Big Piney

[Kyle]

I am looking to float the Big Piney, probably through Ft. Lenorard Wood, and want to catch some good smallmouths. I will likely bring the fly and spincast rods. Any suggestions on flies, lures, techniques, or general information would be appreicated. Is this a good section of the river to catch smallmouth, or is there a better section? Also, is this one of those rivers that has had the problem with fish kill by the otters?

[Gavin]

I've always wanted to float through Ft. Wood, but its a long float and a loooonng shuttle..Slabtown to Ross, just upstream of the Fort.. is a good float, spectacular bluffs, and its a Smallmouth Special Management Area. Bring the usual suspects, buzzbaits, spooks, tiny torpedo's, Zoom Flukes, Spinnerbaits, Wee Craw's, Jig & Pig, soft plastics. Rich's Last Resort services that area. Cheers.

[BrianK]

I've also wanted to float thru FLW but haven't yet.

I've heard mixed things on floating thru it since 9/11....wonder if anyone has lately? You might want to call FLW Outdoor Rec or Rich's (or MDC) to see if there is any restriction. I wouldn't think there could be since you can't really get off the river until you get thru the Fort...just a thought though.

I've mainly been on the stretch from 6Crossings to Ross. Good smallies but LOTS of canoes on the wknd. NO JETS though which is nice. Gavin's lure suggestions pretty much cover it....

Let us know how it turns out.

B

[shawncat]

Six Crossing to Ross.I second Rich's Last Resort, best outfitter on the river.I would add #5,#7 rapala floater Blue or black back and of course a big ole jitterbug especially if you'll be fishing dusk or at night.Size 10-12 chernobl ants,hoppers and poppers ought to cover you with a long rod.As you can tell I like my summer smallies on TOP. Good luck.

[Greg_s]

If you do float through, take care when you come up to the spillway. There are a lot of jagged rocks at the bottom of it and I don't suggest that you go over it in the boat/canoe/etc. Pull off to the right and carry your boat/canoe/etc over the spillway.

I floated over it in a zodiac and don't suggest anyone else do so in anything less. I think we ended up popping a floor plate loose at the bottom of it though.

[mcp633]

Third on Rich's