Streams
| Streams | Best Bet in 2008 |
|---|---|
| Big Piney | Smallmouth bass, Goggle-eye |
| Big River | Black bass |
| Black River/above Clearwater | Smallmouth bass, Goggle-eye |
| Black River/below Clearwater | Channel catfish |
| Blue River | Channel catfish |
| Blue Springs Creek | Smallmouth bass |
| Current River lower | Smallmouth, Walleye, Suckers |
| Current River, middle | Smallmouth bass, Goggle-eye |
| Current River, upper | Rainbow, Brown trout |
| Eleven Point River | Rainbow trout, Smallmouth, Goggle-eye, Chain pickerel |
| Elk River | Smallmouth bass, Goggle-eye, Chain Pickerel |
| Gasconade River (Maries, Osage County) | Suckers, Catfish |
| Gasconade River (Pulaski County) | Channel catfish |
| Gasconade River (Laclede County) | Rock bass, Smallmouth bass |
| Grand River Channel | catfish |
| James River | Black bass, Goggle-eye, Channel catfish |
| Lower South Grand | Crappie, Flathead catfish |
| Meramec River | Rainbow trout |
| Mill Creek | Rainbow trout |
| Mississippi River (Lower)(Ohio River to Arkansas) | Blue catfish |
| Mississippi River (middle) (St. Louis) | Blue catfish, Freshwater drum |
| Mississippi River (upper) | Channel catfish, Flathead catfish |
| Missouri River (lower)(St. Louis) | Blue catfish, Freshwater drum |
| Missouri River (middle) | Channel, Flathead, Blue catfish |
| Missouri River (K.C. area) | Blue catfish |
| Missouri River(upper) | Flathead, Channel Catfish |
| Niangua River | Brown trout, Smallmouth bass |
| Nodaway River | Flathead catfish, Carp, Gar, Drum |
| North Fork of the White River | Rainbow, Brown trout, Smallmouth bass |
| Osage Fork of the Gasconade River | Rock bass, Smallmouth bass |
| Platte River (KC region) | Channel, Flathead, Blue catfish |
| Roubidoux | Rainbow, Brown trout, Goggle-eye |
| St. Francis River (above Wappapello) | Black bass |
| St. Francis River (below Wappapello) | Spotted bass, Largemouth bass |
Big Piney River (Ozark Region) (Smallmouth Bass Special Management Area)
Information: (573) 368-2225
Smallmouth bass fishing should continue to be good throughout the special management area. A large catch of 12-14.9” fish were seen again in 2007 with many being over 15” and a few fish over 18”. Fishing near the rootwads and boulders associated with current will produce more smallies than other habitats. Rock bass fishing is continuing to improve due to the 8” minimum length limit set in March of 2003. Fall 2007 sampling found large number of fish over the 8” limit with many 9” fish found. Consistent catches of rock bass over 8” is expected for the upcoming fishing season. Largemouth bass can generally be found in backwater areas and get over 18”. These fish are more readily caught in winter and early spring when these habitats are clear of vegetation. Rock bass can be caught in the pools around structure and on the channel edge of weed beds. The Big Piney River is a clear stream, especially when low, and is best fished slow with a canoe or small river jon.
Big River (St. Louis Region)
Information: (636) 300-1953
Low rainfall amounts during eight of the last eleven years may have contributed to higher numbers of low water–loving largemouth and spotted bass, while producing lower numbers of smallmouth bass which prefer higher, faster flows. So, though numbers of young smallmouth bass may have increased from 2003-05 spawns (thanks to more normal spring flows), largemouth and spotted bass adult numbers remain relatively high.
Smallmouth bass fishing will be good as fish from the 2003-05 spawns continue to grow in the face of more normal water levels. Thirty percent of the population is now over 12”, and a respectable 8% is over 15”. A large 2005 spawn bodes well for 9-11” fish in 2008 and beyond. Most smallies continue to be caught near rock slides or logs in current, near deeper water. However, stable beds of water willow with steeper drop offs are also producing.
Largemouth bass fishing should be very good with a whopping 60% of fish being over 12”. Fish up to 20” are present in slack water near logs or backwaters with topwater lures, jigs, and spinner baits. Spotted bass fishing should be very good. Few spotted bass over 12” were sampled; however, numbers remain almost as high as smallmouth bass. Please be aware that spotted bass have no minimum length limit and the daily limit is 12. Anglers are encouraged to harvest all spotted bass they catch, regardless of size, up to the daily limit of 12.
Rock bass should provide good spring fishing in 2008. Rock bass numbers have continued their recent improvement, with over 50% of the population being greater than 7”, with some up to 9”. Fish the now numerous downed trees and brush piles with jigs and minnows to score spring goggle-eye.
Black River (above Clearwater Lake)(Southeast Region)
Information: Paul.Cieslewicz@mdc.mo.gov or (573) 290-5730
The Black River upstream of Highway K supports a good smallmouth bass population. Largemouth bass and spotted bass are also present, but at a much lower density. Smallmouth bass larger than 18” are present in the river.
Shadow bass (goggle-eye) up to 9" are common throughout the river. Anglers should fish the deeper pools that have boulders and rootwads. The river is crystal clear, so use light fishing line. Minnows or crayfish are effective baits and easily obtained from the river using a seine or cast net. The river supports an excellent channel catfish population, with fish up to 5 pounds. Chicken liver or nightcrawlers fished near structure should be very effective. Suckers are abundant and giggers should have a good season.
Black River (below Clearwater Lake)(Southeast Region)
Information: Paul.Cieslewicz@mdc.mo.gov or (573) 290-5730
The Black River supports a good walleye population. Most walleye are less than 3 pounds, but every year we receive reports of walleye in the 10 pound range being caught. Anglers interested in walleye should fish the river between Hendrickson Access and the Clearwater Dam. Local anglers fish for walleye primarily during the winter months, but walleye can be caught throughout the year. Spotted bass (Kentucky bass) and largemouth bass are the most numerous of the black basses, but a few smallmouth bass are present in the river. The river also supports an excellent channel catfish population, with many fish up to 5 pounds. The sucker population is excellent. Gigging for suckers should be good late in the season as water clarity improves. During the paddlefish snagging season, anglers have a good opportunity to catch a paddlefish below Clearwater Dam. Paddlefish average between 10 and 20 pounds.
Blue River (Kansas City Region)
Information: (816) 655-6250
Much of the Blue River corridor from Swope Park upstream to the Kansas-Missouri state line (17 miles) is in public ownership, so if you’re willing to walk a little, finding a fishing spot should be simple. Wade fishing opportunities exist from the Kansas state line (at Kenneth Road) downstream to Red Bridge. Most of this stretch is shallow, but deeper pools hold plenty of sunfish and largemouth bass. Channel catfish fishing can be quite good in this section of stream. Fish below riffles with nightcrawlers or cut bait. If you want to fish from a canoe or small boat, check out the 3 mile stretch of river between Brown Athletic Field (Blue Ridge Blvd. and Holmes Road) and Red Bridge Road. A canoe launching area at Brown Athletic Field provides good access to the river, but boaters should make sure that the river stage is adequate to support a decent float. This 3 mile stretch (especially the deeper holes between riffles) supports good numbers of channel catfish and carp. Largemouth bass, flathead catfish, and crappie are not as abundant, but some quality size fish are caught from time to time.
Blue Springs Creek (St. Louis Region)
Information: 573/468-3335
The self-sustaining trout population in Blue Springs Creek was sampled in fall 2007. Data indicate that there are approximately 900 trout on the 3.1 miles of stream in Department ownership. This is an increase from the 2002 estimate of approximately 500 fish on MDC land. The majority of the fish sampled were less than 6 inches in length (55%), indicating good spawning success in past years. Trout 6 to 12” in length were also common in the sample, making up 39% of the catch. Several fish over 12” in length were captured including one 17.5” in length. Deep holes and/or places with overhead cover near riffles can be found throughout the creek and are likely places to catch large fish. Anglers are reminded to observe area boundaries on the upper portion of this creek, and to use only artificial flies and lures for any fish species pursued on Blue Springs Creek.
Current River (lower) (Ozark Region – Carter and Ripley Counties)
Information: (417) 256-7161
The 52 miles reach from Van Buren to the Arkansas state line offers some big water for smallmouth bass, walleye, and suckers. Look for smallmouth in deep bluff holes or areas with large boulders or rootwads in the summer. Spring time anglers may find the smallmouth in the faster water of the rocky shoals. Walleye, although not present in extremely high numbers, can be found in the deepest part of the river, with the best population found in the Ripley County waters above and below Doniphan. MDC has been working aggressively to boost walleye numbers by stocking fingerling size fish in 2003, 2005 and 2007. Walleye anglers should see an increase in the catch rate of 18 inch walleye in 2008 as these stocked fish reach the three to five year old mark. Suckers probably make up the most of the total pounds of fish in this section of the Current River. Hog suckers and several species of redhorse suckers are the most common. Summer time fishing can be excellent for these tasty species. A weighted line holding a number 4 or 6 size hook tipped with a worm can be very effective. Gigging of these fish from the front of a boat at night is a very popular tradition from September 15 through January 31.
Current River (middle) (Ozark Region - Shannon and Carter Counties)
Information: (417) 256-7161
This 70-mile stretch offers some spectacular scenery, easy floating and great smallmouth bass fishing. Smallmouth fishing in 2008 should be very good, with about 52% of the smallmouth population over 12 inches, and 7 percent over 15 inches. Look for smallmouth in deep rocky runs and pools with rootwads and boulders. Goggle-eye (Rock Bass) fishing in 2008 should be similar to 2007, with about 26% of the goggle-eye population over 7 inches, 11% over 8 inches, and only 1% over 9 inches. Look for goggle-eye near rootwads in a moderate to slow current. A canoe or jon boat is recommended to get to the best water. The National Park Service has camping and access sites at Pultite, Round Springs, Two Rivers, Powder Mill, and Watercress at Van Buren. For an Ozark Riverways map of these and other access sites contact the National Park Service in Van Buren at 573/323-4236.
Current River (upper) (Ozark Region - Dent and Shannon Counties)
Information: (417) 256-7161
Camping, trout fishing, canoeing, the 19 miles of river from Montauk State Park to Akers Ferry has it all. Visitors have the choice of three areas to visit.
Montauk State Park
Rainbow trout are stocked daily in the 2.3 miles of water within Montauk State Park. If you don't mind the company of other anglers, this is the place to catch trout. The state park here also offers lodging, and restaurant facilities. See the Trout Fishing section of this publication for more information.
Blue Ribbon Trout Area
The 9.0 miles from the state park downstream to the Cedargrove bridge is managed for large size brown trout on a put-grow-and-take basis. Trout must be at least 18" to keep and the daily limit is one. See Trout Fishing Section for more information.
Brown trout, 8-10", are stocked each spring but do not reach legal size until at least two or three years later. Anglers in 2008 can expect to find more brown trout over 18 inches but fewer in the11 to 15 inch size range. Density of 18 inch and larger brown trout in fall of 2007 averaged 47 per mile and is up 42% from 2006. Warm summer temperatures in 2007 were probably responsible for low survival of fish stocked in late spring. Anglers wanting to catch rainbow trout should concentrate in the upper two miles of the Blue Ribbon Area from Montauk Trout Park boundary downstream to Baptist Access. Rainbow trout here make up about 25% of the trout population with the vast majority of them 11 - 15” long. These fish are the result of stocked trout moving out of the Trout Park. Downstream of Baptist Access the rainbows make up less than 10% of the trout population.
White Ribbon Trout Area
The 9.0 miles from the Cedargrove bridge to Akers Ferry are managed with rainbow trout on a put-and-take basis. This section has no minimum length limit and four fish per day limit. See Trout Fishing Section for more information. Rainbows, 10-12" are stocked once a month and twice a month from March through June. During the months of July and August, and when river levels are low, trout stocking is limited to the cooler section from Welch Spring downstream to Akers Ferry. Fishing in the White Ribbon Area is less crowded than in the trout park and the stream can be easily waded or floated in a canoe.
Eleven Point River(Oregon County)
Information: email John.Ackerson@mdc.mo.gov or call (417) 256-7161.
The Eleven Point River is one of the most scenic and diverse fishing streams in the state. Special regulations on shadow bass (goggle-eye) (8 inch minimum length limit) and smallmouth bass (15 inch minimum length limit) have protected the important sizes of these fish. These regulations are for the 50 miles of river from the Thomasville Access to the Arkansas state line. Daily limits are 1 for smallmouth bass (6 total for black basses combined) and 15 for shadow bass. Gigging (Sept. 15th through Jan. 31st) of suckers is a favorite tradition but is prohibited in the 5.5 mile section of the Blue Ribbon Trout Area.
The 17 miles from Thomasville to Greer Spring offer excellent fishing for warm-water species. Smallmouth bass, largemouth bass and shadow bass are the most sought after species in this section. As part of the U.S. Forest Service's Scenic River program, access to this area is limited to Thomasville, Cane Bluff, and Greer so plan on bringing a canoe to help get to the better fishing spots. According to the 2007 surveys, approximately 28% of shadow bass and 6% of smallmouth bass are legal sized. Float early spring when water levels are higher, or plan on dragging over shoals in summer months. On days when bass are not biting, a good population of longear sunfish will shorten the time between bites.
Greer Spring instantly transforms the river into a coldwater fishery, and the next 5.5 miles downstream to Turner Mill Accesses is home to some large rainbow trout. This area is designated as a Blue Ribbon Trout Area. Special regulations include an 18 inch minimum length limit, one fish per day, no gigging, and flies and artificial lures only. Synthetic eggs and soft plastic lures are specifically prohibited. In 2007, we stocked this area with 5,500 rainbow trout in July and numbers were still high in our September sample (1,100/mile). This estimate is not as comparable to last year (120/mile) due to the new stocking season but still a promising direction for this fishery. This is another great section for catching smallmouth bass (9% legal sized) and shadow bass, make sure to use the approved artificial baits. Public access is limited to Highway 19 crossing at Greer and U.S. Forest Service gravel roads to Turner Mill North and Turner Mill South. If launching a boat, don’t use the Turner Mill South Access due to excessive gravel deposits.
The next 14 miles from the Turner Mill accesses downstream to Highway 160 at Riverton is managed as a put-and-take rainbow trout fishery (White Ribbon Trout Area). From March to December, 16,000 10-12 inch rainbow trout were stocked. Statewide regulations of four fish per day and no size limit apply. Access is provided at Turner Mill North, Turner Mill South, Whitten and Highway 160.
The 13.5 miles from Highway 160 downstream to the Arkansas state line offer great fishing for smallmouth bass and shadow bass. Smallmouth bass population density in 2007 was about 300 fish/mile with 7% of these being legal sized (15 inches or greater). Numbers of larger smallmouth is on the rise as we continue to see the effect of the smallmouth bass regulation. Smallmouth numbers will vary throughout the river. Look for smallmouth in cover provided by rocks, bluffs, or rootwads with plenty of water current. Shadow bass density in 2007 increased to 680 fish/mile with approximately 21% being legal sized (8 inches or greater). Shadow bass can be found in rootwads and submerged vegetation in the tail end of riffles where the current begins to slow or pools with adequate water flow. Chain pickerel are becoming popular on this section of river. Best fishing is in the spring in backwaters and around structure before the aquatic vegetation becomes too thick. On slow fishing days try live bait or spinnerbaits to enjoy a fierce fight from a hungry pickerel.
A few walleye can be found in the deepest pools. The minimum length for walleye and sauger is 18 inches and the daily limit is 4 fish. Over four hundred walleye have been tagged with angler reward tags since 2004. Sending a tag back to the address on the tag will yield a $10, $50 or $100 reward for aiding us with valuable catch information.
Wade fishing on the Eleven Point is possible; however, the deep pools can make it difficult getting from shoal to shoal. A leisurely float in a canoe or jon boat will help make fishing on this scenic river more enjoyable. The Eleven Point River is always floatable downstream from Greer Spring but expect some dragging if floating downstream of Thomasville Access in the late summer months.
Elk River(Southwest Region)
Information: (417) 895-6880
Elk River begins at Pineville and flows southwest through McDonald County and into Oklahoma. The beautiful scenery and good fishing make it a popular destination for floaters and anglers alike. Elk River was designated a Black Bass Management Area in 2004. The following black bass (largemouth bass, smallmouth bass and spotted bass) regulations apply: On the entire Missouri portion of the Elk River all black bass less than fifteen inches (15") must be returned to the water unharmed immediately after being caught; and the daily limit is two (2) black bass.This regulation should provide anglers with better quality fish to catch, while still allowing for the harvest of some large bass. As in most southern Missouri streams, black bass may not be possessed on the Elk River during the closed black bass season from March 1 through May 23, 2008. Elk River is a clear water Ozark stream with an ample amount of smallmouth bassand rock bass habitat. Smallmouth bass are the most abundant sportfish in the stream and provide anglers with the best fishing opportunities. Fish population surveys to evaluate the progress of the 15” minimum size limit were conducted annually from 2005 through 2007. Preliminary data analysis indicates that the percentage of smallmouth bass larger than 12” in the population has increased in the upstream portion, while the smallmouth bass in the lower reaches has improved, but less dramatically. Thirty-eight smallmouth bass larger than 15" were captured during the 2007 survey and demonstrates that there is potential to produce large smallmouth bass in the river. Rock bass are also numerous in the upstream reaches, especially in fast water associated with boulders or woody cover. The rock bass size has also improved, with about one third of the rock bass in the upstream reaches 8”and up. Their numbers are highest in the upstream reaches of the river. Largemouth bassare not numerous, but a high percentage of the fish observed are quality-sized. Spotted bassare also present in Elk River, but their numbers are extremely low. Anglers will find that plastic worms or grubs, crayfish crankbaits, or buzz baits will provide some of the best results for catching smallmouth bass, largemouth bass and rock bass. Anglers that enjoy fishing for catfish should concentrate their efforts in the downstream portions of the river below Noel. Channel catfish were abundant in this area during fall surveys. Live and prepared baits are ideal for catching catfish. The clear water and large redhorse suckers and northern hogsuckers provide good fall and winter gigging when water level is sufficient for boat traffic. Mt. Shira and Cowskin accesses are the two public areas that provide access to Elk River. Mt. Shira Access provides access to the river off Highway 59 a few miles upstream from Noel. Cowskin Access allows access to the lower portion of the river adjacent to the Highway 43 bridge crossing. Several canoe liveries that provide service to Elk River users are located in the Pineville and Noel vicinity.
Gasconade River (Central Region – Maries and Osage counties)
Information: (573) 884-6861
Redhorse sucker fishing in the lower Gasconade should be the best fishery of this portion of the river in 2008. Electrofishing has consistently resulted in samples of 100 suckers or more per hour. These fish can be caught by gigging during the season from September 15 to January 31. The upper stretches of the river usually have better water clarity and are more suitable for gigging. Channel catfish should be fair in 2008. Many of the flathead catfish that were tagged reward tags in 2005 and 2006 have not been caught yet. Early summer months usually provide the best catfishing. Black bass fishing should be fair again in 2008. Smallmouth, spotted, and largemouth bass are present. Woody cover seems to hold the most bass in the lower river.
Gasconade River (Ozark Region – Phelps/Pulaski County)
Information: (573) 368-2225
Smallmouth bass fishing in the special management area will continue to be similar to years past. Anglers can expect to catch about twice as many 12-15” smallmouth in the special management area than they will fishing up or down stream in the less restrictive area, due to the 18” minimum length limit. Also, largemouth bass populations within this section are steady when compared to recent years with >60% of stocked size being over the 12” minimum length limit. Rock bass trends are similar to previous years with <10% of the population being over 8”. Fishing pressure for rock bass is heavy throughout the area for most of the year. Anglers fishing for channel catfish can expect to catch fish larger than 20” on a regular basis with many larger fish available. Channel catfish population numbers continue to be very high for this section of river. Furthermore, numbers of channel catfish increase significantly downstream of the Big Piney confluence.
Gasconade River (Southwest Region – Laclede County)
Information: 417/532-7612
Rock bass (goggle-eye) and smallmouth bass are the most sought after fish on the upper reaches of the Gasconade River. Rock bass (goggle-eye) fishing should be excellent. Recently conducted fish surveys indicate high densities of rock bass (goggle-eye), with more than 20% of the population greater than 8” and about 5% greater than 9”. Rock bass are often found around boulders and rootwads near submerged aquatic vegetation or stands of water willow along the shoreline. Fair numbers of smallmouth bass were also present in fish surveys, with about 30% greater than the 12” minimum length limit. Smallmouth bass are usually found near rootwads and boulders that are close to fast current. Preferred artificial baits include crawdad-colored crankbaits, soft plastic jigs, and worms fished around logs and boulders. Live bait (crayfish and worms) also work well. When using live bait, care should be taken to notintroduce minnows and crayfish from other stream systems. Introductions of minnows and crayfish from different stream systems may upset the ecological balance of another stream system. Largemouth bass make up about 50% of the black bass population and prefer slower flowing water, especially around stands of vegetation. Plastic worms fished Texas-style work well for largemouth bass. Flathead and channel catfish can be caught using limb lines, set lines, and trotlines in the deeper pools. Live sunfish usually work best for flathead catfish; night crawlers, chicken liver, and stinkbaits are good for channel catfish. Longear sunfish provide plenty of action for the whole family. They are especially fun for beginning anglers because of their willingness, under almost all conditions, to take very small artificial lures or a hook baited with a worm or cricket. For giggers willing to brave the cold, the Gasconade River clears up by late November, and there are plenty of suckers to provide good action.
Grand River (Northwest Region)
Information: (660) 646-6122
Channel catfish are the most sought after fish on Grand River and its major tributaries. Any type of cover or deep hole attracts channel catfish. Several baits are effective depending on the time of year. Cut baits such as shad sides or shad gizzards are especially effective in the late winter or early spring. Crayfish, night crawlers, or commercially prepared baits are effective throughout the rest of the year. Fishing with live bait such as goldfish, carp or sunfish may produce a flathead or blue catfish weighing over 30 pounds. Large catfish are caught throughout the river; however, the lower Grand is generally considered trophy waters. In order to estimate harvest, numerous flathead catfish have been tagged with reward tags. If an angler catches a tagged fish, they should contact the Missouri Department of Conservation to provide needed information to fisheries biologists and claim their reward.
Walleye are occasionally caught between Pattonsburg and Gallatin. Anglers must release all walleye less than 15 inches long. November through March are good months to catch walleye in deep holes below Pattonsburg. Jigs tipped with a night crawler or minnow is an effective walleye catching technique that also frequently produces channel catfish.
Low water conditions can make boat travel difficult along the entire river. A brochure outlining the various recreational opportunities along the Grand River is available from the Missouri Department of Conservation.
Lower South Grand River (Kansas City Region)
Information: (660) 885-8179
Excellent fishing can be found on the lower South Grand River during much of the year. Fishing for flathead, blue, and channel catfish should be very good again this year. The river holds a good population of flathead catfish all year. Limb lines or trot lines set near brushpiles or flowing water, baited with live bait, will work best. The best times to target these fish are spring and early summer, prior to the spawn. Another time to try is late summer into fall. Blue catfish are most abundant in the river during spring and early summer when spring rains cause the river to rise. Blues are most abundant near Truman Reservoir and become less abundant the further upstream you travel. Blues can be caught on set line or rod and reel. Preferred baits are cut shad or other cut bait fish, night crawlers, and prepared baits. Channel catfish can be caught in the river throughout the year. The methods and baits mentioned above will work well for channel catfish. Any areas where fresh water enters the river, such as small feeder creeks or pipes draining wetlands, are prime locations to target all three species of catfish.
Crappie are also abundant in the river. Spring spawning is a good time to try your luck. The best fishing is around brushpiles or any shallow, off-channel habitat during the spawn. Crappie will also congregate near creek mouths or water flowing into the river. Jigs and minnows work best. Winter fishing can also be very productive and a person will usually have the river to themselves. Crappie are usually found in deeper water around brush in winter.
White bass and hybrid striped bass also make spring runs up the river. Shallow areas with moving water are the best places to target whites and hybrids. Also try any location where water is entering the river. Jigs rigged with white twister tales and other shad-imitating lures will work the best.
Paddlefish can be caught on the lower South Grand River. Paddlefish are taken each year during snagging season, with several large fish taken. The best area to try is upstream or downstream of 351 Road (Martinville Road) southwest of Clinton. Plan on bringing plenty of hooks and weights, as the river is full of debris in most places.
Public boat launches can be found at the end of 351 Road in Henry County and at the Urich Access, off of HWY K, south of Urich. Public access is also available from Old HWY 18 west of Clinton and at the Settle’s Ford Conservation Area south of Creighton. The boundary between Truman Reservoir and the lower South Grand River, for regulation purposes, is the Old HWY 18 bridge, one mile downstream from HWY 18. Truman Reservoir regulations apply downstream of the bridge and statewide regulations apply upstream.
James River (Southwest Region)
Information: (417) 895-6880
The James River, in southwest Missouri, features both scenic beauty and quality fishing. Anglers should remember that special regulations apply in the Black Bass Management Area on the 22 miles of river between Hooten Town Bridge (Stone Co. Rd. A-90) and the Highway13 bridge at Galena. In this area, the minimum length limit on smallmouth bass and largemouth bass is 15”, and the minimum length limit for spotted bass is 12”. Anglers may harvest six black bass daily, of which only one may be a smallmouth bass. Black bass may not be possessed on the James River during the closed black bass season from March 1 through May 23, 2008. Table Rock Lake regulations apply below the Highway 13 bridge, and all black bass possessed must be at least 15” in length (regardless of where caught). It is important for anglers to correctly identify the three species of black bass found in the James River. Identification aids, maps, fishing tips, and other information can be found on the MDC smallmouth bass website (http://www.mdc.mo.gov/fish/sport/bass/smallmouth/management.htm).
Fish surveys completed during 2007 indicated similar smallmouth bass densities between the management zones; however, size structure was better in the special management zone with 52% exceeding 12” and 16% exceeding 15”. While Largemouth bass and spotted bass are present, smallmouth bass make up 78% of the black bass population. Plastic baits including tubes, grubs, and worms and crayfish patterned crank baits are very productive when fished in and around structure and moving water.
Other species of fish are also plentiful and offer additional angler opportunities. Density and size structure of rock bass remains favorable with 63% and 6% of the population exceeding 7” and 9”, respectively. Anglers should fish small grubs and jigs around stumps and boulders. Channel catfish are abundant within the river and can be caught with live or prepared baits. Gigging for sucker species can be good throughout the season but is influenced by water level and water clarity. If the James River rises enough to stimulate a spawning run, paddlefish will migrate upstream from Table Rock to spawn. The extent and duration of migrations are dependent upon river flows, but can extend for several miles upstream. Paddlefish season extends from March 15 to April 30.
Meramec River (upper)(St. Louis Region)
Information: 573/468-3335
New 8” length limit on rock bass (goggle-eye) in 2008: Beginning March 1, 2008, rock bass anglers will be required to release any rock bass under 8” in length on the Meramec River from Short Bend Access in Dent Co. to Pacific Palisades Access in Franklin Co. Population surveys indicate that harvest at small size on this section of stream prevents rock bass from reaching optimal lengths. The 8” length limit on this species will provide quality catch and release fishing, and anglers should see an increase in quality size fish. Rock bass densities are typically greatest upstream of Sand Ford access.
Smallmouth bass fishing in the Stream Black Bass Special Management Area between Scott’s Ford and Bird’s Nest continues to be excellent. Smallmouth bass were abundant in past surveys with over 30% greater than 12” and 10% exceeding 15”. The minimum length limit for smallmouth in this section of the Meramec is 15” with a daily limit of one. The area will also provide good opportunities for largemouth bass. More than half of the largemouth bass exceeded the largemouth length limit of 12”.
Sampling at several locations between the mouth of Huzzah Creek and River Round Conservation Area found that catch rates for all three black bass species were fairly stable. Eighteen percent of the smallmouth bass exceeded the 12” length limit and 6% were greater than 15”. Largemouth bass will provide the best opportunity for a big bass. Thirty-one percent were over the 12” length limit and 9% were greater than 15”. There is no length limit on spotted bass in Meramec basin streams. Up to 12 spotted bass can be harvested if no smallmouth or largemouth bass are kept. Redhorse Access, River Round Conservation Area, Choteau Claim Access, and Robertsville State Park all provide good access to the Meramec in the area where spotted bass are most prevalent. Thirteen percent of the spotted bass were greater than 12”. Catfish are prevalent in this area, with channel catfish greater than 25” and flathead catfish greater than 40” being captured. The best opportunity for catfish will be downstream from Sand Ford Access with the section of river near Redhorse Access being a hotspot. Catfish anglers are reminded to label their trotlines and limb lines.
Mill Creek (Ozark Region) (Blue Ribbon Trout Management Area)
Information: (573)368-2225
The self-sustaining Rainbow Trout population of Mill Creek is very low due to low flows and high summer temperatures. One can find about 150 trout/mile in the upper reaches around DeWitt Pond with about 30 trout/mile being >7”. However these numbers drop quickly as one heads downstream away from spring influences. Large fish between 12” and 18” can be found in deep poles associated with overhead cover. Adult trout numbers in Mill Creek will increase with a few years of increased flows and lower summer temperatures.
Mississippi River (Middle)(Central Region)
Information: (573) 884-6861
Low water conditions in the Mississippi River during the spring and summer of 2006 allowed a large amount of vegetation to grow in shallow areas, on dikes, and on sandbars. As that vegetation was inundated by high flows in 2007, it provided a good source of organic material to the river that benefited fish, especially their growth. Fishing on the Mississippi River in 2007 was sporadic because the river was rising and falling during most of the summer. If the river is more stable in 2008 it should be a good year of fishing for anglers who are willing to seek out good habitat. Anglers pursuing flathead catfish have been successful using live sunfish or goldfish, but night crawlers and shad also work well for flatheads. Good flathead habitat is often found in or near an area with good depth and some current. Channel catfish anglers are successful with nightcrawlers, cut shad, or perforated plastic worms dipped in stink bait. Flathead and channel catfish both can be caught along revetted shorelines and around wing dikes. During high water, anglers can find catfish near woody cover along cut banks, and in tributaries and side channels. Blue catfish are abundant on the Mississippi River. Anglers should look for blues in deep holes associated with wing dikes, bridge piers, and other structures. Blue cats and other catfish also concentrate around moored barges. Blue catfish can also be caught during the night as they cruise the flats between wing dikes in shallow water. Because blue catfish are an open water species, anglers often are successful fishing in the main channel using jug lines baited with hot dogs, live sunfish, skipjack herring, cut shad or shrimp. Most catfish anglers use circle hooks to increase their success rate when landing fish. Finally, catfish anglers should consider fishing after dark when catfish often become much more active than during daylight hours. Fishing for freshwater drum and carp should be good in 2008 as it has been in past years. Drum are easily caught on night crawlers or goldfish. Carp congregate around woody structure, and bite readily on night crawlers. During the fall, look for white bass and hybrid striped bass, in the mouths of tributaries and below rock dams in island chutes. Try jigs, spinner baits, and crank baits. Paddlefish can be snagged in these same locations. Crappie fishing can be exceptional in the spring in tributaries of the Mississippi River. The occasional walleye can be caught by drifting a night crawler or a minnow-tipped jig near wing dikes or around the “Chain of Rocks” area. Invasive carp such as the bighead carp and silver carp appear to be maintaining their numbers. Silver carp are a continued threat to anglers because of their tendency to jump in front of, and into moving boats. Always proceed with caution when boating in backwater areas of the Mississippi River. Finally, if you catch a sturgeon, it is probably a shovelnose sturgeon, a common large river fish, but it could be its close relative, the pallid sturgeon, which is federally protected. Another protected sturgeon, the lake sturgeon, is often caught by anglers while worm fishing. These fish can grow to 50 pounds and over and are fun to catch, but should be released immediately. If you catch a sturgeon, check it for a tag in order to provide valuable information to fisheries biologists.
Mississippi River (upper) (Northeast Region)
Information: (573) 248-2530
Angling opportunities on Pools 20-26 of the Upper Mississippi River are as diverse as the habitats created by both man and nature. The upper portion of a pool typically resembles pre-impoundment conditions, with swifter current, deeper side channels, and relatively few connected backwaters. The lower portion of a pool becomes more like an impoundment with some current, shallower side channels, and connected backwaters. Channel catfish, preferred by many anglers, can be found throughout the pools near woody drift piles, wing dikes, natural shoreline, sand bars, and rock protected banks. Anglers reported that 8 to 12-inch channel catfish were very abundant during 2007. They can be caught on a variety of natural or prepared baits, depending on the season. Channel catfish less than 15” long dominate the population. Flathead catfish, another popular species, prefer habitats similar to channel catfish, but have a preference for live bait. Relative density of smaller flathead catfish is high, but good numbers of fish over five pounds are present. Blue catfish are also found in the Upper Mississippi River, but are far less abundant than other catfish species. Best locations to catch blue catfish include deep holes, in the main channel, and especially near lock and dams. Favored baits include cut shad or herring and shrimp. Although uncommon, some blues may exceed 70 pounds. About 2,000 flathead catfish and nearly 100 blue catfish were tagged in Pools 20-22 during the years of 2005 - 2007 as part of a statewide effort to learn more about these species. Anglers catching a tagged flathead catfish or blue catfish should call the phone number on the tag to report their catch. After providing the tag and other information, anglers will receive $25 or $150 for each tag returned. Sauger and walleye prefer a hard rocky bottom and are usually found near wing dikes or rip-rapped shorelines during warm months. They concentrate in deeper water, usually near dam tailwaters, during the winter. Cool temperatures with minimal flow through the navigation dams are the best conditions for fishing success. Nearly 400 walleye and sauger were tagged and released during fall 2005 and 2006, and tagging will continue during fall 2007. Anglers catching a tagged fish should call the number on the tag to report the catch and receive $25. Slack water areas associated with wing dikes, tributaries, and backwaters are home to largemouth bass, bluegill, and crappie. Freshwater drum, the most common fish caught by anglers, can be found in almost any habitat and caught on a wide variety of artificial and natural baits. Lake sturgeon, a Missouri protected species, are occasionally caught by anglers as a result of the Conservation Department’s reintroduction program. Some of these fish are reaching 40 pounds and are exciting to catch; however, all lake sturgeon must be released immediately. Biologists have implanted transmitters in some lake sturgeon to track their movements and identify important habitats. Should you catch a fish with a long, thread-like antenna hanging from its abdomen, release the fish immediately and call the number above. Anglers should use caution when boating in slack water areas of the Mississippi River. Bighead carp and silver carp, which are exotic species, are abundant and have a tendency to jump in front of and into moving boats. Collision with an airborne fish could cause serious injury to boaters. To slow the spread of invasive species like zebra mussels, all anglers should carefully inspect and wash their boats and trailers with hot water, and drain and disinfect live wells before moving to another lake or stream.
Mississippi River (Ohio River to Arkansas)(Southeast Region)
Information: (573) 290-5730
Catfish angling should be very good in the portion of the river below the confluence of the Ohio River. Blue catfish can be caught off the tips of dikes, in the large eddies above the dikes, and along the river channel. Since blue catfish also prefer open water, jug fishing can be very successful. Flathead catfish are also common on the tips of wing dikes, along rip rap banks with swift currents, and near woody debris. Blue and flathead catfish offer the opportunity to catch a trophy fish over 30 pounds. Channel catfish can be found around snags, wing dikes, backwater areas, and in side channels. Trotlines can be quite successful in catching all three catfish. White bass can be found in schools around wing dikes in spring and fall. An occasional striped bass or hybrid striped bass may be caught along with white bass. Crappie fishing should be fair during late winter and spring in side channels and tributaries. After high waters recede in late spring, crappie and bluegill fishing can be good in backwater areas, such as Bird’s Blue Hole, 34-Corner Blue Hole, Twin Borrow Pits, and Donaldson Point Conservation Area. Boat ramps are available at most of these areas.
Missouri River (Lower)(St. Louis Region)
Information: (636) 300-1953
The Lower Missouri River was higher than normal during the spring and summer of 2007. A couple of floods enabled fish to utilize floodplain areas that have not been accessible from the river in recent years. These backwater areas, which were covered with vegetation due to low water in 2006, provided good feeding, spawning, and nursery habitat for a variety of river fish. Although fishing was slow at times during the summer of 2007, blue catfish anglers did very well toward the end of the summer into the fall and good fishing is expected in 2008 as well. Anglers are again reminded that the harvest limit for blue catfish on the Missouri River has changed from 10 in the aggregate with channel catfish to simply five blue catfish. Look for blues in deep holes, and in deep water associated with notched dikes and wing dikes. Blues can also be caught in the shallow flats between dikes during the night and early morning. Jug fishers will find blues right out in the channel. Good baits for blue catfish include cut shad, skipjack herring, goldeye, and live sunfish or gold fish. Hot dogs and cocktail weenies are also popular, especially among juggers. Flathead catfish continue to be a bit elusive as compared to blues but determined anglers can find them along revetted shorelines, wing dikes and other rock structures. Preferred bait for flatheads is live sunfish or goldfish. Anglers should always look for a combination of cover and current when pursuing flathead catfish. Channel catfish anglers have been successful with nightcrawlers, cut shad, peeled shrimp, and plastic worms dipped in stink bait. Fishing is best along cut banks, revetted shorelines, wing dikes, and in scour holes. During high water, catfish anglers can find fish near woody cover, especially near pile dikes, along cut banks, and in tributaries and side channels. Many catfish anglers use circle hooks to increase their success rate whether fishing with pole and line or with set lines. Common carp congregate around woody structure, and bite readily on night crawlers, corn and prepared baits. Freshwater drum can be easily caught almost anywhere on nightcrawlers, goldfish, and other baits. During the fall, fishing for white bass and hybrid striped bass, should be good below rock dams in island chutes. Preferred baits are jigs, spinner baits, and crank baits. Paddlefish can be snagged at these same locations. Crappie can be found in the tributaries and island chutes, especially during their spring spawning period. Bighead carp and silver carp, otherwise known as Asian carp, remain abundant in the Missouri River and many anglers are finding ways to prepare them for the table. Due to their propensity for jumping in moving boats, anglers must be very careful to avoid injury. Many anglers are reporting sturgeon catches in the Missouri River. If you catch a sturgeon it is probably a shovelnose sturgeon, a common river fish, but remember, its close relative, the pallid sturgeon, is federally endangered and should be released immediately. Another protected sturgeon, the lake sturgeon, is often caught by anglers while worm fishing. These fish can grow to 50 pounds and over and are fun to catch, but should be released immediately. If you catch a sturgeon, check it for a tag in order to help provide valuable information to fisheries biologists.
Missouri River (Middle)(Central Region)
Information: (573) 884-6861
Fishing opportunities in the middle section of the river look excellent again for 2008. The catfish populations continue to improve since the ban on commercial catfish fishing in 1992 and the floods of the mid 90’s. Even though river levels were high for most of the spring and early summer last year, anglers were still able to take advantage of some good fishing opportunities. Several reports were received from anglers catching good stringers of channel catfish during the spring and fall months. When fishing was good, a lot of 18-24” channel catfish were caught. Try fishing near sandbars, side channels, cut banks, or above and below dikes in slower moving water. The blue catfish population looks excellent and should provide some great fishing action in 2008. Most blue catfish caught by anglers last year ranged from 16-28”. However, there were several anglers that caught blue catfish in the 20- 65 lb. range. The largest blue catfish reported by an angler last year was a huge 89 lb. fish caught near Glasgow. The number of large flathead catfish caught by anglers last year also increased. Most flatheads caught by anglers were 18-28”, however, it was not unusual to receive reports of 20-45 lb. fish being taken. The largest flathead reported by an angler was 68 lbs. The best sites for flatheads are off the tips of wing dikes or along cut or riprapped banks next to fast-moving water. Commercially prepared baits, live sunfish, chicken livers, shrimp, worms and cut shad are the most popular and successful catfish baits. The best baits for large blue and flathead catfish are live goldfish or sunfish. Crappie fishing should be good again this year, especially during the spring months. Fish in tributaries, side channels, or scour (blew) holes in the flood plain around brush piles with minnows or jigs. Last year anglers had very good success catching crappie in scour holes located close to the river. Fishing for carp, buffalo and drum is always good on the river. Prepared baits and corn are good for catching carp and buffalo. Nightcrawlers are good for all species. Fishing in or near tributaries when the water is slowly rising can be very effective because fish take advantage of the new food supply and habitat.
Missouri and Mississippi River Anglers
WE NEED YOUR HELP! The Missouri Department of Conservation is now in the seventh year of a 10 year statewide Sturgeon Monitoring Project. As a part of this project, fisheries biologists are tagging all sturgeon (shovelnose sturgeon, endangered pallid sturgeon, and endangered lake sturgeon) on the Missouri and Mississippi rivers to collect more information on population size, growth, movement, and harvest. Anglers catching a tagged lake, pallid or shovelnose sturgeon are encouraged to report the following information: species caught, date caught, where caught (river mile/nearest town), tag number, length, and weight. This information will help us achieve our goal of improving our sturgeon populations. To report a tagged sturgeon call toll free at 1-866-762-3338.
All three species of sturgeon found in Missouri are similar in appearance, especially the pallid sturgeon and the shovelnose sturgeon. Lake sturgeon and pallid sturgeon are endangered and protected by law. These two species must be returned to the water unharmed, immediately after being caught. As a result, it is very important that anglers learn how to identify each species.
Lake sturgeon, often called rubbernose sturgeon, are not too difficult to identify. They have a short, rounded snout compared to the shovel-shaped snouts of the other two sturgeon species. Another key identifying characteristic of lake sturgeon is the barbels located in front of the mouth. The barbels on a lake sturgeon are smooth compared to the barbels on a pallid or shovelnose sturgeon which are fringed or serrated in appearance. These barbels help the sturgeon locate food and find their way along the bottom of the river. They look similar in appearance to the barbels on a catfish. Young lake sturgeon are a mottled light-brown but adults are solid dark brown or slate in color.
Pallid sturgeon and shovelnose sturgeon are very similar in appearance and only careful examination of certain characteristics allows accurate identification. Biologists use four main characteristics to tell these two species apart. The shovelnose sturgeon has 1.) a shorter snout and head than the pallid sturgeon; 2.) barbels that form a straight line across their bases; 3.) barbels attached equally distant between the mouth and tip of the snout; and 4.) a belly that is covered with thin scale-like plates. In addition, the inner two barbels on a shovelnose sturgeon are about as thick and nearly as long as the outer two barbels. Its sides and back are light brown to buff in color and its belly is white. A pallid sturgeon has 1.) a longer snout and head than the shovelnose sturgeon; 2.) barbels that form a crescent-shaped line at their bases; 3.) barbels attached closer to the mouth than the tip of the snout; and 4.) a skin-like, scaleless belly. In addition, the inner two barbels are usually much thinner and shorter than the outer two barbels. Young pallid sturgeon are very similar in color to adult shovelnose sturgeon. However, as pallid sturgeon mature, their sides and back turn grayish white in color.
For more information on sturgeon identification see A Summary of Missouri Fishing Regulations booklet or contact the Missouri Department of Conservation, Resource Science Center, 1110 S. College Ave., Columbia, MO, 65201, 573-882-9880 or Central Region Office, 1907 Hillcrest Dr., Columbia, MO, 65201, 573-884-6861.
Missouri River (Clay, Jackson, Platte Co.) (KC Region)
Information: (816) 792-8662
The Missouri River is a unique and underutilized resource. Where else can you have the possibility of catching a 50 pound fish in the shadows of skyscrapers? You can also catch fish that are armored with bony plates instead of scales and have long sucker-type mouths. You can do all this right in downtown Kansas City and possibly never see another boat all day. Why does this treasure get so little use? Misconceptions and folklore unnecessarily drive people away from the river. Tales of whirlpools that can suck you under and currents that make handling a boat impossible keep many folks from giving the river a try. Yet the river can be safely used even in a kayak or canoe. A few precautions and common sense are all you need to safely navigate and fish the river. Flathead catfish in excess of 20 pounds are available to anyone who chooses to brave the currents and rock structures of the river. Blue catfish are a little more difficult to locate, but fish over 50 pounds are caught each year. There is also the chance of seeing an ancient fish should you catch a sturgeon. Be sure to release any sturgeon that you cannot positively identify as a shovelnose sturgeon. Any sturgeon over 4 pounds should be released. Also watch your head behind the dikes as Asian carp will jump when startled by boat traffic. Trotlines and limb lines are used by many anglers to fish large stretches of the river. For flatheads and blue catfish use large, live baitfish and concentrate on fishing around brushpiles and around the ends of dikes. Channel catfish will bite the traditional catfish baits and can be found along cut banks and on shallow flats. Don’t forego rod and reel fishing though. Battling a large flathead or blue catfish on a rod in the swift Missouri River currents is a unique challenge. That means your tackle needs to be heavy. The minimum would be a heavy bass rod with 20 pound test line, but a heavy catfish rod with at least 40 pound line is typically used. Dough baits and worms can be good baits for carp which are caught just about anywhere on the river. The best areas for carp have slower current and are shallow. Access to the river is good in our area. There is a boat ramp in Parkville at the English Landing Park for those wanting to fish upstream of Kansas City (call Parkville City Hall for the latest ramp conditions, 741-7676). You can access the Missouri River, above Parkville, from MDC’s Schimmel City Access located on the lower Platte River. Fishing downtown can provide a unique experience. This stretch is accessible by boat ramps at the old Riverfront Park just upstream of the Choteau Bridge and at the confluence of the Kansas River on the Kansas side. Below KC, Sugar Creek maintains a boat ramp in LaBenite Park at highway 291 that is open 6 am to 10 pm. The MDC has an access with a boat ramp on the Cooley Lake Conservation Area. It's located about two miles east of Missouri City off Highway 210. There is also a boat ramp near Fort Osage in Sibley. Regardless of where you are fishing on the Missouri River, you may encounter a tagged flathead or blue catfish. Tagging studies are being conducted on the Platte and Grand Rivers. You will find the tags running through the back of the fish, just below the dorsal fin. These fish move into the Missouri River and can travel great distances. Should you catch a tagged fish, but want to release the fish, cut the tag off and call the number on the tag. Each tag is worth either $25 or $150 and the information you can provide to biologists about the fish’s location, size, etc. can prove invaluable. Many people are afraid of the swift river currents, however, most of these fears are unfounded and a little caution and a sturdy boat open up a whole new fishing experience. Be sure to navigate in the open channel and watch for rock dikes that are often submerged.
Missouri River(upper)(Northwest Region)
Information: (816) 271-3100
Flathead and channel catfish are the most sought after species from the upper Missouri River. Flathead catfish are typically caught with live bait near brush piles, along rocky banks, mouths of tributary streams, or behind wing dikes. Anglers seeking channel catfish should seek slower moving water and fish with live, cut or prepared baits. Blue catfish continue to be caught in greater numbers and larger sizes (up to 77 pounds) on this portion of the Missouri River. Anglers wanting to catch blues should use live bait near the tips of wing dikes in the faster moving water. From 2002 through 2007, shovelnose, lake, and pallid sturgeon were tagged to evaluate sturgeon populations in the Missouri River. Please report any tagged sturgeon caught and if unsure of the species, release it. Lake and pallid sturgeon are endangered and are illegal to possess. Asian carp (common, grass, silver and bighead), buffalo, and drum are plentiful in this section of the Missouri River, and they can be caught on a variety of baits. The numbers of exotic carps, especially the silver and bighead, continue to increase in this stretch of the river. The silver carp can weigh as much as 40 pounds and has gained the reputation as the “flying fish” for its tendency to unexpectedly leap from the water - often into a nearby boat. New regulation changes have eliminated the harvest limits on all exotic carp and anglers are encouraged to keep all carp caught. Contact the MDC Northwest Regional Office in St. Joseph for more information.
Niangua River (Southwest Region)
Information: 417/532-7612
Anglers can expect good trout fishing in the “White Ribbon Trout Area” on Niangua River in 2008. White Ribbon Trout Area regulations include a daily limit of four (4) trout and a possession limit of eight (8) trout. All brown trout less than 15” total length must be released unharmed immediately after capture. There is no length limit on rainbow trout. All fish taken or possessed shall be retained with the head, tail, and skin intact. Statewide seasons and limits apply to all other fish species. Remember, a valid trout permit is required to possess trout. Brown trout are stocked annually and rainbow trout are stocked frequently throughout the year. Fish surveys conducted in 2007 indicate the majority of brown trout were in the 12 -16” length range, with approximately 24% of the population greater than 15” and 3% greater than 18”. The largest brown trout collected in the 2007 survey was 18.8”. The number of rainbow trout collected in the 2007 survey increased from previous years, with good numbers up to 15”. Approximately 3% of the rainbow trout population is over 15 inches. Rainbow trout will continue to be stocked downstream from Bennett Spring Branch throughout the year. Flies, spinners, and small crankbaits work well for catching both brown and rainbow trout. Smallmouth bass and rock bass (goggle-eye) provide much of the fishing action in the portion of the Niangua River above and below the White Ribbon Trout Area near Bennett Spring. Information from 2007 fish surveys indicate that on average, about 15% of the smallmouth bass exceed the legal size of 12”, and about 3% are greater than 15”. There are good numbers of rock bass in the 7 - 9” range with about 10% of the population greater than 9”. Crankbaits, plastic grubs, and worms and earthworms fished close to woody cover and boulders are good producers. Smallmouth bass and rock bass are found around boulders and woody cover, especially when they are close to good current. Largemouth bass and spotted bass are more common in downstream reaches and in backwaters and eddies. Live bait, such as crayfish, minnows, and worms, are always a good bet. When using live bait, care should be taken to notintroduce minnows and crayfish from other stream systems. Introductions of minnows and crayfish from different stream systems may upset the ecological balance of another stream system. As always, the Niangua River is a great place to take kids fishing for sunfish. Longear sunfish and bluegill are plentiful throughout the river and are easy to catch with a bobber and hook baited with worms or crickets. Giggers can expect to find good numbers of suckers.
Nodaway River (Northwest Region)
Information: (816) 271-3100
The Nodaway River again has the potential to produce quality angling for catfish in 2007. Electrofishing in 2006 revealed good numbers of large channel and blue catfish, as well as numerous flathead catfish from 1 to 4 pounds. The deeper pools in the vicinity of the outside bend of meanders and downed-trees will hold all three species of catfish. Channel catfish can be caught on a variety of natural (worms, minnows) or prepared baits (stink bait, dough ball), while flatheads primarily prey on live baits (goldfish, sunfish, worms, etc.). Set lines, trot lines and bank poles are the gear of choice for most local anglers, but anglers wading shallow stretches during the summer with an ultra-light rod and dip bait are in for a fun day catching channel cats. Carp, buffalo, gar and drum are also plentiful in the Nodaway River, and can provide an excellent fight on light tackle. The eddies and seasonal swift current at the confluence of the Missouri River holds an abundance of bait fish, and is an excellent area to fish for flathead and blue catfish, as well as an occasional sauger. Be on the lookout for silver and bighead carp, as they tend to congregate at the confluence. They can be a dangerous boating hazard because they can jump up to 10’ out of the water upon feeling the vibrations from your boat motor.
North Fork of the White River (Ozark Region)
Information: (417) 256-7161
Smallmouth bass can be caught in fair numbers throughout the stream. Most of the fish will be less than 15". However, there are decent numbers of quality fish greater than 15”. Jigs, crankbaits, and soft plastic baits fished around rootwads and boulders account for the majority of these fish. Ozark bass (goggle-eye) also occur throughout river and their numbers have increased. These fish can be caught on the same type of lures as smallmouth, but generally smaller versions are more productive. Within the Blue Ribbon Trout Area (from Rainbow Spring to Patrick Bridge), all anglers are required to fish with artificial lures only (no natural or soft plastic baits allowed) and allowed to keep one trout >18". The majority of rainbow trout caught will be fish 12”-15”. However, the body condition and overall average size has increased to provide opportunities for a few quality-sized fish over 18”. Anglers will also notice an increased number of rainbows <12”, thanks to the above average spawn in early 2007. Wooly buggers and prince nymphs are good fly pattern choices. Also, crayfish and minnow imitating crankbaits as well as various spinners are effective. Brown trout numbers continue to increase within the Red Ribbon Trout Area (from Patrick Bridge to Norfork Lake). The majority of these fish are less than the minimum length limit of 15”. However, numbers of fish greater than 15” and 18” have also improved since last year. Anglers are allowed to fish with natural bait or artificial lures and keep up to two trout >15". To catch more browns try fishing during the sunrise and sunset hours.
Osage Fork of the Gasconade River (Southwest Region)
Information: 417/532-7612
Rock bass (goggle-eye) and smallmouth bass are the most sought after fish on the Osage Fork. Anglers should take note that there is a Special Management Area on the Osage Fork of the Gasconade River, from Skyline Drive Bridge (in Laclede County near Orla) to its confluence with the Gasconade River. There are special regulations for rock bass (goggle-eye) (8" minimum length limit; daily limit 15) and smallmouth bass (15" minimum length limit; daily limit 1) in this area. Rock bass are often found around boulders and rootwads near submerged aquatic vegetation or stands of water willow along the shoreline. Smallmouth bass are usually found near rootwads and boulders that are close to fast current. Fish surveys from 2007 show a good increase in numbers of rock bass, the majority are in the 6 - 8" range, with about 20 percent of the population over 8". Smallmouth bass showed a modest decrease in numbers in the 2007 surveys, with good numbers of smallmouth in the 11-14" range and a slight increase in the number of smallmouth bass over 15”. Smallmouth bass over 18” were also collected in the 2007 surveys. Preferred artificial baits include crawdad-colored crankbaits, soft plastic jigs and worms fished around logs and boulders. Live bait (crayfish and worms) also work well. When using live bait, care should be taken to notintroduce minnows and crayfish from other stream systems. Introductions of minnows and crayfish from different stream systems may upset the ecological balance of another stream system. Largemouth bass are present in the slower flowing water, especially around stands of vegetation. Largemouth bass over six pounds were collected in the 2007 survey. Plastic worms fished Texas style work well for largemouth bass. Flathead and channel catfish can be caught using limb lines, set lines and trotlines in the deeper pools. Live sunfish usually work best for flathead catfish; night crawlers, chicken liver and stinkbaits are good for channel catfish. Longear sunfish provide plenty of action for the whole family. They are especially fun for beginning anglers because of their willingness, under almost all conditions, to take very small artificial lures or a hook baited with a worm or cricket. For giggers willing to brave the cold, the Osage Fork clears up by late November, and there are plenty of suckers to provide good action.
Platte River (KC Region)
Information: (816) 792-8662
The Platte River meanders through much of Platte County and is full of snags and standing timber. Channel catfish and flathead catfish are common in the Platte and some really large flatheads are caught each year. Larger flatheads and blue catfish are caught prior to mid July in the upper portions of the river. Regardless of where you are fishing on the Platte River, you may encounter a tagged flathead or blue catfish. A long-term tagging study is being conducted. You will find the tags running through the back of the fish, just below the dorsal fin. These fish can travel great distances, so we are very interested in the location where these fish are caught. Should you catch a tagged fish, but want to release the fish, cut the tag off and call the phone number on the tag. Each tag is worth either $25 or $150 and the information you can provide to biologists about the fish’s location, size, etc. can prove invaluable. Be very careful in the lower stretches of the river near the Missouri River. Large Asian carp inhabit the lower sections of the river and can jump into your boat and can cause injury to boaters. Channel cats take a variety of natural and prepared baits, but flatheads are fish eaters so use live fish for bait. Carp, buffalo, freshwater drum and gar are also common in the Platte River and traditional baits work well. The Platte River is one of our most accessible streams. Boat ramps are located at Sharps Station Access and at Schimmel City Access (with access to the Missouri River just 2 miles downstream). There are also two boat ramps at the Platte Falls Conservation Area near Platte City. The ramps share the same parking area, but one ramp is only about 3 miles downstream from the other. There is a big meander or loop in the river, so you put in and take out at almost the same spot. We call this spot the duck head because it looks like a duck’s head on the map. This makes an excellent short float or half-day fishing trip since only one vehicle is needed. You can also put in at Sharps Station Access on the east side of Platte Falls and have a longer float to a the take out at the duck head. Bank access is also available at several locations including the Platte Falls CA which has over 10 miles of river frontage. Union Mill Access west of Edgerton is located on a stretch of the river that is wadeable during the summer months.
Roubidoux Creek (Ozark Region) (Red Ribbon Trout Management Area)
Information: (573) 368-2225
Brown trout catch rates will be similar to past years due to stocked fish holding in this section of river and growing. The size of fish available to anglers maintained over the past two years. Many anglers continue to report catch and release of brown trout >20” within this section. Rainbow trout catch rates increased during the fall of 2007 with many fish captured over the 15” inch minimum. Stockings are not announced, but generally occur during late April and October of each year. Catch and release fish can be excellent following these stockings. Also, Rock Bass (Goggle-eye) numbers were excellent during the fall sample. The average rock bass captured was in the 7” class with fish over 10 inches found. Rock bass are generally found around vegetation and woody habitat inn Roubidoux Creek.
St. Francis River(above Wappapello Lake)(Southeast Region)
Information: (573) 290-5730
Anglers can expect good fishing for all three species of black bass. Spotted and largemouth bass are more common in the riffle/pool habitats and smallmouth bass are more common in the shut-ins from Hwy. 72 to Silvermines (Hwy. D). Black bass >12" are common with some >15". Shadow bass (goggle-eye) angling will be fair. Most are 5-7", with some >8". Anglers should have good success catching channel catfish. Most channel catfish are 12-24". Gigging for redhorse suckers should be fair to good from Gruner Ford Access (Hwy. H) in St. Francois Co. to Wappapello Lake. Small walleye were stocked throughout the river from 1996 to 1999 to restore the population. These walleye are now well above the minimum length limit of 18”.
St. Francis River (below Wappapello Lake) (Southeast Region)
Information: (573) 290-5730
Fishing for spotted and largemouth bass will be good for a few miles below Wappapello Dam and fair in the remainder of the un-channelized portion of the river between the dam and Kennett (Hwy. 84). Below the dam, fair numbers of 12-18" bass are present. Spotted bass are more common from Kennett (Hwy. 84) to the Arkansas state line, with good numbers of fish up to 15". There are many 6-8" bluegill for several miles downstream of Wappapello Dam. Fair numbers of 6-8" bluegill are present throughout the remainder of the un-channelized portion of the river. Trotlines and limblines should produce some nice stringers of channel catfish. Most of the channel catfish will be <22". Large buffalo and gar and an occasional flathead catfish, white bass or drum could be encountered anywhere on the river.
Spring Creek (Ozark Region) (Blue Ribbon Trout Management Area)
Information: (573)368-2225
Rainbow Trout numbers are still low due to another year with low water levels. Although, the size of fish found throughout the section of stream in Forest Service Ownership are quite large for this small stream. Rainbow trout over 18 inches can be found in habitats that have both depth and cover. Average rainbow trout size in this section of stream is around 13 inches. Trout fishing catch rates and size structure will improve after several years of higher summer flows.
Tenmile Creek (Southeast Region)
Information: Paul.Cieslewicz@mdc.mo.gov or (573) 290-5730
Tenmile Creek, located just west of Poplar Bluff, has a good smallmouth bass population. A Special Smallmouth Bass Management Area has been established on this creek. Downstream from Highway B (Carter County) to the confluence with Cane Creek, the daily limit is six black bass, but only one can be a smallmouth bass and it must be at least 15". The 12" minimum size remains on largemouth and spotted bass. Smallmouth bass up to 18” are present. Shadow bass (goggle-eye) up to 9" are common throughout. This creek is primarily a wade fishing stream; however some anglers use canoes during the spring. Anglers should fish the deeper pools with minnows, crayfish, or small crank baits. Minnows can be easily obtained from the creek using a trap or cast net.