Boats above Point Royal

[Micheal Kyle]

Phil,

We are talking about no boats up past the boat ramp only when the water is not runing. When the water is on would be 2 generators or more boats can come up above the boat ramp. I would think that would something to consider by the corp, and or the water patrol. I have taken many boats above but I only do so when the water is unwadeable.

Michael

[Mark Twain]

So with the water as low as it is right now, how far up the lake do you guys think is safe for boating in a regular size fishing boat? I fished Bull Shoals last week and considered trailering my rig over toward Branson for a day, but had 2nd thoughts.

[FRENZEL]

I'm with Phil. There are plenty of trout waters around that are not accessible to boats at all.

[Phil Lilley]

When MDC was hosting public forums on the new regs (trophy area) back about '95, one comment was - artificial lures and flies when the water was off but allow soft plastics when the water was running (power eggs).

MDC response - at what point do you call the water running?

I know and you know when it's "running" but to make this a black & white issue, it would be tough. There's always movement/current say just above the ramp. Missouri Water Patrol would have to enforce this law, not MDC. They would have to make a determination, clear cut, that the Corp was actually running water to write a citation... or create the law in the first place.

MDC was very reluctant to make that determination based on current/generation. I seriously doubt if MWP would make it either. They'd be more inclined to draw a line and not allow boats above- period. Much more black & white, easier for the boater to understand and easier for the courts to understand.

[Packman]

Ya I agree, I am not trying to be rude or make enemies but if my boat will go there with out taking damgag or damaging anything else; I am going to go there!! If you were on a boat you would feel the same way. Also, I bought my waders from Simms and payed about $300 for them, but I would rather fish from my boat as would any boat owner and leave the waders in the closet. I am not that guy that pushes waders over with my boat I am courteous and watch for other anglers and they wave and understand I am passing through, have never had a problem.

[Phil Lilley]

If I see waders next to Lookout Island, I won't boat up there. But I know there are others that do and would- that's just me though.

I've been on the other side- been wading in the Rocking Chair Hole and have a boat or boats cruise within casting distance... smile and keep fishing.

Taney isn't that big- not as much wading area as most would like and that's one of it's downfalls.

Again, I totally understand Michael's and others points... I just don't think it's feasible to expect MWP to make laws that would be difficult to enforce, especially since there's no precedent.

[OnTheFly]

Boaters and waders are one of the significant issues on Taney. With the numbers of boaters and waders increasing yearly, combined with the existing methods some boaters use the water, it is only a matter of time until there is an accident and we lose a life. Maybe not allowing they boats past a certain point unless there is a certain amount of generation present…coupled with a speed limit in the upper portions of the river. Bottom line is waders and boater both have the right to use the water but at some point safety needs to become the greater issue.

[Greg]

"but I would rather fish from my boat as would any boat owner and leave the waders in the closet."

Packman I completely disagree - I own a boat and waders - but when they are not running water I much prefer the wading. I know many other trout fisherman that feel the same way.

Greg

[Phil Lilley]

"unless there is a certain amount of generation present"

How do you let this amount be known to boaters? A string of flashing lights along the bank? a continuous horn? a big ruler planted someplace showing the depth of water? Not being condescending- just trying to present the same questions posed by MDC on the bait/generation question 10 years ago.

[Brian K. Shaffer]

This is why we need a NOW GENERATING - 2 UNITS sign.

Would it be any different from Branson's horrible sign issue to finally offer a sign for all to see ???

If you were to motor up and see the sign - you'ed know.

This seems like a no brainer to me, but a long time coming thru GOVT issues.

Brian