From Joplin, Fly Fishing for Bass

[David Bell]

Changing the question, if you were to fish for bass, lived in Joplin, what stream would you choose 45 minutes or less from Joplin? What I am seeking is opportunity for hookups on an afternoon or morning, not an all day event. If you can point to stream and put in points it would be helpful. This is aside from Shoal Creek.

I am curious about Center Creek for example as well.

This is all catch and release fishing but if a monster trophy type fish were taken that would be consideration.

thanks,

David

[Bill Butts]

David,

You are in an area that is within easy driving distance of a lot of good fishing going in virtually every direction from Joplin.

However, concerning stream fishing for bass I would highly recommend you experience the spring fishing for White Bass (and sometimes Hybrid Stripers)on the Spring River near Miami. During years with lots of rain and higher river flows, these fish will migrate as far upriver as Baxter Springs.

These fish make their annual spawning run beginning in late winter and peak in early to mid April. The river can have Whites in it as early as February depending on water and weather temps.

Hybrids were heavily stocked in Grand Lake in 2005 so there should be some nice 3# range fish showing up this spring.

If you are interested in pursuing these great fish and need more info on tackle and flies, read some of the original posts in the Striper section topics on the site, and feel free to ask for further assistance.

There are also some guys in the Joplin-area fly fishing club, MAKO Flyfishers, that are knowledgeable and you might also check with the folks at Southtown Bait to see if they do. The key is to network with others that have the common interest.

This family of fish, the Temperate Basses which include Striped Bass, are pound for pound the strongest fightng fish you will find in freshwater and awesome fun with a fly rod.

Let me know if I can assist you in any way.

Bill