Mo Ozark Newbie Via Milwaukee, Wi

[E Green]

Hello everyone; nice fishing forum you have here. I moved here last april because my wife got a new position with her company which required the relocation to the Elsinore/Polar Bluff, MO area. Since arriving, I have rediscovered my love for the outdoors and esp. fishing. I forgot how much fun it can be. With that said, I must admit that I am somewhat of a novice so any and all hints/info/suggestions are welcome. I am also looking to purchase a solo canoe asap. I am looking for a somewhat light and easy to maneuver model that I can use to fish on small lakes, ponds and various slow moving rivers in this area. I don't intend to use it for long overnight float trips where i will need to run any rapids. I think 50 lbs and 14ish feet long is the target weight and height. So, if you happen to be reading this and are selling what I have described, I would love to hear from you.

What are some the great fishing spots in the Poplar Bluff/Vvan Buren area? Right now I don't have a boat so any fishing I will be doing in the immediate future will be from the shore. Can you have some success at lakes Wappapelo and Clearwater? What about this Duck Creek place I keep hearing about at MINGO Nat Wildlife Refuge? Do I need to keep an eye out for cottonmouth and copperheads? I've been told yes and no from locals.

Well, sorry about all the questions but I am a rookie! haha

take care Erik

[mic]

Erik,

Welcome to the site. I'm from the Kansas City area and live in St. Louis so I can't give you the local spots.

As far as the snakes...don't need to look for them...you need to watch where you are stepping and you'll do fine.

As far as the canoe...personally, I wouldn't limit myself to a single. I would go with a small double 16 footer. You can always paddle from the middle if you like, but would have room for two when you find you local fishing partner. Depending on your budget, you can go cheap (with weight) and get the Bass Pro special. They always seem to have it on sale memorial day weekend for $400. I have one (for five years) and it works fine. If you have a little more in the way of funds, buy a composite to save weight, but make sure you put kevlar skid on the front because sooner or latter you will pack up on a gravel bank in the Ozarks.