Missouri's Conservation Areas: A Series starting Mid-June

View from Stegal Mountain firetower. Stegal is a part of Peck
Ranch Conservation Area

Starting the middle of June, we will highlight the incredible opportunities that people who enjoy the outdoors have with regard to the Missouri Conservation Areas. Run by the Missouri Department of Conservation, owned by the people of Missouri, and funded primarily by a sales tax on sporting goods, the recreational opportunities on these tracts of land are almost limitless.

These areas also provide places for commerce, scientific research, as well as places to preserve native species and sometimes re-introduce native species that have been extirpated - a current example being the reintroduction of elk at Peck Ranch Conservation Area.  Given the opportunities available, and the value of what is at stake, then combine that with an effort by some to limit scientific management practices by the MDC - in effect throwing management to the politicians - and the reader can see how it would be to the advantage of Missouri's citizenry to know a little more about this state land.

History of Conservation Lands

Glade in Daniel Boone Conservation Area in Warren County

In 2011, the MDC celebrated its 75th anniversary. These 75 years have seen the department become one of the most respected government-based land stewardship entities in the United States, and perhaps it would not be stretching the truth to say in the world.

The department was established by state vote in 1936, and came into being at a time when the state of hunting and game populations across the state was absolutely abysmal. It got so bad that even deer were numbered at just a few hundred.  The Conservation Federation of Missouri, still an active and vital participant in advocating for Missouri outdoor issues, was the group instrumental in getting things done.

Nationwide, as well as in Missouri, the management of hunting and fishing practices as well as most all conservation related issues was done at the state legislatures.  As is the case now, legislators were beholden to special interests, and the needs and desires of sportsmen and women were put on the back burner if they made it to the stove at all.  The Conservation federation was almost like a union of folks interested in getting the power back from the special interests, and by banding together they finally had the power to do so.

One part of our series will be devoted to the recent efforts to dismantle the work those old-timers did to put Missouri back to where it needed to be - places to hunt, fish, hike, and camp as well as fairly abundant populations of deer, turkey, game fish, and a myriad of other game species.  There are always special interest that try to sway politicians through their lobbying efforts, so in recent years rural legislators have been gnashing their teeth about how to wrest control from the MDC regarding a wide range of issues.  Almost universally, sportsmen and women do not want to see this happen.

Huzzah Creek Conservation Area

Some of the most famous conservationists played vital roles in the genesis of MDC formation - guys like Aldo Leopold.  These were the Teddy Roosevelt ilk of conservationists. They were hunters, fishermen, explorers, and they wanted to make sure there was land available and fish and game on that land.

The Missouri Department of Conservation now manages nearly one million acres across the state employing management practices suited to the competing needs necessary.  Deer are abundant, turkey hunting is amongst the best in the nation, streams run clear, timber is selectively harvested to keep stands healthy and to benefit local economies.

As we highlight the variety of activities available on these lands, and look at specific conservation areas across the state, keep in mind that they are in constant peril of being overrun by politics.  Perhaps make it a point to follow stories you hear about this issue, and take the time to let your legislators know you want them to keep politics out of our great system we have in place.

MDC Family Fishing Fair set for Shepherd of the Hills

Catching fish, education, entertainment all part of June 11 event.

BRANSON, Mo. – Young anglers will have opportunities to catch fish and learn about fishing at the Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) Family Fishing Fair June 11 at a specially stocked pool at MDC's Shepherd of the Hills Hatchery near Branson. This free event, which is aimed at anglers ages 15 and under, will be from 9 a.m. until 2 p.m.

Bluegill and channel catfish will be the fish anglers will be trying to catch, but the event is about more than hooking fish. Educational stations at the event will help young anglers learn to tie knots, filet and cook fish, rig up and cast a fishing pole, cast a fly rod and other fish-related activities. Free goodie bags will be given to all youth participants and there will be a drawing for a rod and reel at the end of the day.

Also at the event will be MDC’s “My First Fish” station. Young anglers who make their first catch can bring their fish to this station to have a photo and information taken for a certificate that will be mailed to the family.

The “Fishin’ Magicians” will also perform. This local magic act will entertain with fun magic and, at the same time, pass on educational messages about the importance of caring for our water resources.

A limited number of loaner fishing poles will be available, but it’s suggested that all anglers bring their own fishing equipment, bait and cooler, if they plan to keep fish.

No reservations are required for this event. For more information, call 417-334-4865, ext. 0.

This event is another example of how the Missouri Department of Conservation helps people discover nature. For more information about fishing in Missouri, go tohttp://mdc.mo.gov/fishing.

Related articles

• MDC Cape Nature Center hosts Youth Pond Catfishing Clinic June 11
• Oklahoma Fishing Report May 11, 2016
• Largemouth Bass Fishing On Snow

Kellogg Lake Kids' Fishing Day planned for June 11

Openings still available for volunteers who wish to help with annual youth fishing event.

CARTHAGE, Mo. – Young anglers will have opportunities to catch fish and learn about fishing at the 15th annual Kids’ Fishing Day on June 11 at Kellogg Lake. The event, which is for ages 15 and under, will be from 8 a.m. until noon. Sponsors for this event are the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC), the City of Carthage, the Kellogg Lake Group, the Carthage Rotary Club and several local businesses. Kellogg Lake is a 25-acre reservoir on the east side of the city of Carthage.

A variety of activities are planned, including educational stations, fishing stations and prize give-aways. Youth anglers who attend four education stations will be eligible for the prize drawings. Free refreshments will also be served.

There is no pre-registration for the event, but anglers will be asked to register the day of the event. All participating youth anglers need to bring their own fishing equipment. Worms will be provided. The Kellogg Lake Kids’ Fishing Day is another example of how MDC helps people discover nature.

Volunteers are needed for this event. If you are interested in volunteering for this event or would like more information, please call MDC’s Joplin office at 417-629-3423.

Related articles

• What Anglers Have Learned About Gold Medal Fishing in Colorado's Arkansas River
• MDC Cape Nature Center hosts Youth Pond Catfishing Clinic June 11
• Agencies Cooperate to Control Carp In Milford Reservoir

MDC's Community Conservation Grants help urban habitats

Upcoming meetings in Springfield, Joplin will offer information on how to apply for grants.

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Good conservation practices don’t only apply to remote forests and prairies. Conservation helps communities, too.

As urban areas continue to develop, it’s important that this growth be compatible with wildlife habitats, streams and other natural features of our outdoors world. That’s because conservation pays by enriching our economy and quality of life.

The Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) Community Conservation Grant program promotes urban wildlife habitat improvement, encourages organizational partnerships for land stewardship and supports the training of partner staff to manage natural landscapes. This program is available to government entities and non-profit organizations. The application period for these grants begins in June.

Groups in southwest Missouri interested in applying for these grants can get information at two meetings in June. A meeting will be held 9 a.m.-11 a.m. on June 10 at MDC’s Southwest Regional Office, 2630 N. Mayfair Ave. in Springfield. Another meeting will be held 9 a.m.-11 a.m. on June 17 at the Wildcat Glades Conservation and Audubon Center, 201 W. Riviera Drive, in Joplin. To register for either of these upcoming meetings, contact MDC Urban Wildlife Biologist Ashley Schnake at 417-895-6881, ext. 1637 or Ashley.Schnake@mdc.mo.gov.

Projects eligible for funding include (but aren’t limited to) stream restoration, prairie or native warm season grass reconstruction, forest management or wetland enhancement. Funding may also be used for the training of partner organization staff. All project applications should have a long-term management plan. Requests for Community Conservation Grants should not exceed $10,000. Preference will be given to projects that involve cost-share or in-kind contributions.

The recipients of this year’s MDC Community Conservation Grants in southwest Missouri are:

• Wildcat Glades Conservation and Audubon Center; for natural area restoration at Redings Mill
• City of Springfield; for native plant habitat on South Creek, adjacent to the South Creek greenways trail
• Watershed Committee of the Ozarks; for native habitat improvement at Valley Water Mill Park
• Chert Glades Master Naturalist Chapter; for establishment and maintenance of butterfly garden/Monarch waystation at Cunningham Park
• Ozark Regional Land Trust; for work done at Sarcoxie Cave and Spring natural area.

.Information about improving urban wildlife habitat can also be found at mdc.mo.gov.

Related articles

• MDC encourages people to Be Bear Aware!
• Branson, MO Summer Events
• Missouri family finds giant morel mushroom in Washington County

Missouri Weekly Fishing Report May 26, 2016

In most streams south of the Missouri River, black bass (largemouth, smallmouth, spotted/Kentucky bass) may not be possessed from March 1 through the Friday before the fourth Saturday in May. During those dates all black bass in those streams must be returned to the water unharmed immediately after being caught. For details see Chapter 6 of the "Wildlife Code of Missouri", or website athttp://short.mdc.mo.gov/Zkz.

PLEASE CHECK REGULATIONS CAREFULLY: Special regulations may apply to designated portions of water bodies; some baits and lures may not be legal for all portions.

Central

Lakes

Binder Lake

Information: 573-815-7900
Water Surface Temp: 68º
Water Level (Range): high
Water Type: muddy
Fish Reported:
Channel Catfish: Good
Black Bass: Fair
channel catfish good on stinkbaits and livers; black bass are becoming more active in the weeds; all other species slow.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Blind Pony Lake

Information: 573-815-7900
Water Surface Temp: 70º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: muddy
all species are slow; reminder, the lake is closed to private boats; bait held or transported in containers with water is prohibited; please return boats available for use (at no charge) to the shoreline storage area when done; boats left elsewhere on the lake are unavailable for others to use.
(Reported on: 5/24/16)

Lake of the Ozarks (Bagnell Tailwater)

Information: 573-346-2210
Water Surface Temp: 64º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
Catfish: Fair
Crappie: Slow
Black Bass
White Bass: Fair
catfish fair using cut baits, chicken livers, worms, or whole shad; crappie slow, try using minnows and crappie jigs; black bass season opens this Saturday, May 28th, try using worms or dark-colored soft plastics; white bass fair using light-colored soft plastics and crappie jigs.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Lake of the Ozarks (Glaize)

Information: 573-346-2210
Water Surface Temp: 64º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
Catfish: Slow
Crappie: Fair
Black Bass: Slow
White Bass: Fair
catfish slow, try using cut baits, worms, or chicken livers; crappie fair using minnows or crappie jigs; black bass slow, try using dark-colored soft plastics or buzzbaits; white bass fair using light-colored soft plastics, spoons, or Rooster Tails.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Lake of the Ozarks (Gravois)

Information: 573-346-2210
Water Surface Temp: 64º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
Catfish: Fair
Crappie: Slow
Black Bass: Fair
White Bass: Slow
catfish fair using cut baits; black bass fair using plastic worms; crappie slow; white bass slow.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Lake of the Ozarks (Niangua)

Information: 573-346-2210
Water Surface Temp: 64º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
Catfish: Fair
Crappie: Fair
Black Bass: Fair
White Bass: Fair
catfish fair using cut shad; crappie fair using minnows or dark-colored jigs; bass fair using crankbaits or dark-colored worms.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Lake of the Ozarks (Osage)

Information: 573-346-2210
Water Surface Temp: 64º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
Catfish: Fair
Crappie: Good
Black Bass: Good
White Bass: Good
catfish fair using cut shad or livers; crappie good using minnows; bass good using crankbaits or jerkbaits.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Little Dixie Lake

Information: 573-815-7900
Water Surface Temp: 65º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: muddy
Fish Reported:
Bluegill: Fair
Redear Sunfish: Fair
Channel Catfish: Good
bluegill and redear sunfish fair on tube jigs, and worms; channel catfish good on chicken livers and worms; all other species slow; all use, including fishing, is prohibited from 10 p.m. to 4 a.m.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Rivers

Lamine River

Information: 573-815-7900
Water Level (Range): rising
Water Type: muddy
Fish Reported:
Channel Catfish: Good
3' high and rising; channel catfish are good on setlines using live goldfish and bluegill; all other species slow.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Missouri River (Middle)

Information: 573-815-7900
Water Surface Temp: 67º
Water Level (Range): high
Water Type: muddy
Fish Reported:
Channel Catfish: Fair
Blue Catfish: Fair
channel catfish fair on nightcrawlers; blue catfish fair on fresh shad and cut Asian carp; all other species slow.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Osage (lower, at Tuscumbia)

Information: 573-346-2210
Water Surface Temp: 64º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
Catfish: Fair
Crappie: Slow
White Bass: Fair
catfish fair using cut baits, chicken livers, worms, or whole shad; crappie slow, try using minnows or crappie jigs; black bass season opens this Saturday, May 28th, try worms or dark-colored soft plastics; white bass fair using light-colored soft plastics or crappie jigs.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Kansas City

Lakes

Atkinson Lake (Schell-Osage CA)

Information: 660-885-6981
Water Surface Temp: 69º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: clear
Fish Reported:
Black Bass: Fair
White Bass: Fair
Crappie: Fair
all species fair; fishing pressure light.
(Reported on: 5/24/16)

James A. Reed Memorial Wildlife Area

Information: 816-622-0900
Water Surface Temp: 67º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: clear
Fish Reported:
Black Bass: Good
Bluegill: Good
Redear Sunfish: Good
Channel Catfish: Good
Crappie: Slow
largemouth bass good on soft plastics near cover; channel catfish good on worms in moving water near creek channels; crappie slow, try using tube jigs and minnows near brush piles and weedbeds; bluegill and redear sunfish good on worms and small jigs.
(Reported on: 5/24/16)

Montrose Lake

Information: 816-622-0900
Water Surface Temp: 70º
Water Level (Range): low
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
Black Bass: Good
Catfish: Good
Crappie: Slow
black bass good; catfish good; crappie slow; fishing pressure light.
(Reported on: 5/24/16)

Schell Lake (Schell-Osage CA)

Information: 660-885-6981
Water Surface Temp: 68º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: clear
Fish Reported:
Crappie: Fair
Black Bass: Fair
Catfish: Fair
all species fair; fishing pressure light.
(Reported on: 5/24/16)

Truman Lake

Information: 660-885-6981
Water Surface Temp: 66º
Water Level (Range): high
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
Catfish: Good
Hybrid Striped Bass (Wiper; Whiterock Bass): Good
White Bass: Good
Crappie: Good
catfish good on fresh cut shad; hybrid striped bass and white bass good on spoons and spinnerbaits; crappie good around the brush piles; fishing pressure medium.
(Reported on: 5/24/16)

Truman Lake Tailwaters

Information: 660-885-6981
Water Surface Temp: 65º
Water Level (Range): low
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
White Bass: Good
Hybrid Striped Bass (Wiper; Whiterock Bass): Good
Crappie: Good
Catfish: Good
white bass and hybrid striped bass good using spoons and spinnerbaits; crappie good on minnows and jigs; catfish good on fresh cut shad; fishing pressure medium.
(Reported on: 5/24/16)

Rivers

Missouri River (Kansas City area)

Information: 816-622-0900
Water Surface Temp: 62º
Water Level (Range): falling
Water Type: muddy
Fish Reported:
Blue Catfish: Good
Flathead Catfish: Good
Channel Catfish: Fair
water level is high, with some debris in the flow; blue catfish and flathead catfish good on setlines using bluegill and other live baits; channel catfish fair on worms in the tributaries; all other species slow.
(Reported on: 5/24/16)

Northeast

Lakes

Henry Sever Lake

Information: 660-785-2420
Water Surface Temp: 67º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
Bluegill: Fair
Crappie: Fair
Largemouth Bass: Fair
Muskellunge: Fair
Catfish: Fair
bluegill fair using worms and minnows; crappie fair using minnows and jigs; largemouth bass fair using crankbaits and spinnerbaits; muskie fair using crankbaits and jerkbaits; catfish fair using stinkbaits and hot dogs; all other species slow.
(Reported on: 5/24/16)

Hunnewell Lake

Information: 660-785-2420
Water Surface Temp: 69º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: clear
Fish Reported:
Crappie: Fair
Bluegill: Fair
Blue Catfish: Fair
Channel Catfish: Fair
bluegill good using earthworms; crappie fair using jigs; largemouth bass good using buzzbaits; all other species slow; the lake is closed to private boats, and bait held or transported in containers with water is prohibited.
(Reported on: 5/24/16)

Long Branch Lake

Information: 660-785-2420
Water Surface Temp: 67º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
Crappie: Good
Flathead Catfish: Good
Channel Catfish: Fair
Common Carp: Fair
Largemouth Bass: Fair
flathead catfish fair using setlines with live baits; crappie fair using jigs and minnows; channel catfish fair using minnows, leeches, livers, and worms; largemouth bass fair using minnows and lures; all other species slow.
(Reported on: 5/24/16)

Mark Twain Lake

Information: 660-785-2420
Water Level (Range): low
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
Catfish: Good
Crappie: Slow
water level is low at 607.37; temperatures are still holding at 65-69 degrees in the arms; temperature will be colder in the main channel; water is murky because of the rain received; catfish good using cut shad, live bluegill, and goldfish; crappie good in brush piles and along the bluffs, try using black and chartreuse jigs; all other species slow.
(Reported on: 5/24/16)

Thomas Hill Reservoir

Information: 660-785-2420
Water Surface Temp: 71º
Water Level (Range): -none-
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
Crappie: Slow
Catfish: Good
Largemouth Bass: Slow
lake level is 715; water condition dingy due to recent rain; catfish good using liver, minnows, or nightcrawlers; crappie slow; largemouth bass slow.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Rivers

Mississippi River (upper)

Information: 573-248-2530
Water Surface Temp: 66º
Water Level (Range): falling
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
Channel Catfish: Fair
Catfish: Fair
(Reported on: 5/24/16)

Salt River - Downstream of Mark Twain Lake

Information: 573-248-2530
Water Surface Temp: 62º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
Catfish: Good
catfish good using cut baits and stinkbaits; all other species slow.
(Reported on: 5/24/16)

Northwest

Lakes

Bilby Ranch Lake

Information: 816-271-3100
Water Surface Temp: 66º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: clear
Fish Reported:
Channel Catfish: Good
Crappie: Fair
Black Bass: Good
Walleye: Fair
channel catfish good on cut baits; black bass good; all other species fair.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Lake Paho

Information: 816-271-3100
Water Surface Temp: 66º
Water Level (Range): high
Water Type: -none-
Fish Reported:
Channel Catfish: Good
Largemouth Bass: Good
Crappie: Good
channel catfish good on nightcrawlers and cheese baits fished on flats near drop offs and shallow areas of aquatic vegetation; largemouth bass good on soft plastics and spinnerbaits adjacent to shallow aquatic vegetation; crappie good on in minnows fished under bobbers near brush piles; small spinnerbaits fished in low light conditions near riprap areas are producing good numbers of fish; a few hybrid stripped bass are being taken as incidentals while fishing for any of the other species in the lake.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Mozingo Lake

Information: 816-271-3100
Water Surface Temp: 66º
Water Level (Range): high
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
Walleye: Fair
Black Bass: Good
Crappie: Fair
Catfish: Good
Bluegill: Good
black bass good; crappie fair over medium depth brush and at mouths of coves; catfish good on cut baits or worms; bluegill good on small worms; walleye fair on crankbaits, jigs, and live baits.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Pony Express Lake

No report submitted. Please contact the appropriate regional office for additional information.
Information: 816-271-3100

Smithville Lake

No report submitted. Please contact the appropriate regional office for additional information.
Information: 816-271-3100

Rivers

Grand River

Information: 816-271-3100
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: muddy
Fish Reported:
Blue Catfish: Fair
Flathead Catfish: Fair
blue catfish and flathead catfish fair using live baits on setlines; all other species slow.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Missouri River (upper)

Information: 816-271-3100
Water Surface Temp: 64º
Water Level (Range): high
Water Type: muddy
Fish Reported:
Blue Catfish: Fair
Flathead Catfish: Fair
Channel Catfish: Fair
Common Carp: Fair
the river has fallen below flood stage but is still very high with minor flooding occurring; blue catfish and flathead catfish good on goldfish, fair on worms; channel catfish and carp fair on worms; all other species slow.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Ozark

Lakes

Bull Shoals Lake (East)

Information: 417-256-7161
Water Surface Temp: 62º
Water Level (Range): high
Water Type: dingy
all species slow.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Norfork Lake

Information: 417-256-7161
Water Surface Temp: 65º
Water Level (Range): high
Water Type: muddy
Fish Reported:
Channel Catfish: Fair
channel catfish fair on trotlines; all other species slow.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Rivers

Big Piney River (lower, Pulaski Co.)

Information: 417-256-7161
Water Surface Temp: 68º
Water Level (Range): high
Water Type: muddy
all species slow.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Big Piney River (upper, Texas Co.)

Information: 417-256-7161
Water Surface Temp: 62º
Water Level (Range): high
Water Type: muddy
all species slow.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Bryant Creek

Information: 417-256-7161
Water Surface Temp: 62º
Water Level (Range): high
Water Type: muddy
all species slow.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Current River

Information: 417-256-7161
Water Surface Temp: 65º
Water Level (Range): high
Water Type: dingy
all species slow.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Eleven Point River

Information: 417-256-7161
Water Surface Temp: 60º
Water Level (Range): high
Water Type: muddy
all species slow.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Gasconade River (middle)

Information: 417-256-7161
Water Surface Temp: 68º
Water Level (Range): high
Water Type: muddy
all species slow.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Gasconade River (upper)

Information: 417-256-7161
Water Surface Temp: 69º
Water Level (Range): high
Water Type: muddy
all species slow.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Jacks Fork River

Information: 417-256-7161
Water Surface Temp: 63º
Water Level (Range): high
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
Smallmouth Bass: Slow
Northern Rock Bass (Goggle-Eye): Slow
smallmouth bass and goggle-eye slow, try using grubs or soft plastics.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

North Fork of the White River

Information: 417-256-7161
Water Surface Temp: 59º
Water Level (Range): high
Water Type: muddy
all species slow.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Southeast

Lakes

Clearwater Lake

Information: 573-290-5730
Water Surface Temp: 72º
Water Level (Range): high
Water Type: -none-
Fish Reported:
Crappie: Slow
Largemouth Bass: Slow
Channel Catfish: Good
Bluegill: Slow
Black Bass: Slow
catfish good on jug lines; all other species slow.
(Reported on: 5/24/16)

Council Bluff Lake

Information: 573-290-5730
Water Surface Temp: 68º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: clear
Fish Reported:
Redear Sunfish: Slow
Bluegill: Fair
Largemouth Bass: Fair
Crappie: Slow
Channel Catfish: Slow
largemouth bass fair on dark-colored soft plastics during low-light periods; bluegill fair on worms near the bank; all other species slow.
(Reported on: 5/24/16)

Cypress Lake

Information: 573-290-5730
Water Surface Temp: 72º
Water Level (Range): falling
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
Crappie: Fair
Bluegill: Good
Redear Sunfish: Fair
Channel Catfish: Fair
Largemouth Bass: Fair
bluegill good on crickets; all other species fair.
(Reported on: 5/24/16)

Duck Creek C.A. Pool #1

Information: 573-290-5730
Water Surface Temp: 73º
Water Level (Range): high
Water Type: clear
Fish Reported:
Largemouth Bass: Fair
Bluegill: Fair
Crappie: Slow
Warmouth: Fair
Redear Sunfish: Fair
largemouth bass and chain pickerel fair on spinnerbaits; bluegill, redear sunfish, and warmouth fair on crickets and jigs; all other species slow.
(Reported on: 5/24/16)

Lake Girardeau

Information: 573-290-5730
Water Surface Temp: 69º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
Redear Sunfish: Slow
Channel Catfish: Slow
Bluegill: Good
Black Bass: Fair
Crappie: Fair
crappie fair on minnows; black bass fair on soft plastic worms and topwater lures during low-light conditions; bluegill good on crickets and waxworms; all other species slow.
(Reported on: 5/24/16)

Perry County Lake

Information: 573-290-5730
Water Surface Temp: 70º
Water Level (Range): high
Water Type: clear
Fish Reported:
Crappie: Slow
Bluegill: Good
Largemouth Bass: Good
Black Bass: Slow
Channel Catfish: Fair
bluegill good on live baits and crickets; largemouth bass good on plastic worms; catfish fair on livers; all other species slow.
(Reported on: 5/24/16)

Robert DeLaney Lake

Information: 573-290-5730
Water Surface Temp: 62º
Water Level (Range): -none-
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
Crappie: Fair
Bluegill: Good
Channel Catfish: Slow
Largemouth Bass: Slow
Black Bass: Fair
crappie fair on minnows; bluegill good on meal worms; black bass fair on soft plastics; all other species slow.
(Reported on: 5/24/16)

Wappapello Lake

Information: 573-290-5730
Water Surface Temp: 74º
Water Level (Range): high
Water Type: clear
Fish Reported:
Black Bass: Fair
Crappie: Fair
Bluegill: Fair
Channel Catfish: Good
black bass fair on soft plastics and crankbaits; crappie fair on minnows and jigs; bluegill fair on crickets and worms near brush; channel catfish good on live baits and worms on jug lines and trotlines at night; anglers should note the 9" minimum length limit regulation for crappie; recorded lake level and other information can be received by calling the Wappapello Lake Information Hotline at 573-222-8139 or 1-877-lake-info.
(Reported on: 5/24/16)

Rivers

Black River (above Clearwater Lake)

Information: 573-290-5730
Water Surface Temp: 61º
Water Level (Range): high
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
Smallmouth Bass: Fair
Northern Rock Bass (Goggle-Eye): Fair
Largemouth Bass: Slow
Bluegill: Fair
Channel Catfish: Slow
smallmouth bass and goggle-eye fair on artificial baits; bluegill fair on live worms; all other species slow.
(Reported on: 5/24/16)

Black River (below Clearwater Lake)

Information: 573-290-5730
Water Surface Temp: 68º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
Channel Catfish: Fair
Black Bass: Slow
Suckers: Slow
Crappie: Slow
Bluegill: Fair
channel catfish and bluegill fair on nightcrawlers and cut baits; all other species slow; discharge rate is 950cfs.
(Reported on: 5/24/16)

Castor River (above Zalma)

Information: 573-290-5730
Water Surface Temp: 63º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: clear
Fish Reported:
Black Bass: Good
Northern Rock Bass (Goggle-Eye): Good
Longear Sunfish: Slow
Smallmouth Bass: Slow
black bass and goggle-eye good on minnows and soft plastics; all other species slow.
(Reported on: 5/24/16)

Mississippi River (Middle)

Information: 573-290-5730
Water Surface Temp: 60º
Water Level (Range): falling
Water Type: muddy
Fish Reported:
Channel Catfish: Slow
Blue Catfish: Fair
Flathead Catfish: Fair
Black Bass: Slow
blue catfish fair on cut baits; flathead catfish fair on live goldfish and sunfish; all other species slow; the water level at Cape Girardeau is 26.9'.
(Reported on: 5/24/16)

Mississippi River (Ohio River to Arkansas)

Information: 573-290-5730
Water Surface Temp: 63º
Water Level (Range): high
Water Type: muddy
Fish Reported:
Channel Catfish: Good
Blue Catfish: Fair
Flathead Catfish: Slow
channel catfish good on stinkbaits; blue catfish fair on cut shad and carp; all other species slow.
(Reported on: 5/24/16)

St. Francis River (above Wappapello Lake)

Information: 573-290-5730
Water Surface Temp: 70º
Water Level (Range): high
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
Channel Catfish: Fair
Crappie: Fair
Black Bass: Fair
Suckers: Fair
catfish fair on stinkbaits and live baits; black bass fair on soft plastics and spinnerbaits; crappie and goggle-eye fair on assorted jigs and minnows; all other species fair.
(Reported on: 5/24/16)

St. Francis River (below Wappapello Lake)

Information: 573-290-5730
Water Surface Temp: 71º
Water Level (Range): high
Water Type: muddy
Fish Reported:
Channel Catfish: Fair
Flathead Catfish: Slow
Black Bass: Slow
Bluegill: Slow
Crappie: Slow
channel catfish fair on stinkbaits and chicken livers; all other species slow.
(Reported on: 5/24/16)

Southwest

Lakes

Bull Shoals Lake (West)

Information: 417-895-6880
Water Surface Temp: 67º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
White Bass: Good
Walleye: Fair
Crappie: Fair
Black Bass: Fair
white bass good on soft plastics, spinnerbaits, live minnows, and jigs; walleye fair on Rogues, jigs, and live baits below Powersite Dam and in the Beaver Creek area; crappie fair on live minnows, soft plastics, and jigs around submerged timber, some also being caught closer to the bank; black bass fair on soft plastics and jigs.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Lake Taneycomo

Information: 417-895-6880
Water Surface Temp: 52º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
Rainbow Trout: Good
Brown Trout: Good
trout good on white, olive, or black 1/16 oz. marabou jigs, black/chrome or white/chrome 1/16 oz. Rooster Tails, Rapalas, or Rogues when the water is running, scud pattern flies and San Juan worm flies, 1/16 oz. white and black Rooster Tails with gold or chrome spinnerbaits in the upper portion when water is shut off; trout good in lower portion of the lake on orange, chartreuse, pink, or white Gulp nuggets, nightcrawlers, and corn.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Pomme de Terre Reservoir

Information: 417-895-6880
Water Surface Temp: 73º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
Black Bass: Good
Crappie: Good
Catfish: Good
Walleye: Fair
White Bass: Fair
black bass good on plastic baits over brush piles; crappie good on minnows in 15' - 20' of water; bluegill good on worms; catfish good on live baits; walleye fair on flats while trolling; white bass fair.
(Reported on: 5/23/16)

Stockton Lake

Information: 417-895-6880
Water Surface Temp: 68º
Water Level (Range): high
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
Walleye: Good
White Bass: Fair
Largemouth Bass: Good
Crappie: Good
Smallmouth Bass: Good
largemouth bass good on plastic worms, minnows, spinnerbaits, and jigs in 2' - 10' of water off of points and near submerged structure, also good on plastic worms and jig combinations in upper stretches of creek arms and shallow coves; smallmouth bass good on plastic worms in 2' - 10' of water; crappie good on minnows, swimbaits, small crankbaits, and jigs in the upper stretches of creek arms, shallow coves, and near deep submerged structure; bluegill good on nightcrawlers, Beetle Spins, and Road Runners in shallow water; walleye good on minnows and jigs in coves and on nightcrawlers and singlespins along the bottom in 10' - 20' of water; smallmouth bass good on plastic worms in 2' - 10' of water; channel catfish fair on nightcrawlers, minnows, and jigs in coves; white bass fair on crankbaits, jigs, and minnows in 6' - 10' of water; all other species slow.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Table Rock Lake

Information: 417-895-6880
Water Surface Temp: 70º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
Black Bass: Good
Bluegill: Good
Crappie: Fair
Catfish: Fair
bluegill good on Beetle Spins and worms; black bass good spinnerbaits around secondary points in 20' - 30' of water; catfish fair on cut baits; crappie fair on live bait; all other species slow.
(Reported on: 5/23/16)

Table Rock Lake (James River arm)

Information: 417-895-6880
Water Surface Temp: 70º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
Black Bass: Good
Catfish: Good
Crappie: Fair
black bass good on topwater spinnerbaits or Pop R baits during early morning or on cloudy days, try fishing in 20' of water on secondary points using green/purple jigs or white grubs when sunny, shad-colored swimbaits also working well; catfish good on trotlines and limb lines baited with small perch, also try pole and line with shrimp in the main channel of the lake; crappie fair on small jigs in white and chartreuse, purple and black, or all chartreuse, use 1/16 or 1/8 oz jig heads; all other species slow.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Rivers

James River

Information: 417-895-6880
Water Surface Temp: 70º
Water Level (Range): high
Water Type: muddy
Fish Reported:
Black Bass: Good
Crappie: Good
Catfish: Good
Bluegill: Good
Northern Rock Bass (Goggle-Eye): Good
black bass good on swimbaits, grubs, crankbaits, Wiggle Warts, and topwater lures; crappie good on minnows and shad baits; goggle-eye good on minnows and small jigs in darker colors; bluegill good on worms, crickets, and small jigs; catfish good on live baits, cut baits, livers, shrimp and worms; white bass good on minnows and swimbaits.
(Reported on: 5/23/16)

Niangua River

Information: 417-895-6880
Water Surface Temp: 60º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
Rainbow Trout: Fair
Brown Trout: Fair
Black Bass: Fair
trout fair below Bennett Spring on Power Baits; black bass fair on live baits and soft plastics; all other species slow.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

St. Louis

Lakes

Busch Memorial Conservation Area Lake 33

Information: 636-441-4554
Water Surface Temp: 66º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: clear
Fish Reported:
Black Bass: Fair
Bluegill: Fair
Catfish: Slow
Crappie: Fair
catfish slow on cut baits, doughbaits, or livers; black bass fair on spinnerbaits, plastic worms, or crankbaits; crappie fairon minnows and jigs; bluegill fair on worms, crickets, and natural baits.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Busch Memorial Conservation Area Lakes 3, 4, 5, and 7

Information: 636-441-4554
Water Surface Temp: 66º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: clear
Fish Reported:
Catfish: Slow
Black Bass: Slow
Crappie: Slow
Bluegill: Slow
catfish slow, try using cut baits, doughbaits, or livers; all other species slow.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Rivers

Big River

Information: 636-441-4554
Water Surface Temp: 63º
Water Level (Range): high
Water Type: muddy
Fish Reported:
Catfish: Slow
Black Bass: Slow
Crappie: Slow
Bluegill: Slow
all species slow.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Bourbeuse River

Information: 636-441-4554
Water Surface Temp: 66º
Water Level (Range): falling
Water Type: muddy
Fish Reported:
Catfish: Fair
Black Bass: Slow
Crappie: Slow
Bluegill: Fair
catfish fair on cut baits and blood baits; bluegill fair on worms.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Meramec River (Crawford Co.)

Information: 636-441-4554
Water Surface Temp: 65º
Water Level (Range): falling
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
Catfish: Slow
Black Bass: Good
Crappie: Slow
Bluegill: Good
black bass good on plastic worms; bluegill good on crickets.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Meramec River (St. Louis Co.)

Information: 636-441-4554
Water Surface Temp: 64º
Water Level (Range): falling
Water Type: muddy
Fish Reported:
Catfish: Fair
Black Bass: Fair
Crappie: Slow
Bluegill: Fair
catfish fair on blood baits, cut baits, and livers; crappie slow, try using minnows; black bass fair, try using crankbaits; bluegill fair using crickets; all other species slow.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Mississippi River (St. Louis Region)

Information: 636-441-4554
Water Surface Temp: 65º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
Blue Catfish: Fair
Freshwater Drum: Fair
blue catfish and channel catfish are fair on cut baits; flathead catfish are fair on live baits; freshwater drum are fair on worms.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Missouri River (Lower)

Information: 636-441-4554
Water Surface Temp: 63º
Water Level (Range): falling
Water Type: muddy
Fish Reported:
Catfish: Fair
catfish fair on cut baits, blood baits, and live baits.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Trout Parks

Trout Parks

Bennett Spring State Park

Information: Park 417-532-4418
Water Surface Temp: 57º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: clear
Fish Reported:
Rainbow Trout: Good
Brown Trout: Fair
Zone 1 and 2 popular lures: black marabou, John Deere or gray Deere mini jig, minnow, gold, bumble bee, brown glitter, or black with gold spinner Rooster Tails, tobacco brown copper hot shot, Bennett blue, or holographic green crackleback; Zone 3 popular baits: worms, minnows, or salmon peach, rainbow, or yellow Power Baits; May fishing hours are from 6:30 a.m. to 8:15 p.m.; June fishing hours are from 6:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. June weed cutting is scheduled for June 28-29; cutting will begin in Zone 3 and move upstream; remember that all brown trout less than 15" in length must be returned to the water immediately; for up-to-date stream conditions check USGS water data website athttp://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/uv?06923500; trout cam - https://mostateparks.com/content/trout-cam; for more information, please contact Bennett Spring Hatchery at 417-532-4418. Free Fishing Weekend is scheduled for June 11th and 12th.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Maramec Spring Park

Information: 573-265-7801
Water Surface Temp: 57º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: clear
Fish Reported:
Rainbow Trout: Good
Brown Trout: Fair
fishing is good; the spring branch has good flow and good clarity; best fishing times are the first couple of hours shortly after the morning whistle, but fish can be caught throughout the day; very light line is key to success, 2-4 lb. test is preferred; fish are hitting doughbaits in white, salmon peach, and hatchery brown colors when fished on a small treble hook and suspended under a float; Rooster Tails in black/white, green, brown, and purple; plastic worms in orange, yellow, white, and red have all been proving good; remember that all brown trout less than 15" in length must be returned to the water immediately; fishing hours for the month of May are 6:30 a.m. to 8:15 p.m., times for June are 6:30 a.m.-8:30 p.m.; Free Fishing Weekend is June 11th and 12th. No Fishing License or Daily Trout Tag is required statewide.
(Reported on: 5/24/16)

Montauk State Park

Information: 573-548-2585
Water Surface Temp: 57º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: dingy
Fish Reported:
Rainbow Trout: Good
water level is currently at 1.90', down from 2.65' last week and running dingy. 4 lb. test fishing line or lighter was recommended; brighter colors of scented dough baits, plastic worms, and eggs have been working in the bait zones; midges and scuds are good choices in the fly-only zone; Rooster Tails in black and yellow, black and white, and white have been good choices in all zones; the morning hours are the best times to fish, but fish can be caught throughout the day; May fishing hours are from 6:30 a.m. to 8:15 p.m.; for up-to-date stream conditions check USGS water data website athttp://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/uv?07064440.
(Reported on: 5/24/16)

Roaring River State Park

Information: 417-847-2430
Water Surface Temp: 58º
Water Level (Range): normal
Water Type: clear
Fish Reported:
Rainbow Trout: Good
dredging will continue this week in Zone 2; there will be muddy water at times; the river is normal for this time of year and is clear; right now, Cracklebacks, Adams, beetles, ants, hoppers, and caddis flies are all good; leaders are 9' with 6X or 7X tippets; fish are still being caught on nymphs, pheasant tails, copper johns, black, brown, and gray zebra midges, sow bugs, burlaps, hares ears, and small prince nymphs; glo balls, San Juan worms, black, brown, olive, and tan buggers and leeches work well most of the day, fish are still being caught on the baby buggers in the same colors; plastic eggs and worms are still catching lots of fish, orange, orange/white, cheese, white, and fluorescent yellow have all been good; spinnerbaits are still working in the early mornings black, brown, white, olive, and skunk have all been working well; jig fisherman are really doing well right now, the water is good for sight fishing and the jig fisherman are catching trout on olive, black, brown, white, and tan; if you are using Micro Jigs, tan, olive, and black/yellow have been the best colors; Zone 3 is fishing good on white or orange Power Bait paste; corn, nightcrawlers, and natural eggs have also been working.
(Reported on: 5/25/16)

Trout Stocking

Trout Stocking

The Conservation Department stocks trout in each of the trout parks every evening from the day before the March 1 opener through Oct. 30. Tag sale estimates determine a daily stocking rate average of 2.25 fish per expected angler. Except on opening day, three fish are stocked for every expected angler. FromMarch 1 to Oct. 31, the parks will collectively sell more than 400,000 tags and stock more than 900,000 fish. These fish will average about 12 inches long over the season, but some variation occurs. Dozens of lunkers weighing upwards of 3 pounds are stocked each year. A few tip the scales at more than 10 pounds.

Related articles

• Oklahoma Fishing Report for May 18, 2016
• MDC Cape Nature Center hosts Youth Pond Catfishing Clinic June 11
• Video: Rare Giant Albino Catfish Caught in Manitoba