Rhardy

Appreciate the insight and suggestions. Going to hit some of my local shops and see what I can find for a few more baits. Most of the pickings are low around here so may have to order online.

I will check out the Rapala’s and Torpedo’s, I have the others. Thanks. Think I will stick with it a while and see how it goes. Took me long enough to try it, wish I had earlier.

I fish a small river close to the house on occasion. The river receives a lot of pressure from fishing, has campsites right on the water, and also has a tubing outfitter. The nice thing is I can be there within 15 minutes from the house. The fish in this section of water are bombarded constantly. What I have noticed is I seem to do better fishing if I downsize my equipment. Case in point, this morning I was using my light spinning set up with 4 pound test, a 1/32 jig head with a white curly tail. Within an hour I had caught a couple of smallmouth and one sunfish. The first smallmouth was the largest I have caught there and was at the take out spot for the folks tubing. Of course I was fishing before they started floating the river. It seems like when I use my normal smallmouth set up I catch less fish. My guess is that these fish see so much pressure that they are reluctant to take the larger lures. Has anyone else experienced the same? I may just stick with light spinning gear routinely at this place. Any suggestions for other good smaller lures? Thanks.

vapredhunter, Thanks. I can't send PMs yet. Will try to drive over this weekend and check it out. Rex

par4fishin and vapredhunter, Are the areas that you referenced designated trout waters? I know the section from Salem park along Apperson drive is. I hate to have to buy a trout stamp, especially when I am not interested in fishing for trout. Thanks. Rex

Was wondering if anyone had any experience with the Mad River Passage canoe that is sold at Dicks Sporting goods. I think I like the looks of it but wanted to find out how it handles solo. With the center seat, I thought it may work out ok. I think a solo canoe would be a better option but that isn't a possibility at this time. The primary uses would be small bodies of water and the New River. Thanks for any insight that can be offered. Rex

Thanks for all the welcomes. If all goes well, may get to hit the river this Sunday. I have to be down in the Richlands/Honaker area and might have a few minutes to spare. The weather looks like the mid 50's and just a slight chance of rain so we will see. Rex

Just thought I would drop in and say hello. I have been lurking for some time and have decided to go ahead and join what appears to be a great group/resource. I have fished for several years although nothing serious as of late. Due to personal changes and a recent move to the Roanoke area, I am telling myself that I will get out and enjoy the water again. Hopefully the stars will align and I can do just that. I have never been particularly good at or enjoyed fishing lakes/ponds so I hope to focus my efforts there. Maybe if I can learn to catch fish in a lake, I will learn to enjoy. I look forward to hanging around and learning from all of you.