Archive for category Fishing
Saving the Ozark Hellbender
Posted by Will Hanke in Fishing, Missouri Animals on May 23rd, 2013
The name, Ozark Hellbender, conjures images of a wicked fast roller coaster or perhaps, an outlaw biker gang yet in reality it’s neither. The Ozark Hellbender is one of the world’s largest salamanders. It’s a homely creature. It’s not going to win second prize or any prize in a beauty contest, but nonetheless it deserves a chance to live. In October 2011, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service listed the Ozark Hellbender as an Endangered Species. Read the rest of this entry »
Tips for Catching More Fish in Early Spring
Posted by Will Hanke in Fishing, Tips & Tricks on April 15th, 2013
One of the best meals on a Missouri float trip is a fish fry. And what could be better than frying up the freshest fish ever from your catch of the day? Experienced Missouri anglers find that fishing in early spring requires different fishing strategies than those used in summer and fall. Early spring water is still generally cold. The following early spring fishing tips will help you with catching more fish. Read the rest of this entry »
Fall Fishing: Trout
Posted by Will Hanke in Fishing on December 6th, 2012
When we think of trout fishing most of us think of those early spring gatherings for opening day. We rarely think much about fishing for trout in the fall. But true anglers are always thinking about fishing any time of the year. Fall fishing can be very successful because the fish are feeding heavily in anticipation of winter. However, fish behavior changes with the temperature changes so fishermen may need to alter their usual techniques to land major catches in the fall.
The physical environment for fall trout fishing can be very pleasant. The large crowds of the summer months are gone. The hot, humid Missouri days have given way to cool, crisp air. The beautiful, multi-colored landscape makes being in the outdoors a wonderful experience. Even with its challenges fall fishing for trout has its rewards. Read the rest of this entry »
Missouri Fishing Lakes: Bull Shoals Lake
Posted by Will Hanke in Fishing, Places to Float on November 19th, 2012
Bull Shoals Lake is a beautiful waterway known for its clear water and excellent fishing. Located in southern Missouri, this artificially created lake or reservoir straddles the border between Missouri and Arkansas. The lake covers over 45,000 acres of which about 16,000 are located on the Missouri side. Nineteen parks are located along the many miles of shoreline and these include campgrounds, swimming areas, marinas and boat launches. The Missouri side of the lake boasts various lake bottoms and shorelines made up of bluffs, rock or gravel. Read the rest of this entry »
The Best Lures & Bait for Missouri Fishing
Posted by Will Hanke in Fishing, Float Trips on July 30th, 2012
They say a bad day of fishing is still better than a good day at work. But why settle for a mediocre day of fishing when knowing a few tricks of the trade could be the difference between plain old hotdogs or a feast of catfish for all on your next float trip? The trick to catching bluegill, catfish or trout is using the right bait or lures. Here are some trade secrets.
Read the rest of this entry »
13 Year Cicadas Back in Missouri
Posted by Will Hanke in Fishing, Missouri Animals on May 31st, 2011
During the month of May, people in Missouri will see a large number of the 13-year cicada emerge from their hibernation. These noisy bugs are members of the same family as the cicada that arrives in late summer when the weather is at it’s hottest in Missouri.
The nymph of the 13-year cicada spends almost their whole lives living underground. The nymphs feed off of the juices of plants and tree roots at depths of 1 foot or more. While living underground they go through five development stages before they emerge from the ground in large swarms on the 13th year during the month of May in Missouri. Read the rest of this entry »
Catching River Catfish: The Thrill of the Challenge
Posted by Will Hanke in Fishing, Food on May 16th, 2011
When it comes to river fishing, few things can compare to the thrill of hooking a feisty catfish. Some catfish are large enough to break records and feed an entire family, but for fishermen, the feeling of hooking a fighting monster is a thrill like nothing else. There is effort and time required for reeling in one of these strong fish, but it is well worth it because the meat has a savory flavor which can be prepared in a variety of different ways, and is quite tasty when fried in a delicious cornmeal batter, accompanied by some hush puppies and macaroni and cheese.
The things you will need to catch a catfish include a rod and reel, strong fishing line, treble hooks, nylon hose, stink bate (chicken livers work well), pail with a lid, pocket knife, short rope and a stringer. Because catfish come in a variety of different sizes, it is very important to have a sturdy rod and reel when fishing for them. There will be bending and stress on the rod, so it is important to pick the right test strength of fishing line, most fishermen choose a 100-lb. test because it is very strong and will withstand the extra pressure when you hook a big catfish.
Read the rest of this entry »
Cook Up Some Missouri Bluegill
Posted by Will Hanke in Fishing on September 6th, 2010
The Bluegill is a freshwater fish which can also be referred to as a bream, brim or copper nose. Being a member of the Sunfish family, these fish are native to the waters of North America and can be found from Quebec to northern Mexico. Bluegill are also the most common fish caught in Illinois, Arkansas, Minnesota, Michigan, Missouri, Louisiana and Texas. These fish have an excellent taste and are very easy to catch, and can be caught using anything from flies to hotdogs for bait.
Read the rest of this entry »
Quick, Easy Catfish Fillets
Posted by Will Hanke in Fishing on August 30th, 2010
Catfish are a diverse group of ray-finned fish which are abundant in lakes and rivers all over the world. Catfish vary in length, size, coloring and behavior and the skin is tough, almost like armor and does not have any scales. Despite the name, not all varieties of catfish have barbels; some are defined by skull features and swim bladder (an organ which helps fish control buoyancy).
Read the rest of this entry »
Fly Fishing Tips & Tricks to Make It Enjoyable For Everyone
Posted by Will Hanke in Fishing on August 16th, 2010
People all over Missouri truly enjoy the sport of fly fishing and it is a pastime individuals of all ages can participate in. There are several tips and tricks which a person can try which will increase skills and make it much more enjoyable experience. The following article contains bits and pieces of information which will help everyone from the expert to the novice, make the most of the fly fishing experience.
Read the rest of this entry »
Recent Comments