Gatrman

Floated last week from Riverton down to Myrtle and stayed overnight on gravel bar a mile up from the 142 bridge. I was targeting smallmouth only and have to say it was one of the best fishing floats I have done in years. I have floated the majority of rivers in MO and being my first time on the 11 point I became a huge fan. Caught 80+ fish in the 2 days and 20 of those were over 14in. Majority of fish were in the swift water especially behind or in front of structure. Ned rig and tubes were the bait of choice. River level seemed fine to me as I never had to get out and walk any of it unless I felt like the river had some debris that I didn’t want to risk my canoe going into. I for one will be going back.

First time on the river this year and it didn’t disappoint. Fished a few miles up from Van Buren. We caught a few dozen on watermelon color curly tail grubs and a few on top water. Caught this beauty on a Ned Rig. Water was clear and got to watch the whole thing go down! Measured him at exactly 20” Already looking forward to next time.

Just south of Rolla in Duke MO is a few outfitters. I recommend Pecks Last Resort. I camped and floated with them this summer and was very pleased with everything!