Well I was able to make my first trip to the river for a few hours today and I have to say it felt good to be back out on the water. I almost forgot how calming it is being out hearing nothing but rushing water, wind, and fish splashing!

I fished a short stretch of river down river from the Sheply Rd Bridge and picked up one smallie around 15", solid and it put up a nice fight. This fish was caught on a seam by drifting a medium roach and a split shot about 12" up from the hook.

As I made my way down river I fished the backwater area and this is where things got good. I caught about seven largemouth the biggest was pushing 4 pounds; all of these fish also came a little off of the current from where the river dumps into the lake on a white 1/4oz double bladed spinnerbait.

Water levels are what I consider perfect flowing around 250cfs at the Shorewood gauge and water is very very clear; around 5 feet clarity in most areas.

Fish are fattening up for the spawn and with weather like today its a perfect time to get out. I will be planning more outings and my gear is not staying in the truck until late fall.......

Frank

Some time Saturday I'll be cruising through Shorewood and there is one stretch there I like to fish.

Or, head back home and go hit three creeks.

I guess I'll decide as I drive.

At least now you have something to send to Dale...

Great news Frank. Look forward to more reports from you.