Capps Creek Fishery:

By Lee Price, SMFF Conservation Liaison

Capps Creek could be described as a typical small stream fishery in Missouri, with the exception of trout added by the Missouri Department of Conservation’s periodic stocking program. The stream is nearly 9 miles in length, from its beginnings west of Highway 37, near Purdy, to its intersection with Shoal Creek.

West of Purdy to Pulaskifield (Hwy 97); the stream can often be stepped across. This section has several deep holes with shallow runs between. The fish are primarily perch, sunfish, and a few bass, but take your time approaching them, as they are very easily spooked. (The large fish didn’t grow by being careless.) Trout are often found in the upper pools during the fall and winter, but tend to leave before warmer weather. This area is primarily open pasture, interspersed with overhanging trees that love to grab back casts. Due to the smaller size of the creek, shorter rods are the order of the day. This can be an interesting cooler weather fishery, but in the hot summer months the stream gets very small. Keep moving, as there are long stretches of barren water.

West of Pulaskifield to Lawrence County Farm Road 1010 Bridge; the stream is also privately owned, but permission to fish is easily gained by asking. There are several smaller springs and tributaries that gradually increase the size of the stream, but again, the fish will be holding in the deeper holes, and require a stealthy approach. This area is primarily rolling, and has more fly eating trees along the stream banks.

West of the Lawrence County Farm Road 1010 Bridge; the stream grows dramatically in size, with 2 larger springs and several smaller springs adding to the flow. This section contains the very quaint and unique park at Jolly Mill with a small quaint mill pond. Above Jolly Mill is private property, and permission is easily gained; however, the owners live some distance from the river. The mill pond at Jolly encompasses over 7 acres at full pool, and fishing is permitted from the south bank in the park; however, the north bank is private property and no fishing is allowed.

Immediately west of the Mill Dam is private property owned by the Haskins’ Family; however, they welcome fishermen and provide a parking lot. If you get a chance to pick up some trash as a thank you I’m sure it would be appreciated. This portion is open pasture with good back cast room and easy fishing. Fish are typically holding in the deeper holes and runs, while the shallow runs are typically barren.

West of the Haskins’ pasture is the Capps Creek Conservation Area, one of the newest conservation areas in Missouri. There are over 1.5 miles of stream available for fishing that is public owned, and ample parking is provided. Access to the lower portion of the river can be gained at Wallaby Road Bridge. Be aware that the public fishing areas are often only on one side of the river to Shoal Creek, and are well marked.

The stream in this area is primarily in the timber, with many overhanging trees, limbs, and deep holes. The Conservation Department’s stream biologist reported that several large brown trout and bass were noted when electro fishing this area.

Capps Creek is primarily a nymph and streamer fishery, with some crackel back action on top. Infrequently there is some top water action, which is primarily small mayflies and small caddisflies. This is a very fun smaller stream fishery that can be challenging at times.

For the family:

The Jolly Mill also boasts a really nice play area, picnic area, and a kid's fishing stream (stocked with trout, of course).  There are several educational exhibits including the mill house, a relocated school house and a steam engine / saw mill. 

Note:  Educational exhibits are not always open.

How Do I Get There?

From Monett, go approximately 6 miles west on Highway 60 to county road 1010.  Look for signs to Jolly Mill Park.  Turn south on CR 1010 and follow signs to the park.  To  see map of area click here.

Lee