8/5/2016 Creek Fishing

[Dances With Smallies]

After a month of all work and no play, I had the opportunity to take a day off and explore a creek that I've wanted to fish for a long time.  I made it to the access around 7 a.m. and there were a couple of people fishing.  I headed downstream and around a bend, and suddenly found myself in complete seclusion which lasted the rest of the day.  As far as beauty, this little creek was up there with any Ozark stream I've seen.  It was one of those places that was so awe-inspiring that catching a fish or two would have just been icing on the cake...  

Fortunately, the fish wanted to maximize my experience.  I caught a lot of fish and had consistent action all day.  I was primarily finding success fishing structure in holes at the end of riffles.  However, the smallies were also hunting in packs in the middle of runs and it was awesome because the creek was so clear I could watch four or five of them chasing after my lure.  They reminded me of my German Shorthairs when they find a possum in the backyard. It was one of those days where I would see a rock, log, or shady spot and say to myself "I will catch a fish there", and most of the time, I would.  Most of the smallies were 8-12" range, but I did catch a hard-fighting 14" (didn't get a pic).  I also lost a monster - I thought I was snagged on a log but then the log started fighting back and immediately got free.  Species caught:  smallmouth bass, Kentucky bass, goggle-eye (caught some really nice ones), and bluegill.  All fish were released.  

[timinmo]

Looks like a great time.  Love those creeks.

[Johnsfolly]

Great post and photos! That water looks awesome! Glad you had a great time. You need to fish that creek again.

[drew03cmc]

Those creeks are the best. They can hold larger bass than you'd think too.

[Dances With Smallies]

20 hours ago, Johnsfolly said:

You need to fish that creek again.

Definitely.  I've acquired some good info on creeks and rivers to fish through my explorations this summer.  Now I just need to convince the missus that we need to invest in a couple of kayaks...  

[Johnsfolly]

Good luck on the kayak justifications.

[top_dollar]

I really love that second picture!  Thanks for the report.