First Time At Meramec

[trouthappy]

I am going to Meramec for the first time this week. I have never been before. I plan on camping on the state park next to the river. I'm going to fish with my daughter some and then fish by myself at night. Are the camping grounds near the river a part of the trout park or not? Can I fish it anytime? Is natural bait allowed there or not? Where is natural bait allowed? What are your bait (natural and artificial) hints? Thanks.

Trouthappy

[Terrapin Station]

hmmmm....for clarity, what is the nearest town you'll be staying at-St. James or Sullivan? In other words, there is the Meramec State Park at Sullivan and then there's Maramec Springs run by the James Foundation at St. James.

If it's the Springs you're going to then 1. yes, it's in the park. 2. no, you can only fish until the whistle (in the park) and any bait goes. After the whistle, you can go below the park where it is flies only. But ya better hurry if you want to fish in the park as the season closes after Wednesday.

[trouthappy]

Since I want to fish after dark it sounds like I want to stay at the state park in Sullivan. Are there trout there? Any tips?

[Gavin]

There arent any trout in the vicinity of Meramec State Park and you will need a canoe to fish that water effectively....Your best bet for trout fishing on the Meramec right know would be to rent a boat from Adventure Outdoors at Scott's Ford. Have em put you in at Hwy 8 for an overnight float back down to Scott's Ford. Most of the trout are in the 2.5 miles below Maramec Spring Branch and there are several nice gravel bars to camp on in that area.

Another option would be to park your vehicle at Suicide Hill or Cardiac Hill, and drag your camping gear down the hill. Pack light and dont leave any extra gear in your car. Red Ribbon trout regulations apply. Cheers.

[lizard]

Oct 31 is the end of the season but the winter catch and reease starts on Nov. 9th. You will be able to still fish at night just need to stay in the river, right behind you.