The Kayak Kid

Thanks for the heads-up. I'm used to good smallie trips (Black, Jack's Fork, upper part of Eleven Point), so I fear this stretch might be a letdown. Any recommendation on a better put-in? Put in at Scotts? The wife grabbed a half-off deal on the 'net, so I thought I'd rent a canoe for a change (usually take my yak) and burn some company gas (shhh). Maybe the outfitter will let me switch to another stretch of river...might have to throw in a few extra bucks. We shall see. Thanks again.

Any other Black River fishermen out there? I fish the section near Cave Spring (about 4-5 miles above K Bridge) several times each year. Catching lots of smallies, but nothing big. Mostly 10-12 inchers. I heard a positive report someone received from MDC, regarding smallies in this stretch. However, I always wonder if the locals are over-harvesting. If you've seen the pavilion near Cave Spring, that's us. Several property owners, including us, back up in the hills. If anyone wants to organize a trash pick-up/fishing trip, holler. I get down there pretty often.

Putting in at Hwy 8 tomorrow; taking out at Scott's Ford. First trip on this section of the Meramec. Targeting smallies, mostly. A couple fighting rainbows are fine, but certainly not the focus of the trip. Once the spring branch enters in, what are my chances at finding smallies in this stretch? Does the smallie activity pick back up after a few miles? Also, any recommendations on lures? I guess I'll leave my ole' stand-by (Eakins jig) at home....restrictions, right? Planning on taking my Rebel Craw, a Pop-R for the morning, and a couple other cranks. Had a recommendation of a Rattlin' Rogue. Anybody have a favorite length, color?

Thanks for all the helpful information, Al. By the way, nice job with the license plates. My Trailblazer proudly sports the Bald Eagle design.

Taking the kayaks out with Glory Daze and another buddy. With the dry October (weather that is; I had plenty of beer last month), we can't float our preferred stretches of the Buffalo or Jacks Fork. Looking to try a new stretch of the Current, and I'm wondering how thick the jet boat traffic will be past Two Rivers? We are considering the 18-mile stretch from Two Rivers to Log Yard. Curious to see new scenery, and looking to catch some smallies (although it looks like chilly weather is coming). We usually do not catch many smallmouth above Round Spring...and it least we won't drag if we do a lower stretch. Scenery? Jet boats? Slow water/pools <or> really slow? Already paddled Chain of Lakes...I mean Big Piney this year. Would prefer not to repeat the experience? Any and all guidance would be appreciated. Nolan

Thanks, partner! I agree - safe as anywhere else...

Has anyone parked at Welch lately? (North/East side of river) I usually just put in at Cedargrove, but thought I'd shave off a few miles - due to a late start this Thursday evening. Just wondering if there is a spot to drop a vehicle...and the safety/river clown factor. Nolan

Making my first trip to the UP next month. We are camping in Mackinaw for a week, but planning at least one day trip. Any recommendations on family-friendly paddling, hiking trails, etc.? Pictured Rocks looks beautiful, and I hear there are some waterfalls. We are considering an easy float on the Escanaba or Manistique...just based on a bit of research online. My kids are age 2 & 3, but they are troopers (already overnighted on the Current, and hiked in Yosemite). Class III might be a bit much - with them in the canoe - but the occasional stretch of rapids would be welcome.

Anybody aware of a Stream Team for the upper Black River? I own a few acres near Cave Spring (3-4 miles above the K bridge)...looking for a group in this area.