New directional signs will help guide anglers with power boats, helping keep paddlecraft launching at its designated section and preventing people from parking on that area.

“We designed the paddlecraft launch to keep things moving at the boat ramp while offering a safer location for kayakers to load up and ease into the water,” Phifer said. “With Electric Island having a great hiking trail nearby, we have a lot of paddlers who enjoy this ramp as well.”

The added launch was developed with safety in mind, but paddlers should be very intentional about when they choose to enjoy the access. Canoes, kayaks and stand-up paddleboards are the lowest, slowest and most vulnerable boats on the water, so even with the new access to help separate these vessels from power boats at the launch, paddlers should wear brightly colored life jackets and clothing and paddle in groups whenever possible to be more visible to other boats. It’s also a good idea to hug the shoreline when possible and carry a whistle to make other boaters aware of their presence, especially during high traffic times.

According to Yung and Phifer, boaters wishing to launch on Hamilton during the week of July 13-17 can choose between two free public options. The Hill Wheatley Park ramp is at 688 Majestic Lodge Road in Hot Springs. It has a courtesy dock, a sandy swim beach and picnic tables. The other option is the Sunnybrook Landing Access off of Carpenter Dam Road, which offers a boat ramp, a small courtesy dock and fishing pier.

“Neither location offers as much parking as the Hulsey Access, and we appreciate everyone’s patience while the repaving and restriping takes place,” Yung said. “Weather permitting, the contractors will complete the work quickly and minimize the inconvenience of the temporary closure.”

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CUTLINES:

TRAILERS
The AGFC will close the parking and launching area of the Hulsey Hatchery Access on Lake Hamilton July 13-17 for repaving and restriping of the parking lot. AGFC image. 

SIGN
The wooden courtesy dock has been removed and will be replaced with floating docks accessible during winter drawdowns. AGFC image.

BUILDING
The existing weigh-in facility will be complemented with better parking and infrastructure to encourage more use by large fishing tournament organizations. AGFC image.