A) Rhinelander (0.3 mile modified natural channel)

Pelican Rapids is a normally dewatered reach of about 1/4 - 1/3 of a mile with several low ledges that create waves and some nice play spots. It could be likened to a pushier (relative to flow), more continous Wausau but with smaller drops. Or, think of Boy Scout's (on the Wolf, Section 3) at a similiar flow (about 12''), subtract some eddies, add some push, add some play spots, and place it in an industrial setting. Years back, there had been an active paddler (or group) working with the owner of the mill to get releases and attempting to get permission (with the DNR and other 'powers that be') to make channel modifications to enhance playboating possibilities here. Instream work was to be part of a 'whitewater course improvements' project (to add eddies and develop play areas) throughout the summer of 2004. Unfortunately, apparently little-to-nothing became of that, reportedly the mill changed hands, and the new owner may not be as cooperative as the former owner(s) had been. At a 'recommended' 600 cfs release level this is a somewhat pushy class II, though class III comfort level is recommended due to the continous nature of the whitewater and vegetation in the river at points. (Since the channel is normally dewatered, there are small trees growing off to the side of the main channel in several places that will have flow through them. Much of this will be remedied with the channel modifications and enhancements which are planned.) The run feels steeper than it actually is as there are few obstructions to hinder downstream flow. The usual put-in is on a narrow channel that will put you into the main flow without having to mess with some inconvenient rocks in the main channel just below the dam. Once into the main channel, you will notice a decided downhill tilt to the river. One of the more popular spots is the second ledge. There is a decent eddy on the left here. Shortly below this, some more benign play will be found, although there are not many convenient eddies. The 'big' drop is located under and just past the second railway bridge. The main flow comes down the right side and strikes a rock ledge just below the bridge, diverting much of the flow to the left. The fun move here is to come down the right and grab the eddy below the bridge pier then peel out into the flow on the left. The drop can also be taken straight on by going left through some gaps in the vegetation perhaps 30 yards upstream of the bridge. Below this point is one more ledge and then the bobble to the take out.