One of the great things about the Little Red River is that it is suitable for all types of boats.
In high, fast water, a motorboat is the safest and surest way to fish the river. Even with just one generator running, the current is too fast for fishing from a paddle craft. A motor allows you to maneuver around docks and other obstacles while also enabling you to go upstream against current.
In low water, the Little Red is ideal for fishing from canoes and especially kayaks. Unlike the White River, the Little Red is narrow, so you can easily work both banks and the middle by paddling.
A pedal kayak like those available from Hobie, Old Town, Perception and Native allow you to cover more water faster while freeing your hands for fishing. They also enable you to move effortlessly upstream against low to moderate current.
The Hobie Pro Angler and the Old Town Predator especially are specialized fishing kayaks. The Pro Angler has wells inside the hull to protect rod tips. You also can mount additional rod holders to the rails that allow you to carry up to three rods per side.
Safety is paramount when boating or paddling, especially on tailwaters that can rise rapidly. Tailrace streams are also very cold, and the shock of sudden immersion can cause drowning.
When operating a powerboat, wear a life vest with the kill switch attached whenever the motor is running.
Modern inflatable life vests are so light and so comfortable that there is no reason to take them off when operating a paddle craft.
If you leave your boat to fish places such as Mossy Shoal, tie it to a tree. If the water rises, it will take an untethered boat downstream, and you might not be able to catch it.
Sports on 07/07/2019