Lake Springfield, Greene County, Missouri, July 26th, 2010: Nice size bass caught on texas rigged plastic worm off kayak

I only had a couple of hours after work on Tuesday to hit Lake Springfield.  The last couple of times I have launched off at this point, I paddled north where it turns from Lake Springfield to the James River.  This time, I decided to head west towards the railroad track bridge and bluffs.

  I was using an 8" purple/black plastic worm, texas rigged on a bait casting rod....I got a hit immediate and thought I had set the hook.  When the first bass surfaced, she shook her head and spit it out.  I knew it was a really good sized bass, and for a split moment I had some disappointment...then I realized how grateful I was just to be able to be out kayaking and doing what I love to do.  I never have understood the people who curse and carry on when they lose one....give me a break!  If you fish enough, you will catch another one- promise!  So I just leaned back for a moment, took a deep breath, and said "perfect"!

  Here is what was cool...after a couple of cast, BAM!  Another big hit!  Was it the same fish?  Or was it the brother from another mother?  These are the mysteries of the universe.  I currently have an elbow that is out of place, so landing this one was a real challenge, but we made it happen.  I love fishing for bass this time of the year- especially in the evening!

fish ON!

MLT

Lake Springfield, Greene County, Missouri: My attempt at a Bill Dance Moment

James River, June 1st 2010: Good float, limited fish on nightcrawlers

Put in at the boat launch at Hwy 65 near the veterans cemetary. This is always such a good float. Took the kayak all the way under the James River Expressway. As you start to paddle that direction it starts to look more like a river and less like a lake (this is right where Lake Springfield starts). Caught a bunch of small bluegills and long Ear sunfish, but nothing significant. Did have a small water snake decided to attach itself to my small toe as it was dangling in the water waiting to get on the boat ramp....biggest fear realized! :)

Fish ON!

MLT

James River/Lake Springfield, April 6th 2010: fishing still a little slow, Kayaking was fun, however

Got a chance to hit the James River Water trail right by Hwy 65 south of Springfield. I have fished this portion of the river/lake a few years ago with one of my friends. Decided to paddle up stream and drift fish back.....threw spinners, plastic worms and rattle traps without much success.

The paddeling was excellent. The only drawback was the wind (which was blowing opposite of the current) at quite a clip. Had a shot to do Table Rock the next day for a few hours after business, but it was so windy, it looked like the Atlantic Ocean...maybe next time?

Fish ON!

MLT