Quick, Easy Catfish Fillets

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).
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What to Know about the International Scale of River Difficulty

Many people are confused when hearing the phrase “International Scale of River Difficulty,” which is a standard scale used to measure or rate the safety of any particular river or single rapid. The river grade reflects the technical difficulty and skill level required associated with any particular section of a river.
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Fly Fishing Tips & Tricks to Make It Enjoyable For Everyone

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.
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The Dangers of Eating Raw Crawfish

One of the most common ways to beat the summer heat is by taking a float trip and it is a particularly popular pastime in the state of Missouri. However, within the past year, there have been some floaters hospitalized with an illness which is so odd and startling, it can be nearly impossible to diagnose the problem or illness accurately. One particular floater pulled a live, raw, crawfish out of Jack’s Fork River swallowed it whole. The person saw others doing it, so he followed suit and thought nothing of it.
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How to Catch Crawfish in Missouri Streams

Crawdads are also called crayfish or crawfish and these small crustaceans look like little lobsters, hence the nickname “poor man’s lobster.” Crawdads breathe through small feathery gills and are found in bodies of water which do not freeze like brooks, streams and creek beds with fresh running water. Crawdads can be found all over the world from South Africa, New Zealand and Australia and even in Missouri. These little crustaceans are eaten all over the world, but only a small portion of the body is actually consumed and enjoyed in soups, etouffees and bisques.
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Canoes: Plastic vs Metal

In the past, canoes used to be made of a variety of different materials such as wood, paper and canvas or waterproof fabric. Things have changed and today, canoes are available in three main materials; thermoplastic, aluminum and fiberglass. However, if you are an amateur and unfamiliar with these materials and want to purchase a canoe, which is better plastic or metal?
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Float Trips Make For an Adventurous Date

Dinner and a movie have become one of the most common types of date that many of us have been on. Generally when one first starts dating in our teens or early twenties these types of dates are fine. As many of us get older, we have been on countless dates like this and have started to dread the common “dinner and a movie” date. Nothing is more dreadful then going on the same type of date over and over again. It seems like the only thing that changes is maybe the food or the person on this type of date. Instead of going on one of these boring dates, be a little adventurous and try taking a date on a float trip on one of the beautiful Missouri Rivers and add a little spice to your dating life.
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Types of Trout in Missouri Waterways

Fishing in the beautiful outdoors of Missouri can be very rewarding. Fishermen from all over the country enjoy the clear waters of the creeks and streams that can be found in the Show Me State. There are a variety of species of fish that are just waiting to be caught, but none compare to trout fishing in the pristine waters of Missouri. Catching these tasty fish has become a passionate pastime for many anglers.
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Kayak Accessories

There are few things you will want to make sure you have before going out on your kayak. These items can help you be comfortable to helping you get your boat free of all water should you have the need. The first item to mention is a cushion for the inside of your kayak. This makes it a little more bearable if you are out all day. These can be inflatable and adjustable as well, so one size can fit all. A very important item to have just in case you would capsize would be a pump. This pump will shoot out a significant amount of water so you will up right in no time. This would be a definite life savor if it is cold water.
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Types of Fish Found in Missouri – Part Two

This is part two of our series on fish in Missouri. Read part one

Muskie are strong, big and ferocious fish and with regular stocking, Missouri lakes are now home to a large population of these fish. Muskies were first introduced to Missouri in 1966 in Pomme de Terre Lake and several other small lakes throughout the area. Five lakes are popular sites for experienced anglers looking for this particular fish: Pomme de Terre, Lake 35 (Busch Conservation Area), Henry Sever, Fellows and Hazel Creek.

Spoonbill or paddlefish have no bones and spend most of the time feeding on zooplankton. Fish of this species are some of the largest in North America, and can grow to weigh more than 100 pounds. Paddlefish are indigenous to the Mississippi, Missouri and Osage River basins in the state and populations are maintained at Table Rock, Lake of the Ozarks and Truman through annual stocking.
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