Red Ribbon Waters were previously classified as Special Trout Management Areas. The classifications
and regulations have changed as the Missouri Department of Conservation changed their goals for these
waters. Yes, they continue to be managed to produce larger fish, but regulations have been tightened
in such a way as to increase the overall numbers of good-sized fish in these waters. If you're
wondering why Lake Taneycomo isn't listed as a Red Ribbon area, it's
because it is currently outside of the ribbon classification system.
The Red Ribbon areas are terrific for several reasons. For one thing, you will generally have plenty
of elbowroom. Also, most fishermen who are serious enough about trout fishing to seek out these remote
locations are also generally catch-and-release enthusiasts, which helps maintain the size of the trout
population. And, because these fish are long-term residents, you will be challenged to catch them on
their terms. The challenge is multiplied, because they are also not stocked at the rate that White
Ribbon waters are stocked. Brown trout are stocked once or twice each year. Rainbow trout found in the
Red Ribbon areas are present due to migrating from other areas.
The Roubidoux Creek is a lovely stream and only gets better as you move
downstream away from town. The creek follows highway 17 along most of its length, so access is easy.
This makes the primary problem competition with other fishermen. The other two destinations offer
a different problem. In warmer months, you'll be competing with canoes on the
Meramec and the North Fork rivers. To deal with that, fish the lower
reaches of the rivers in the morning until you begin to see canoes. Then load up the car and head upstream.
Red Ribbon Waters are a favorite destination for Missouri's most serious trout fishermen with good
reason. Plenty of resident trout who feed naturally and grow to large size lure fishermen from all
across the country who are hungry for adventure and challenge and time spent on a beautiful Ozarks
spring-fed river.
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