The spring fed free-flowing waters of Current River flow through the Missouri Ozarks into Arkansas, a part of the Ozark National Scenic River ways, the current is home to lunker sized smallmouth bass. Not every angler possesses the necessary skills to catch the largest smallmouths of the Current River. I was fortunate enough to spend three days on the magical stream with experienced angler and photographer Ron Kruger. Kruger spent several years guiding on Current River, and he knows the river like the back of his hand. Much of Current River Country is wild and free and held in public trust by the National Park Service. Krueger baited me by catching a few small fish first and challenged me to a five-dollar bet on who would catch the biggest fish of the trip.
No sooner had the bet been made when Krueger turned on the pressure. Chunky smallmouth bass began to fall to his undersized spinnerbaits. I quickly realize I’ve been suckered but still felt like a winner because I was learning how to catch Current River lunkers. Kruger’s Strike King spinnerbait was deadly. The secret was putting it in the right places. Fortunately, my gravel bar gourmet skills match Krueger’s fishing abilities. “The best way to end a great day on the river is a steak, baked potato with sour cream, baked apples, and we caught two good fish today”. Temperatures dropped during the night, but a hot breakfast gave us a good start on the day.
The smallmouth bass were indeed a bonus. Current River country abounds with natural beauty and free spirit.
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