There's access to the James at the Highway 13 bridge, at Kerr, about eight miles above Galina, and at Hootentown. There are fine maps available from the Missouri Department of Conservation. Call the Springfield office at (417) 895-6880 to order your copy.

This section of the James River is subject to special fishing regulations. Currently, anglers can keep one smallmouth over 15 inches. There's also a special regulation for largemouths (15 inches) and spotted bass (12 inches). The creel limit is six black bass per day, only one of which may be a smallmouth.

BEAVER CREEK
If it's stream-fishing an angler wants, Beaver Creek is just the spot. Located in Taney County, the creek flows to Bull Shoals Reservoir. It should be easily floatable in May, assuming ordinary weather patterns and rainfall levels. The smallmouths aren't nearly as big as those in Table Rock or even in the James River. Still, it is a great place to fish.

As is the case with most small streams, the smallmouths can be finicky here. At times anglers will catch one on nearly every cast. Other times, however, it seems as if no fish are in in the area. That problem can usually be solved with an understanding of the prevalent forage species, crayfish. Try using live crayfish to dupe these wily fish. Anglers can catch their own bait, or they can use a great imitation, such as a crankbait or spider jig.

When fishing live bait at Beaver, place a split shot above a 1/0 light wire hook. Most anglers hook their crayfish through the tail, and then work the bait with the current around the deepest water in the area. Keep in mind that "deep" is a relative term. In some stretches of Beaver, it may be less than 2 feet.

Small grubs or tiny hair jigs are also productive. Make sure lures "match the hatch" in terms of both size and color. Allow the offering to tumble along with the current and drop into any holes or cuts along the way. Carefully work around any wood cover in the area, especially those areas forming a current break. Such spots almost always hold a fish or two.

Wading is a viable option in the upper stretches of Beaver Creek. Anglers can catch a lot of fish by wading here. Be wary, however, as this stretch is full of holes and treacherous rocks. Wear a personal flotation device, and never wade alone.

Tackle preferences will depend on the angler. Spinning rods and reels spooled with 4-pound-test line will add to the excitement. The setup will also aid in handling the tiny lightweight lures most anglers use.

Smallmouths in this stream will run between 12 and 15 inches. A few bigger than that are caught every year, but not very many.

Access is somewhat limited. The MDC at Springfield has maps, booklets and copies of the regulations. Contact them at (417) 895-6880.

On the surface, the three areas detailed above couldn't be more different. While one is a reservoir and the two others feature moving water, neither fishes the same. What each of the locations does offer, though, is great fishing for smallmouths in May.

Without regard to the specific location that an angler ultimately opts to fish, he or she would do well to bring jigs, buzzbaits and spinnerbaits -- and to look forward to a great day on the water!