Any Missouri River Boaters?

[Bubba1235]

Just wondering what sort of issues I might have if I put in at say St, Joe. and took the river to the Mississipi?

(Grew up on the Des Moines river and can "read the water" pretty well.)

 

[Dave Barnett]

Re: Any Missouri River Boaters?

I have run the Mo river around Jefferson City and Herrmann. My .02 is make sure you are an experienced big river boater before you do this. Small craft is no match for some of the water especially the wake and turbulence from commercial barges and river boats. Make sure your rig is equipped for a trip like this. Engine power is a crucial element. My brother-in-law has the boat we use on the Mo river. He has a 22ft all weld with a 72" bottom. He runs a 190 hp jet. I used to think 190 was over kill but now I understand why it was his choice of engine. I have had days we have fished the Mo and it was calm and uneventful. I have also had days like that suddenly turn way too exciting in the time it takes to blink. One last bit of advice make sure you have a marine radio (2 way) commercial traffic uses certain channels (Mo water patrol can tell what they are) The water patrol themselves can be reached in case of need. Hope you have great fun and take some pics to post here in iboats. God Bless. Dave

 

[Dave Barnett]

Re: Any Missouri River Boaters?

While I have not run long stretches like you are contemplating, The parts I have been on are most always marked well. I have never really seen the MO "change:" much. Water level is the biggest change. There are some gravel dredging operations along the river but they most generally give you a good heads up before you reach them. I would say if you have experience with commercial traffic and rough water you should be fine. Dave