Anybody ever fished the Elk River or other Missouri smallmouth stream in February? I've got a free weekend to go somewhere different in late Feb. and was wondering if anyone had ever tried floating one of those Ozark streams for smallmouth early like that. After all this snow it may not even be possible though  :-/.

BB86

I haven't, but some friends of mine did that last year in early summer and had a blast. They were using light spinning tackle and hammered the smallies. I'll check with him to find out more details...not sure about Feb tho brrrrrrrrrr!

I've gone there the last couple summers and killed them and some nice ones too. Just wasn't sure about going this early in the year but they have to eat I guess.

I fish the smallie streams in Mo esp. in winter.  I have done it for 30 years. I catch them good at times. Stay home if the water is below 40.  The thermometer is the most important piece of fishing equipment you can have in the boat.

Unfortunately, 4 people drowned last week on the Niangua in the cold water.  Take every precaution and prepare well for a winter outing. PM me for more info on winter smallie fishing.

The Missouri Smallmouth Alliance website might be helpful:

http://missourismallmouthalliance.org/MSA/Welcome.html

Good luck!

Tom