In sharp contrast to the more western Ozark streams, the upper St. Francis cannot be called a “float” stream. It presents a challenge to the experienced canoeist. Due to its boulder strewn course, it can be run only during high or moderately high water; that is, in spring or after rather heavy rains. Both the…
The North Fork of the White combines a relatively constant flow of clear water from large springs with some of the best whitewater in the Missouri Ozarks. Since its upper reaches are in Mark Twain National Forest, it retains some wilderness character and has good watershed protection. The section from Hwy. 14 to Hwy. H…
Float trips, for which the Ozarks are famous among smallmouth bass fishermen, reputedly originated at Galena on the James. John boats 18-24 feet long and 4 feet wide were used long before canoes and kayaks became popular and are amazingly maneuverable craft for their size. Some anglers still prefer the stability they provide for casting…
This tributary of the Current River is one of the wildest and most scenic of the Missouri Ozark streams. Its deep valley is nearly a canyon, with no bottomland fields for the first 25 floatable miles. It is therefore advisable to camp well above river level if there is any chance of sudden rain. Trips…
These two clearwater gems, which join their waters to the Meramec River in Crawford County, are only about 100 miles from St. Louis. Although they are too small to provide adequate floating water at all seasons, the angler will find them pleasant and profitable floating-wading streams. In seasons of good water, the canoeist will find…
This clearwater gem, which join their waters to the Meramec River in Crawford County, is only about 100 miles from St. Louis. Although it is too small to provide adequate floating water at all seasons, the angler will find them pleasant and profitable floating-wading streams. In seasons of good water, the canoeist will find it…
Bryant Creek is a relatively wild stream, provides only slightly less paddling mileage than the North Fork, and is highly fishable. Less spring fed, it has less volume than the North Fork and is more difficult to float because it is narrower and has more obstacles, but it also has some fast riffles. Local inquiry…
The Big Piney is the largest tributary of the Gasconade River and is rated as one of the best fishing streams, especially in its upper and middle reaches where you can view limestone bluffs topped with pines and where there is a good chance to see wild turkey. Numerous good-sized and beautiful springs feed the…
This St. Francis River tributary is only floatable in spring and early summer. The Big Creek Shut-ins are one of the main features of Sam A. Baker State Park and are worth seeing by boat when there is sufficient water. Difficulty: I to 111 in most runable srages. Some sections IV, in high water, to…