Time spent in the Lake of the Ozarks is not complete without spending a little time out on the water. Some of the best fishing in the Midwest occurs at the Lake of the Ozarks every year. Anglers from throughout the United States and beyond come to the area for the various species located in the waters of Lake of the Ozarks.



From the Catfish to the Largemouth Bass, there truly is something for fishermen of all tastes. Besides Catfish and Largemouth Bass, anglers have the opportunity to catch Crappie, Walleye, White Bass, and Hybrid Striped Bass. The wide variety of fish makes it possible for each fishing trip to be successful and the serene environment adds to the overall experience.

Fishing is an all year sport in the large Missouri lake. The typical fishing season begins (for the most devoted of anglers) on January 1. It extends to December 31, only to start again once a new year has begun. The typical lures used in the spring are either jig-n-frog bait or crankbaits. These lures allow anglers to fish in some of the deeper waters, when the water is cold.

In the warmer months, lures such as plastic worms are used for surface fishing. This type of fishing is some of the most exciting in the Ozarks and many anglers travel here to experience a catch in this breathtaking region. Topwater fishing usually occurs after the bass spawn. This happens in between late April and early May.

In Lake Ozarks, bass are most often found near the deeper waters. They also tend to stay around the boat docks and near drop off points until the fall and early winter months, when they tend to head to shallower waters again.

The limit for the amount of fish you can catch is fifteen. This can be filled in 15-20 casts for the more experienced angler on the lake. White Bass tend to school and swim in the shallower waters while the Black Bass are in the deeper waters. Crappie fishing is also incredibly popular for anglers who fish in Lake of the Ozark waters. There is a length limit for Crappie fish of 9 inches. The best time to fish for Crappie is after spawning which tends to occur from mid to late April. However, this fluctuates depending on the weather. The best indicator of the best time for crappie is when the dogwoods bloom.

The Hybrid Stripers and the Striper Bass, which were originally stocked in the Lake back in 1980, are some of the most sought after fish in this area. At this time, the state record for Hybrid Stripers stands at 20.5 lbs. and came from the lake back in 1986. Other state records for fishing in the dragon lake include a 36 lb. 12 oz. Small Mouth Buffalo, a 111 lbs. Paddlefish, a 41 lbs. 2 oz. Muskie, a 40 lbs. Freshwater Drum, and a 91 lbs. Blue Catfish.

Of course, the true catch of the lake is the Paddlefish. Paddlefish, which are also known as Spoonbills, have been around for centuries. In fact, it is believed they date back as far as the dinosaurs. Anglers typically catch Paddlefish by blind snagging. How this is done is the angler will scout the area for Paddlefish using large hooks and heavy lead sinkers. They can also find these rare fish by casting and retrieving hooks through jerking. The only Paddlefish that can be caught, if they will be caught, are 34 inches and longer during the Paddlish season, which is March 15-April 30.

Lake of the Ozarks fits the needs of so many freshwater fishermen. It does not matter whether you are new to fishing or a seasoned professional. If you want to relax and kick back or catch the Bass you have been dreaming about, then you have come to the right place.

If you want to experience fishing with the assistance of a qualified guide, you should consider one of the many fishing charters in Lake of the Ozarks. Some of the most popular charters include Firstmate Fishing Charters, Show Me Guide Service, and Hook-Em Guide Service. To find out more, search online for Fishing Charters in Lake of the Ozarks.