DuckSouth.com

Khound, I too have an 18’ lakesport. Damn fine boat but will beat your teeth out in chop. Don’t see that many up this way.

South wind on a rise is deadly.

One of my good friends dads who is an old school river hunter/crop duster used to tell me “son, they’re are old river hunters, and they’re are bold river hunters, but they’re ain’t many old, bold river hunters”. Don’t be afraid to turn around and call it a day, but be prepared to spend a day/night. Pack enough to make it though, and tools to fix about everything, some twice.

Take this dang post down. Bunch of public spot naming SOBs! I thought this was against the duck south rules!!??????????? THE RIVER WILL KILL YOU DONT WASTE YOUR TIME

What about during the summer? I just want to catfish it

As far as catfishing goes, I've got a 1548 Express with 40 Yamaha 2 stroke, stick-steer that has had more time in the Big Muddy than I can remember. All safety advice mentioned above and then some applies. I've never been out before or after dark, but even during the day, you have to respect it. Know your area at all stages. If setting drop-lines tied to the bank (whether it be bushes or tree limbs or even tied off to rip-rap), never, ever approach from upstream. Plenty of gas, spare plug(s) and a spare prop are a must, as well as the basic tools, wrenches, screwdrivers, etc. I've been lucky enough to have never had any serious incident or emergency on the river, except running out of bait or beer at different times. Know where the rocks and sand bars are. Make way for the tugs, watch for whirlpools, keep your head on the swivel for trees. They will rise and sink and eff you up. Also watch for them damn jumping carp. It ain't all fun and games like on TV where they shoot 'em with a bow out the back. Them bastages can take off an ear with their sharp gill plates if they hit you up side the noggin. And lastly, enjoy it. It is one of the best resources and locations for fishing in the world in my opinion.