Sharon Caddell

Sunday, March 1st, marks the opening day for trout fishing at Roaring River State Park. Locals are expecting a record breaker with over 3,000 anglers on hand. With its narrow valley, rugged, mountainlike terrain and deep blue spring, Roaring River State Park is breathtaking.

Roaring River is known for its premier trout fishing. Young and old alike will enjoy feeding and watching the fish in the spring pool or taking a tour of the trout hatchery. Other park features include a swimming pool, shaded picnic area and store.

Explore the natural wonders of the park on one of seven trails totaling over 10 miles. Ozark Chinquapin Nature Center exhibits interpretive displays and park naturalists present programs on the park's natural history.

Overnight guests have a variety of options. Campers will find 187 campsites ranging from basic to electric hookup. The elegant Emory Melton Inn and Conference Center features 26 guest rooms, a restaurant, gift shop and meeting rooms. Twenty-six secluded, rustic cabins with kitchens are perfect for families. Reservations for the inn and cabins are required.

Whether coming to fish, hike or relax by the pool, Roaring River State Park has something for everyone that will whet their appetite to return again and again.

Everyone I talk to is so ready for Spring weather. It's been a rough winter in and around Table Rock Lake. Roaring River's opening day brought almost 3,000 anglers to the Park and the weather was beautiful. Alot of changes in and around Shell Knob - Bibb's Small Engine shop recently opened - for all the barbeque lovers B&J Smokehouse is now open after suffering a fire last Spring - Cart N' Go has moved to a new location North of town on Hwy 39 and Table Rock Materials is working hard to get their new location up and running. Sad news this week that Jill Trimble at Sawtooth Mill has decided not to re-open her gift gallery. The Shell Knob school has some exciting events planned for our local youth - a 50's Sock Hop is scheduled for next Friday and the annual Easter Egg Hunt is scheduled for March 22nd at the CCC Camp on YY Hwy.

All the bad weather the past few months has caused a slow down in the real estate market - I'm rested and ready for buyers and sellers. Shell Knob is such a great place to live or vacation. If you haven't visited our quaint little community, you should make plans now.

Until next time ... come on Spring !!!!