Kayaking a Natural Aquarium in the Ozarks

[@donalddouglas5661]

The biological balance of the water in that stream was off the charts! It is VERY RARE to witness nature at this level in this day and time. I've kept aquariums for many years and know the overall look and feel when everything is balanced biologically. Thank you for this video!

[@GatewoodBrown]

Wow this is a really really cool comment! From someone without much knowledge I just thought it was pretty cool. Didn’t know it was super rare! Right on!

[@ClayCodrey-pj7bv]

We have a lot of springs & rivers like this in Missouri and Oklahoma we locals just keep them secret other wise they're crowded and become litter with trash

[@victoriaharris3543]

But the protection of this creek is no accident , it’s been due to the efforts of surrounding land owners and their conservation efforts , I would know this having lived on the barren fork for 40 years , and it is really a small creek with limitations on carrying capacity, it needs to stay somewhat inaccessible , when it was more accessible in the past those areas were incredible littered and dangerous hangouts, and unfortunately it is still under threat from the current proliferation of mega CAFO in the area and the current efforts to pass laws exempting said corporations from pollution liability and allow them to self monitor entirely and use deep wells with unmetered water

[@GatewoodBrown]

@@victoriaharris3543 thank you for the perspective. I’ve heard the chicken farm waste is a big issue! Thank you for taking care of the creek and keeping it natural!

[@victoriaharris3543]

Except currently we are losing that fight

[@wesyoung91]

Much of Eastern Oklahoma is very beautiful. The Illinois River around there is pretty cool as well as Lake Tenkiller. Glad to see you adventuring around my part of the world!

[@GatewoodBrown]

You speaketh the truth! Eastern Oklahoma is wonderful and full of water. Never realized just how much rain there is which is great for flows

[@justinmontoya3550]

@@GatewoodBrown The Sallisaw Creek near Marble City is worth checking out during the rainy season; it has tons of rapids. Also Spavinaw Creek near Jay is about as good as the Barren Fork. The rest of the creeks such as Spring Creek, Brush Creek, Beaty Creek, Summerfield Creek, Clear Creek, and countless others, are worth exploring on foot, though a lot of times you end up wandering onto someone's land . . .

[@GatewoodBrown]

@@justinmontoya3550 thanks for the tips! I agree about the spav, just as brilliant from the section I explored. I’ll check out those others but the Sallisaw creek rapids definitely have peaked my interest. I’ll scope it out!

[@Dohaldir]

Baron is always crystal clear year round, glad to see some other people are able to appreciate the scenery.

[@GatewoodBrown]

Yes it’s stunning out there! And looks like a lot of people agree based on the viewership

[@projectdesign4675]

off the coast of Catalina (25 mi from Santa Barbara) the visibility is 200 ft, you can watch whales/sharks/manta rays and see if there is abalone down there! Beautiful river video, the Rocky Mountain streams are commonly like this (lakes too)!

[@rogerharwood4584]

What stretch of the river is this? The places I’ve been on the Baron didnt seem to have much water…

[@unkljj]

That’s in the Cherokee Nation Goingsnake District. Used to swim there as a child. Great video. Love this beautiful body of running water. There are lots of small beautiful crystal clear streams in the NE Oklahoma, NW Arkansas with mammoth trout and smallmouths.

[@GatewoodBrown]

The CNGD is full of these wonderful creeks. Certainly and enchanting place! We saw some fish that looked like trout but I couldn’t tell if they actually were. Maybe! But plenty of LMB and SMB

[@azabujubangaijin6607]

Thanks for calling out the area. I am in the DFW area, so this looks like a great place to visit!

[@matthusbands5841]

By far one of the best content creators for kayaking and camping. These videos are always so expertly filmed and edited keep up the good work.

[@GatewoodBrown]

Thank you so much Matt! Means a lot to hear kind comments like yours. It's all made worth it when you all watch the videos!

[@cruisinnc]

I live about 10 minutes from Baron Fork and have floated a portion of it several times. It is the most clear and cleanest water around. Underground springs provide cold, fresh water. There is limited access which protects it, but makes it difficult to find a good put in spot. Also it tends to get very low at times. When it floods, it’s amazing to see the trees rolling down with the water. It’s spectacular and we protect it. Enjoy it if you can get this way.

[@GatewoodBrown]

You’re spot on. Limited access is fine as long as there is some access. The baron fork has plenty imo, good for day trips and overnights alike

[@mitchmoore5052]

​@@GatewoodBrownwhere did you put in/take out? I live less than a mile from where Barren Fork dumps in to the Illinois River. Looks like you may have taken out at Eldon Bridge. Great video, I'm ready to load up the kayaks right now!

[@gbpg2016]

I had to search where Baron Fork was because I thought, he said Ozarks and Oklahoma while I was watching the video and seen how clear the water was. I was like, the Illinois River is just like that. Ha I live in Kansas right on it and it’s glorious. Lake Tenkiller is also worth visiting as the water clarity is also awesome. If you enjoy fishing then check out the fishing below the dam.

[@GatewoodBrown]

@@gbpg2016 I’ve heard fishing below the damn is unmatched. Added to the list! Ya know the cool thing is there are a bunch of creeks just like the barren fork in that area

[@GatewoodBrown]

@@mitchmoore5052 go get it Mitch! Let me know how it goes

[@castle228]

What a stunningly beautiful stretch of water! The colors are absolutely amazing! Thanks for sharing that gem, Gatewood! Cheers.

[@GatewoodBrown]

Thanks for tuning into another one! I appreciate you always coming back. Agreed, the colors were brilliant at eye level and when I tossed the drone up it was simply magnificent

[@TrailChaser]

Great video! I need to start kayaking some of these little creeks around where I live. I usually just go straight to the saltwater spots.

[@GatewoodBrown]

Thanks TC! The salt has great angling but creeks can be a nice change up. Less wind to contend with! Haha

[@DennyT71]

Gatewood, I've watch several of your videos. This is one of the best. Unbelievable water clarity. This is a place I'll be taking my kayak for sure. Thanks for sharing such a beautiful place.

[@GatewoodBrown]

Thanks for tuning into another! Ya know it means a lot to hear your comment because I often times think it takes a kayak camping film to make the most impact to my community. But seeing the reach and impact this day trip has is very refreshing to see because I can do day trips way more often than a full blown kayak camping trip. I love making both!

[@22busy43]

We did the Buffalo river last spring. Some friend did the Illinois river in OK last fall, but I missed that trip. We’re going back to the Buffalo next month for a 3 day 2 night trip. I just bought a crescent CK1. Can’t wait to test it out.

[@GatewoodBrown]

Nice. Buffalo is a wonderful place and so is the Illinois. Buffalo has more magic but now you’ll have to do the Illinois with the CK1. It’s a rad kayak

[@GatewoodBrown]

2 for 2 monthly uploads in 2024! It’s the last day of the month but the streak is alive. Spring arrived here in Houston!

[@BlueEffigy]

its paddle time

[@GatewoodBrown]

@@BlueEffigy that it is! Spring has broke for us in Houston. Not quite up there but this mild winter should serve everyone an early spring

[@huntstyle]

Can you send some spring up to Idaho, please? 😂

[@GatewoodBrown]

@@huntstyle haha y’all just got more snow this week! I did see it rained at lower elevations though. That’s a good sign!

[@theantichrist4267]

What is the name of that river ? And where did you begin down it .or what county did you start in ? Also is it public access?

[@jimhavens745]

Loved everything about your video. The tips on paddling, your eloquent narration of the scenery and wildlife, awesome video, and the vivid description of the local area. Just watching your video makes me want to pack up and head out. My wife and I love the Ozarks but usually head to Arkansas. Never realized all the beauty right here in Oklahoma hidden in this little creek. Thanks for sharing. I just subscribe to your channel and hope to see lots more.

[@GatewoodBrown]

Thank you Jim! If the video gives people the urge to go paddling then I call it a resounding success. Arkansas and Oklahoma are wonderful places to explore the ozarks. Missouri too!

[@anthonycontrer]

Beautiful waters. Great work once again. Keep it up Gatewood! Glad to see your videos again!

[@GatewoodBrown]

Thanks Anthony! Stoked to be uploading consistently again. Great to see this video gaining traction too. Just means the natural beauty is resonating with folks!

[@lannyrayconnelljr]

I live in Houston but I went to school in Tulsa. I spent many weekends exploring eastern OK, I had no idea how beautiful it is. Your video brings back a lot of great memories, driving too fast over hills, swimming in creeks that are still cold in July, getting the truck stuck in the mud on on the bank. Thanks for posting an amazing video; it's the first video of yours that I've seen, I'll definitely subscribe.

[@GatewoodBrown]

I live in Houston too my man! Glad you took advantage of eastern OK, most don’t. That’s an enchanting land up there for sure. Stoked to have you a part of the community!

[@mywienersyoumusttouch6446]

​@@GatewoodBrown, God bless Texas 💪🙏❤️

[@MountainGyspy]

We used to swim in the Baron when my daughter was little. Always cold & clear. Felt great on those hot, humid Oklahoma summer days!

[@GatewoodBrown]

Wow what a special place to spend time! We loved our time exploring it and can’t wait to go back someday

[@chrismoody1342]

I have to admit that was pretty special. And it not to far from my abode, maybe 2 1/2 hrs. For the last 6 years me and my four kids and families have been going over to SE Missouri and kayaking the rivers and creeks over there. I honestly would say even more beautiful.

[@GatewoodBrown]

It’s a special place for sure. 2.5 hours is a day trip! Definitely worth popping over for a day paddle but it’s understandable that Missouri is your primary destination, beautiful!

[@tomcaldwell5750]

Thank you, Gatewood for sharing this beautiful location.

[@GatewoodBrown]

It’s a wondrous place for sure! The ozarks are magical no doubt

[@calxtra5361]

JUST BEAUTIFUL!!!! TRULY appreciated by a bedridden woman in the south coast UK !!!

[@GatewoodBrown]

Wonderful to hear from our friends across the pond. My sister just moved to Scotland!

[@BeckiandChris]

My god that river was DREAMY 😍😍 what an incredible experience to be able to paddle in such a beautiful place!

[@GatewoodBrown]

Incredible place for sure! Lisa was a champ dodging the trees. I’m about ready to buy some land and replicate what y’all are doing except in Oklahoma 😂 maybe one day haha

[@WJV9]

There are dozens of spring fed rivers that are clear like this most the year around all over the Ozarks from south Missouri, northern Arkansas and also the narrow strip in Eastern Oklahoma that you are floating.

[@GatewoodBrown]

Yes! I’m a sucker for springfed rivers and creeks so the ozarks are a favorite spot to visit

[@AdventuresofAplusK]

What a gorgeous area 😍 Oklahoma blew us away and this is adding a new area to the list! Loved that you called it a wild aquarium. What a spot on way to describe i!

[@GatewoodBrown]

Oklahoma is just casually beautiful flying under the radar in a big way. I guess everyone skips past for Arkansas and Missouri! That area would be a great place for a trip with y’all!

[@PoshukTV]

You must be a good person if you see all this beauty in ordinary things that others barely see. Thanks for showing this to us!

[@GatewoodBrown]

That’s a great perspective and I guess thriving aquatic environments just get me stoked haha. I’m so used to living in a Concrete jungle here in Houston that I get out to natural places and they’re a breath of fresh air

[@PoshukTV]

@@GatewoodBrown Aquatic environments inspires me too. Here you can see how much)) kzbin.info/www/bejne/qn3KcmuarpudqNE

[@tinalovio4290]

Looks like the same crescent I got last year. I flipped it the first couple of times in mission bay San Diego. We’re moving to Muskogee in the next couple of months and I can’t wait to get out on all the lakes and rivers.

[@GatewoodBrown]

I’d bet so, love these crescent kayaks man. So much fun. Muskogee will be an will be an excellent place to paddle. Enjoy!

[@johnpartain6757]

I've always been fascinated with aquatics ever since I was a boy. I love the underwater kingdom whether it's catching fish or just observing the beauty of all the different species. I used to take pride as a kid to study and know each species in Florida growing up, so when I caught a fish, I knew what it was. This video is absolutely stunning! The colors of the river, the abundance of the fishery and their movements, you captured perfectly! Thanks for taking me to an amazing place while I sit here at my work desk lol! I'm hoping to hit a Texas river in the next month!

[@GatewoodBrown]

Dude same! Being able to see the fish swim around is just as rewarding as catching them. Always so interesting to see the way they interact with their environment. That too will make you a better angler! Thanks for always watching, John! Yeah we need some rain out here in Texas...asap!

[@randybye6539]

I enjoy your videos and so envy your experiences. Who knew this existed in Ok.? Beautiful stretch. Keep on sharing.

[@GatewoodBrown]

Thanks Randy! This creek was definitely a surprise and what’s wild is that there are many more just like it

[@WildLifeOutdoors23]

Dude! The content: mint! The location: gorgeous! The edit/color grade: phenomenal! Keep it up man!

[@GatewoodBrown]

Thanks dude this comment made my day! A lot of work goes into the edits and the best part is getting to interact in the comments. The color grading is definitely a big piece although I try to keep it relatively simple with various luts and light curves

[@WildLifeOutdoors23]

@@GatewoodBrown well the simplicity is still amazing. Your vids show me I still have a lot to learn!

[@GatewoodBrown]

@@WildLifeOutdoors23 I do like simplicity for sure. Complexity adds time and stress!

[@lrparrish227]

That was the most spectacular capture. Just will never see anything like that. thanks for sharing!

[@GatewoodBrown]

Glad you enjoyed it! I bet there’s something like this within a several hours drive at least. Wonderful spots everywhere in this country

[@mariacortes2384]

The overhead footage is absolutely awesome!Thank you for creating this video! It inspired me to go kayaking again. Best of luck adventuring!

[@GatewoodBrown]

Wow that is wonderful to hear Maria! Thank you for sharing the kind words. Enjoy getting back out on the water!

[@mud074]

Worth noting that most of the fish at 10:30 were actually buffalo and some kind of sucker species (more specifically, I think some kind of redhorse), all native species, not carp! Absolutely incredible footage.

[@GatewoodBrown]

That is amazing news! Great to hear the native species are thriving. I need to improve on my species identification!

[@SouthernPaddler]

I've not been in the Oklahoma Ozarks, but I've been in the Arkansas and Missouri Ozarks! They are AMAZING!! I hope you get to go to the Buffalo National River soon!! Another great one, Gatewood!! Dan

[@GatewoodBrown]

I hope so too! I’m thinking it’ll happen next month since our Texas plans are deteriorating based on a lack flows. Buffalo is a SOLID backup tho

[@K9River]

It's not just the beauty, but you guys were enjoyable as well. Good one!

[@GatewoodBrown]

I really appreciate that, just made our day! We are thankful you chose to watch!

[@JonConti]

Damn dude this is awesome! Love the mix of narration and vlog.

[@GatewoodBrown]

Thanks dude! I always try to keep it story driven to best convey our actual experience. But that can be hard! Haha

[@KZ-yu4jz]

Love these videos. I need to get my Remote Design bags out in the wild. Looking forward to some spring fun.

[@GatewoodBrown]

Thank you so much! Also appreciate you picking up some gear. Summer is largely here so it’s definitely time to hit the outdoors. Cheers to that!

[@WilliamMoyer-fo3nk]

Thanks for this video! I and my paddling buddy drove from OKC to canoe this stream a few times in the early 1980s. I look at my old photos from time to time and so glad we brought a camera. Not only was I impressed with the clarity of the water, but it was swift and exciting, not knowing what’s around the next bend. We paddled a few other lesser known streams in this region and never saw another person on them at that time.

[@judyeverett4553]

Thank you, I was in awe watching this. something I would never have seen if it wasn't for you guys. I would rather experience it myself but this is the next best thing. WOW!!!!!!

[@GatewoodBrown]

Wow that’s such a nice comment thank you!!

[@bradewing4290]

Great video. Beautiful scenery. I have an Ultra Lite and a CK1 myself. Love Crescent kayaks.

[@GatewoodBrown]

Thank you so much! Yeah this was our first real day paddle with them and it reminded me a lot of my Crew from back in the day. Except more nimble and easier to throw around!

[@Bamaoutdoors]

Man that's another great place! I really need to take some time off and travel to some of these locations you have been to thanks for sharing!

[@GatewoodBrown]

This place was epic! Also tells me there’s a bunch more creeks and rivers in the area that I need to check out. Too many for one lifetime!

[@tylerfromtexas6556]

Those crystal clear waters reminds me so much of Iceland. It was so clear you can actually drink it! That’s a beautiful part of Oklahoma and I need to go there soon!

[@GatewoodBrown]

Dang would never have thought of that comparison. Oklahoma and Iceland! You’ve done the lower mountain fork, now it’s time for you to do the ozarks!

[@BeautifuLakesStreamsBiologists]

Imagine something this nice in your own hometown. That's what I create to make my living: streams and lakes. Thanks for taking us all along on the tour here!

[@GatewoodBrown]

Making those things inherently alter nature though. Just a thought!

[@BeautifuLakesStreamsBiologists]

@@GatewoodBrown yes for the better. For instance revitalizing a polluted brown field into a pristine lake to support sensitive species.

[@GatewoodBrown]

@@BeautifuLakesStreamsBiologists I see! Well that is wonderful so keep doing what you're doing. Lots of those around that need converting!

[@michaelwoodard2007]

I see yall are on Crescent Kayaks! I just bought a Lite Tackle II... it's hands down the best kayak i've ever been on!!!

[@GatewoodBrown]

That is so rad to hear! I got a lite tackle ii as well and will be taking it on a multi day kayak camping trip next month. Beyond stoked!

[@Itchin2Fish]

Always a beautiful work of art. Love the artistic style you have. The Buffalo is AR is a thing of beauty with high bluffs. Can’t wait until you visit. Ponca is where the post cards come from. It’s all beautiful though just like this river. Enjoyed the journey with you.

[@GatewoodBrown]

Thank you my man! We may be pivoting over to the Buffalo in April since our big bend trip may get canceled for lack of flow…sad but wouldn’t be made about the pivot! We’d probably doing the Ponca section but ideally I can paddle the whole thing eventually

[@ericwheep]

love this channel so much. living vicariously through you

[@GatewoodBrown]

Stoked to have you along for this one my man!

[@spencerboaz2385]

That was awesome . I did a lot of work in Oklahoma from 2008 to 2012 but I didn't have a kayak then . I took my younger sister kayaking in Toledo Bend a couple of times last summer and she used my 10' kayak and she loved it so much she had me help her find one for herself . She's 58 now and hooked . We plan to do a lot of paddling this year , this looks like a good place to put on our list . Was there many homes along that stretch and posted signs or loonies wanting to shoot at ya lol . Maybe just pull all your Texas stickers off your kayak before you go lol . That was really beautiful , you guys have a blessed one .

[@GatewoodBrown]

That’s a wonderful story and 58 is a great time to get into the sport! I just picked up a kayak cart for the longer put ins and it’ll be handy. Basically no houses along the river. Texas has 30M people compared to oklahomas 5M. Just way more open country out there! Didn’t see another person the whole day.

[@NunYaBizNus1]

Heyyy I’m near Tulsa!! Owasso Oklahoma!! Yes we do have beautiful waters!! Been on the Barron Fork many times!! Holds special memories for me!! Glad you enjoyed our rivers!!

[@GatewoodBrown]

You live in a gorgeous place! So many wonderful creeks near there. More than you can explore in a lifetime!

[@steventhompson9192]

Love seeing the spotlight on crescent kayaks

[@GatewoodBrown]

Same! They’re brilliant kayaks and we are so pleased with them. They feel so solid and lightweight at the same time

[@TBassFactory]

Pretty cool seeing you on the river where my passion for fishing all started! You should head up towards the Arkansas section of the Illinois River on the border Mr brown! So many people don’t realize the rural amazing spots that would blow peoples minds similar to some of the spots in the hill country. Thanks bud for showing a little piece of my backyard up north.

[@GatewoodBrown]

If the Arkansas section is even better I absolutely will! The tahlequa section is so close to my in laws that it made sense to do that one first. I prefer the ouachita and ozarks compare to the hill country now haha. Hill country is overpopulated and the groundwater is getting pumped too hard to sustain rivers. Sad to see

[@TBassFactory]

@@GatewoodBrown They are building kayak whitewater parks on the Arkansas side of the Illinois river outside of my hometown Siloam springs that are pretty cool but are gonna become like the hill country being overpopulated. So many good rivers and the creeks are amazing too. Flint creek flows into the Illinois River and is fed by millions of springs near Kansas Oklahoma. I miss the outdoors up there it’s just different than anywhere else in the country.

[@GatewoodBrown]

@@TBassFactory alright that’s the second recommendation for doing so I’ve gotta check it out. I see they just built a whitewater park in Oklahoma on the Illinois, is that what you’re talking about? Yeah I don’t think it’ll ever have the same issue as the hill country with population. So many people move to Texas it’s wild. 30M people in this state

[@TBassFactory]

@@GatewoodBrown yep that whitewater park was so sad for me to see made into a park for kayaking. It was an old metal bridge called fisher ford and they dynamited the natural falls that were there diverted the river and concreted in the entire spot and made it into a park. It is what is now. The Walmart foundation invested millions and on the border are tge other park i believe is named WOKA. It is built on old Lake Francis the dam broke along time ago. My mom used to water ski on that lake. Kind of like Lake Dunlap in New Braunfels. You can put in at Chamber springs access on the Illinois and float all the way down to WOKA on the border.

[@GatewoodBrown]

@@TBassFactory oh wow don’t think I’ll ever support detonating natural falls and concreting rivers. Unfortunate!

[@joshuamcconkeyfishing]

New Missouri subscriber. Wow your videos are great! Nice ambient music too. Keep them coming

[@GatewoodBrown]

Will do my man! MO is a place in dying to paddle…y’all have some of the best rivers for kayak camping!

[@andybobsadventures]

Beautiful river. I've seen schools of carp like that in Elkhorn Creek outside of Frankfort, KY. Also a beautiful paddle and great smallmouth fishing.

[@GatewoodBrown]

Oh wow! We visit Versailles on occasion so I’ll have to bring my fly gear next time. Thanks for the tip!

[@andybobsadventures]

@@GatewoodBrown nice! If you make it out this way let me know if I can help in any way.

[@ZCOOKZ]

Great video man, as an Okie I love that part of the state. Thanks for taking us along!

[@GatewoodBrown]

Glad you enjoyed it! The green country delivers man. It’s just brilliant! As you know way better than I do haha.

[@lazarusravelstein1311]

That was incredible, filled with beauty and wisdom . . . and fine gear. Bravo.

[@GatewoodBrown]

Thank you so much for watching!

[@tshunse]

Love your videos. Great story telling abilities and ferric cinematography. Thank You.

[@GatewoodBrown]

I really appreciate the kind words! Means a lot you’d take time and watch the video

[@KentuckyWoodsman]

Man what an amazing stretch of water. Reminds me a lot of the Florida Springs!

[@GatewoodBrown]

I agree KW! Those springs in Florida are brilliant but I wish they had more rapids out there. It would be the dream setup!

[@wooklim9440]

Gorgeous! Great videography, kudos!

[@GatewoodBrown]

Thank you so much for watching!

[@OzExpeditions]

Great footage there. Makes me want to go kayaking again.

[@GatewoodBrown]

Kayaking the ozarks is a brilliant way to spend the weekend! Just did the Buffalo last weekend

[@biffmifflin1829]

Beautiful river and great job presenting it! I do worry about those who will now rush to overfish the area .

[@GatewoodBrown]

Thank you so much! It won’t be a problem since these videos won’t reach nearly as many people as the state promoting their wildlife management areas and access points. Plus people are lazy and maybe 50 people will actually go float it

[@ABrianLewisVlog]

Wow that water is so clear and beautiful! Digging the new kayaks my dude!!

[@GatewoodBrown]

Dude the water blew me away completely! Loving the crescents man. I knew I would based on my experience with the crew a few years back. Happy to report more of the same excellence

[@TheBeardedBurton]

Man that’s been on my list for awhile, beautiful video and memories made! We need to try and get out on a trip this year brother!

[@GatewoodBrown]

Dude we definitely do! Need some rain in that hill country so we can get out on the Clearwater Texas rivers. This far into spring with no winter rain doesn’t have me hopeful though

[@BentTrails28]

That place looks beautiful. My wife and I are going to have to go there and paddle that. Glad you’re using crescent. I sent you a message probably a year ago about Crescent kayaks. We love our light tackles crescents. They work very well. We’re looking into a crescent crew right now so I can fish a little bit bigger water by myself and then I can also take my granddaughter or dog with me, looks like fun you guys enjoy be safe. 🤙🏼

[@GatewoodBrown]

Awesome thank you! Yep absolutely love the crescents ever since I bought the crew a few years back. I have the LT II that I’ll be using on a trip next month so really stoked for that as well

[@matthewnoterman9063]

I get excited when I get to watch your videos. Make me want to get out and go. Would it be possible if you could post a map of where you went on your trips?

[@GatewoodBrown]

Thanks MN! Stoked to share these wonderful places with y’all and interact with everyone about the trip report. I’m always a bit conflicted about sharing exact data because of the safety liability associated with it. Sounds dumb BUT flow rates can make this casual paddle a wild ride and I’d hate to steer someone to a body of water with the expectation that it’ll be what I did, and then be in a tough situation. This goes for low water as well. I try to share enough info in the videos to where a discerning paddler can put the trip details together and execute the same stretch of river. Date and entry/exit points are always hinted at in the videos. I hope this helps!

[@Frozty]

Can confirm, in the last video on that fake Illinois river, I was able to work out the whole thing just looking at google earth, including the beach camped on lol. It's there with a little bit of effort ;D Or if you're feelin lazy and want some trips nearly pre-planned for you up in Wisconsin, there's a great blog called MilesPaddled that documents his trips in "Paddle reports", with links to maps and gauge readings at the time of the trip, as well as current gauge readings that you can also click on to get some historical data to use planning your own trip. But also, Gatewood is right. Rivers vary SO much from season to season. The best river I've ever paddled was incredible in early June, and then a terrible scrapey nightmare the next year in early July. Even following something saying "put in here, camp here, take out here", you still need to do a ton of planning on your own, the "where" of the trip is not even half the planning.

[@GatewoodBrown]

@@Frozty agreed! USGS flow rates are so key when planning a trip. I still mess it up to this day but understanding how rivers behave at different flows is one of the hardest things to calculate.

[@wolfriveroutdoors]

Big upgrade with the new Crescent Kayak! My new Lite Tackle II is arriving soon! Great video as always! Magical place indeed! Keep em comin!🛶🎣🏕️

[@GatewoodBrown]

Thank you! I’ll be paddling my kite tackle II for the first time next month. Taking it on a proper 3 day trip! I expect it to be an beast for that. Thanks for tuning in man!

[@AVAJourneys]

Absolutely awesome! Crazy about the rivers in that region.

[@GatewoodBrown]

They’re nuts and in your backyard which is so rad! I wish they were closer to actual home haha. Call me crazy but I think the Oklahoma ozarks geologically have the clearest ozark rivers and creeks. Maybe because it’s on a slope with more springs exposure?

[@AVAJourneys]

@@GatewoodBrown that’s definitely part of it. The limestone topography contributes some as well. So many rivers! Wish we could run them all.

[@GatewoodBrown]

@@AVAJourneys I was telling a guy the other day that the ozark alone have a lifetime worth of paddling. Much less adding in the rest of the US!

[@FrankLadd]

Wow! Putting it on the bucket list!

[@GatewoodBrown]

Those creeks are definitely worth a shot up in OK! I tried to do an upriver adventure on one and quickly got haunted because the flows were so good. It was amazing! Haha

[@Inkling777]

Many years ago I canoed down the Buffalo River. I agree this is much more beautiful.

[@GatewoodBrown]

I’ll have a proper comparison next month. Hopefully doing the Buffalo!

[@RachelSchell]

Every time I watch one of your videos I immediately want to go on an outdoor adventure!

[@GatewoodBrown]

Wow thank you so much! I kind of agree, watching the videos makes me want to get out and explore some creeks. Luckily it’s a good time of year for that!

[@JudahsTreeFarm]

Been hunting and fishing the Ozarks since I was 7. I'm now 29 and if you like that creek you gotta try the Kings River and several others over here in Arkansas.

[@Oaktree68]

Another great video, now I’m really pumped for my first trip of 2024. Hitting the Upper Buffalo in late April

[@GatewoodBrown]

Thank you so much! I may see you out on the Buffalo, say hey if you see our crew!

[@JasonSmith-wj2ht]

I can't believe how clear that water is. I'm in the MO Ozarks and the water doesn't look anything like that. Thanks for putting this area on my radar. Lots of logjams right now. I almost got taken down by one last weekend.

[@GatewoodBrown]

So clear! MO is wonderful too and the visible springs you all have are pretty cool. They seem healthy!

[@dhl1263]

WOW! That was beautiful! Awesome... thanks

[@GatewoodBrown]

Very surprising for sure!

[@clintlewis1715]

Yeah, the Baron Fork is nice. My Dad and I have done several canoe trips, starting on the Baron Fork, close to where it meets the Illinois River. We would camp and fish along the way, traveling all the way down to just above Lake Tenkiller. It's best to go in the off season though, as the Illinois River near Tahlequah can get quite busy as there are some campgrounds and commercial float trips in the area. Parts of Spavinaw Creek are really nice too.

[@GatewoodBrown]

Man I bet that is some wonderful angling all around there. Spavinaw might even be the same as Barren Fork, I’ve not paddled much of it yet though. Just fished the part by lake eucha

[@matthewdean8070]

I did this river last August going to do the Buffalo in June, w 5 buddies, Missouri got several spring fed beautiful rivers, The Niangua, Current, Meramec and NorthFork river are all worth it.

[@mysteriousoklahoma777]

Watch out for bigfoot on the Meramec and the current river.

[@GatewoodBrown]

I want to do all those rivers too!

[@9lifepath]

Very cool. I love the clear water

[@GatewoodBrown]

Thank you! We are awe struck by that water too

[@MrBobconner1952]

I went to school just a few short miles far from this gorgeous place - Northeastern Oklahoma State in Tahlequah. It's hard to keep your mind on school when you have nature this beautiful all around you.

[@GatewoodBrown]

Gosh I’d have a tough time going to class with all those wonderful streams in my backyard!

[@SagresO1]

Just wanted to say how much i love your videos! Every time I watch one I immediately want to get out on the water. Are you going to sell the hip pack again at some point? I have the backpack and love it, but am looking for something a bit smaller for shorter paddles

[@GatewoodBrown]

That’s so nice thank you! Means a lot to have you watching all the videos. Hip packs should be back in 2025! Currently working on a new design that should be perfect for short paddles

[@randpherigo9724]

I battled the st Francis in mid-spring.. class 4 .. I had no idea! I was so sore the next day!!

[@GatewoodBrown]

That sounds rad! Which section do you recommend for class 3? 4 is above my pay grade

[@Mr38thstreet]

lovely video, good advertisement for eastern OK! Thanks for sharing.

[@GatewoodBrown]

Thanks for watching! Eastern OK is a hidden gem to our is staters for sure. We love it up there

[@TheFriskyClicker]

Looking forward to this years content! Up in Wisconsin it's still not time yet for me yet, so need those early season videos until I can get out myself!

[@GatewoodBrown]

More on the way already! A little bit of everywhere this year. Texas desert, Wyoming, Utah and hopefully a return trip to the Texas hill country. If not there then probably the Buffalo

[@markmanleyH2Oactivity]

Gatewood. Wow ! You & Lisa Truly blessed to *experience* such amazing, untamed Nature 🌴🦅😏 🏊💪😁

[@kbanderson7102]

You should give the Missouri's Black River (just south of Johnson Shut-ins) a look. There's a 12 mile stretch that is all spring fed and with some glacier cut canyons. Too pretty to believe and some great small mouth fishing. Great content.

[@GatewoodBrown]

I’d love to! I’ll take a look on Google maps and start checking the surroundings. Glacier cut canyons sound amazing! And small mount fishing is always a blast

[@wneinast]

Awesome video as always. Drone footage of the fish was incredible. Is there enough water above and below that stretch to make the Barren Fork an overnighter? Might need to put it on my list.

[@GatewoodBrown]

Really lucked out with catching the fish! I’d already launched the drone before realizing they were there. Yep! There’s a WMA quite a bit upstream that would give you a solid 2 or 3 day trip

[@ricardocarmona5210]

Cool video awesome underwater footage. Thanks 🤘

[@GatewoodBrown]

Thank you! It’s definitely going to make me start to film underwater more when there’s clear water. So cool to see what’s going on under there

[@ryanberry842]

I have canoed many miles on missouri streams but the best of them all was the jacks fork river and the big piney.

[@chantelroady3114]

Can you tell us where you put in at and where you got out? I live in OK and really want to do this trip.

[@GatewoodBrown]

We always use the wildlife management areas for access!

[@seanwyattfishing]

Boggles my mind how you balance the storytelling with your footage... I have had thousands of days on the creeks and rivers in that same area...but your ability to translate that experience into a 14 minute video on youtube is so impressive.

[@GatewoodBrown]

Thanks Sean! Man that made my day, ya know it’s always my goal to narrate and edit in such a way that gets you as close to possible to understanding how the trip truly was without fluffing it up too much. This place captivated us for sure.

[@seely32]

White mountains in NH has water just as clear, great kayaking and canoeing there too.

[@GatewoodBrown]

I’d love to spend some time up there and paddle. Trout and coffee fished some rivers that look amazing!

[@davidanalyst671]

you need to try tubing slash yakking in san marcos. theres a spring that feeds a river, so its cold year round and you need to make sure its sunny, but a spring turns into a river, and san marcos is famous for the beautiful tubing

[@davidanalyst671]

the only thing is that you may want to call ahead and see if theres much water

[@GatewoodBrown]

I've been to the San Marcos many times! There's a video on my channel from 2020 documenting one of the trips. Cool place!

[@SMriverboys]

@@davidanalyst671 the San Marcos river has never dried up in recorded human history, you might be thinking of the Guadalupe river.

[@BlueLinerMedia]

I love my Crescent kayak! Give me a shout when you plan for the Buffalo River! I’m only 2hrs away!

[@GatewoodBrown]

Dude they’re excellent! Hard to describe until you’ve felt one in person. Will do my man. No concrete plans but I’d like to hit it this year

[@aaronturner3498]

Been floating Ozark creeks and rivers my whole life mainly Missouri and Arkansas but this is a stunner! Need to add it to the list. Also love my Crescent Shoalie in the skinny waters!!

[@GatewoodBrown]

I’m jealous you’ve spent so much time up there! I need to spend more time in Arkansas and Missouri to properly compare but they all seem brilliant. The Arkansas ouachita may be my favorite so far though. Wild down there!

[@GatewoodBrown]

That’s shoalie is a beast! I’d bet it’s even better than my ck1 in shallow water based on the hull design

[@aaronturner3498]

Yes i also own a Lite Tackle 2 and while its a great kayak it gets hung up way more than my Shoalie.

[@SirCarlosMusicBMI]

🎉🎉🎉 I’m not sure how I found your channel but I sure am glad that I did. I absolutely love rivers and hope to see tons more. I Just subscribed and if you keep on filming I’ll keep on watching. Blessings from Paso Robles, California, Carlos ✝️🙏❤️😊🇺🇸

[@GatewoodBrown]

So glad KZbin shared my channel with you, stoked to have you! CA has some wonderful rivers too and one day I’ll make the trip. That’s for sure!

[@tweedledee9573]

As someone that grew up in Branson, I’ve floated all through the Ozarks. The Buffalo is just as clear and cuts through high walled valleys. It can get busy at times, but is well worth the float. You guys would love it.

[@GatewoodBrown]

I’ll be on the Buffalo next month! However based on the footage I’ve seen the Buffalo is not as clear. Great quality water but a bit more sediment in the water. Still quite pristine though!

[@nerdjournal]

You want to see some more gorgeous Ozark kayaking? Look into the Buffalo River near Ponca, Arkansas. Wait. That's funny. Apparently, that is exactly about where you should have been. Too funny. Edit: I am on the border of Arkansas/ Oklahoma on the Arkansas side. Buffalo and the Hidden Valley was just some of favorite places to camp when I was younger. Something so beautiful about the cliffs along the Buffalo in Norhtern Arkansas. There are some streams that would be fun just for personal trips more than videos between these areas you should look in to. Also if you like caves, there is a really cool one around Ponca that has a waterfall in the middle of it. Might want to ask around for directions to the cave and be safe, the waterfall room has places you could fall if you aren't vigilant.

[@GatewoodBrown]

I just may be headed to the buffalo in April! We are supposed to do Big Bend but there's no water out there right now lol. Those cliffs on the buffalo look amazing on camera so I cant imagine what they're like in person. I'd imagine stunning! Really cool that you live in the region, quickly becoming one of my favorites for sure.

[@OzarkMediaCo]

Bro, you can tell an awesome story and create suspense and tension out of almost thin air. Brilliant.

[@GatewoodBrown]

Thanks a ton! I try to convey what happened because it’s so hard to match the intensity of what’s going on via camera. Steepness and sketchiness don’t often come through on camera haha. Are you still enjoying that fishpond sling? I’m starting to drum up design ideas for my own sling via remote designs. Kind of like a deck bag oriented sling

[@OzarkMediaCo]

@@GatewoodBrown Yeah, I like the fishpond a lot. It's so fast and being able to use the insert to arrange the compartments to hold everything the way I like is legit. I wish it opened just a little wider. I have the same Sigma Art lens, but find myself carrying a prime because the opening would catch and I'm worried I'll damage the variable lens yanking it out of the bag. If you ever want to chat about it hit me up!

[@Lonifisher]

Great video as always. Are there any creeks or rivers in the houston area that you have been on. Like spring creek or the sanjacinto river? Not sure if spring creek is safe to kayak on.

[@GatewoodBrown]

Yes! We’ve had fun on cypress creek, spring creek, west fork San Jack and the Buffalo bayou

[@marksmith9176]

I love my Ozarks. Come on over to Missouri and kayak the Current River the Mark Twain National Forest. I think you will find very nice as well. Great video.

[@GatewoodBrown]

The ozarks are elite! I plan to do Missouri this year so hopefully it works out on the current river

[@Paddle-N-Fish]

Very nice! I have the same blue kayak and love it!! Fyi, those fish were native suckers and buffalo fish, not invasive carp.

[@GatewoodBrown]

I’m stoked you identified the species! I thought they were carp but very cool to hear they’re Buffalo. Those guys were thriving and I bet a ton of people miss all of the gar in those shots. They blend in so well from above.

[@Paddle-N-Fish]

@GatewoodBrown it is a common mistake, they have a similar looking stout body, and the big scales. They prefer clean water. They will sometimes take a small nymph, so try a few casts next time and hold on!

[@LIFEbyBrandon]

those look like native buffalo carp, definitely a sign of a healthy eco-system

[@GatewoodBrown]

I’m so stoked to hear that! I thought they were carp lol. Native Buffalo in those quantities is a great sign. Wow!

[@matthewdean8070]

They are not carp, Buffalo are a sucker fish...no carp are native to North America.

[@teamflanneloutdoors5631]

I thought the same. Buffalo

[@GatewoodBrown]

@@teamflanneloutdoors5631 I’m actually pretty stoked to hear that. I’ve not encountered many Buffalo so this is cool news

[@shannonc.8911]

I’ve spent many summer days on the Barton fork creek with my daughter. I hope you find where we would jump in at Boy Scout Hole.

[@GatewoodBrown]

We didn’t pass Boy Scout hole but maybe on the next trip!

[@jackmcdaniel6535]

I love the Kiamichi and the Cossatot rivers!!!

[@trinawhitener7753]

You guys oughta do the Jacks Fork in Missouri if you haven’t already. The water is so clear it’s like you’re floating on air. We did the stretch from Buck Hollow to Alley Springs and it was phenomenal!

[@GatewoodBrown]

I really want to do jacks fork and some other stuff in Missouri. Tons of great water out there!

[@migsy0]

Love your videos dude. Keep up the good work 🤙

[@GatewoodBrown]

Thank you Wesley! Stoked to share the videos and get to interact with people who watch them. Makes it all so fun 🤙🏻

[@MrMarkar1959]

Spent most every summer in the Ozarks back in late 1960's to mid 70's. Doniphan,Mo.

[@GatewoodBrown]

That must’ve been a great time to explore the ozarks!