The Joe And Joe Fishing Show Hits The Road!

[jdmidwest]

After over 2 months of hunting ducks and deer and working my butt off, it was time for a nice relaxing fishing trip. We made no plans and had no schedule. We really only worked hard on having fun and that we accomplished.

Left out Sat. Morning and hit every gun shop between Cape and Rolla. Stopped in for a while and checked into a motel at Licking. We travelled as far as Burns Army Surplus off I-44 before we turned back and weaved our way back to Licking thru the Little Piney area. That pretty well killed the day, no fishing, but non the worse for wear. We saw alot of nice scenery and had some good laughs.

Supper at Oligs BBQ which was excellent and back to the motel for a football game and some sleep.

Out of bed after a good night sleep and a big breakfast at the Coffee Cup restaurant. Had a big meal on something made of hashbrowns, bacon, green peppers, onions, and salsa.

Arrived at the park after 10 am. Weather was perfect, water was fine, crowds were light. Started at the lake by catching a few risers on a Dry CDC Caddis. Noted a crippled Mallard hen wintering in the spring ponds, gotta love steel shot. Entered river at the upper end by the springs and spent some time there getting into shape. I missed several nymph strikes till I got my rythem back. Then a doe and a fawn stepped out and started munching cress, so I got distracted. I spent some time watching them, and followed them out of the river and watched them join others in the woods between the lake and the river.

We fish till 3 thru the upper area, caught most on bead head nymphs. There were several caddis and blue wing olives out, but not many risers. Largest fish about 3 lbs. Several fish damaged, looked like a heron or something had gotten ahold of them. Leisurely drive home and mission accomplished. 550 miles on the 4 Runner and I am ready to deal with the publick once more starting tomorrow.

[Ill Trout Bum]

Thanks for a great report. Sounds like a well deserved "mental health" day was in order. The only trouble is they are too few and far between.