cnr

18.5" was the longest fish. The numbers were down this time but all the fish were quality and fat. I unfortunately lost my biggest fish ever (again), I seem to be making that a bad habit. The darn thing broke off on a violent head shake, totally my fault, didn't give it the respect it deserved and pushed it too hard. We got a good look at it when it jumped and JoeD estimated over 20". Who knows, good times and fun to do battle. Some other fun photos. Gotta appreciate the attitude of this little guy!

JoeD's premise is correct. It always amazes me who will or won't like river fishing. Hard to figure it out. I can go all day wade or float fishing, the harder the access the better for me. Dragging, brush busting, sunburned, and dog tired. Love it. Isn't for most though. But, put me in a boat on a big lake on a hot day and I'm done by 9AM. Oh, and I agree on the CC reference. No big secret but a good stream.

Very nice. I'm jealous. And the pedicure...that's just showing off :-) Very lucky man to share that with your better half.

Too light to use IMO.

Very cool

I just use my old felt soled Chotas and a neoprene sock/gravelguard. Yes it's a little clunky looking but very comfortable, no gravel in the boot, and good support up the ankle. You can't use felt anymore on the trout streams but reusing these boots for warm water wading has been great.

Now we know why smallmouth bass are declining on our rivers. MegaCraw is eating them :-)

Missouri Lobster

BPS may just toss you a new one. I know at one time they were pretty good at backing their products and even an older item would be replaced, at least in my experience. Take it up there and you may be pleasantly surprised.

The land is private but the stream isn't. I put in at Harmon last Monday and didn't have any problem. Did not leave a car there, just put in the canoe. I think the issues arise when you get on the bank or gravel bar camp. My advise is to always keep your feet wet, don't loiter in one spot, and if challenged be very polite and move along. You may be completely within your rights on the stream but the landowners may not see it that way. BTW. I lost a nice smallie in that section. Didn't catch a lot but the quality was good.

I used to hunt with Dennis. I will see if I can get in contact with him. Haven't heard from him in years.

Awesome fish.

That fish has been eating well. Nicely done. Gotta love a fish that walks you around the boat!!!

Awesome fish. Congratulations!!

And Deli meats…cheaper to buy steak than sandwich meat.

Congrats. Having kids is the best job in the world. Makes you appreciate the small things in life…and you have an excuse to buy all of those cool toys!

Now I'm hungry for wings!!!

Lots of good advice here. I will add moving around and not becoming stuck in one spot. The reason folks boat, canoe, kayak, and wade is to present their bait or lure to fish in optimal conditions. Moving down a stream or lake gives you the opportunity to hit the aggressive fish and move on to the next. Yes, there are times of the year when some species group up tightly and don't move much like spawning time for crappie or smallmouth wintering in a spring hole. But even during those times you need to be mobile and have a "milk run" of spots to cycle through. You can also try Private messaging some of the regular forum posters that fish in you area. I bet you could back seat with a few and learn a ton of information.

Yep. Wasn't thinking of having the rod but in contact with your body. Definite pivot point. I need to fish more. :-/

3 times for me. Twice in the same day.

Not sure if I agree here. Both the fish and angler are pulling on opposite ends of the rod. I would put the fulcrum in the middle if your gripping the rod one handed. What I do think is that a long rod protects delicate line better by acting as a shock absorber. Also helps on the speed of the hookset by picking up the line more quickly.

Noooooooo!!!! How will I survive the work day without OAF. I think I'm having a panic attack ?

你们是搞笑 Nǐmen shì gǎoxiào

Hey Mitch, watch your language!!! :-) Or am I the only one to translate that?

I hear this works to neutralize the smell. 1 Quart of 3% Hydrogen Peroxide 1/4 Cup of Baking Soda 1 Tsp of liquid soap Mix together and wash the dog down with it. Be careful around the eyes. Here's the link to the article I found: http://briansplace.ynt1.com/skunk.php