Fliesonly.com

For more information on how to get rid if gnats check out  Fliesonly.com

 

 

Added Saturday at 10:30AM

Sad News

Ray DeCLue........

 

 

click pic to enlarge

 

We offer full fiberglass repair, high performance upgrades, transom & stringer rebuilds, service on older products, new & used parts department, an accessories department, as well as many other services to suit everyone's boating needs.

We continue to display our Yamaha Sport Boats + Crest, Mercury + Yamaha Outboards and Heritage & Haul Rite trailers

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor website      St. Charles Boat & Motor Facebook

 

 

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED May 13, 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

.MILE 183.2 - BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION
Merchants Railroad Bridge; Work barges continue excavating around both left and right descending navigation piers and the right descending pier of the center span. Work barges should not encroach more than 50 feet into the navigation channel, at any time. For work barge locations, mariners are encouraged to contact the onsite work boat M/V KATHERINE OHARA via VHF-FM Channel 6 or 16 or by phone at (217) 248-9077.

ILLINOIS RIVER

ILLINOIS WATERWAY - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - Update
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:
Zone 7 Peoria (Mile 187.0 – Mile 145.6),
Zone 5 Havana (Mile 128.9 – Mile 102.0),
Zone 4 Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),
Zone 3 Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0) and
Zone 2 Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0).
High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. Laying up on saturated levees is prohibited. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations if possible.
Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate actions to prevent breakaways. Exercise caution in all meeting and overtaking situations, as swift currents may be
present. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting.

MISSOURI RIVER

The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Washington Reach (Mile 100.0 – Mile 0.0) and

Jefferson Reach (Mile 200.0 – Mile 100.0).
Mariners should use caution and minimize wake. Laying up on saturated levees is prohibited. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations, remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be mindful of all bridge
navigational clearances and aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred. Take appropriate action to prevent any breakaways from occurring. Use caution in all passing and meeting situations as swift currents may be present. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station so remain alert while transiting. Recreational traffic is discouraged.

.

 

Click here  for the current "Local Notice To Mariners" report

 on the Navigation Center Website


 No new incident reports for the St. Louis area
 

Click here to go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for "all" incident reports    

 

River Gear For Sale............

 

Click here to buy your River T-shirts and Accessories on-line..

Delivered right to you mailbox in a few short days

 

 

Website         40% Off - New Members        Facebook

 

RiverBills Facebook

Two FaceBook Pages for You

 

The "River News and Media" Page

Page contains river news, RiverBills Pictures of the Day, Upcoming River Events, info from RiverBills.com advertisers, etc..... Click here and check it out

 

The "Boaters Group" Page

It's a group for all the boaters on all the rivers near the "PORT OF ST. LOUIS AND BEYOND." It's a Public Group, open to anyone that wants to join in. A place to post your boating pictures, shout outs, questions, comments, etc.  Stay in touch with other boaters all year long.  Invite your Boating Friends. 

We have 6,076 members as of 05-16-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

Mississippi River At Alton, Illinois

Alton Considering A Flood Wall........

 

As flooding seems to be threatening Alton more frequently, the city has been spending more time and money putting up and then tearing down temporary flood walls to protect downtown businesses.

 

Now, the Alton City Council is considering a more permanent response to flooding and has approved the search for potential candidates and firms to complete engineering work for mitigation grants for flood work and flood restoration efforts.

 

According to Alton Public Works Director Bob Barnhart, one of the options being considered is a permanent flood wall.  He adds that they are not considering building a levee, and guarantees that what ever they come up with, there will be bicycle and pedestrian access........

 

Click here to read this news article from altondailynews.com.  With Photo and Audio.

 

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

National Safe Boating Week........

 

Reprinted from US Army Corps of Engineers

 

Click here........ Port Charles Harbor website

Click here......Port Charles Harbor Facebook

 

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.

We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.

If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops  we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!

Boating Safety

Tips For Social Distancing On The Water........

 

National Safe Boating Week kicks off Saturday, May 16, and will run through Friday, May 22.  This week is the traditional early boating season reminder for recreational boaters to embrace safety all season long.

 

This year's boating safety week is a bit different with the COVID-19 outbreak.  The crucial National Safe Boating Week message calling for the use of life jackets is joined with another boating safety message:  How To Stay Save During The Coronavirus Outbreak.

 

According to BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water President, Chris Edmonston, they are learning new things about the COVID-19 virus every day, but boaters have a responsibility to look out for others at the launch ramp, marina or boat club docks........

 

Click here to read more from lakeexpo.com.  With Photo.

 

 

River History....


16 May of 1979 in River History


The news along the St. Louis Riverfront was grim on May 16, 1979, as that was the day a Coast Guard inspector's hammer went right through the thin, corroded hull of the S.S. Admiral.  The owners announced that cruises would stop that year.

Tom Dunn with Streckfus Steamers Inc. said that the Admiral would be sent to New Orleans for repairs, which was the nearest location with a big enough dry dock large enough to handle the Admiral.
 
Dunn said that they would definitely get the Admiral fixed, since they would have the entire winter to make repairs.  After assessing the damage in New Orleans, Streckfus announced that the necessary repairs were unaffordable.  The Admiral would never cruise the Mississippi River again.......

Source Stltoday.com

 

The Old Man And The Sea

Sailor Returns To Land After Three Months At Sea....  Finds Different World Upon Arrival....

 

Canadian sailor, 67 year old Bill Norrie, has been alone at sea for the past three months. He recently arrived at Christchurch, New Zealand, and has found a completely different world.

 

Norrie, whose only knowledge of the COVID-19 outbreak has come from the snippets his wife shared with him via satellite connections, says that the six foot social distancing practice seems kind of strange to him.

 

Norrie had left on his trip in September, sailing around South America, Africa and Australia as he rounded the globe.  His last stop was three months ago, in South Africa........

 

Click here to read this news story from fox2now.com.  With Video.

 

Photo courtesy of Belle of Louisville

Belle of Louisville

 

Ohio River At Louisville, Kentucky

Belle Of Louisville Hit Hard By Pandemic........

 

The recent COVID-19 outbreak has had a devastating effect on the Belle of Louisville, a 1914 paddlewheel-driven steam powered vessel, which is the last operational riverboat of it's kind in the world.  The vessel was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1989.

 

As a result, the Belle of Louisville is seeking donations, as well as gift certificate purchases in order to remain afloat financially.  The vessel is owned by the Louisville Metro Government, but it is operated by a separate non-profit entity.

 

Over the past years, the vessel was granted an operational subsidy from the local government, but last year, that was halted due to budget cuts.  Private support from the community had filled the funding shortfall........

 

Click here to read this news article from waterwaysjournal.net.  With Photo.

 

Boating Safety

National Safe Boating Week Kicks Off On Saturday........

 

Beginning on Saturday, May 16, and running through Friday, May 22, National Safe Boating Week is the traditional reminder for recreational boaters at the beginning of the boating season to practice safety all season long.

 

With this year's outbreak of the coronavirus, the National Safe Boating Week recommendation for life jacket usage is combined with the message of staying safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

The BoatUS Foundation is offering two tips for National Safe Boating Week:  Do everything possible to social distance, and wearing your lifejacket can save your life........

 

Click here to read more from boatingindustry.com.  With Photo

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "October 2020" 

One month listing on the front page in the featured Classified Section

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

e-mail your info along with 6 pictures (max) to riverbill@prodigy.net.

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

We will bill you after the ad is on-line

 

 

OFFERING

THE SWINGING DOCK STEP

 

 

 

Swings out

to bridge the gap between the dock and your boat

for ease of loading and boarding

 

Swings out of the way

 to the

 "Walk Thru"

position on the dock

 

Little Johns Marine Service... click here

Little John's Moptorsports... click here

What's Going On This Week

3rd Chute Bar & Grill
211 W. Main St. Grafton, IL

 

5-13-20

3rd Chute is taking applications for all positions both locations we are opening Alton Friday message on Facebook thank you

Wayne Draper

 

Just a short walk from Grafton Harbor


Breakfast available every Saturday and Sunday morning from 8am till 12pm

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

03-24-20...Temporarily Closed

 

 

Alton Marina is the cover photo for the

2020 edition of Quimby's Cruising Guide

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

05-13-20

We are so grateful Madison County is supporting Businesses Opening Back Up! In light of Madison County opening with guidelines, Bluff City Grill will continue to remain closed at this time. We plan to announce an Opening date as soon as we have one! Due to our licensing being both County & State, we are not able to just open our doors with the decision made by Madison County, but hopefully this gets the ball rolling. Choosing to go against the State’s order could result in ... See More

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina


OPEN   OPEN   OPEN

 

Thurs- Sun open at 11am
Thurs..close at 9
Fri..... close at 9
Sat.....close at 10
Sun....close at 9

Hours change on Memorial Day weekend
 

This weekend

   Sat..May 16...TNT Teddy and Tony...2pm
   Sun..May 17..Ticket To The Beatles..3-7pm

 

Boathouse Restaurant... 636-250-3300

Boathouse Office...........636-250-3800

 

Weather may change bands .

 

Website.... N/a
 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

03/20/2020
Calhoun Ferry Company’s priority is the health and safety of our crew and passengers.
We received a call today from the U.S. Coast Guard advising us that all passengers will be required to stay in their vehicles when crossing the ferry. This is in response to the restrictions placed on gatherings of 10 or more people. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted.
We are cleaning and disinfecting all crew areas and all ferry passes as we receive them.
Starting tomorrow 03/21/2020 we will be reducing our hours to eliminate the late night shift on Friday and Saturday. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted. Hours will be Monday through Saturday 5am to 9pm and Sunday 8am to 9pm.
We will all get through this together by working together for a better tomorrow. Stay safe!
Thank You,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

     

 

 

 

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

3-18-20
Because of the CDC recommendations the restaurant management has decided to close the restaurant this weekend until further notice.
MJB

 

 

The Duck Club is the Premier Private Yacht Club serving the Upper Mississippi River, Alton pool boating community. The Club is located at the South end of Dardenne Slough with direct channel access at mm22

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

05-11-20

We want to thank everyone who came out to eat & drink on Saturday. I'm very excited to annouce we will be opening back to normal starting next Tuesday, May 19th.
We will have our new COVID-19 shirts available for $15 each.

 

Bingo..... May 21st


 

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

 

May 1, 2020

Grafton Harbor is OPEN!! Please come check out our variety of packaged liquor, treats for the kids, gift shop and ships store!! If you would like curb service call: 618-786-7678.
Friday Open until 5:00
Saturday 11:00 - 5:00
Sunday 11:00 - 4:00

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar!

 

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

We all know how hard the past year hit Grafton businesses. In light of the closures caused by the 2019 Flood and COVID-19, the Law Firm of Wittman & Lorton, P.C. and Preferred Title & Escrow, Inc. purchased 50 $100 gift cards to giveaway on our FB page. They also purchased 50 $100 gift cards from Grafton SkyTour. Starting March 23rd, and continuing for 50 days we will give away a $100 gift card to a Grafton restaurant or bar along with a $100 gift card to Grafton SkyTour sponsored by Wittman & Lorton and Preferred Title & Escrow! The goal is to encourage others during this difficult time to purchase gift cards from all Grafton businesses to be used once our businesses reopen! Make sure you visit The Grafton Illinois FB page daily: https://www.facebook.com/enjoygrafton/.
All you need to do is like and share Grafton Chamber of Commerce FB page each day to enter the daily giveaway. We thank everyone for your continued support of Grafton businesses! We can’t wait to see you come back again! Stay Safe

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

05-08-20

BOAT-IN AND CARRY OUT !

OPEN FRIDAY THRU SUNDAY 11AM-8PM

Expanding our hours next week to include Thursday. Please call ahead to place your order @ 618-786-3000.

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

05-16-20

Know everyone is curious when our bath rooms will open. Not for awhile I am sorry to report. We cannot open until we can make sure you guys are all safe. We do not have the necessary supplies to keep it completely sanitized on a daily basis. Also the Missouri DNR just sent us a new email regarding EPA new guidelines on our water systems. SO will order another blue box, sorry for the inconvenience, but not going to be forever we hope.
Think positive.



 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

The old building has been torn down. 

 

Waiting on permits for new building.

 

"The plan is to keep it in the same location, maybe a little closer to the river and up about 7 ft higher. The building will be just a little smaller with a bigger deck."

 

Amanda

Kinder's Restaurant

 

Photo Gallery of tear down.. click here

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

.

March 7, 2020

Our gas dock is up and running for you.
Have a great weekend boaters!!

 

Reposted from Lake Center marina Facebook.... click here

 

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members in 2020 !
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook... click here.

 

Liberty Harbor

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

2020 Slip Rates

Click here

 

Contact Jerry

636-734-1929

 

E-mail Liberty Harbor.. libertyinstl@yahoo.com

 

Longshot Marina

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

04-18-20

Longshot Saloon..Closed

 

03-24-20

Marina is open.
Just got excavator delivered for spring and summer projects
 

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

05-12-20

Opening Memorial Day Weekend with live music Saturday-Monday

Becky Dallwitz
Longshot Marina

Polestar Boating Center

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

03-24-20

Operating on a skeleton crew.
If there is a need or emergency, call 636 250-3008

 

Dock Rentals on the Mississippi River
Safe Harbor Yacht Sales
The Canvas Man, LLC
Vessel Surveyor / Marine Consulting
Quality Marine Repair

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 

05-09-20

Gas dock and boat ramp ae open.  See you soon !

 

03-31-20

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.


We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.
If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call 📞 and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops 🏢 we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!


 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

04-28-20

It’s official! We’re opening for the 2020 Watersports season this Friday, May 1st. Call us at 314-800-5695 to reserve your rental in advance. Visit our website www.stljetski.com for our updated social distancing process.

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

 

Store Hours

Sun..... 10-9

M-Th....10-10

Fri Sat..10-11

Call ahead for an order

or come in !

 

636-723-0005!

 

Click here for menu

3025 N MO-94, St. Charles, Missouri 63301

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

05-01-20

Wanting to re-power your boat?Don’t miss out on this great promotion. Call us for details...click here

 

04-08-20

SPRING SALES OFFERS | $2,000 Instant Savings on New Yamaha Boats; Zero Down, Zero Interest, Zero Payments for 3 Months; $7,500 Off 275 Series boats.

 

03-23-20

St. Charles Boat & Motor update:
Due to the unprecedented time that the country is experiencing, we are implementing some additions to our normal routine:
At this time, we remain open for business, operating with a small staff. For the safety of our customers, our staff, and our families, in addition to our normal operations, we are offering some alternative means of interacting with us as well – for both purchasing products (from parts to a new boat) and for your service needs.
If you’d like to shop any new or used inventory with us with minimized social interaction, we can schedule individual appointments or send you a virtual video tour of a unit. You can always shop our inventory on our website as well, at www.stcharlesboat.com. We currently have some huge discounts on our in stock inventory! If you’re interested in a private appointment, please e-mail us at zeke@stcharlesboat.com or you can call us at 636-947-0106 during normal business hours.
For your service needs, we can schedule a touchless drop off and pick-up with you. For touchless drop off or pick-up, e-mail Jerry at jerry@stcharlesboat.com or Zeke at zeke@stcharlesboat.com for scheduling and instructions.
We realize that this too will pass and we can return to a more normal routine, which means getting back to boating for many of us!
We will keep our customer’s updated by posting on our website and Facebook page.

 

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

04-09-19

We have a full beer cooler..
Let us know what you want us to stock..we are trying our best to be competitive versus across the bridge..there are only few that I cant...so check us out..part of being competitive is counting on you...this will go for groceries as well...let us know what you need..

 

 

02-27-20 Update..

Fat Boys Restaurant at Two Rivers Marina

Hi Bill,
They are diligently working to get things in order. The have been working long hours trying to get the building in shape, lots of painting and cleaning. It is going to happen, however they are a bit behind because of Illinois paperwork. I expect an opening sometime in March. They are keeping the name "Fat Boys".

Cindy Blaylock
Two Rivers Marina.

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 

Wood Marina Spring Promotion

Attention -

New Slip Customers

50% Off Any Available Slip

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

3-25-20

Due the COVID-19 outbreak the service yard is experiencing delays in shipping which is causing a slight backup. If you have any questions or concerns please email the service manager Jeff Digman.
jeff@yachtclubstl.com.
Shop and office will be closed to customer walk-ins. Please just give us a call or email!
Thank you

 

Yacht Club tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on Higher ground !

 

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

Brussels Ferry............618 - 786-3636

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

Winfield Ferry.............618-  535-5759

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645  ..Closed for the Season

 

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 

3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Closed
Abigail's Tap Room Closed
Alton Marina Deli Closed
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Closed
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Open
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ Longshot Marina Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Closed
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Reopening Tue, May 19
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Closed
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Open for Carryouts
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Closed
Mike's LaRosa@ Longshot Marina Opening Memorial Day Weekend
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

 

FRIDAY

15 May 2020

 

It's "Wear Your Life jacket To Work" Day

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture of the Day..... was taken by Capt'n Mark Newlin who hails out of Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

 

 A Flock of Pelicans

 

The Boathouse Is Open

Thur, Fri, Sat & Sun This Week

Thurs- Sun Open at 11am
Thurs, Fri & Sun..close at 9
Sat....close at 10

Hours change on Memorial Day weekend
 

This Weekend's Bands

  Sat...May 16...TNT  Teddy and Tony.....2pm

Sun...May 17...Ticket To The Beatles... 3pm


Website.. N/A        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Boathouse Restaurant: 636 250 3300      Boathouse Office:636.250.3800

OPEN        OPEN          OPEN

 

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

Grafton Harbor.... 618-786-PORT (7678)

 

 

First Mate is a boat brokerage located on the beautiful upper Mississippi.

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

 Yesteryears Pic of the Day

 

Portage des Sioux Sunset

 

 click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture On This Day in 2018...... was taken by Capt'n Mark Newlin who hails out of Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

Monday's Sunset

after the storm

 

Alton Marina

click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

Email: woodlandmarina1@gmail.com

Click here for Website        Click here for Facebook

 

The Grafton Oyster Bar

is OPEN For Carry Out

Thur, Fri, Sat & Sun This Week

BOAT-IN AND CARRY OUT !


OPEN FRIDAY THRU SUNDAY 11AM-8PM

 

5-14-20

We are open this week Thursday through Sunday from 11am to 8pm for carry out. Great weather and great food. Sounds like a road trip to Grafton this weekend!! Look forward to seeing you. Place your order by calling 618-786-3000.

Our specials for this weekend, Friday through Sunday include

Jumbo fried pretzel with beer cheese dipping sauce. $9.99

.50 cent chicken wings are back by popular demand with the following sauces, Asian BBQ, Cajun Tequila, Voodoo, Jalapeno Honey Mustard and Spicy tropical fusion!!

Panko fried shrimp with a sweet chili citrus dipping sauce.
Half dozen $10.99 / Dozen $15.99

Cajun Chicken Parmesan over linguini pasta $13.99

Choose the family style option which includes chicken parmesan over linguini pasta, house salad with choice of dressings and bread and butter for $50.00. Feeds four or more..
 

Menu..  click here  

Website.. click here   Facebook.. click here

 

River News !  

 

 

click pic to enlarge

 

We offer full fiberglass repair, high performance upgrades, transom & stringer rebuilds, service on older products, new & used parts department, an accessories department, as well as many other services to suit everyone's boating needs.

We continue to display our Yamaha Sport Boats + Crest, Mercury + Yamaha Outboards and Heritage & Haul Rite trailers

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor website      St. Charles Boat & Motor Facebook

 

 

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED May 13, 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

.MILE 183.2 - BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION
Merchants Railroad Bridge; Work barges continue excavating around both left and right descending navigation piers and the right descending pier of the center span. Work barges should not encroach more than 50 feet into the navigation channel, at any time. For work barge locations, mariners are encouraged to contact the onsite work boat M/V KATHERINE OHARA via VHF-FM Channel 6 or 16 or by phone at (217) 248-9077.

ILLINOIS RIVER

ILLINOIS WATERWAY - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - Update
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:
Zone 7 Peoria (Mile 187.0 – Mile 145.6),
Zone 5 Havana (Mile 128.9 – Mile 102.0),
Zone 4 Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),
Zone 3 Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0) and
Zone 2 Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0).
High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. Laying up on saturated levees is prohibited. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations if possible.
Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate actions to prevent breakaways. Exercise caution in all meeting and overtaking situations, as swift currents may be
present. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting.

MISSOURI RIVER

The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Washington Reach (Mile 100.0 – Mile 0.0) and

Jefferson Reach (Mile 200.0 – Mile 100.0).
Mariners should use caution and minimize wake. Laying up on saturated levees is prohibited. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations, remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be mindful of all bridge
navigational clearances and aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred. Take appropriate action to prevent any breakaways from occurring. Use caution in all passing and meeting situations as swift currents may be present. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station so remain alert while transiting. Recreational traffic is discouraged.

.

 

Click here  for the current "Local Notice To Mariners" report

 on the Navigation Center Website


 No new incident reports for the St. Louis area
 

Click here to go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for "all" incident reports    

 

River Gear For Sale............

 

Click here to buy your River T-shirts and Accessories on-line..

Delivered right to you mailbox in a few short days

 

 

Website         40% Off - New Members        Facebook

 

RiverBills Facebook

Two FaceBook Pages for You

 

The "River News and Media" Page

Page contains river news, RiverBills Pictures of the Day, Upcoming River Events, info from RiverBills.com advertisers, etc..... Click here and check it out

 

The "Boaters Group" Page

It's a group for all the boaters on all the rivers near the "PORT OF ST. LOUIS AND BEYOND." It's a Public Group, open to anyone that wants to join in. A place to post your boating pictures, shout outs, questions, comments, etc.  Stay in touch with other boaters all year long.  Invite your Boating Friends. 

We have 6,070 members as of 05-12-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

Mississippi River At Alton, Illinois

Fireworks On The Mississippi Has Been Cancelled........

 

Alton officials have announced that the Fireworks on the Mississippi festival has been cancelled.  The event was originally scheduled to be held at the Liberty Bank Alton Amphitheater on July 3rd.

 

The cancellation is the result of the global COVID-19 pandemic, which led to the current precautions being laid out to protect the public from potential exposure.

 

According to Robert Stephan, the decision to pull the plug on the event had to be made now due to financial considerations.  The City of Alton would still be liable for the costs of the event is it were cancelled at a later date........

 

Click here to read this news report from altondailynews.com.  With Photo and Audio.

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Illinois River Project

Closures Along The Illinois River On Schedule........

 

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers recently announced that the coronavirus pandemic is not expected to interrupt the lock and dam closures this summer along the Illinois River.

 

The closures will occur on schedule between July and October, and will allow for urgently needed rehabilitation on five locks on the Illinois Waterway system, which offers a navigable link between Lake Michigan and the Mississippi River north of St. Louis.

 

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, who is heading up the project, was awarded the remaining funds for the project on April 20th.  Neither the Corps, nor their contractors are anticipating any delays........

 

Click here to read this news report from workboat.com.  With Photo.

 

Click here........ Port Charles Harbor website

Click here......Port Charles Harbor Facebook

 

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.

We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.

If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops  we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!

3rd Chute Update

Alton, IL

Madison County 

 

Reprinted from Wayne Draper Facebook

 

Mississippi River at St. Louis, Missouri

Conservation Groups Sue Corps Over Mississippi River Management.......

 

Five conservation groups have filed suit against the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, claiming that the Corps did not properly consider the effects of it's plans for managing the 195 mile section of the Mississippi River between St. Louis and Cairo, Illinois.

 

The suit was filed by the National Wildlife Federation, American Rivers, Prairie Rivers Network, the Missouri Coalition for the Environment and the Great Rivers Habitat Alliance.

 

Melissa Samet, the senior water resources council for the National Wildlife Federation says that the Corps has recklessly continued with a century old plan for managing the Mississippi River, which increases the risk of flooding while destroying crucial wildlife habitat........

 

Click here to read this news article from advantagenews.com.  With Photo.

 

River History....

 May 15, 1831 in River History

The first steamboat navigated the Illinois River past Beardstown, then the head of navigation. The steamboat Caroline departed from St. Louis to Beardstown and then continued up the river to the mouth of the Little Vermilion Shipping- port.

Source "History of Bureau County, Illinois"

 

The Little Vermilion River is a tributary of the Illinois River, which it joins near LaSalle, Illinois
Source: Wikipedia Encyclopedia

Two Branch Island

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River.......

 

There is a report that something happened yesterday evening around the Two Branch Island area of Pool 26 of the Mississippi River.  The Central Community Fire and Rescue boat was launched from Two Branch Marina yesterday evening and there was a waiting ambulance in the parking lot.

 

No further information at this time....

 

Quimby's Cruising Guide

Cruising The Inland Waterways

Navigating Barges & Tows........

 

Quimby's Cruising Guide has a good article titled "Cruising The Inland Waterways: Navigating Barges & Tows."

 

Click here and check it out
 

Mississippi River At West Alton, Missouri

The Ellis Island Trails Are Now Closed........

 

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Rivers Project Office has announced that as of 6 am Friday, May 15th, they will be closing Ellis Island and the Ellis Island walking trails in West Alton, Missouri to anglers and pedestrians.

 

The closure will remain in effect until further notice due to rehabilitation efforts.  The closure will reopen as soon as the rehabilitation project is completed.

 

The walking trails at the Audubon Center at Riverlands and throughout the Riverlands Migratory Bird Sanctuary will still be open to the public........

 

Click here to read this news tidbit from advantagenews.com

 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 

 

Boating Safety

National Safe Boating Week Kicks Off On Saturday........

 

Beginning on Saturday, May 16, and running through Friday, May 22, National Safe Boating Week is the traditional reminder for recreational boaters at the beginning of the boating season to practice safety all season long.

 

With this year's outbreak of the coronavirus, the National Safe Boating Week recommendation for life jacket usage is combined with the message of staying safe during the COVID-19 pandemic.

 

The BoatUS FOundation is offering two tips for National Safe Boating Week:  Do everything possible to social distance, and wearing your lifejacket can save your life........

 

Click here to read more from boatingindustry.com.  With Photo

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "October 2020" 

One month listing on the front page in the featured Classified Section

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

e-mail your info along with 6 pictures (max) to riverbill@prodigy.net.

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

We will bill you after the ad is on-line

 

 

OFFERING

THE SWINGING DOCK STEP

 

 

 

Swings out

to bridge the gap between the dock and your boat

for ease of loading and boarding

 

Swings out of the way

 to the

 "Walk Thru"

position on the dock

 

Little Johns Marine Service... click here

Little John's Moptorsports... click here

What's Going On This Week

3rd Chute Bar & Grill
211 W. Main St. Grafton, IL

 

5-13-20

3rd Chute is taking applications for all positions both locations we are opening Alton Friday message on Facebook thank you

Wayne Draper

 

Just a short walk from Grafton Harbor


Breakfast available every Saturday and Sunday morning from 8am till 12pm

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

03-24-20...Temporarily Closed

 

 

Alton Marina is the cover photo for the

2020 edition of Quimby's Cruising Guide

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

05-13-20

We are so grateful Madison County is supporting Businesses Opening Back Up! In light of Madison County opening with guidelines, Bluff City Grill will continue to remain closed at this time. We plan to announce an Opening date as soon as we have one! Due to our licensing being both County & State, we are not able to just open our doors with the decision made by Madison County, but hopefully this gets the ball rolling. Choosing to go against the State’s order could result in ... See More

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina


OPEN   OPEN   OPEN

 

Thurs- Sun open at 11am
Thurs..close at 9
Fri..... close at 9
Sat.....close at 10
Sun....close at 9

Hours change on Memorial Day weekend
 

This weekend

   Sat..May 16...TNT Teddy and Tony...2pm
   Sun..May 17..Ticket To The Beatles..3-7pm

 

Boathouse Restaurant... 636-250-3300

Boathouse Office...........636-250-3800

 

Weather may change bands .

 

Website.... N/a
 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

03/20/2020
Calhoun Ferry Company’s priority is the health and safety of our crew and passengers.
We received a call today from the U.S. Coast Guard advising us that all passengers will be required to stay in their vehicles when crossing the ferry. This is in response to the restrictions placed on gatherings of 10 or more people. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted.
We are cleaning and disinfecting all crew areas and all ferry passes as we receive them.
Starting tomorrow 03/21/2020 we will be reducing our hours to eliminate the late night shift on Friday and Saturday. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted. Hours will be Monday through Saturday 5am to 9pm and Sunday 8am to 9pm.
We will all get through this together by working together for a better tomorrow. Stay safe!
Thank You,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

     

 

 

 

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

3-18-20
Because of the CDC recommendations the restaurant management has decided to close the restaurant this weekend until further notice.
MJB

 

 

The Duck Club is the Premier Private Yacht Club serving the Upper Mississippi River, Alton pool boating community. The Club is located at the South end of Dardenne Slough with direct channel access at mm22

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

05-11-20

We want to thank everyone who came out to eat & drink on Saturday. I'm very excited to annouce we will be opening back to normal starting next Tuesday, May 19th.
We will have our new COVID-19 shirts available for $15 each.

 

Bingo..... May 21st


 

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

 

May 1, 2020

Grafton Harbor is OPEN!! Please come check out our variety of packaged liquor, treats for the kids, gift shop and ships store!! If you would like curb service call: 618-786-7678.
Friday Open until 5:00
Saturday 11:00 - 5:00
Sunday 11:00 - 4:00

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar!

 

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

We all know how hard the past year hit Grafton businesses. In light of the closures caused by the 2019 Flood and COVID-19, the Law Firm of Wittman & Lorton, P.C. and Preferred Title & Escrow, Inc. purchased 50 $100 gift cards to giveaway on our FB page. They also purchased 50 $100 gift cards from Grafton SkyTour. Starting March 23rd, and continuing for 50 days we will give away a $100 gift card to a Grafton restaurant or bar along with a $100 gift card to Grafton SkyTour sponsored by Wittman & Lorton and Preferred Title & Escrow! The goal is to encourage others during this difficult time to purchase gift cards from all Grafton businesses to be used once our businesses reopen! Make sure you visit The Grafton Illinois FB page daily: https://www.facebook.com/enjoygrafton/.
All you need to do is like and share Grafton Chamber of Commerce FB page each day to enter the daily giveaway. We thank everyone for your continued support of Grafton businesses! We can’t wait to see you come back again! Stay Safe

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

05-08-20

BOAT-IN AND CARRY OUT !

OPEN FRIDAY THRU SUNDAY 11AM-8PM

Expanding our hours next week to include Thursday. Please call ahead to place your order @ 618-786-3000.

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

05-09-20

Hey. We just had a 28’ dock with pontoon hoist open up. Won’t last long

 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

The old building has been torn down. 

 

Waiting on permits for new building.

 

"The plan is to keep it in the same location, maybe a little closer to the river and up about 7 ft higher. The building will be just a little smaller with a bigger deck."

 

Amanda

Kinder's Restaurant

 

Photo Gallery of tear down.. click here

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

.

March 7, 2020

Our gas dock is up and running for you.
Have a great weekend boaters!!

 

Reposted from Lake Center marina Facebook.... click here

 

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members in 2020 !
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook... click here.

 

Liberty Harbor

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

2020 Slip Rates

Click here

 

Contact Jerry

636-734-1929

 

E-mail Liberty Harbor.. libertyinstl@yahoo.com

 

Longshot Marina

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

04-18-20

Longshot Saloon..Closed

 

03-24-20

Marina is open.
Just got excavator delivered for spring and summer projects
 

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

05-12-20

Opening Memorial Day Weekend with live music Saturday-Monday

Becky Dallwitz
Longshot Marina

Polestar Boating Center

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

03-24-20

Operating on a skeleton crew.
If there is a need or emergency, call 636 250-3008

 

Dock Rentals on the Mississippi River
Safe Harbor Yacht Sales
The Canvas Man, LLC
Vessel Surveyor / Marine Consulting
Quality Marine Repair

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 

05-09-20

Gas dock and boat ramp ae open.  See you soon !

 

03-31-20

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.


We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.
If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call 📞 and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops 🏢 we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!


 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

04-28-20

It’s official! We’re opening for the 2020 Watersports season this Friday, May 1st. Call us at 314-800-5695 to reserve your rental in advance. Visit our website www.stljetski.com for our updated social distancing process.

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

 

Store Hours

Sun..... 10-9

M-Th....10-10

Fri Sat..10-11

Call ahead for an order

or come in !

 

636-723-0005!

 

Click here for menu

3025 N MO-94, St. Charles, Missouri 63301

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

05-01-20

Wanting to re-power your boat?Don’t miss out on this great promotion. Call us for details...click here

 

04-08-20

SPRING SALES OFFERS | $2,000 Instant Savings on New Yamaha Boats; Zero Down, Zero Interest, Zero Payments for 3 Months; $7,500 Off 275 Series boats.

 

03-23-20

St. Charles Boat & Motor update:
Due to the unprecedented time that the country is experiencing, we are implementing some additions to our normal routine:
At this time, we remain open for business, operating with a small staff. For the safety of our customers, our staff, and our families, in addition to our normal operations, we are offering some alternative means of interacting with us as well – for both purchasing products (from parts to a new boat) and for your service needs.
If you’d like to shop any new or used inventory with us with minimized social interaction, we can schedule individual appointments or send you a virtual video tour of a unit. You can always shop our inventory on our website as well, at www.stcharlesboat.com. We currently have some huge discounts on our in stock inventory! If you’re interested in a private appointment, please e-mail us at zeke@stcharlesboat.com or you can call us at 636-947-0106 during normal business hours.
For your service needs, we can schedule a touchless drop off and pick-up with you. For touchless drop off or pick-up, e-mail Jerry at jerry@stcharlesboat.com or Zeke at zeke@stcharlesboat.com for scheduling and instructions.
We realize that this too will pass and we can return to a more normal routine, which means getting back to boating for many of us!
We will keep our customer’s updated by posting on our website and Facebook page.

 

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

04-09-19

We have a full beer cooler..
Let us know what you want us to stock..we are trying our best to be competitive versus across the bridge..there are only few that I cant...so check us out..part of being competitive is counting on you...this will go for groceries as well...let us know what you need..

 

 

02-27-20 Update..

Fat Boys Restaurant at Two Rivers Marina

Hi Bill,
They are diligently working to get things in order. The have been working long hours trying to get the building in shape, lots of painting and cleaning. It is going to happen, however they are a bit behind because of Illinois paperwork. I expect an opening sometime in March. They are keeping the name "Fat Boys".

Cindy Blaylock
Two Rivers Marina.

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 

Wood Marina Spring Promotion

Attention -

New Slip Customers

50% Off Any Available Slip

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

3-25-20

Due the COVID-19 outbreak the service yard is experiencing delays in shipping which is causing a slight backup. If you have any questions or concerns please email the service manager Jeff Digman.
jeff@yachtclubstl.com.
Shop and office will be closed to customer walk-ins. Please just give us a call or email!
Thank you

 

Yacht Club tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on Higher ground !

 

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

Brussels Ferry............618 - 786-3636

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

Winfield Ferry.............618-  535-5759

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645  ..Closed for the Season

 

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 

3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Closed
Abigail's Tap Room Closed
Alton Marina Deli Closed
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Closed
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Open
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ Longshot Marina Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Closed
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Reopening Tue, May 19
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Closed
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Open for Carryouts
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Closed
Mike's LaRosa@ Longshot Marina Opening Memorial Day Weekend
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

 

THURSDAY

14 May 2020

 

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

Dock Dynasty

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture of the Day..... was sent to us by Capt'n Brian Schaffer

 

 

Hey River Bill,

I hope Ray and I didn't jump the Gun and put down the gravel too early this year.

We can't wait any longer!! It's time for some Socializing while Social Distancing!

Captain Brian

out of DOCK DYNASTY !!

 

 

 

The Boathouse Is Open

Thur, Fri, Sat & Sun This Week

Thurs- Sun Open at 11am
Thurs, Fri & Sun..close at 9
Sat....close at 10

Hours change on Memorial Day weekend
 

This Weekend's Bands

  Sat...May 16...TNT  Teddy and Tony.....2pm

Sun...May 17...Ticket To The Beatles... 3pm


Website.. N/A        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Boathouse Restaurant: 636 250 3300      Boathouse Office:636.250.3800

OPEN        OPEN          OPEN

 

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

Grafton Harbor.... 618-786-PORT (7678)

 

 

First Mate is a boat brokerage located on the beautiful upper Mississippi.

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

 Yesteryears Pic of the Day

 

Click pic to enlarge

 

 

Yesteryear's Picture on this Day in 2010 ..... was sent to us by Capt'n Kevin Clooney simply titled..
 

Floaten The River

 

Alton Marina

click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

Email: woodlandmarina1@gmail.com

Click here for Website        Click here for Facebook

 

The Grafton Oyster Bar

is OPEN For Carry Out

Thur, Fri, Sat & Sun This Week

BOAT-IN AND CARRY OUT !


OPEN FRIDAY THRU SUNDAY 11AM-8PM

 

Expanding our hours next week to include Thursday. Please call ahead to place your order @ 618-786-3000.
 

Menu..  click here  

Website.. click here   Facebook.. click here

 

River News !  

 

 

click pic to enlarge

 

We offer full fiberglass repair, high performance upgrades, transom & stringer rebuilds, service on older products, new & used parts department, an accessories department, as well as many other services to suit everyone's boating needs.

We continue to display our Yamaha Sport Boats + Crest, Mercury + Yamaha Outboards and Heritage & Haul Rite trailers

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor website      St. Charles Boat & Motor Facebook

 

 

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED May 13, 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

.MILE 183.2 - BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION
Merchants Railroad Bridge; Work barges continue excavating around both left and right descending navigation piers and the right descending pier of the center span. Work barges should not encroach more than 50 feet into the navigation channel, at any time. For work barge locations, mariners are encouraged to contact the onsite work boat M/V KATHERINE OHARA via VHF-FM Channel 6 or 16 or by phone at (217) 248-9077.

ILLINOIS RIVER

ILLINOIS WATERWAY - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - Update
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:
Zone 7 Peoria (Mile 187.0 – Mile 145.6),
Zone 5 Havana (Mile 128.9 – Mile 102.0),
Zone 4 Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),
Zone 3 Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0) and
Zone 2 Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0).
High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. Laying up on saturated levees is prohibited. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations if possible.
Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate actions to prevent breakaways. Exercise caution in all meeting and overtaking situations, as swift currents may be
present. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting.

MISSOURI RIVER

The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Washington Reach (Mile 100.0 – Mile 0.0) and

Jefferson Reach (Mile 200.0 – Mile 100.0).
Mariners should use caution and minimize wake. Laying up on saturated levees is prohibited. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations, remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be mindful of all bridge
navigational clearances and aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred. Take appropriate action to prevent any breakaways from occurring. Use caution in all passing and meeting situations as swift currents may be present. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station so remain alert while transiting. Recreational traffic is discouraged.

.

 

Click here  for the current "Local Notice To Mariners" report

 on the Navigation Center Website


 No new incident reports for the St. Louis area
 

Click here to go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for "all" incident reports    

 

River Gear For Sale............

 

Click here to buy your River T-shirts and Accessories on-line..

Delivered right to you mailbox in a few short days

 

 

Website         40% Off - New Members        Facebook

 

RiverBills Facebook

Two FaceBook Pages for You

 

The "River News and Media" Page

Page contains river news, RiverBills Pictures of the Day, Upcoming River Events, info from RiverBills.com advertisers, etc..... Click here and check it out

 

The "Boaters Group" Page

It's a group for all the boaters on all the rivers near the "PORT OF ST. LOUIS AND BEYOND." It's a Public Group, open to anyone that wants to join in. A place to post your boating pictures, shout outs, questions, comments, etc.  Stay in touch with other boaters all year long.  Invite your Boating Friends. 

We have 6,068 members as of 05-12-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

 

The Boathouse Food and Deck

2020 Best of St. Charles Award........

 

The Boathouse Food and Deck received the "2020 Best of St,Charles" Award in the food service catagory by the St. Charles Award Prorgram!

 

"Each year, the St. Charles Award Program identifies companies that we believe have achieved exceptional marketing success in their local community and business category."

Click here to read the News Release

 

 

RiverBill says ... Congratulations to Toni and Richard and the entire Boathouse Crew.

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers

Conservation Groups Sue Corps Over Mississippi River Management.........

 

A few conservation groups have filed a federal lawsuit against the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers alleging that the recent spate of flooding along the Mississippi River Basin may have been avoided if the 195 mile stretch of the river between St. Louis and Cairo, Illinois had been better managed.

 

The lawsuit, which was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Illinois in East St. Louis, Illinois, fingers the continued construction of river-training structures as the cause of narrowing river channels in the Mid-Mississippi River.

 

River training structures are structures constructed along the riverbanks such as dikes, weirs and chevrons, as well as the placement of bank hardening structures called revetments........

 

Click here to read this news article from dtnpf.com.  With Photo.

 

Mississippi River Paddlers

Two Men With Disabilities Paddling Full Length Mississippi.....

 

Reprinted from Mississippi River Paddlers Facebook... click here

 

 

Click here........ Port Charles Harbor website

Click here......Port Charles Harbor Facebook

 

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.

We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.

If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops  we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!

Help Wanted

The Boathouse Food and Deck

Mississippi River at Northshore Marina......

 

Reprinted from the Boathouse Facebook... click here

 

Bluff City Grill

Alton, IL.....

 

 

Reprinted from Bluff City Grill Facebook... click here

 

Help Wanted

3rd Chute

Grafton & Alton, IL.....

 

Reprinted from Wayne Draper Facebook... click here

 

Alton Motor Boat Club Update

Mississippi River at Piasa Creek......

 

Includes info on rebuilding the Clubhouse !

 

Reprinted from Alton Motor Boat Club Facebook... click here

 

Mel's Riverdock Restaurant

Illinois River at Hardin, IL.....

 

Reprinted from Mel's RIverdock Resturant Facebook... click here

 

Missouri River Management

Missouri River Recently Drier Than During The Dust Bowl........

 

A recent study indicates that during the first ten years of the new century, the Upper Missouri River Basin was the driest it had been in 1,200 years. even more so than during the Dust Bowl of the 1930s.

 

The study claims that the decrease in water levels at the mouth of the Missouri River was due to an increase in temperatures caused by climate change reducing the amount of snowfall in the Rocky Mountains of Montana and North Dakota.

 

The Missouri River Basin has seen droughts during the second decade of the 2000s, in 2012, 2013 and 2017, however, their severity in comparison with historic droughts are unknown........

 

Click here to read this article from washingtonpost.com.  With Photo.  

 

River History....

 May 14, 1969 in River History

A Christening Banquet and Ball was held for the Santa Maria Replica Ship that was moored on the St. Louis Riverfront.
A ceremonial bottle of champagne was dropped into the Mississippi River from the deck of the ship because no one could reach the sharply sloped bow.
The banquet was held at the Mayan Room of the Bel Air East Hotel (now the Hampton Inn at the Arch). Mayor Alfonso J. Cervantes and his wife, Carmen, led everyone in dancing to "Spanish Eyes." All in attendance were named as honorary admirals of the ship.

Source St. Louis Post-Dispatch

Old Hickory Lake Near Nashville, Tennessee

9 Year Old Boy Reels In 80 Pound Lake Sturgeon........

 

9 year old Coye Price of Tennessee recently became the third child in his family to catch a huge fish when he reeled in an 80 pound lake sturgeon that outweighed him by a good bit.

 

According to a Facebook post from the Tennessee Wildlife and Resource Agency, Price was keen to catch a big one after his 11 year old sister Caitlin caught a 40 pound striper and his 8 year old sister Farrah caught a 58 pound blue catfish.

 

The endangered lake sturgeon are some of the biggest and longest living fish in Tennessee.  They can grow up to eight feet in length and weigh up to 150 pounds.  There have been efforts to restore the species after their population declined from overfishing and loss of habitat........

 

Click here to read this news story from semissourian.com. 

 

News Release From BoatUS


SPRINGFIELD, Va., May 13, 2020 – National Safe Boating Week, which begins this Saturday, May 16, and runs through Friday, May 22, is the traditional early boating season reminder to help recreational boaters embrace safety all season long. However, the important National Safe Boating week recommendation urging life jacket wear is now joined by an equally important boating safety message — how to stay safe during the time of COVID-19.


“While we’re learning new things about the virus almost every day, we don’t anticipate additional safety challenges on the water this year,” said BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water President Chris Edmonston. “We have a responsibility to look out for all of us sharing a launch ramp, marina or boat club dock as well as those assigned to keep us safe on the water or entrusted with the care and maintenance of our boats.”


The BoatUS Foundation offers two National Safe Boating Week tips:


1. Do everything you can to social distance: Boats should maintain a 50-foot separation on the water and not raft up; wash your hands and/or use sanitizer frequently; and pack all essentials. Additional tips can be found at the National Safe Boating Council’s CDC-based Tips for Navigating Social Distancing + Boating. The Marine Retailers Association of Americas offers boat storage facilities such as marinas, dealers or boat clubs a downloadable Communicate Safe Boating to Your Customers with tips for arriving at a marina, launching, storing and returning to the dock.


2. Your life jacket will save you. If there was one action a boater could easily take to dramatically increase safety aboard, it’s wearing his/her life jacket more often. According to U.S. Coast Guard statistics, approximately 84% of those who drowned were not wearing one. “The best life jacket is the one your will wear,” says Edmonston. “Inflatable life jackets are light, comfortable, keep you cool on a hot day, and are easily worn because you forget you are wearing one.” Boaters also need to have a properly sized U.S. Coast Guard-approved life jacket for every person aboard, and can borrow a child’s life jacket for free at over 575 BoatUS Life Jacket Loaner Program sites.


For more information on National Safe Boating Week, go to safeboatingcampaign.com.


###

 

This press release reprinted by permission of Scott Croft of BoatUS...click here

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "October 2020" 

One month listing on the front page in the featured Classified Section

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

e-mail your info along with 6 pictures (max) to riverbill@prodigy.net.

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

We will bill you after the ad is on-line

 

 

OFFERING

THE SWINGING DOCK STEP

 

 

 

Swings out

to bridge the gap between the dock and your boat

for ease of loading and boarding

 

Swings out of the way

 to the

 "Walk Thru"

position on the dock

 

Little Johns Marine Service... click here

Little John's Moptorsports... click here

What's Going On This Week

3rd Chute Bar & Grill
211 W. Main St. Grafton, IL

 

5-13-20

3rd Chute is taking applications for all positions both locations we are opening Alton Friday message on Facebook thank you

Wayne Draper

 

Just a short walk from Grafton Harbor


Breakfast available every Saturday and Sunday morning from 8am till 12pm

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

03-24-20...Temporarily Closed

 

 

Alton Marina is the cover photo for the

2020 edition of Quimby's Cruising Guide

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

05-13-20

We are so grateful Madison County is supporting Businesses Opening Back Up! In light of Madison County opening with guidelines, Bluff City Grill will continue to remain closed at this time. We plan to announce an Opening date as soon as we have one! Due to our licensing being both County & State, we are not able to just open our doors with the decision made by Madison County, but hopefully this gets the ball rolling. Choosing to go against the State’s order could result in ... See More

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina


OPEN   OPEN   OPEN

 

Thurs- Sun open at 11am
Thurs..close at 9
Fri..... close at 9
Sat.....close at 10
Sun....close at 9

Hours change on Memorial Day weekend
 

This weekend

   Sat..May 16...TNT Teddy and Tony...2pm
   Sun..May 17..Ticket To The Beatles..3-7pm

 

Boathouse Restaurant... 636-250-3300

Boathouse Office...........636-250-3800

 

Weather may change bands .

 

Website.... N/a
 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

03/20/2020
Calhoun Ferry Company’s priority is the health and safety of our crew and passengers.
We received a call today from the U.S. Coast Guard advising us that all passengers will be required to stay in their vehicles when crossing the ferry. This is in response to the restrictions placed on gatherings of 10 or more people. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted.
We are cleaning and disinfecting all crew areas and all ferry passes as we receive them.
Starting tomorrow 03/21/2020 we will be reducing our hours to eliminate the late night shift on Friday and Saturday. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted. Hours will be Monday through Saturday 5am to 9pm and Sunday 8am to 9pm.
We will all get through this together by working together for a better tomorrow. Stay safe!
Thank You,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

     

 

 

 

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

3-18-20
Because of the CDC recommendations the restaurant management has decided to close the restaurant this weekend until further notice.
MJB

 

 

The Duck Club is the Premier Private Yacht Club serving the Upper Mississippi River, Alton pool boating community. The Club is located at the South end of Dardenne Slough with direct channel access at mm22

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

05-11-20

We want to thank everyone who came out to eat & drink on Saturday. I'm very excited to annouce we will be opening back to normal starting next Tuesday, May 19th.
We will have our new COVID-19 shirts available for $15 each.

 

Bingo..... May 21st


 

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

 

May 1, 2020

Grafton Harbor is OPEN!! Please come check out our variety of packaged liquor, treats for the kids, gift shop and ships store!! If you would like curb service call: 618-786-7678.
Friday Open until 5:00
Saturday 11:00 - 5:00
Sunday 11:00 - 4:00

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar!

 

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

We all know how hard the past year hit Grafton businesses. In light of the closures caused by the 2019 Flood and COVID-19, the Law Firm of Wittman & Lorton, P.C. and Preferred Title & Escrow, Inc. purchased 50 $100 gift cards to giveaway on our FB page. They also purchased 50 $100 gift cards from Grafton SkyTour. Starting March 23rd, and continuing for 50 days we will give away a $100 gift card to a Grafton restaurant or bar along with a $100 gift card to Grafton SkyTour sponsored by Wittman & Lorton and Preferred Title & Escrow! The goal is to encourage others during this difficult time to purchase gift cards from all Grafton businesses to be used once our businesses reopen! Make sure you visit The Grafton Illinois FB page daily: https://www.facebook.com/enjoygrafton/.
All you need to do is like and share Grafton Chamber of Commerce FB page each day to enter the daily giveaway. We thank everyone for your continued support of Grafton businesses! We can’t wait to see you come back again! Stay Safe

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

05-08-20

BOAT-IN AND CARRY OUT !

OPEN FRIDAY THRU SUNDAY 11AM-8PM

Expanding our hours next week to include Thursday. Please call ahead to place your order @ 618-786-3000.

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

05-09-20

Hey. We just had a 28’ dock with pontoon hoist open up. Won’t last long

 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

The old building has been torn down. 

 

Waiting on permits for new building.

 

"The plan is to keep it in the same location, maybe a little closer to the river and up about 7 ft higher. The building will be just a little smaller with a bigger deck."

 

Amanda

Kinder's Restaurant

 

Photo Gallery of tear down.. click here

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

.

March 7, 2020

Our gas dock is up and running for you.
Have a great weekend boaters!!

 

Reposted from Lake Center marina Facebook.... click here

 

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members in 2020 !
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook... click here.

 

Liberty Harbor

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

2020 Slip Rates

Click here

 

Contact Jerry

636-734-1929

 

E-mail Liberty Harbor.. libertyinstl@yahoo.com

 

Longshot Marina

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

04-18-20

Longshot Saloon..Closed

 

03-24-20

Marina is open.
Just got excavator delivered for spring and summer projects
 

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

05-12-20

Opening Memorial Day Weekend with live music Saturday-Monday

Becky Dallwitz
Longshot Marina

Polestar Boating Center

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

03-24-20

Operating on a skeleton crew.
If there is a need or emergency, call 636 250-3008

 

Dock Rentals on the Mississippi River
Safe Harbor Yacht Sales
The Canvas Man, LLC
Vessel Surveyor / Marine Consulting
Quality Marine Repair

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 

05-09-20

Gas dock and boat ramp ae open.  See you soon !

 

03-31-20

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.


We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.
If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call 📞 and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops 🏢 we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!


 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

04-28-20

It’s official! We’re opening for the 2020 Watersports season this Friday, May 1st. Call us at 314-800-5695 to reserve your rental in advance. Visit our website www.stljetski.com for our updated social distancing process.

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

 

Store Hours

Sun..... 10-9

M-Th....10-10

Fri Sat..10-11

Call ahead for an order

or come in !

 

636-723-0005!

 

Click here for menu

3025 N MO-94, St. Charles, Missouri 63301

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

05-01-20

Wanting to re-power your boat?Don’t miss out on this great promotion. Call us for details...click here

 

04-08-20

SPRING SALES OFFERS | $2,000 Instant Savings on New Yamaha Boats; Zero Down, Zero Interest, Zero Payments for 3 Months; $7,500 Off 275 Series boats.

 

03-23-20

St. Charles Boat & Motor update:
Due to the unprecedented time that the country is experiencing, we are implementing some additions to our normal routine:
At this time, we remain open for business, operating with a small staff. For the safety of our customers, our staff, and our families, in addition to our normal operations, we are offering some alternative means of interacting with us as well – for both purchasing products (from parts to a new boat) and for your service needs.
If you’d like to shop any new or used inventory with us with minimized social interaction, we can schedule individual appointments or send you a virtual video tour of a unit. You can always shop our inventory on our website as well, at www.stcharlesboat.com. We currently have some huge discounts on our in stock inventory! If you’re interested in a private appointment, please e-mail us at zeke@stcharlesboat.com or you can call us at 636-947-0106 during normal business hours.
For your service needs, we can schedule a touchless drop off and pick-up with you. For touchless drop off or pick-up, e-mail Jerry at jerry@stcharlesboat.com or Zeke at zeke@stcharlesboat.com for scheduling and instructions.
We realize that this too will pass and we can return to a more normal routine, which means getting back to boating for many of us!
We will keep our customer’s updated by posting on our website and Facebook page.

 

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

04-09-19

We have a full beer cooler..
Let us know what you want us to stock..we are trying our best to be competitive versus across the bridge..there are only few that I cant...so check us out..part of being competitive is counting on you...this will go for groceries as well...let us know what you need..

 

 

02-27-20 Update..

Fat Boys Restaurant at Two Rivers Marina

Hi Bill,
They are diligently working to get things in order. The have been working long hours trying to get the building in shape, lots of painting and cleaning. It is going to happen, however they are a bit behind because of Illinois paperwork. I expect an opening sometime in March. They are keeping the name "Fat Boys".

Cindy Blaylock
Two Rivers Marina.

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 

Wood Marina Spring Promotion

Attention -

New Slip Customers

50% Off Any Available Slip

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

3-25-20

Due the COVID-19 outbreak the service yard is experiencing delays in shipping which is causing a slight backup. If you have any questions or concerns please email the service manager Jeff Digman.
jeff@yachtclubstl.com.
Shop and office will be closed to customer walk-ins. Please just give us a call or email!
Thank you

 

Yacht Club tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on Higher ground !

 

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

Brussels Ferry............618 - 786-3636

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

Winfield Ferry.............618-  535-5759

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645  ..Closed for the Season

 

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 

3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Closed
Abigail's Tap Room Closed
Alton Marina Deli Closed
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Closed
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Open
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ Longshot Marina Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Closed
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Reopening Tue, May 19
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Closed
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Open for Carryouts
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Closed
Mike's LaRosa@ Longshot Marina Opening Memorial Day Weekend
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

 

WEDNESDAY

13 May 2020

 

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

Melvin Price Lock and Dam

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

At Alton, IL

click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture of the Day..... was sent to us by Capt'n Brad maher who hails out of the Alton Motor Boat Club

 

 Gates down a little at MP

Brad

 

 

The Boathouse Is Open

Thur, Fri, Sat & Sun This Week

Thurs- Sun Open at 11am
Thurs, Fri & Sun..close at 9
Sat....close at 10

Hours change on Memorial Day weekend
 

This Weekend's Bands

  Sat...May 16...TNT  Teddy and Tony.....2pm

Sun...May 17...Ticket To The Beatles... 3pm


Website.. N/A        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Boathouse Restaurant: 636 250 3300      Boathouse Office:636.250.3800

OPEN        OPEN          OPEN

 

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

Grafton Harbor.... 618-786-PORT (7678)

 

 

First Mate is a boat brokerage located on the beautiful upper Mississippi.

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

 Yesteryears Pic of the Day

 

Our Lady of the Rivers

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Flood of 2008

Click pic to enlarge

 

 

Yesteryear's Picture on this Day in 2008...was a shot of Our Lady of the Rivers and an American Flag in the flood waters.

 

Sorry, we have lost the name of the photographer

 

Alton Marina

click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

Email: woodlandmarina1@gmail.com

Click here for Website        Click here for Facebook

 

The Grafton Oyster Bar

is OPEN For Carry Out

Thur, Fri, Sat & Sun This Week

BOAT-IN AND CARRY OUT !


OPEN FRIDAY THRU SUNDAY 11AM-8PM

 

Expanding our hours next week to include Thursday. Please call ahead to place your order @ 618-786-3000.
 

Menu..  click here  

Website.. click here   Facebook.. click here

 

River News !  

 

 

click pic to enlarge

 

We offer full fiberglass repair, high performance upgrades, transom & stringer rebuilds, service on older products, new & used parts department, an accessories department, as well as many other services to suit everyone's boating needs.

We continue to display our Yamaha Sport Boats + Crest, Mercury + Yamaha Outboards and Heritage & Haul Rite trailers

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor website      St. Charles Boat & Motor Facebook

 

 

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED May 7, 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

MILE 273.4 - L/D RESTRICTION
Repairs at L/D 24 in the vicinity of Mile 273.4, are complete. The USACE restriction has been cancelled. All navigation interest should be alert for, and abide by, any special instructions that may be issued by the lockmaster..

MILE 273.4/MILE 241.4 - LOCKAGE AND CREW CHANGE SPECIAL REQUIREMENT
Due to concerns regarding the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and effective immediately for L/D’s 24 and 25, in the vicinity of Mile 273.4 and 241.4: No industry personnel shall be allowed inside USACE lock control houses or other buildings during crew changes, except in the case of medical emergency. Crew changes will still be allowed, but industry personnel must go directly from the vehicle to the motor vessel. At both facilities (L/D’s 24/25) the crew van will be required to park outside of the exterior fenced area during the crew change. Also effective immediately Locks 24 and 25 will not accept incoming or outgoing boat mail. Industry personnel will be required to use their own facilities while navigating through the lock. Changes are effective immediately and until further notice. All navigation interest should be alert for, and abide by, any special instructions that may be issued by the lockmaster.

MILE 200.5 - L/D MAINTENANCE/TEMPORARY DELAYS
Continuing until approximately May 9, 2020, from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m., each day, minor temporary delays may be experienced at Mel Price L/D (main chamber) in the vicinity of Mile 200.5, for use of a crane for maintenance. Delays may also be experienced at the auxiliary chamber for
sediment removal. These operations may involve the use of divers. Delays are expected to be less than 4 hours. Mariners should be alert for and abide by any special instructions from the lockmaster

MILE 183.2 - BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION
Merchants Railroad Bridge; Work barges continue excavating around both left and right descending navigation piers and the right descending pier of the center span. Work barges should not encroach more than 50 feet into the navigation channel, at any time. For work barge locations, mariners are encouraged to contact the onsite work boat M/V KATHERINE OHARA via VHF-FM Channel 6 or 16 or by phone at (217) 248-9077.

ILLINOIS RIVER

ILLINOIS WATERWAY - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - Update
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:
Peoria (Mile 187.0 - Mile 145.6),
Zone 4 Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),
Zone 3 Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0) and
Zone 2 Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0).
High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. Laying up on saturated levees is prohibited. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations if possible.
Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate actions to prevent breakaways. Exercise caution in all meeting and overtaking situations, as swift currents may be present. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting

MISSOURI RIVER

The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Washington Reach (Mile 100.0 – Mile 0.0) and

Jefferson Reach (Mile 200.0 – Mile 100.0).
Mariners should use caution and minimize wake. Laying up on saturated levees is prohibited. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations, remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be mindful of all bridge
navigational clearances and aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred. Take appropriate action to prevent any breakaways from occurring. Use caution in all passing and meeting situations as swift currents may be present. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station so remain alert while transiting. Recreational traffic is discouraged.

.

 

Click here  for the current "Local Notice To Mariners" report

 on the Navigation Center Website


 No new incident reports for the St. Louis area
 

Click here to go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for "all" incident reports    

 

River Gear For Sale............

 

Click here to buy your River T-shirts and Accessories on-line..

Delivered right to you mailbox in a few short days

 

 

Website         40% Off - New Members        Facebook

 

RiverBills Facebook

Two FaceBook Pages for You

 

The "River News and Media" Page

Page contains river news, RiverBills Pictures of the Day, Upcoming River Events, info from RiverBills.com advertisers, etc..... Click here and check it out

 

The "Boaters Group" Page

It's a group for all the boaters on all the rivers near the "PORT OF ST. LOUIS AND BEYOND." It's a Public Group, open to anyone that wants to join in. A place to post your boating pictures, shout outs, questions, comments, etc.  Stay in touch with other boaters all year long.  Invite your Boating Friends. 

We have 6,062 members as of 05-12-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

llinois Boating Regulations

Comprehending Illinois' New Boating Restrictions........

 

While boating along Illinois waterways is permitted once again, there are some that are objecting to the limits being placed on the number of people allowed onboard at one time.

 

Illinois Governor J.B. Pritzker recently issued revised stay-at-home regulations that also includes a rule limiting the number of people on a boat to two.  State Representative Jeff Keicher says that the recent warmer weather means that families are just now learning of the new rule.

 

Keicher said that people that people are incredulous that they are unable to take the four other people that they have been cooped up with in their house for the past six weeks out on their boat........

 

Click here to read this news article from altondailynews.com.  With Photo and Audio.

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Missouri River Basin

Reduced Precipitation Prompts Lower Runoff Forecast, Reduced Dam Releases........

 

On Friday, May 8th, releases from the Gavins Point Dam were to be reduced to 33,000 cubic feet per second after a reduction in this year's predicted runoff into the Missouri River basin.

 

Since the beginning of 2020, precipitation in the Upper Missouri River Basin has been well below normal, which prompts a reduction in river forecast. Some parts of the Dakotas have seen less than half of their normal precipitation during the first four months of 2020.

 

The Upper Basin Forecast for 2020 has been reduced to 32.2 million acre feet.  John Remus, chief of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' Missouri River Basin Water Management Division says that the reduced forecast is still above normal.  The runoff for the rest of the 2020 season will depend upon the mountain snowmelt and rainfall........

 

Click here to read this news report from newsrepublican.com.  With Map.

 

 

Click here........ Port Charles Harbor website

Click here......Port Charles Harbor Facebook

 

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.

We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.

If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops  we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!

Clarksville Boat Club Update

Mississippi River at Clarksville, Mo......

 

Reprinted from Clarksville Boat Club Facebook...

click here for more pics

 

Mississippi River Journeys

Paddler Rescued From The River

Was Attempting To Kayak The Mississippi To Louisiana........

 

Over the weekend, responders were called out to a northern Minnesota lake to rescue a kayaker that got stranded.  Reportedly, the kayaker was attempting to paddle to Louisiana by traveling down the Mississippi Rive.

 

The Minnesota Department of Natural Resources reports that they received a call about a kayaker in distress, who was unable to maneuver in windy conditions and large waves on Lake Winnibigoshish.  Conservation officers responded and were able to get the paddler to safety.

 

Officials say that the kayaker was making their way down the Mississippi River, from the headwaters to Louisiana.  They note that the paddler had all of the necessary supplies to make the trip, except a life jacket........

 

Click here to read this news story from fox9.com

 

More River Music

It Never Gets Old ......

 

"Getting" Down In A River Town

Tim Mauldin and Jess

at Palisades Yacht Club

Click here to play !

 

Tim is a local guitarist, singer, songwriter known as T-Maul

 

Jess was the manager at Palisades Yacht Club, a former RiverBills Girl and is now an owner at Hatrick's Irish Sports Pub

 

 

River History....

 May 13th 2017 in River History


Grafton Oyster Bar's opening day for their new outside deck/bar.

Marine Jobs

Surroundings Trade Only....

 

A few of the jobs listed this week include:

~ Store Manager, Sirocco Marine, Fort Lauderdale
~ Outboard Engine Technician-Resort Marine and Service, MN
~ Parts Dept Manager-All Island Marine Corp

 

Check out the marine jobs on the Trade Only Job Board... click here

 

Good News

June 27 - July 4, 2020

Tom Sawyer Days Is On !

Mississippi River at Hannibal, Mo......

 

Reprinted from 97.9 KICK-FM Facebook... click here

 

Mississippi River a Louisiana, Mo

4th of July Celebration Cancelled........

 

 

Reprinted from Louisiana Chamber of Commerce Facebook... click here

Mark Twain Lake

Campground Changes And Opening Info For Mark Twain Lake........

 

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Mark Twain Lake recently implemented changes to their camping policy in order to protect the health and safety or the public and USACE employees as they reopen the park.

 

The greatest change in policy for all campground sites is that campers must reserve campsites ahead of time, and there will be no more first-come, first-served campsites.

 

According to Mary Ann Heitmeyer, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' natural resource specialist, the campgrounds and boat ramps will be busy over the Memorial Day Weekend, as people have been cooped up and are anxious to get out........

 

Click here to read this news report from hannibal.net. 

 

Boating Legislation

American Boating Congress Begins Wednesday.........

 

The National Marine Manufacturers Association has released the schedule of events for the American Boating Congress, which will be held virtually on May 13th and 14th, from 1 pm to 2:30 pm.

 

Frank Hugelmeyer says that this year's speakers are some of the most influential people in government and politics.  The lineup will include cabinet members, elected officials as well as political strategists who will discuss how the crisis has shaped policy and politics.

 

Hugelmeyer added that even though ABC participants are not able to meet in person, it is crucial to participate and present a united front on issues that are important to the marine industry........

 

Click here to read this news report from tradeonlytoday.com.

 

Lake Of The Ozarks

Spring Rainfall Push Lake Levels Higher........

 

Currently, the Lake of the Ozarks is approximately two feet below it's normal summertime levels, however, the rainfall expected this week should bump the lake levels closer to the 660 foot elevation that is considered to be full pool.

 

The owner and operator of the Bagnell Dam, Amren Missouri, states that they anticipate heavy generation this week as dam operators handle inflows from rainfall while following the guide curve that sets Memorial Day weekend as a target date for full pool.

 

As of 8 am Tuesday morning, the level of the Lake of the Ozarks was 657.61 feet at the Bagnell Dam, and the dam was discharging 35,932 cubic feet per second.  The dam's turbines can discharge up to 45,000 cfs without any assistance from the floodgates........

 

Click here to read this news article from lakeexpo.com.  With Photo.

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "October 2020" 

One month listing on the front page in the featured Classified Section

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

e-mail your info along with 6 pictures (max) to riverbill@prodigy.net.

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

We will bill you after the ad is on-line

 

 

OFFERING

THE SWINGING DOCK STEP

 

 

 

Swings out

to bridge the gap between the dock and your boat

for ease of loading and boarding

 

Swings out of the way

 to the

 "Walk Thru"

position on the dock

 

Little Johns Marine Service... click here

Little John's Moptorsports... click here

What's Going On This Week

3rd Chute Bar & Grill
211 W. Main St. Grafton, IL

 

4-24-20

Well on a positive note the 3rd Chute has its first billboard..Yahoo!!! We have several changes at both locations a lot of new stuff coming. We will start posting pics of everything this week. Hopefully this s*** gets over with and we get the Rock and Rollin. The only thing that has been canceled is what we're not having while we're closed. We aren't going any advance cancellations. As soon as we open everything on schedule remains the same so check out the Events tab.
As always Chute first ask questions later!!

 

Just a short walk from Grafton Harbor
Breakfast available every Saturday and Sunday morning from 8am till 12pm

 

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

03-24-20...Temporarily Closed

 

 

Alton Marina is the cover photo for the

2020 edition of Quimby's Cruising Guide

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

04-27-20

Hello Facebook Fans! Just wanted to update everyone of our current status. Bluff City Grill will remain closed as the stay at home order has been extended yet again. We are hoping that we are getting closer to reopening as the new extension of the stay at home order does have some revisions allowing other businesses to reopen with restrictions to accommodate social distancing. We miss all of you & cant wait to see everyone as soon as we are allowed to reopen the doors. We will continue to update with any status changes here on our Facebook page. Make sure to like our page to prevent missing any updates. If anyone has any questions in regard to a scheduled event please follow this link: https://bluffcitygrillalton.com/contact/ We truly appreciate everyone’s support during this trying time & ask everyone to come together as a community. Please support our community’s small businesses & continue to follow the guidelines the CDC & WHO has recommended to help end this pandemic. Stay Safe & Stay Healthy!

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina


OPEN   OPEN   OPEN

 

Thurs- Sun open at 11am
Thurs..close at 9
Fri..... close at 9
Sat.....close at 10
Sun....close at 9

Hours change on Memorial Day weekend
 

This weekend

   Sat..May 16...TNT Teddy and Tony...2pm
   Sun..May 17..Ticket To The Beatles..3-7pm

 

Boathouse Restaurant... 636-250-3300

Boathouse Office...........636-250-3800

 

Weather may change bands .

 

Website.... N/a
 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

03/20/2020
Calhoun Ferry Company’s priority is the health and safety of our crew and passengers.
We received a call today from the U.S. Coast Guard advising us that all passengers will be required to stay in their vehicles when crossing the ferry. This is in response to the restrictions placed on gatherings of 10 or more people. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted.
We are cleaning and disinfecting all crew areas and all ferry passes as we receive them.
Starting tomorrow 03/21/2020 we will be reducing our hours to eliminate the late night shift on Friday and Saturday. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted. Hours will be Monday through Saturday 5am to 9pm and Sunday 8am to 9pm.
We will all get through this together by working together for a better tomorrow. Stay safe!
Thank You,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

     

 

 

 

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

3-18-20
Because of the CDC recommendations the restaurant management has decided to close the restaurant this weekend until further notice.
MJB

 

 

The Duck Club is the Premier Private Yacht Club serving the Upper Mississippi River, Alton pool boating community. The Club is located at the South end of Dardenne Slough with direct channel access at mm22

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

05-11-20

We want to thank everyone who came out to eat & drink on Saturday. I'm very excited to annouce we will be opening back to normal starting next Tuesday, May 19th.
We will have our new COVID-19 shirts available for $15 each.

 

Bingo..... May 21st


 

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

 

May 1, 2020

Grafton Harbor is OPEN!! Please come check out our variety of packaged liquor, treats for the kids, gift shop and ships store!! If you would like curb service call: 618-786-7678.
Friday Open until 5:00
Saturday 11:00 - 5:00
Sunday 11:00 - 4:00

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar!

 

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

We all know how hard the past year hit Grafton businesses. In light of the closures caused by the 2019 Flood and COVID-19, the Law Firm of Wittman & Lorton, P.C. and Preferred Title & Escrow, Inc. purchased 50 $100 gift cards to giveaway on our FB page. They also purchased 50 $100 gift cards from Grafton SkyTour. Starting March 23rd, and continuing for 50 days we will give away a $100 gift card to a Grafton restaurant or bar along with a $100 gift card to Grafton SkyTour sponsored by Wittman & Lorton and Preferred Title & Escrow! The goal is to encourage others during this difficult time to purchase gift cards from all Grafton businesses to be used once our businesses reopen! Make sure you visit The Grafton Illinois FB page daily: https://www.facebook.com/enjoygrafton/.
All you need to do is like and share Grafton Chamber of Commerce FB page each day to enter the daily giveaway. We thank everyone for your continued support of Grafton businesses! We can’t wait to see you come back again! Stay Safe

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

05-08-20

BOAT-IN AND CARRY OUT !

OPEN FRIDAY THRU SUNDAY 11AM-8PM

Expanding our hours next week to include Thursday. Please call ahead to place your order @ 618-786-3000.

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

05-09-20

Hey. We just had a 28’ dock with pontoon hoist open up. Won’t last long

 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

The old building has been torn down. 

 

Waiting on permits for new building.

 

"The plan is to keep it in the same location, maybe a little closer to the river and up about 7 ft higher. The building will be just a little smaller with a bigger deck."

 

Amanda

Kinder's Restaurant

 

Photo Gallery of tear down.. click here

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

.

March 7, 2020

Our gas dock is up and running for you.
Have a great weekend boaters!!

 

Reposted from Lake Center marina Facebook.... click here

 

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members in 2020 !
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook... click here.

 

Liberty Harbor

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

2020 Slip Rates

Click here

 

Contact Jerry

636-734-1929

 

E-mail Liberty Harbor.. libertyinstl@yahoo.com

 

Longshot Marina

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

04-18-20

Longshot Saloon..Closed

 

03-24-20

Marina is open.
Just got excavator delivered for spring and summer projects
 

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

05-12-20

Opening Memorial Day Weekend with live music Saturday-Monday

Becky Dallwitz
Longshot Marina

Polestar Boating Center

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

03-24-20

Operating on a skeleton crew.
If there is a need or emergency, call 636 250-3008

 

Dock Rentals on the Mississippi River
Safe Harbor Yacht Sales
The Canvas Man, LLC
Vessel Surveyor / Marine Consulting
Quality Marine Repair

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 

05-09-20

Gas dock and boat ramp ae open.  See you soon !

 

03-31-20

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.


We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.
If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call 📞 and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops 🏢 we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!


 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

04-28-20

It’s official! We’re opening for the 2020 Watersports season this Friday, May 1st. Call us at 314-800-5695 to reserve your rental in advance. Visit our website www.stljetski.com for our updated social distancing process.

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

 

Store Hours

Sun..... 10-9

M-Th....10-10

Fri Sat..10-11

Call ahead for an order

or come in !

 

636-723-0005!

 

Click here for menu

3025 N MO-94, St. Charles, Missouri 63301

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

05-01-20

Wanting to re-power your boat?Don’t miss out on this great promotion. Call us for details...click here

 

04-08-20

SPRING SALES OFFERS | $2,000 Instant Savings on New Yamaha Boats; Zero Down, Zero Interest, Zero Payments for 3 Months; $7,500 Off 275 Series boats.

 

03-23-20

St. Charles Boat & Motor update:
Due to the unprecedented time that the country is experiencing, we are implementing some additions to our normal routine:
At this time, we remain open for business, operating with a small staff. For the safety of our customers, our staff, and our families, in addition to our normal operations, we are offering some alternative means of interacting with us as well – for both purchasing products (from parts to a new boat) and for your service needs.
If you’d like to shop any new or used inventory with us with minimized social interaction, we can schedule individual appointments or send you a virtual video tour of a unit. You can always shop our inventory on our website as well, at www.stcharlesboat.com. We currently have some huge discounts on our in stock inventory! If you’re interested in a private appointment, please e-mail us at zeke@stcharlesboat.com or you can call us at 636-947-0106 during normal business hours.
For your service needs, we can schedule a touchless drop off and pick-up with you. For touchless drop off or pick-up, e-mail Jerry at jerry@stcharlesboat.com or Zeke at zeke@stcharlesboat.com for scheduling and instructions.
We realize that this too will pass and we can return to a more normal routine, which means getting back to boating for many of us!
We will keep our customer’s updated by posting on our website and Facebook page.

 

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

04-09-19

We have a full beer cooler..
Let us know what you want us to stock..we are trying our best to be competitive versus across the bridge..there are only few that I cant...so check us out..part of being competitive is counting on you...this will go for groceries as well...let us know what you need..

 

 

02-27-20 Update..

Fat Boys Restaurant at Two Rivers Marina

Hi Bill,
They are diligently working to get things in order. The have been working long hours trying to get the building in shape, lots of painting and cleaning. It is going to happen, however they are a bit behind because of Illinois paperwork. I expect an opening sometime in March. They are keeping the name "Fat Boys".

Cindy Blaylock
Two Rivers Marina.

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 

Wood Marina Spring Promotion

Attention -

New Slip Customers

50% Off Any Available Slip

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

3-25-20

Due the COVID-19 outbreak the service yard is experiencing delays in shipping which is causing a slight backup. If you have any questions or concerns please email the service manager Jeff Digman.
jeff@yachtclubstl.com.
Shop and office will be closed to customer walk-ins. Please just give us a call or email!
Thank you

 

Yacht Club tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on Higher ground !

 

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

Brussels Ferry............618 - 786-3636

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

Winfield Ferry.............618-  535-5759

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645  ..Closed for the Season

 

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 

3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Closed
Abigail's Tap Room Closed
Alton Marina Deli Closed
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Closed
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Open
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ Longshot Marina Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Closed
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Reopening Tue, May 19
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Closed
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Open for Carryouts
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Closed
Mike's LaRosa@ Longshot Marina Opening Memorial Day Weekend
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

 

TUESDAY

12 May 2020

 

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

Pool 25 of the Mississippi River

 

click pic to enlarge

 

The Picture of the Day..... was taken by Sharon Gwillim who hails out of Pool 25 of the Mississippi River

 

 Early Evening Color !

 

RiverBill says... Great photo Sharon.

Thanks for letting us repost it..

 

Longshot Marina Update

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

New band stage..... Mike's LaRosa Bar

 

click pic to enlarge

 

The Pictures of the Day..... were sent to us by Becky Dallwitz of Longshot Marina

 

Hey Bill,

 

Looking forward to opening Mike’s LaRosa on Memorial Day Weekend with live music Saturday-Monday.

 

A big thanks to Seyler Concrete for the cabana bar improvements including a band stage! Also to STL Tattoo for the hard work on our dock renovation.

 

Becky

 

 

The Boathouse Is Open

Thur, Fri, Sat & Sun This Week

05-11-12

Open Thurs, Fri, Sat and Sun this week


Some changes: 6ft between tables
10 folks tops, at 1 table.
All disposable utensils, cups , plates. Disposable Menus.
Reservations are Best.

Curbside pickup , dockside continues, we should have our app to order food and drinks by Saturday..  Or call 636-250-3300.


These are new times for all of us we are doing our best to follow guidelines while still providing our guest with the amazing experience of The Boathouse on the River.

Please be kind to one another.


Website.. N/A        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Boathouse Restaurant: 636 250 3300      Boathouse Office:636.250.3800

 

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

Grafton Harbor.... 618-786-PORT (7678)

 

 

First Mate is a boat brokerage located on the beautiful upper Mississippi.

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

 Yesteryears Pic of the Day

 

More of the River Travels of

Capt'n Carl Tiemann

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Flood of 2019

Driving down the street

Notice...Slowly with No Wake

 

Click pic to enlarge

 

 

Yesteryear's Picture on this Day in 2019...were sent to us by Capt'n Joe DeSherlia of Grafton Harbor

 

Friday Evening in Grafton

Carl Headed to the 3rd Chute for Chicken Wings

 

Alton Marina

click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

Email: woodlandmarina1@gmail.com

Click here for Website        Click here for Facebook

 

The Grafton Oyster Bar

is OPEN For Carry Out

Thur, Fri, Sat & Sun This Week

BOAT-IN AND CARRY OUT !


OPEN FRIDAY THRU SUNDAY 11AM-8PM

 

Expanding our hours next week to include Thursday. Please call ahead to place your order @ 618-786-3000.
 

Menu..  click here  

Website.. click here   Facebook.. click here

 

River News !  

 

 

click pic to enlarge

 

We offer full fiberglass repair, high performance upgrades, transom & stringer rebuilds, service on older products, new & used parts department, an accessories department, as well as many other services to suit everyone's boating needs.

We continue to display our Yamaha Sport Boats + Crest, Mercury + Yamaha Outboards and Heritage & Haul Rite trailers

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor website      St. Charles Boat & Motor Facebook

 

 

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED May 7, 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

MILE 273.4 - L/D RESTRICTION
Repairs at L/D 24 in the vicinity of Mile 273.4, are complete. The USACE restriction has been cancelled. All navigation interest should be alert for, and abide by, any special instructions that may be issued by the lockmaster..

MILE 273.4/MILE 241.4 - LOCKAGE AND CREW CHANGE SPECIAL REQUIREMENT
Due to concerns regarding the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and effective immediately for L/D’s 24 and 25, in the vicinity of Mile 273.4 and 241.4: No industry personnel shall be allowed inside USACE lock control houses or other buildings during crew changes, except in the case of medical emergency. Crew changes will still be allowed, but industry personnel must go directly from the vehicle to the motor vessel. At both facilities (L/D’s 24/25) the crew van will be required to park outside of the exterior fenced area during the crew change. Also effective immediately Locks 24 and 25 will not accept incoming or outgoing boat mail. Industry personnel will be required to use their own facilities while navigating through the lock. Changes are effective immediately and until further notice. All navigation interest should be alert for, and abide by, any special instructions that may be issued by the lockmaster.

MILE 200.5 - L/D MAINTENANCE/TEMPORARY DELAYS
Continuing until approximately May 9, 2020, from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m., each day, minor temporary delays may be experienced at Mel Price L/D (main chamber) in the vicinity of Mile 200.5, for use of a crane for maintenance. Delays may also be experienced at the auxiliary chamber for
sediment removal. These operations may involve the use of divers. Delays are expected to be less than 4 hours. Mariners should be alert for and abide by any special instructions from the lockmaster

MILE 183.2 - BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION
Merchants Railroad Bridge; Work barges continue excavating around both left and right descending navigation piers and the right descending pier of the center span. Work barges should not encroach more than 50 feet into the navigation channel, at any time. For work barge locations, mariners are encouraged to contact the onsite work boat M/V KATHERINE OHARA via VHF-FM Channel 6 or 16 or by phone at (217) 248-9077.

ILLINOIS RIVER

ILLINOIS WATERWAY - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - Update
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:
Peoria (Mile 187.0 - Mile 145.6),
Zone 4 Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),
Zone 3 Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0) and
Zone 2 Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0).
High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. Laying up on saturated levees is prohibited. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations if possible.
Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate actions to prevent breakaways. Exercise caution in all meeting and overtaking situations, as swift currents may be present. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting

MISSOURI RIVER

The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Washington Reach (Mile 100.0 – Mile 0.0) and

Jefferson Reach (Mile 200.0 – Mile 100.0).
Mariners should use caution and minimize wake. Laying up on saturated levees is prohibited. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations, remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be mindful of all bridge
navigational clearances and aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred. Take appropriate action to prevent any breakaways from occurring. Use caution in all passing and meeting situations as swift currents may be present. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station so remain alert while transiting. Recreational traffic is discouraged.

.

 

Click here  for the current "Local Notice To Mariners" report

 on the Navigation Center Website


 No new incident reports for the St. Louis area
 

Click here to go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for "all" incident reports    

 

River Gear For Sale............

 

Click here to buy your River T-shirts and Accessories on-line..

Delivered right to you mailbox in a few short days

 

 

Website         40% Off - New Members        Facebook

 

RiverBills Facebook

Two FaceBook Pages for You

 

The "River News and Media" Page

Page contains river news, RiverBills Pictures of the Day, Upcoming River Events, info from RiverBills.com advertisers, etc..... Click here and check it out

 

The "Boaters Group" Page

It's a group for all the boaters on all the rivers near the "PORT OF ST. LOUIS AND BEYOND." It's a Public Group, open to anyone that wants to join in. A place to post your boating pictures, shout outs, questions, comments, etc.  Stay in touch with other boaters all year long.  Invite your Boating Friends. 

We have 6,059 members as of 05-12-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

Missouri River Levees, Kansas City District

Additional Levee Repair Contracts Have Been Awarded........

 

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Kansas City District recently announced that further progress ands more contracts have been awarded in their levee rehabilitation program.  They report that 66 levee systems are slated for repair;  some have breaches, others have surface damage such as scour holes or grass kill.

 

Currently, the district has 24 levee repair contracts in place, with another 16 out for bids, or pending awarding.  As of May 1st, contractors had begun moving dirt on eight of the 24 projects.

 

The original level of protection is in place or has been restored on 38 levees, with 28 levees have breaches that must be repaired.  The district states that they anticipate contractors will wrap up many of the projects over the summer and fall, while some won't be completed until 2021........

 

Click here to read this news article from waterwaysjournal.net.

 

 

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

05-11-20

We want to thank everyone who came out to eat & drink on Saturday. I'm very excited to announce we will be opening back to normal starting next Tuesday, May 19th.
We will have our new COVID-19 shirts available for $15 each

 

Bingo May 21st !

 

Reprinted from Froge's bar and Grill Facebook... click here

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Living lands and Waters

Illinois River at Peroria, IL......

 

 

Reprinted from Living lands and Waters Facebook... click here

 

Missouri Fishing News

River Bass Season Opening Soon........

 

While legal sized bass may be caught and kept at the Lake of the Ozarks year-round, however, in Missouri streams, that is not the case.  Starting May 23rd, through February 28th, 2021, anglers may catch and keep black bass such as large and smallmouth and spotted/Kentucky bass in most streams south of the Missouri River.

 

In most state waters, the daily limit on black bass is six.  Fish caught in most streams and rivers must be 12 inches long.  There may be additional specific regulations in effect for specific areas and waters.

 

Anglers must have a valid fishing permit or be exempt.  Additional information on bass fishing is available in the Missouri Department of Conservation's 2020 Summary of Missouri Fishing Regulations, available where permits are sold, or online at https://short.mdc.mo.gov/Znv.

 

Click here to read this news article from lakeexpo.com.  With Photo.

 

 

Click here........ Port Charles Harbor website

Click here......Port Charles Harbor Facebook

 

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.

We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.

If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops  we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!

River Music

It Never Gets Old ......

 

 

 

River History....

 

May 12, 2009 in River History


The US Army Corps of Engineers issued a News Release that Sherwood Marina, operated by Donler Inc under a lease agreement with the U. S. Army Corps of Engineers, was permanently closed due to lack of quality service to the public and failure of the concessionaire to meet health and safety requirements.


The marina had been closed previously for the entire 2008 recreation season for public health and safety violations.

 

 

Mississippi River Art

Fountain Sculptures Outside Union Station Represent River Confluence........

 

On May 11, 1940, bronze sculptures were unveiled amid the fountains across Market street from Union Station.  The sculptures represented the joining of the Mississippi and Missouri Rivers.

 

The main sculptures were of men and women facing one another to represent the merging of two great rivers.  The figures were nude, and the males were anatomically complete.  Some were shocked by the representations, with the commissioner suggesting fig leaves for the figures.

 

Swedish sculptor Carl Milles created the sculpture to showcase St. Louis' origin along the river.  He wanted to name the sculpture Wedding of the Waters, however, city leaders looking to be a bit less controversial, changed the name to Meeting of the Waters........

 

Click here to read this news story from stltoday.com.  With Photo and Map.

 

Ohio River At Paducah, Kentucky

Two Men Arrested After Boat Fire........

 

Two men have been charged with arson following a boat fire.  Reportedly, a Paducah police officer was checking the transient dock area along N. Water Street at around 1:20 am Sunday morning, when he saw flames coming from the cabin of an abandoned houseboat.

 

54 year old Randy A. Roy and 70 year old William T. Jenkins were onboard the boat and taken to the riverbank for questioning.  Police say the pair admitted to setting the fire, claiming they were trying to rid the boat of fleas and bedbugs.

 

Roy was arrested on charges of third degree arson, alcohol intoxication and first degree criminal trespass.  Jenkins was arrested on charges of third degree arson and first degree criminal trespass........

 

Click here to read this news report from kfvs12.com.

 

Boat Manufacturer

Century Boats Has Acquired Vanquish Boats........

 

Century Boats of Zephyrhills, Florida has reported that they have acquired Vanquish Boats of Newport, Rhode Island.  Century intends to rebrand the Vanquish models and will relocate production to Florida.

 

The Vanquish models will be rebranded as Century Coronado, which was the name of popular boats Century built after World War II.  The Doug Zurn-designed line of center consoles and runabouts will keep their distinctive styling.

 

Production of the Vanquish line will be relocated to the main Century manufacturing facility in Zephyrhills.  The company intends to increase production, dealer distribution and the service network for the Coronado line........

 

Click here to read this news report from tradeonlytoday.com.  With Photos.

 

News Release From BoatUS


SPRINGFIELD, Va., May 11, 2020 – Most insurance is straightforward, until it’s not. When you have an accident or property damage, you file an insurance claim. But filing an insurance claim on a boat trailer isn’t so straightforward. That’s because it depends on how and what type of damage occurred that will determine which insurance coverage – auto, homeowners, or your boat insurance policy’s trailer coverage – that will pay the claim. By looking at some common ways claims happen, BoatUS dissects boat trailer insurance to help trailer boaters understand what they need to know.


If you’re driving to the lake with boat and trailer in tow and the trailer is damaged in an accident on the road, it’s the separate trailer coverage provided by your boat’s insurance policy that will pay for repairs or replacement of the trailer.


Now let’s suppose you back your trailer into fence or stone wall, or the trailer strikes someone walking across busy launch ramp parking lot. In these cases, it’s your auto insurance policy’s liability coverage that would pay for damages to other property or vehicles, or any medical claims. And again, your boat insurance policy’s trailer coverage would take care of repairs to the trailer itself.


What happens if while parked in your driveway, a tree falls on your trailer? Winter storms are notorious for damaging boat trailers. There are two possible answers here. It may be the trailer coverage in your boat’s insurance policy that will compensate you, or you may also be able to make a claim on your homeowner’s policy. However, if a trailer is damaged or stolen when stored at a marina or other storage facility, the separate trailer coverage in the boat’s insurance policy will compensate you.


What this all really means is that trailer boaters need to ensure their tow vehicle’s (auto) insurance policy includes liability coverage for any damage to others’ property while trailering. Next, trailer boaters should ask their homeowners insurance company if the trailer is covered when stored at home. If the trailer is stored at a marina or storage facility, read the fine print in your storage contract as many hold these facilities harmless. Having separate trailer coverage may, again, take care of this.


Not all boat insurance policies automatically provide boat trailer coverage, so ask. Also find out if there are geographic limits on where you may trailer the boat.


If you do choose to add trailer coverage to your boat’s insurance policy, ensure that your insurer knows the cost of the boat and trailer separately. If you don’t, they may have difficulty in fairly compensating you for a claim.


One final important consideration is roadside assistance. No one wants to leave a disabled boat trailer with your pride and joy on its bunks alone on the side of the highway. While many auto insurance policies offer roadside assistance, boat trailers aren’t likely to be included. All BoatUS boat insurance policies include BoatUS Trailer Assist, which will cover towing both a boat trailer and its disabled towing vehicle up to 100 miles. Alternatively, it may be added to a BoatUS membership for an additional $14.


###

 

This press release reprinted by permission of Scott Croft of BoatUS...click here

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "October 2020" 

One month listing on the front page in the featured Classified Section

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

e-mail your info along with 6 pictures (max) to riverbill@prodigy.net.

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

We will bill you after the ad is on-line

 

 

OFFERING

THE SWINGING DOCK STEP

 

 

 

Swings out

to bridge the gap between the dock and your boat

for ease of loading and boarding

 

Swings out of the way

 to the

 "Walk Thru"

position on the dock

 

Little Johns Marine Service... click here

Little John's Moptorsports... click here

What's Going On This Week

3rd Chute Bar & Grill
211 W. Main St. Grafton, IL

 

4-24-20

Well on a positive note the 3rd Chute has its first billboard..Yahoo!!! We have several changes at both locations a lot of new stuff coming. We will start posting pics of everything this week. Hopefully this s*** gets over with and we get the Rock and Rollin. The only thing that has been canceled is what we're not having while we're closed. We aren't going any advance cancellations. As soon as we open everything on schedule remains the same so check out the Events tab.
As always Chute first ask questions later!!

 

Just a short walk from Grafton Harbor
Breakfast available every Saturday and Sunday morning from 8am till 12pm

 

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

03-24-20...Temporarily Closed

 

 

Alton Marina is the cover photo for the

2020 edition of Quimby's Cruising Guide

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

04-27-20

Hello Facebook Fans! Just wanted to update everyone of our current status. Bluff City Grill will remain closed as the stay at home order has been extended yet again. We are hoping that we are getting closer to reopening as the new extension of the stay at home order does have some revisions allowing other businesses to reopen with restrictions to accommodate social distancing. We miss all of you & cant wait to see everyone as soon as we are allowed to reopen the doors. We will continue to update with any status changes here on our Facebook page. Make sure to like our page to prevent missing any updates. If anyone has any questions in regard to a scheduled event please follow this link: https://bluffcitygrillalton.com/contact/ We truly appreciate everyone’s support during this trying time & ask everyone to come together as a community. Please support our community’s small businesses & continue to follow the guidelines the CDC & WHO has recommended to help end this pandemic. Stay Safe & Stay Healthy!

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina


 

Some changes: 6ft between tables
10 folks tops, at 1 table.
All disposable utensils, cups , plates. Disposable Menus.
Reservations are Best.

Curbside pickup , dockside continues, we should have our app to order food and drinks by Saturday.. Or call 636-250-3300.

These are new times for all of us we are doing our best to follow guidelines while still providing our guest with the amazing experience of The Boathouse on the River.

Please be kind to one another.

 

Boathouse Restaurant... 636-250-3300

Boathouse Office...........636-250-3800

 

Website.... N/a
 

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

03/20/2020
Calhoun Ferry Company’s priority is the health and safety of our crew and passengers.
We received a call today from the U.S. Coast Guard advising us that all passengers will be required to stay in their vehicles when crossing the ferry. This is in response to the restrictions placed on gatherings of 10 or more people. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted.
We are cleaning and disinfecting all crew areas and all ferry passes as we receive them.
Starting tomorrow 03/21/2020 we will be reducing our hours to eliminate the late night shift on Friday and Saturday. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted. Hours will be Monday through Saturday 5am to 9pm and Sunday 8am to 9pm.
We will all get through this together by working together for a better tomorrow. Stay safe!
Thank You,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

     

 

 

 

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

3-18-20
Because of the CDC recommendations the restaurant management has decided to close the restaurant this weekend until further notice.
MJB

 

 

The Duck Club is the Premier Private Yacht Club serving the Upper Mississippi River, Alton pool boating community. The Club is located at the South end of Dardenne Slough with direct channel access at mm22

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

05-11-20

We want to thank everyone who came out to eat & drink on Saturday. I'm very excited to annouce we will be opening back to normal starting next Tuesday, May 19th.
We will have our new COVID-19 shirts available for $15 each.

 

Bingo..... May 21st


 

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

 

May 1, 2020

Grafton Harbor is OPEN!! Please come check out our variety of packaged liquor, treats for the kids, gift shop and ships store!! If you would like curb service call: 618-786-7678.
Friday Open until 5:00
Saturday 11:00 - 5:00
Sunday 11:00 - 4:00

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar!

 

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

We all know how hard the past year hit Grafton businesses. In light of the closures caused by the 2019 Flood and COVID-19, the Law Firm of Wittman & Lorton, P.C. and Preferred Title & Escrow, Inc. purchased 50 $100 gift cards to giveaway on our FB page. They also purchased 50 $100 gift cards from Grafton SkyTour. Starting March 23rd, and continuing for 50 days we will give away a $100 gift card to a Grafton restaurant or bar along with a $100 gift card to Grafton SkyTour sponsored by Wittman & Lorton and Preferred Title & Escrow! The goal is to encourage others during this difficult time to purchase gift cards from all Grafton businesses to be used once our businesses reopen! Make sure you visit The Grafton Illinois FB page daily: https://www.facebook.com/enjoygrafton/.
All you need to do is like and share Grafton Chamber of Commerce FB page each day to enter the daily giveaway. We thank everyone for your continued support of Grafton businesses! We can’t wait to see you come back again! Stay Safe

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

05-08-20

BOAT-IN AND CARRY OUT !

OPEN FRIDAY THRU SUNDAY 11AM-8PM

Expanding our hours next week to include Thursday. Please call ahead to place your order @ 618-786-3000.

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

05-09-20

Hey. We just had a 28’ dock with pontoon hoist open up. Won’t last long

 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

The old building has been torn down. 

 

Waiting on permits for new building.

 

"The plan is to keep it in the same location, maybe a little closer to the river and up about 7 ft higher. The building will be just a little smaller with a bigger deck."

 

Amanda

Kinder's Restaurant

 

Photo Gallery of tear down.. click here

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

.

March 7, 2020

Our gas dock is up and running for you.
Have a great weekend boaters!!

 

Reposted from Lake Center marina Facebook.... click here

 

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members in 2020 !
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook... click here.

 

Liberty Harbor

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

2020 Slip Rates

Click here

 

Contact Jerry

636-734-1929

 

E-mail Liberty Harbor.. libertyinstl@yahoo.com

 

Longshot Marina

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

04-18-20

Longshot Saloon..Closed

 

03-24-20

Marina is open.
Just got excavator delivered for spring and summer projects
 

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

05-12-20

Opening Memorial Day Weekend with live music Saturday-Monday

Becky Dallwitz
Longshot Marina

Polestar Boating Center

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

03-24-20

Operating on a skeleton crew.
If there is a need or emergency, call 636 250-3008

 

Dock Rentals on the Mississippi River
Safe Harbor Yacht Sales
The Canvas Man, LLC
Vessel Surveyor / Marine Consulting
Quality Marine Repair

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 

05-09-20

Gas dock and boat ramp ae open.  See you soon !

 

03-31-20

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.


We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.
If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call 📞 and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops 🏢 we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!


 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

04-28-20

It’s official! We’re opening for the 2020 Watersports season this Friday, May 1st. Call us at 314-800-5695 to reserve your rental in advance. Visit our website www.stljetski.com for our updated social distancing process.

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

 

Store Hours

Sun..... 10-9

M-Th....10-10

Fri Sat..10-11

Call ahead for an order

or come in !

 

636-723-0005!

 

Click here for menu

3025 N MO-94, St. Charles, Missouri 63301

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

05-01-20

Wanting to re-power your boat?Don’t miss out on this great promotion. Call us for details...click here

 

04-08-20

SPRING SALES OFFERS | $2,000 Instant Savings on New Yamaha Boats; Zero Down, Zero Interest, Zero Payments for 3 Months; $7,500 Off 275 Series boats.

 

03-23-20

St. Charles Boat & Motor update:
Due to the unprecedented time that the country is experiencing, we are implementing some additions to our normal routine:
At this time, we remain open for business, operating with a small staff. For the safety of our customers, our staff, and our families, in addition to our normal operations, we are offering some alternative means of interacting with us as well – for both purchasing products (from parts to a new boat) and for your service needs.
If you’d like to shop any new or used inventory with us with minimized social interaction, we can schedule individual appointments or send you a virtual video tour of a unit. You can always shop our inventory on our website as well, at www.stcharlesboat.com. We currently have some huge discounts on our in stock inventory! If you’re interested in a private appointment, please e-mail us at zeke@stcharlesboat.com or you can call us at 636-947-0106 during normal business hours.
For your service needs, we can schedule a touchless drop off and pick-up with you. For touchless drop off or pick-up, e-mail Jerry at jerry@stcharlesboat.com or Zeke at zeke@stcharlesboat.com for scheduling and instructions.
We realize that this too will pass and we can return to a more normal routine, which means getting back to boating for many of us!
We will keep our customer’s updated by posting on our website and Facebook page.

 

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

04-09-19

We have a full beer cooler..
Let us know what you want us to stock..we are trying our best to be competitive versus across the bridge..there are only few that I cant...so check us out..part of being competitive is counting on you...this will go for groceries as well...let us know what you need..

 

 

02-27-20 Update..

Fat Boys Restaurant at Two Rivers Marina

Hi Bill,
They are diligently working to get things in order. The have been working long hours trying to get the building in shape, lots of painting and cleaning. It is going to happen, however they are a bit behind because of Illinois paperwork. I expect an opening sometime in March. They are keeping the name "Fat Boys".

Cindy Blaylock
Two Rivers Marina.

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 

Wood Marina Spring Promotion

Attention -

New Slip Customers

50% Off Any Available Slip

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

3-25-20

Due the COVID-19 outbreak the service yard is experiencing delays in shipping which is causing a slight backup. If you have any questions or concerns please email the service manager Jeff Digman.
jeff@yachtclubstl.com.
Shop and office will be closed to customer walk-ins. Please just give us a call or email!
Thank you

 

Yacht Club tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on Higher ground !

 

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

Brussels Ferry............618 - 786-3636

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

Winfield Ferry.............618-  535-5759

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645  ..Closed for the Season

 

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 

3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Closed
Abigail's Tap Room Closed
Alton Marina Deli Closed
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Closed
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Open
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ Longshot Marina Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Closed
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. Reopening Tue, May 19
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Closed
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Open for Carryouts
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Closed
Mike's LaRosa@ Longshot Marina Opening Memorial Day Weekend
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

 

MONDAY

11 May 2020

 

 

Over 10.5 Million Boater Visits

Since Sept 12, 2004

To The Always Changing e-Waters of RiverBills.com

 

The Boathouse

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 

 

click pic to enlarge

 

The Pictures of the Day..... were sent to us by Mary Tiemann who hails out of Camp Carl's in her boat .....The Queen Mary

 

 Riverside Dining Oasis !

 

The Boathouse Is Open !


Some changes: 6ft between tables
10 folks tops, at 1 table.
All disposable utensils, cups , plates. Disposable Menus.
Reservations are Best.

Curbside pickup , dockside continues, we should have our app to order food and drinks by Saturday..  Or call 636-250-3300.


These are new times for all of us we are doing our best to follow guidelines while still providing our guest with the amazing experience of The Boathouse on the River.

Please be kind to one another.


Website.. N/A        Facebook.. click here        Events.. click here

Boathouse Restaurant: 636 250 3300      Boathouse Office:636.250.3800

 

Grafton Harbor is OPEN!! Please come check out our variety of packaged liquor, treats for the kids, gift shop and ships store!!

If you would like curb service call: 618-786-7678.
Friday Open until 5:00
Saturday 11:00 - 5:00
Sunday 11:00 - 6:00

 

click here for Facebook          click here for website

 

Grafton Harbor.... 618-786-PORT (7678)

 

 

First Mate is a boat brokerage located on the beautiful upper Mississippi.

We sell boats and will find you the perfect boat!

 

 Click here for Facebook    Click here for Website    Browse Our Boats

 Yesteryears Pic of the Day

 

The Boathouse Food & Deck

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Flood of 2019

It's Capt'n Carl Tiemann and Richard chatting

Click pic to enlarge

 

 

Yesteryear's Picture on this Day in 2019... was sent to us by Toni Luttrell of the Boathouse Food and Deck

 

Toni says...

Well I guess we could start something like this. Lol

 

Alton Marina

click here for Facebook         Click here for website

 

Alton Marina.... 618-462-9860

 

www.RiverBills.com

Featured Classifieds

More Boats on RiverBills.com "All Classifieds Page"

click here

Email: woodlandmarina1@gmail.com

Click here for Website        Click here for Facebook

 

BOAT-IN AND CARRY OUT !


OPEN FRIDAY THRU SUNDAY 11AM-8PM

 

Expanding our hours next week to include Thursday. Please call ahead to place your order @ 618-786-3000.
 

Menu..  click here  

Website.. click here   Facebook.. click here

 

River News !  

 

 

click pic to enlarge

 

We offer full fiberglass repair, high performance upgrades, transom & stringer rebuilds, service on older products, new & used parts department, an accessories department, as well as many other services to suit everyone's boating needs.

We continue to display our Yamaha Sport Boats + Crest, Mercury + Yamaha Outboards and Heritage & Haul Rite trailers

 

St. Charles Boat & Motor website      St. Charles Boat & Motor Facebook

 

 

Some Highlights of This Week's

LOCAL NOTICE TO MARINERS

District 8 MRS                                                 UPDATED May 7, 2020

Mississippi River System

 

MISSISSIPPI RIVER

MILE 273.4 - L/D RESTRICTION
Repairs at L/D 24 in the vicinity of Mile 273.4, are complete. The USACE restriction has been cancelled. All navigation interest should be alert for, and abide by, any special instructions that may be issued by the lockmaster..

MILE 273.4/MILE 241.4 - LOCKAGE AND CREW CHANGE SPECIAL REQUIREMENT
Due to concerns regarding the spread of the coronavirus (COVID-19) and effective immediately for L/D’s 24 and 25, in the vicinity of Mile 273.4 and 241.4: No industry personnel shall be allowed inside USACE lock control houses or other buildings during crew changes, except in the case of medical emergency. Crew changes will still be allowed, but industry personnel must go directly from the vehicle to the motor vessel. At both facilities (L/D’s 24/25) the crew van will be required to park outside of the exterior fenced area during the crew change. Also effective immediately Locks 24 and 25 will not accept incoming or outgoing boat mail. Industry personnel will be required to use their own facilities while navigating through the lock. Changes are effective immediately and until further notice. All navigation interest should be alert for, and abide by, any special instructions that may be issued by the lockmaster.

MILE 200.5 - L/D MAINTENANCE/TEMPORARY DELAYS
Continuing until approximately May 9, 2020, from 8:00 a.m. until 4:00 p.m., each day, minor temporary delays may be experienced at Mel Price L/D (main chamber) in the vicinity of Mile 200.5, for use of a crane for maintenance. Delays may also be experienced at the auxiliary chamber for
sediment removal. These operations may involve the use of divers. Delays are expected to be less than 4 hours. Mariners should be alert for and abide by any special instructions from the lockmaster

MILE 183.2 - BRIDGE CONSTRUCTION
Merchants Railroad Bridge; Work barges continue excavating around both left and right descending navigation piers and the right descending pier of the center span. Work barges should not encroach more than 50 feet into the navigation channel, at any time. For work barge locations, mariners are encouraged to contact the onsite work boat M/V KATHERINE OHARA via VHF-FM Channel 6 or 16 or by phone at (217) 248-9077.

ILLINOIS RIVER

ILLINOIS WATERWAY - CHANNEL CONDITION/SAFETY ADVISORY - Update
The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:
Peoria (Mile 187.0 - Mile 145.6),
Zone 4 Beardstown (Mile 101.9 – Mile 80.3),
Zone 3 Meredosia (Mile 80.2 – Mile 50.0) and
Zone 2 Hardin (Mile 49.9 – Mile 10.0).
High water and drift potential may be encountered in this area. Mariners are advised to minimize wake and exercise caution. Laying up on saturated levees is prohibited. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations if possible.
Mariners should remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred and take appropriate actions to prevent breakaways. Exercise caution in all meeting and overtaking situations, as swift currents may be present. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station, so remain cautious while transiting

MISSOURI RIVER

The following areas are in the high water watch phase IAW the Western Rivers WAP Annex:

Washington Reach (Mile 100.0 – Mile 0.0) and

Jefferson Reach (Mile 200.0 – Mile 100.0).
Mariners should use caution and minimize wake. Laying up on saturated levees is prohibited. Mariners should be experienced in high water conditions and avoid down-streaming operations, remain vigilant to an increase in debris and maneuver appropriately. Be mindful of all bridge
navigational clearances and aware that a buildup of debris in fleeting areas may have occurred. Take appropriate action to prevent any breakaways from occurring. Use caution in all passing and meeting situations as swift currents may be present. Navigational buoys may have been dragged off station so remain alert while transiting. Recreational traffic is discouraged.

.

 

Click here  for the current "Local Notice To Mariners" report

 on the Navigation Center Website


 No new incident reports for the St. Louis area
 

Click here to go to the Missouri State Highway Patrol website for "all" incident reports    

 

River Gear For Sale............

 

Click here to buy your River T-shirts and Accessories on-line..

Delivered right to you mailbox in a few short days

 

 

Website         40% Off - New Members        Facebook

 

RiverBills Facebook

Two FaceBook Pages for You

 

The "River News and Media" Page

Page contains river news, RiverBills Pictures of the Day, Upcoming River Events, info from RiverBills.com advertisers, etc..... Click here and check it out

 

The "Boaters Group" Page

It's a group for all the boaters on all the rivers near the "PORT OF ST. LOUIS AND BEYOND." It's a Public Group, open to anyone that wants to join in. A place to post your boating pictures, shout outs, questions, comments, etc.  Stay in touch with other boaters all year long.  Invite your Boating Friends. 

We have 6,055 members as of 05-11-20....... Click here and check it out. 

 

Mississippi River Journeys
Two Men Paddling The Mississippi To Inspire Others With Disabilities
....

 

While paddling the length of the Mississippi River is enough of a challenge with barges, weather and wildlife to contend with, two men with disabilities are taking up the challenge to raise funds and awareness for the nonprofit Courage Incorporated.
 
Nate Denofre, a double amputee and Don Jokinen, a disabled combat veteran, launched their two 17 foot Old Town canoes into the Mississippi River headwaters at Lake Itaska, with the plan to paddle the entire 2,350 mile river to the Gulf of Mexico in around 100 days.
 
The duo’s journey, named Paddling to Preserve will benefit Courage Incorporated, which was founded by Denofre and a friend in 2015, and takes veterans and other adults with disabilities on wilderness adventures in northeastern Wisconsin and Michigan’s Upper Peninsula……..
 
Click here to read this news story from jsonline.com.  With Photos.

 

Follow their Journey at https://paddlingtopersevere.org/

 

  Website..click here      Facebook Page..click here

 

 Lewis Boat Inventory.. click here

 

Illinois Waterways
A Bucket List For People Obsessed With Water Congress....

 

For people that crave the peaceful serenity of spending time on the water, Only In Your State has come up with some water attractions in Illinois that water lovers should consider visiting.
 
The list ranges from waterfalls, to rivers and lakes, and includes:  
 
○  Chain O’Lakes State Park
○  Waterfall Glen Forest Preserve
○  Cave In Rock State Park
○  Mississippi Palisades State Park
○  Matthiessen State Park
○  Thunder Bay Falls
○  Starved Rock State Park
○  Illinois Beach State Park
 
Click here to read more from onlyinyourstate.com.  With Photo.

 

May 15 - 22, 2020

Upcoming Events In the Nest Few Weeks ....

 

Looking for outreach resources for National Safe Boating Week? While COVID-19 has changed how we communicate with boaters, in many areas the water is open.

Browse this FREE partner outreach toolkit from the Safe Boating Campaign. Join us in sharing these boating safety messages from May 15 - 22, 2020.


May 15: Wear Your Life Jacket to Work (or Home) Day
May 16-22: National Safe Boating Week

 

May 15:

Wear Your Life Jacket to Work

(or Home) Day

May 16-22:

National Safe Boating Week

 

Reprinted from US Coast Guard Auxiliary Facebook... click here

 

 

Click here........ Port Charles Harbor website

Click here......Port Charles Harbor Facebook

 

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.

We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.

If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops  we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!

River Music

It Never Gets Old ......

 

Play it for us Tim !

Click here

 

 

RiverBill says...  Thanks for allowing us to post some of your music Tim

 

River History....

 

May 11, 2008 in River History


Flood of 2008
~Mississippi River Lock and Dams 16, 17, 20, 22 reopen to Navigation
~Grafton Ferry was closed due to high water
~Brussels Ferry just re-opened for business

“Farmer Wants A Wife,” staring Matt Neustadt, a bachelor from Orchard Farm, Mo was airing on television.

Rend Lake 

Southern, Illinois
Corps Extending Rend Lake Closures........

 

The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has announced that because of the COVID-19 pandemic, they will be extending the closure of Corps-managed managed facilities and campgrounds at Rend Lake through May 31st.
 
The closure affects all Corps managed facilities at rend Lake including North and South Sandusky campground and day use, Gun Creek campground and day use, North and South Markham recreation area, Spillway recreation area, Dam West recreation area, Dale Miller group camp and Shagbark group camp.
 
All reservations for the month of May will be cancelled. People with reservations affected by this closure can modify the reservation in order to avoid cancellation of reservations that extend past the end of the month……..
 
Click here to read this news story from kfvs12.com.  With Photo

 

Dredging News
Dredge Owners Must Compensate During COVID 19 Outbreak…….

 

Like many areas of the marine industry, dredging has been deemed essential by the Cybersecurity & Infrastructure Security Agency, meaning that during the fight against COVID-19l, dredge work will continue.
 
Mark Sickles, the head of corporate and government relationship for Weeks Marine says that they are grateful to be considered essential, and they are implementing protocols to prevent spreading the COVID-19 virus while continuing operations.
 
Sickles adds that the Weeks Marine president has stressed the importance of following social distancing protocols during their off time.  He says that before employees may travel on the job, they must complete a questionnaire about their life circumstances……..
 
Click here to read this news article from waterwaysjournal.net.

 

Click pic to launch Live Webcam

 

Mississippi River At Bettendorf, Iowa
Crews Working To Complete The New I-74 Mississippi River Bridge
........

 

Last week, crews hoisted the final segment of the Interstate 74 Mississippi River Bridge arch into it’s final resting place on the span that links Moline, Illinois and Bettendorf, Iowa.
 
According to Danielle Alvarez with the Iowa Department of Transportation, crews had their work cut out for them as they connected the 38 foot long keystone to the rest of the arch segments with thousands of bolts. 
 
Cranes will be supporting the keystone segment until workers are able to complete several more steps to bring the two sides of the arch together, and they will work around the clock to make the final connections……..


Click here to read this news article from radioiowa.com.
  With Photo.

 

 

~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

 

List Your Boat

on RiverBills Classifieds

6 Months for $50.00

From "Now" until "October 2020" 

One month listing on the front page in the featured Classified Section

Six months on the Classified Page.  

 

e-mail your info along with 6 pictures (max) to riverbill@prodigy.net.

 

Click here and check out RiverBills Classifieds Page

We will bill you after the ad is on-line

 

 

OFFERING

THE SWINGING DOCK STEP

 

 

 

Swings out

to bridge the gap between the dock and your boat

for ease of loading and boarding

 

Swings out of the way

 to the

 "Walk Thru"

position on the dock

 

Little Johns Marine Service... click here

Little John's Moptorsports... click here

What's Going On This Week

3rd Chute Bar & Grill
211 W. Main St. Grafton, IL

 

4-24-20

Well on a positive note the 3rd Chute has its first billboard..Yahoo!!! We have several changes at both locations a lot of new stuff coming. We will start posting pics of everything this week. Hopefully this s*** gets over with and we get the Rock and Rollin. The only thing that has been canceled is what we're not having while we're closed. We aren't going any advance cancellations. As soon as we open everything on schedule remains the same so check out the Events tab.
As always Chute first ask questions later!!

 

Just a short walk from Grafton Harbor
Breakfast available every Saturday and Sunday morning from 8am till 12pm

 

3rd Chute Upcoming Events.. click here

Alton Marina

Mississippi River at Alton, IL

 

03-24-20...Temporarily Closed

 

 

Alton Marina is the cover photo for the

2020 edition of Quimby's Cruising Guide

bluff city grill

424 Broadway, Alton, IL

 

04-27-20

Hello Facebook Fans! Just wanted to update everyone of our current status. Bluff City Grill will remain closed as the stay at home order has been extended yet again. We are hoping that we are getting closer to reopening as the new extension of the stay at home order does have some revisions allowing other businesses to reopen with restrictions to accommodate social distancing. We miss all of you & cant wait to see everyone as soon as we are allowed to reopen the doors. We will continue to update with any status changes here on our Facebook page. Make sure to like our page to prevent missing any updates. If anyone has any questions in regard to a scheduled event please follow this link: https://bluffcitygrillalton.com/contact/ We truly appreciate everyone’s support during this trying time & ask everyone to come together as a community. Please support our community’s small businesses & continue to follow the guidelines the CDC & WHO has recommended to help end this pandemic. Stay Safe & Stay Healthy!

 

Just a short distance from the Alton Marina

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

The Boathouse

Northshore Marina


 

Some changes: 6ft between tables
10 folks tops, at 1 table.
All disposable utensils, cups , plates. Disposable Menus.
Reservations are Best.

Curbside pickup , dockside continues, we should have our app to order food and drinks by Saturday.. Or call 636-250-3300.

These are new times for all of us we are doing our best to follow guidelines while still providing our guest with the amazing experience of The Boathouse on the River.

Please be kind to one another.

 

Boathouse Restaurant... 636-250-3300

Boathouse Office...........636-250-3800

 

Website.... N/a
 

 

Upcoming Events.. click here

Calhoun Ferry Company

 

The Golden Eagle Ferry is OPEN

 

03/20/2020
Calhoun Ferry Company’s priority is the health and safety of our crew and passengers.
We received a call today from the U.S. Coast Guard advising us that all passengers will be required to stay in their vehicles when crossing the ferry. This is in response to the restrictions placed on gatherings of 10 or more people. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted.
We are cleaning and disinfecting all crew areas and all ferry passes as we receive them.
Starting tomorrow 03/21/2020 we will be reducing our hours to eliminate the late night shift on Friday and Saturday. This will remain in effect until the restrictions are lifted. Hours will be Monday through Saturday 5am to 9pm and Sunday 8am to 9pm.
We will all get through this together by working together for a better tomorrow. Stay safe!
Thank You,
The Calhoun Ferry Company

 

Cedar Hill Resort

Mississippi River

1 mile below Winfield Dam

 

Closed and For Sale

Contact Jay at 618 772 5766

 

Con Trios Yacht Club

     

 

 

 

 

Duck Club Yacht Club

 

3-18-20
Because of the CDC recommendations the restaurant management has decided to close the restaurant this weekend until further notice.
MJB

 

 

The Duck Club is the Premier Private Yacht Club serving the Upper Mississippi River, Alton pool boating community. The Club is located at the South end of Dardenne Slough with direct channel access at mm22

Froge's Bar and Grill

Portage des Sioux, MO

 

Saturday, May 9th

We will be serving $2 can beer, $10 pulled pork plates w/2 sides from 12-til gone this Saturday, May 9th. We will still be practicing social distancing, thank you!
 

Grafton Harbor

Confluence of Mississippi and Illinois Rivers

 

 

May 1, 2020

Grafton Harbor is OPEN!! Please come check out our variety of packaged liquor, treats for the kids, gift shop and ships store!! If you would like curb service call: 618-786-7678.
Friday Open until 5:00
Saturday 11:00 - 5:00
Sunday 11:00 - 4:00

Grafton Harbor

Grafton Harbor River Adventures
 

Mark your Calendars, Start Booking Those Cruises, our website has been updated for 2020 and is ready for your reservations! We've added more dinner cruises catered by the award winning Grafton Oyster Bar!

 

 

Click here for 2020 cruise schedule

Grafton, IL

Confluence of Mississippi  & Illinois Rivers

 

We all know how hard the past year hit Grafton businesses. In light of the closures caused by the 2019 Flood and COVID-19, the Law Firm of Wittman & Lorton, P.C. and Preferred Title & Escrow, Inc. purchased 50 $100 gift cards to giveaway on our FB page. They also purchased 50 $100 gift cards from Grafton SkyTour. Starting March 23rd, and continuing for 50 days we will give away a $100 gift card to a Grafton restaurant or bar along with a $100 gift card to Grafton SkyTour sponsored by Wittman & Lorton and Preferred Title & Escrow! The goal is to encourage others during this difficult time to purchase gift cards from all Grafton businesses to be used once our businesses reopen! Make sure you visit The Grafton Illinois FB page daily: https://www.facebook.com/enjoygrafton/.
All you need to do is like and share Grafton Chamber of Commerce FB page each day to enter the daily giveaway. We thank everyone for your continued support of Grafton businesses! We can’t wait to see you come back again! Stay Safe

 

Click here and check out "Welcome to Grafton" website

Grafton Oyster Bar

Grafton Harbor

 

 

05-08-20

BOAT-IN AND CARRY OUT !

OPEN FRIDAY THRU SUNDAY 11AM-8PM

Expanding our hours next week to include Thursday. Please call ahead to place your order @ 618-786-3000.

 

John's Boat Harbor

Mississippi River at UMR 231.8

 

05-09-20

Hey. We just had a 28’ dock with pontoon hoist open up. Won’t last long

 

Kinder's Restaurant

Mississippi River at Golden Eagle, IL

 

The old building has been torn down. 

 

Waiting on permits for new building.

 

"The plan is to keep it in the same location, maybe a little closer to the river and up about 7 ft higher. The building will be just a little smaller with a bigger deck."

 

Amanda

Kinder's Restaurant

 

Photo Gallery of tear down.. click here

Lake Center Marina

MM224.4 UMR

.

March 7, 2020

Our gas dock is up and running for you.
Have a great weekend boaters!!

 

Reposted from Lake Center marina Facebook.... click here

 

 

We’re excited to announce 40% OFF all annual docks & slips to new members in 2020 !
http://lakecentermarina.com/new-members

 

Lewis Boats

Marine Sales and Service

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Reprinted from Lewis Boats Facrbook... click here.

 

Liberty Harbor

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

2020 Slip Rates

Click here

 

Contact Jerry

636-734-1929

 

E-mail Liberty Harbor.. libertyinstl@yahoo.com

 

Longshot Marina

Longshot Saloon at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

04-18-20

Longshot Saloon..Closed

 

03-24-20

Marina is open.
Just got excavator delivered for spring and summer projects
 

 

Mike's La Rosa at Longshot Marina

Mississippi River at

Portage des Sioux, Mo

 

04-30-20

The La Rosa Bar opening has been rescheduled for the week before Memorial Day if the water stays down.

Andy Dallwitz
Longshot Marina

Polestar Boating Center

Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough 221.5

 

03-24-20

Operating on a skeleton crew.
If there is a need or emergency, call 636 250-3008

 

Dock Rentals on the Mississippi River
Safe Harbor Yacht Sales
The Canvas Man, LLC
Vessel Surveyor / Marine Consulting
Quality Marine Repair

Port Charles Harbor

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

Dardenne Slough at 221.5

 

05-09-20

Gas dock and boat ramp ae open.  See you soon !

 

03-31-20

Important Notice Regarding Port Charles Harbor During This Difficult Time.


We hope all of our friends are doing well. Please note that we have one person in our office working and taking phone calls at this time. Our front door is locked, but our ramp is open. Please leave your ramping payment in the box located at the ramp. Our gas dock is also open during normal business hours.
If you are in need of a part or something from our ships store just give us a call 📞 and we can get it for you and arrange how you can pick it up. Because of the size of our shops 🏢 we feel confident that we are staying at least 6 feet apart from one another so please be assured we are continuing to work on all of our scheduled service work. At this time we are still taking orders for service work and would be happy to arrange drop off times for your boat.
We hope to see everyone soon! Please stay safe and continue to think about all the wonderful sunny boating days ahead!
From all of us at
Port Charles Harbor

 

TowBoatUS St Charles is located at Port Charles Harbor. Because we are a emergency response team we are open for calls during this time. If you do go out on your boat please remember all of the necessary safety equipment you would normally take while boating. Stay safe and enjoy the sunshine!


 

River Road Watersports

Pool 26 of the Mississippi River at Grafton Harbor

 

04-28-20

It’s official! We’re opening for the 2020 Watersports season this Friday, May 1st. Call us at 314-800-5695 to reserve your rental in advance. Visit our website www.stljetski.com for our updated social distancing process.

 

Jet Ski Rentals

Boat Rental

Rafting Float Trip

Riviera Too

Food, Beer, Wine

 

 

Store Hours

Sun..... 10-9

M-Th....10-10

Fri Sat..10-11

Call ahead for an order

or come in !

 

636-723-0005!

 

Click here for menu

3025 N MO-94, St. Charles, Missouri 63301

St. Charles Boat & Motor

The Complete Marine

 

05-01-20

Wanting to re-power your boat?Don’t miss out on this great promotion. Call us for details...click here

 

04-08-20

SPRING SALES OFFERS | $2,000 Instant Savings on New Yamaha Boats; Zero Down, Zero Interest, Zero Payments for 3 Months; $7,500 Off 275 Series boats.

 

03-23-20

St. Charles Boat & Motor update:
Due to the unprecedented time that the country is experiencing, we are implementing some additions to our normal routine:
At this time, we remain open for business, operating with a small staff. For the safety of our customers, our staff, and our families, in addition to our normal operations, we are offering some alternative means of interacting with us as well – for both purchasing products (from parts to a new boat) and for your service needs.
If you’d like to shop any new or used inventory with us with minimized social interaction, we can schedule individual appointments or send you a virtual video tour of a unit. You can always shop our inventory on our website as well, at www.stcharlesboat.com. We currently have some huge discounts on our in stock inventory! If you’re interested in a private appointment, please e-mail us at zeke@stcharlesboat.com or you can call us at 636-947-0106 during normal business hours.
For your service needs, we can schedule a touchless drop off and pick-up with you. For touchless drop off or pick-up, e-mail Jerry at jerry@stcharlesboat.com or Zeke at zeke@stcharlesboat.com for scheduling and instructions.
We realize that this too will pass and we can return to a more normal routine, which means getting back to boating for many of us!
We will keep our customer’s updated by posting on our website and Facebook page.

 

  Two Rivers Marina

  Mississippi River at Louisiana, Mo

 

04-09-19

We have a full beer cooler..
Let us know what you want us to stock..we are trying our best to be competitive versus across the bridge..there are only few that I cant...so check us out..part of being competitive is counting on you...this will go for groceries as well...let us know what you need..

 

 

02-27-20 Update..

Fat Boys Restaurant at Two Rivers Marina

Hi Bill,
They are diligently working to get things in order. The have been working long hours trying to get the building in shape, lots of painting and cleaning. It is going to happen, however they are a bit behind because of Illinois paperwork. I expect an opening sometime in March. They are keeping the name "Fat Boys".

Cindy Blaylock
Two Rivers Marina.

Woodland Marina

UMR 222.8 ...Pool 26 of the Mississippi River

 

 

Wood Marina Spring Promotion

Attention -

New Slip Customers

50% Off Any Available Slip

Yacht Club of St. Louis

Mississippi River

At UMR 225 On Dardenne Slough

 

3-25-20

Due the COVID-19 outbreak the service yard is experiencing delays in shipping which is causing a slight backup. If you have any questions or concerns please email the service manager Jeff Digman.
jeff@yachtclubstl.com.
Shop and office will be closed to customer walk-ins. Please just give us a call or email!
Thank you

 

Yacht Club tore down due to flood damage.

Rebuilding on Higher ground !

 

 

More Things Going On This Week

click here

 

River Ferries

 

Illinois River

Brussels Ferry............618 - 786-3636

 

Mississippi River

Golden Eagle Ferry ....618-  535-5759

Winfield Ferry.............618-  535-5759

Grafton Ferry............ 1-800-258-6645  ..Closed for the Season

 

 

Last Weekend's Edition of RiverBills....

 

Click here for last weekend's edition of RiverBills

 

Restaurants

Who's Open.. Who's Closed

Who's Open... Who's Closed........
 

3rd Chute Bar & Grill ......................... Closed
Abigail's Tap Room Closed
Alton Marina Deli Closed
Arrrr Bar at Grafton Harbor.................. Closed
Boathouse Food & Deck..................... Reopening May 1st for Pickup Service & Possible delivery
Cedar Hill Resort................................ Closed & For Sale
Driftwood Crab Shack @ MRH Resort.. Closed
Duck Club Yacht Club........................ Closed
Froges Bar & Grill.............................. BBQ Some Weekends
Grafton Harbor Winery & Gift Shop...... Closed
Grafton Oyster Bar............................. Open for Carryouts
Kinder's Restaurant.......................... Being rebuilt in same location
Longshot Saloon................................ Closed
LaRosa Cantina................................. Opening Weekend before Memorial Day
Yacht Club of St. Louis..................... Being rebuilt in new location

If you are shown on any picture published on RiveverBills.com and don't want this, email riverbill@prodigy.net and we will remove the picture.
 

Click here for more past edition's of RiverBill's.com

or

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