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Pigeon River Dries (Smallmouth)
J.E.B. Hall DBO Staff


Description:

The Pigeon River Dries refers to the section of the Big Pigeon between the Waterville Lake Dam and the Walters Power Plant. This section can be accessed from the Walters Power Plant picnic area via a trail or by parking along the gravel road off of the Harmon Den ( # 7) exit off of I-40. The wading can be very difficult and is not for the faint of heart. Make absolutely sure there is very low flow in the river bed due to the hazardous conditions in the gorge. The water is very clear and consists of both pocket water and deep long pools. The river is full of smallmouths and holds some different panfish. Occassionally, a nice size trout makes an appearance.

Regulations:  

This section of river is open water. Which means there are no special regulations on this stream.

What to Use:

Crayfish patterns are killer. Damsel patterns work well too. Crayfish should be light brown with a little orange. Damsel should be blue or black. Clousers in chartruse and white and orange and brown are always good. Rods should be 9 ft. in length and anywhere from a 5 wt. up to a 7wt. Leaders should be 8 to 9ft. long, from 4x to 1x and fluorocarbon couldn't hurt. If you fish the Harmons Den area wading is easy and all you need are felt soles. If you fish the gorge, use caution and take a PFD in case you fall in.