The Tickfaw has a way of turning a day outside into a neighborhood. Somebody waves you over. Somebody has extra sunscreen. Somebody knows where to eat when everybody gets back in. That easy welcome is the part worth keeping.

Start With the River

Load the boat with water, food, sun protection, life jackets, and whatever else the day calls for. Then let the Tickfaw be the Tickfaw. Run the river, anchor where it’s safe and legal, swim, talk, and enjoy the day without mixing alcohol into the part that still requires somebody to operate a boat.

Cain’s Family Market

A stop at Cain’s Family Market in Springfield feels like part of the routine: grab what you need, hear a little local advice, and get moving. The small-town welcome is the point. Nobody needs a sales pitch when the people behind the counter already make you feel looked after.

Lake Maurepas and the Tie-Up

Once the boats are settled and the tubes are in the water, the day slows down. Conversations drift from boat to boat. Snacks get passed around. Somebody always packed more than they needed. That’s Southern hospitality without the speech about Southern hospitality.

Back on Land

Hardhide belongs after the run: engines off, boat secured, keys put away, everybody back at camp or at the table. Then pour Ponchatoula Strawberry or Chilton County Peach, both bottled at 86 proof, and feed whoever came back hungry.

If you want something simple, keep it simple. Strawberry over ice with lemonade. Peach with iced tea. Or pick something from our recipe collection.

Boat sober. Save the whiskey for after the boat is secured for the day. Never drink and drive or operate a boat after drinking.