http://youtu.be/UKJNBxDCMIs
This particular beat at this old river is been an area of interest for some time. It seemed to have enough impediments to keep the rec floaters off on the lower section. Today I spent big, and paid $35 for a vehicle shuttle provided by an area outfitter since I couldn't get anyone to join. FishWhisper was off to the Yadkin to do a yo-yo float since he had to be back at the house by 2 PM.
I wanted to try some new approaches. Topwater deer hair, and a clawdad. The clawdad seems to be a mighty fine producer on smaller flows, and thought perhaps I could duplicate last weekends results on a larger scale...larger fish. I flailed for an hour an hour and a half and managed only this.
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LoginWhile laboring, a deer proceeded to to make a long journey across the river, nearly running over my son as he fished.
After some time, we came upon the bridge that is the take out for most. I took a break, switched out the reels, and tied on the standard PE, and Intruder.
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LoginNo need to hate on the thistle. Thistles, and their relatives produce nectar that makes a fine light honey.
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LoginBelow the bridge, I thought my fortunes would change. Worked a couple nice pools, then things got rather skinny. Thought the eminent rapids would indicate more deep water, and pockets, but no such luck.
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LoginI couple things became apparent at this point. One, I should have been fishing for Carp. Secondly I had misread the sat. imagery. Too much damned skinny until we came across Double Shoals. Not sure why it is called Double Shoals. There are four distinct rapids between. The first is quite the humdinger, the second is pretty straight forward. The third is complex. The main flow runs upon a cluster of rocks shoving current every direction on the compass. This drop required a right eddy turn, and an off-side ferry to catch an unobstructed tongue of water. The last rapids wasn't too technical. Thankfully the water was low. I suspect this area is a screamer at 3000 cfs. This complex of rapids that extends for over a mile requires much more skill to navigate than Foster Falls.
I could have stopped to fish more along the way, but I did have concerns about my son getting in trouble in the rapids and needing help. I kept him within eyesight down this section.
The middle of the first rapid
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LoginSome random shootage between the top of Double Shoals and the lake. Managed to make a few casts, but was mainly taunted by beautiful gold jumping carp. No tailing pods, just a fish here & there.
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LoginThe Double Shoals area ain't made for floatin.