Smalliebigs

Looking for recommendations on where to insert my new and as yet un-baptized NuCanoe into - specifically - the middle or lower meramec (within St. Louis county area.) I can range pretty far with trolling motor, and only fish weekdays - not a fan of dodging the jetboats. To date with old yak I only fished WAY upstream @ Crawford country. Realize now from this forum I am missing out big time on water in back yard. I live within 15 min. of Valley Park's 141 bridge. Water there @ Fish Pot creek looks pretty good at times?? Castlewood's nearby, Eureka's not far. But also really curious about closer to Imperial even,  as my bass-addicted kayak-equipped brother lives virtually on the banks of Mateesse Creek... Any thoughts much appreciated!