For more information, call (636) 300-1953.

THE GASCONADE RIVER
Among its many other attributes, the Gasconade River has the distinction of being the longest free-flowing river lying completely within Missouri. Moreover, for much of its length, the Gasconade's water volume at normal flow is larger than that of any other stream discussed in this article. As a result, some of the lower Gasconade's pools are exceptionally long, broad, and deep. Conversely, some of its riffles are exceptionally long, narrow, and shallow. MDC fisheries biologist Phil Tipps reported that prop boats work well in the early spring, but, by July, jet boats are preferable.

For purposes of this discussion, the upper terminus of the lower Gasconade River will be set at the Osage/Phelps County line. Working downstream, access to the river can be gained at the Rollins Ferry Access (south of Linn at Route E and Highway 89), at the Pointers Creek Access (8 miles southeast of Linn on Route CC then east to the end of County Road RA), and at the Cooper Hill CA (2.5 miles south of Sterling on Route A then 2.75 west on Route D). This is a complex stretch of river that could keep any angler discovering new things for a lifetime.

With the exception of a couple of bends back into Osage County, the Gasconade crosses into Gasconade County just south of the point where it passes under Highway 50. MDC access sites in Gasconade County include Helds Island Access (north on Route K from Highway 50 two miles past the point where the blacktop ends), Fredricksburg Ferry Access (east of Morrison on Highway 100, five and a half miles on Route N and then two miles on Route J and then a mile down Old Ferry Road), and Gasconade Park Access (on Oak Street in Gasconade).

Based on the results of sampling efforts, Tipps rated the river's largemouth population as "fair." However, he noted that electroshocking bass in the Gasconade was difficult owing to the current and the abundant submerged timber. He is confident that most of the river's big bass escape the sampling.

Statewide regulations prevail in the portion of the Gasconade covered by this article, but additional restrictions are in place farther upstream. For more information, call (573) 884-6861.

SUMMARY
Veterans of the "skinny water" at the upper ends of Missouri's Ozark streams don't need to be convinced that fishing moving water is so much fun that catching bass truly is a bonus. Let me suggest, however, that you give the lower end of your favorite stream a try this year. Not only are stream-dwelling largemouths a blast, but you just might catch the biggest smallmouth of your life as well.

As for those among you who've never enjoyed a day on a Missouri stream, don't let another season pass you by. Hiring a guide is a wise investment for pure novices, but trying the lower end of a stream on your own is a whole lot better than staying home.

Find more about Missouri fishing and hunting at: MissouriGameandFish.com