Lilley's Lake Taneycomo Fishing Report, March 25

[Ryan Miloshewski]

5 hours ago, Bill Babler said:

As Phil said, just no good way to get that photo without some danger to the fish. For the most part the clients we take are on their one and only fishing trip of the year and know nothing except what we try and help them with. Lots of Spring break kids this time of year. 

Most not wanting to kill fish, but all wanting that photo for their $300 plus dollar 4 HR trips.  None understanding the fragility or really the protection of the fish. 

To most it is an unlimited resource, especially if they have fished the salt or Texoma in the past. They just don't understand what the fuss is about.

I hate the boga  as it can split the lower jaw in certain cases. I've been lucky and of the 10's of thousands of trout my clients have caught I have never seen a split lip trout on Taney. Unlike Alaska as I have seen many there. 

I don't post a lot of trout pic's as for the most part, I'm in them as I pretty much insist, that I hold the fish for the client to assure that it doesn't hit the bottom of the boat. 

Lets be thankful the majority of these folks throw those 20 inchers back with just a quick photo and not be to hard on them for their excitement about the photo to remember them by. 

Shouldn't it be part of a guide trip to educate folks on handling trout, as well as preserving a fishery/resource so they can come back and spend the $300 again? Or, like you do, and holding the fish for them as mom or dad takes a pic?

Too many newer guides, at Taney and other places, are not concerned about getting the client a pic, but a pic for their social media to show how good they are at catching fish.

[Guest MOfish447]

8 hours ago, Phil Lilley said:

Reports are the creeks have been pounded and few fish are left.  If MDC stocked down in the Landing area, they might get replenished.  There are some big blue gill being caught above the bridge and around the docks though.

And reports of crappie are coming in, being caught around the docks at Rockaway Beach, upper end of the town.

I’d love to see some of those big bluegills! 

[BLUEWATER]

For me the thrill is doing it and maybe catching.  I don't need to prove anything to anyone.  The thrill has been had when you reel the fish in.  Be gentle and let it go in the water.

[Phil Lilley]

The Corps will reduce flow tomorrow afternoon or Monday morning.

[Bill Babler]

13 hours ago, Phil Lilley said:

The Corps will reduce flow tomorrow afternoon or Monday morning.

Just got a call from Stone. Said shad are just pouring thru this morning.