Enjoy the James

Secrets of the James

Poor Man’s Bahamas: Snorkeling on the James

Snorkeling the River When a dry summer makes the river low warm and clear, it is high time to dig out a mask and snorkel and take a quick trip to “the poor man’s Bahamas”-the James River. Snorkeling anywhere on the Middle and Upper James can be interesting, but the activity is best known around the Fall Line. Starting just west of Richmond, the James enters a 7-mile stretch in which it descends a remarkable 105 vertical feet, effectively falling off the rocky Piedmont and into the sandy Tidewater region. This Fall Line or Fall Zone, with its rocks, holes and eddies, makes for plenty of diverse fish habitat, much like a coral reef.

The more you look the more you will find when you go river snorkeling. From the smallest of aquatic insects clinging to rocks to giant catfish cruising the depths. You can wade and snorkel near a riverside park or bring a mask along on a float trip in a canoe or inner tube. You’ll be amazed at the world that is revealed when you dip below the surface with your vision intact. You’ll learn something about our river by taking the opportunity to see it from a fish’s perspective.
This summer remember you don’t have to go far away to be amazed by an underwater world. It’s waiting for you right here on the James.

More Information:

Snorkeling and Fish Watching in Richmond

JRA’s Middle James Maps show you River Access Points

Capt. Mike Ostrander of Discover The James can help connect you and your family to the James

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