FLASH FLOOD FINESSE

[Jadesjigs]

Had the day available to fish my local river. There was a 70% chance of rain. To me this means there's a 30% chance it won't rain!!! My days are so scarce that I get to fish that I try to not let weather dictate when I go-unless it's just obviously going to be bad. I've ducked out of storms before, no big deal. Some of my best days of fishing have been on days like this. Started out catching a few rock bass by dipping trees with a ned rig that I tied some marabou and flash on (marabou ned) . I always try to find unique things to do with these jigs. This reminded me of dipping trees with jigs or minnows for crappie.

 

The sky got dark and it started to storm so I took shelter under a rock ledge. It rained pretty hard, but it eventually passed as expected. I got on the river again and the fishing started to pick up. The smallies were really liking the 1/16 size ned paired with a 2.5" coppertreuse bait. I was drifting through eddies and current seams until, it started to get dark again.

 

Luckily, I found another rock ledge to shelter in. This time the lightning and rain came with fury. I'm not to worried about rain, but I don't mess around with lightning. Had to wait this one out quite a bit longer due to the lightning. The river was turning brown and rising fast. I contemplated hiking out of there, but I knew I could navigate the river. I had to move fast and there was no room for error. Therefore, I left all of my fishing gear and equipment on the bluff. I didn't want any extra weight in the canoe and I wanted all the room available to maneuver. The paddle got a good workout, but I made it to the takeout without incident. Looks like I get another river day soon to retrieve my gear! I always try to be prepared for the worst and have a back-up plan. Thank the lord for giving me another day to enjoy your creation!

[Terrierman]

Glad you made it out safe and sound.  Good luck on getting back to pick up your gear and having it all there waiting patiently to finish the float.

[Jadesjigs]

Thank you!  Worst part about it is I left a tfo fly rod that I had just got back from the company because my 1st one broke. I got to say temple fork outfitters are an awesome co. 1st nice fly rod I've had and they stand behind their warranty with no hassles. I'm sure it will be there. It's on high ground in in a discreet location.  

[Johnsfolly]

Also glad you got off the river safely and good luck on getting your gear. Nice fish! Really like that ozark bass. Congrats!