Big River

[ozark trout fisher]

After having to run an errand down at Hillsboro, I decided that I might as well hit the Big River at Byrnes Mill on my way home even though it was completely blown out and muddy. I bought some nightcrawlers, and went to a nice eddy below the dam. I caught five crappie, three bass (one smallmouth, one largemouth, and one Kentucky), and countless bluegill. One of the bass (about a 15" largemouth) hit a spinnerbait, all the others hit worms. Saw a few other people catching fish, mostly crappie. Not bad for a river that is completely blown out. This is my first time, and I can't wait to get back when water levels are reasonable. If nothing else, it was a nice break from lake fishing.

[ozark trout fisher]

Looked at the Gauge at Byrnes, and saw it was running more than double its usual flow. I bet its a different river when the water is normal.

Just a question for you all. Is the area below Byrnes where I fished really the best place to go? (I'm mostly interested in catching bass and crappie) Or is there somewhere better? Someone told me that Browns Ford and Washington State Park were good for smallies. Is this true?