Upper James River Access

[ThomHardy]

New guy here, and kind of new to Springfield area fishing. Yesterday I set out after work on a quest to find somewhere on the upper James to wade and fish for Smallmouth. Drove over to the 125 bridge, no parking allowed. Then I went on an exploring drive to see some of the other places where the roads crossed the river. I ended up pretty far up river, and found no access. Is this true? Is there no public access above Lake Springfield? Bummer.

[Daveinozark]

there's Chrighton access. Also, Arofishing puts in on Hwy D. not sure if he's being dropped off or parking there though

[ThomHardy]

Thanks man! I'll check it out.

[Arofishing]

I've parked on the side of the road off Division before, but I don't recommend it. I've also ridden my bike there a couple times, which is less problematic.

There actually is some parking off 125 bridge. Heading north bound on the north side of the bridge there is enough room to pull off the shoulder (on the right side). There is also parking under the bridge, but I wouldn't feel good about going down there unless you have a monster truck.

Lastly, off of Sunshine, again on the shoulder. I usually park on the east side of the bridge heading east (the right side). Plenty of space there. I do recommend pulling all the way off the shoulder, however, as a cyclist I know that road gets lots of cycling traffic.

I may be more flippant when it comes to parking, so follow the above advice at your own risk, but I feel like if 1) I am not parking in a place it is clearly posted I shouldn't, and 2) my vehicle is not a danger to other drivers (obstructing the road/most of the shoulder), then it should be fine. So far no problems. I've also seen other people park on the side of 125 and Sunshine without issue.

Best of luck.

[OzarksRiverman]

There is a place to access the river just off Sunshine out East of town... I haven't been there since mid-2000's so I don't know if no parking signs have been posted...

Heading out Sunshine, right before you go around the curve to the left and downhill into the river valley, take FR 148 to the right. Follow that maybe 500 ft, stay right at the Y, follow downhill and around a curve to the left and you'll get to the old bridge. I used to go there back in HS and college (like I said, last time I was there was probably 2004ish) and park on the East side of the bridge and walk down to the creek. a few pretty good spots upstream from there...

[TroutRinger]

If you want somebody to explore with, send me a PM. I'm always looking for new places and having someone to share gas with is always a plus.

[ThomHardy]

Thanks everyone. Nice folks here.