Kerr Access 12-18-2012

[silvermesa]

Needed to travel to Springfield area for business and decided to try smallmouth fishing for the first time.

I tried Kerr Access near Galena because I heard it was conducive for wading. Water temps were 45 degrees and I only saw the vehicle of one other fisherman. The water is extremely clear and very low. Most has a depth of 6"-18" with a few spots being 3'-5'. Fishing for me was tough and I only saw two fish during the 4 hours I was there. I fished downstream or to the South for appx 1/2 mile. I found only two areas that maybe could be considered deeper water or a hole. Fished a jig with a craw trailer.

This certainly is a beautiful river. I can sure see the value of a canoe or boat to cover more water and just fish the deeper holes. I just felt like where I was at, I was just not in fish or fish holding habitat.

Does anyone have thoughts on how I can improve my fish finding and catching for next time? Recommended floats and places to rent water craft. Possible guides?

[exiledguide]

I prefer below the Shevin Rock access, I wade the James and that would be my prefered stretch down through the big long hole that has the rope swing on the right and most all of the better fish came from the right bank as you move downstream. I usualy wade downstream and fish my way back up. Other guys here could recommend outfitters I know there are some in Galena and at Hootentown below the access there and I have never heard anyone complain about there service.