Getting stuck in a lock can feel stressful—especially if you’re new to boating—but it’s more common than you might think and usually easy to resolve with a calm approach and a bit of know-how. Whether you’re wedged, can’t get the gates open, or the water level isn’t behaving as expected, here’s what to do if your canal boat gets stuck in a lock.
Stay Calm and Assess the Situation
First things first—don’t panic. Take a moment to look around and assess:
- Are you physically stuck (e.g. boat wedged or caught)?
- Is the lock not filling or emptying properly?
- Are the gates or paddles jammed?
- Are you unable to exit due to another boat or blockage?
Understanding the issue will help you decide your next step.
Common Reasons for Getting Stuck in a Lock
- Fenders Left Down
Fenders can get caught in the lock walls and wedge your boat in place.
Solution: Raise all fenders before entering a lock. - Water Level Not Correct
Sometimes paddles don’t fully open, or there’s a leak that prevents the lock from filling or emptying.
Solution: Try operating the paddles again or wait a few minutes—water can be slow to equalise. - Gate Won’t Open
If water levels aren’t equal on both sides, the gate will remain stuck.
Solution: Re-check all paddles—are they fully open/closed as required? - Debris or Obstruction
A branch or rubbish can jam a paddle or prevent the gate from sealing.
Solution: If safe, try to remove visible debris with a boat hook or from the towpath. Do not enter the water.
Step-by-Step: What to Do
✅ 1. Check the Paddles
Ensure the paddles at both ends are in the correct position for your intended direction (filling or emptying).
✅ 2. Raise or Lower Water as Needed
Operate the paddles slowly and watch the water level. Wait for levels to fully equalise before trying gates again.
✅ 3. Use a Boat Hook
If you suspect something is caught, carefully use a boat hook to dislodge it—always from the towpath or safely on deck.
✅ 4. Communicate with Your Crew
Make sure everyone on board stays calm and safe. No one should try to push the gates with hands or feet.
When to Ask for Help
If you’ve tried everything and are still stuck:
- Call your boat hire company – they’re used to these situations and can often help over the phone or send assistance.
- Contact the Canal & River Trust – they manage the locks and may need to send a team if there’s a mechanical fault.
- Ask passing boaters or towpath walkers – seasoned boaters are often happy to lend a hand or share advice.
Preventing Future Lock Problems
- Take your time – rushing often leads to mistakes or missed details.
- Raise fenders before entering locks.
- Keep a boat hook handy – you never know when you’ll need it.
- Double-check paddle positions before operating gates.
Final Thoughts
Getting stuck in a lock can be frustrating, but it’s rarely serious. With a bit of patience and a problem-solving mindset, you’ll be on your way again before long. Every boater has a lock story or two—it’s part of the experience!
