7/19/15 Short afternoon trip

[MOBass]

Put in at the campground in Branson around 2:30 and motored up a bit above Cooper Creek. As noted in another post there are now large numbers of kayaks on Taney. Most were staying off the channel, but a few groups were scattered across the lake. There were also a few pontoons drifting the channel. Not bad, but certainly a day to be aware, slow down, and keep looking around. Branson Kayak rental guy mentioned it was their busiest day this year.

The only slightly negative interaction I had with the kayakers was a gentlemen standing in the middle of the ramp after they had taken out the yaks. He was standing there oblivious to the world and the fact he was in the middle of the ramp I was backing down. It took honking the horn to get his attention and he made no hurry of moving.

Water seemed to have a tinge of color and temp was 53F. Which made for some good entertainment of seeing some young guys jump in the water from a pontoon. Not sure how many they were running, but there was some movement to the water especially above Cooper Creek.

Fishing was steady. Any place with a little break from the current held fish. Creek mouths, behind islands, downstream for docks, especially larger ones all produced.

It was a C/R day so lures only. An assortment of spinners and crappie jigs produced fish. A slight nod to brighter colors, but action was OK on most everything we tried. I am sure crawlers would have got plenty of action along with the good ole standby of Power Eggs.

Take aways, be careful on the water. Lots of folks out there to share it with. When in doubt go slow, idle if you have to, the fish will be there when you arrive. Keep the attitude and temper in check because after all it's just fishing.

[Gatorjet]

Did you happen to mention to the kayak outfitter the possibility of adding bicycle flags to his kayaks as an extra safety measure?

[MOBass]

Did you happen to mention to the kayak outfitter the possibility of adding bicycle flags to his kayaks as an extra safety measure?

I did not. I might try to look them up and suggest that along with using high visibility colors on the yaks. The majority of the yaks I saw yesterday were a molted black and red color. The life west were not bright colors either. Hunter orange everything would have helped. A sign at the ramp to inform boaters to be on the lookout wouldn't hurt my feelings.

Everyone can play nice and enjoy the water if a little common sense and courtesy is used.

[Gatorjet]

Flags, and bright colors would be a big safety precaution. Last year, although not a close call because I was paying attention, I was able to identify a kayaker only because of the silvery splash of his paddle. He was in an olive drab kayak,and wearing his official Jack Hanna outdoorsman khaki outfit, and khaki hat. Also wearing a brown inflatable vest. All blended into the water, and surrounding vegetation perfectly. I watch very carefully for those "speed bumps", but a little thought on their part would help a lot!