Soo Locks Hydro Plant Tailrace Closing to Vessel Traffic
Ongoing New Lock at the Soo construction activities are occurring in the St. Marys Falls Canal hydroelectric power plant tailrace. Beginning April 1, 2024, this area will close to all vessel traffic except at the specific direction of the Chief Lockmaster.
Scheduled New Lock at the Soo construction activities are anticipated to allow exceptions to this closure beginning most Saturdays at 6 p.m. through the following Monday at 6 a.m., and infrequently on other days.
The closure area is identified with hatching in the associated graphic.
Illuminated traffic signs are positioned at the east end of the tailrace to indicate open or closed status.
The Corps of Engineers will send text message alerts indicating change in open or closed status to individuals who sign up to receive notifications. To sign up for text message alerts when status changes occur please text 906-259-2841 with the message ADD TO TAILRACE NOTIFICATIONS, or email carrie.d.fox@usace.army.mil with your cellular phone number and request to be added to the tailrace status text message alert list. If you have previously signed up for text message alerts, you will continue to receive them.
This closure will remain in effect through January 15, 2025.
To find more information on the New Lock at the Soo, visit the Detroit District Website: https://www.lrd.usace.army.mil/Mission/Projects/Article/3642009/new-lock-at-the-soo/
Vessel Closure
WE TAKE FISHING SERIOUSLY
The scenic St. Marys River offers amazing fishing virtually year-round; sample the iconic waterway’s multi-species fishery, including four species of salmon and spectacular steelhead, northern pike, walleye, and small-mouthed bass. Keep scrolling for charter information at the bottom of the page.
Use the St. Marys River Annual Peak Fishing Guide to help determine your fishing trip to Sault Ste. Marie. There are numerous rivers that have extended seasons on these species.
HELPFUL LINKS
Michigan Fishing Guide for specific fishing details.
Michigan DNR eLicense to order a fishing license online.
Michigan Fishing Guide for rules and regulations for fishing in Michigan
Find a local place to buy your fishing license here.
Ice Fishing with local fisherman, Tom, Pink! These are real locations shared by a reel fisherman.
Restaurants in Sault Ste. Marie so you don’t go hungry if the big one gets away. If you stop by The Antlers Restaurant cast your eyes about and catch a glimpse of the Elusive Fur-Bearing Trout hiding among the 200 mounted critters decorating the walls.
