Fishing the Elk on Fathers Day

[Paddlefish]

Looks like my Fathers Day present this year will be having the weekend to myself. I've got about a gillion different things I'd like to do, but I'm really looking to float a local stream/river for some smallies.

I'm considering a section of the Elk or one of the local tribs, but I've never fished that area of MO. Can anyone suggest a section that's good for smallies & goggle's?

I'd like to also mention that I'm strictly C&R and I'm not looking to wipe-out anyone's favorite section or honey-holes. I'd just like to narrow down my search for a good smallie river and hopefully avoid the bikini hatch if possible.

Also, I'm looking for anyone that might be interested in a float over that weekend? Someone that know's the area and could work out a shuttle.

Thanks in advance!

[trout_bum]

I've been doing a lot of fishing on Big Sugar Creek and have done very well around the state park access. Unfortunately, it is very hard to avoid running into the floatilla of canoes and campers on the weekend, especially on the Elk River between Pineville and Noel. If you are floating, its best to keep the float fairly short so you have time to get out and spend time fishing some of the better looking pools. I would limit my float to 6 miles per day at most. Big Sugar is running low and clear right now, but that could change if they get some rain. I would look into floating from Cyclone down to Sugar Island or to Pineville. There is some pretty good water in there with lots of downed trees, root wads, and bluffs for smallmouth to hide. Check with some of the outfitters down there for water conditions before you go so there aren't any suprises.

[Wayne SW/MO]

A bikini hatch is inevitable on any decent Missouri stream, but the degree varies. The run from Noel to Cowskin isn't real bad. Cowskin canoe rental is a good source if you don't have a canoe. You end at their campground, with a secure parking area.

[ollie]

I could steer you in the right direction with a pm. I might also be able to go fishing that Sunday also.

[bobber]

cow skin is no more!!.....it's just a biker rally campground now! no canoes no shuttles

[gonefishin]

A bikini hatch is inevitable on any decent Missouri stream, but the degree varies. The run from Noel to Cowskin isn't real bad. Cowskin canoe rental is a good source if you don't have a canoe. You end at their campground, with a secure parking area.

A good bikini hatch can be inspiring for a young man...but when you get as old as I am fish are a lot more interesting.

[bobber]

then you didn't sit by the bridge!... bring some beads next time....

[Wayne SW/MO]

but when you get as old as I am fish are a lot more interesting.

Thats just too old.

They dropped the canoe rental business??? How about as a takeout?

[bobber]

wayne,had a locked gate... tall grass ...and no boats except for the one as a sign hanging by the road... the states take-out is still good.

[ollie]

I'll have to check into this and let everyone know. I fished below the dam not too long ago and saw someone down at the farm putting in and someone else partying down there.