I would definately give the folks at the police derpartment a call and express your concerns. I am sure they will be happy to advise you on any saftety issues. I agree with stoner as far as that stretch of the creek goes. I have only been on the water in that area a handful of times and there are alot more productive fishing and scenic areas as well. If you decide to go the stretch of water from the bypass to the dam in town again i would avoid going up houston creek to the right before you get to the dam. If you are willing to do a little more work to get in the water there are some other access points on upper and lower stoner. (pm me) since you are new to the area i would check out the licking river and hinkston creeks as well. If you google map paris you can use the terrain mapping to get an idea of some of the other creeks and where they are in the area. If i can be of any help let me know.