Virgin Boating in a River

[James]

I am planning on taking my new boat up to South Dakota to fish the Missouri River. This will be my first time operating a boat in a river. Any suggestions or tips would be appreciated.

[Jethro]

Go upsteam. It's easier to paddle home.

[cisco]

Spend $150 the day before you intend to launch on the cost of half a day guided fishing on the river.

[Box]

Watch very carefully for deadheads, and make your first trip upstream slowly, watching for wingdams and other hazards, and remember them for when you come back downstream.

Deadheads are often very waterlogged and barely rise above the surface. Be ready at all times for hitting something you didnt see, even if you are looking closely.

When you get in fast flow areas, you will feel the boat kind of float below you. While it is prett cool, it is kinda unnerving the first time or two.

When you are pulling your boat, if the ramp is not sheltered, make sure you play the current when driving up the trailer! :)

Most of all, have a good time! It is very different (for me anyway) but very fun!

Box in MN

[Tub]

Depending on where you are going on the Missouri system in SD, you more than likely will not be dealing with much current (noticable current anyway) or other river hazards like wing dams. The exception to this is in the tail-race areas of the various dams. The two things you will want to pay attention to are submerged trees (like the other post said) and rough water conditions due to wind. The best way to avoid the shallow, tree studded flats are to motor via the old channel. A good map and depth finder will help, as well as taking your time the first trip out. As far as wind, SD resevoirs are notorious for getting nasty. That prairie wind can really howl. Couple this with the fact that you are often making long runs from the launch site (10 to 30 miles) to key fishing areas, and you can find yourself in some trouble. Much of the area that borders these waters is virtually devoid of civilazation. While that makes for some of the best scenery, it also means that taking shelter in a marina or other docking facility might not be possible. I don't mean to alarm you, it can be termendous fishing and the country really is beautiful, but I have been 15 miles out in a really bad wind and I learned some tough lessons. Had I paid attention to the forecast, I wouldn't have ventured so far from the launch area. At any rate, use common sense and enjoy your trip!!