Top 30 Fishing Lakes in Missouri

Missouri is full of lakes that offer solid fishing, whether you’re after bass, catfish, crappie, or something else entirely. I’ve spent time on quite a few of them myself, but I wanted to get a broader view before putting together this list. So I asked around—talked to locals, swapped stories at the boat ramp, and opened it up to our social media followers to weigh in on their favorites. The feedback was honest, opinionated, and surprisingly consistent in some cases.

This list of the top 30 fishing lakes in Missouri reflects that mix of experience and community input. Some are well-known spots with boat rentals and bait shops right at the launch. Others are more low-key but consistently produce good catches. What they all have in common is that they’re worth your time. Whether you’re out to fill a cooler or just want a quiet afternoon on the water, there’s probably a lake on this list that’ll suit you.

If you’re new to fishing in Missouri or just looking to try somewhere new, this guide should give you a solid place to start. And if you think we missed one, feel free to let us know—fishermen rarely run out of opinions.

30. Lake Viking

Lake Viking is a private, membership-only lake in northwest Missouri, so public access is not available. If you have a connection to a property owner or can arrange a guest pass, it’s worth the effort. The lake covers about 630 acres and holds bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill. Because access is restricted, fishing pressure stays low and the fish populations are in good shape. Early mornings and late evenings in the coves tend to produce the best results. It’s a quiet, well-managed fishery, but confirm your access situation before making any plans to visit.

29. Creve Coeur Lake

Creve Coeur Lake sits just outside St. Louis and is one of the largest natural lakes in Missouri. It holds decent populations of bass, crappie, and catfish, and shore access is easy thanks to the surrounding park. Early mornings and cooler months tend to produce the best fishing before boat traffic picks up. One important note: local anglers and health officials have raised long-standing concerns about water quality in this lake due to industrial runoff in the area. Fishing here is fine for sport, but you should not eat what you catch. Treat it as catch and release only.

28. Norfork Lake

Norfork Lake straddles the Missouri-Arkansas border, with a significant portion of the fishery sitting in Arkansas. If you plan to fish the whole lake, pick up a White River Border Lakes Permit, which covers both states and saves you the hassle of tracking which side of the line you’re on. The lake stretches over 22,000 acres of deep, clear water and is known for strong bass, walleye, crappie, and striped bass fishing. It doesn’t draw the crowds that some of the bigger Missouri lakes do, giving you more room to work quiet coves and long points. Guides are available if you’re new to the area.

27. McKay Park Lake

McKay Park Lake is a 6-acre urban fishery in Jefferson City, best known for its winter trout program. Every November, the Missouri Department of Conservation stocks the lake with over 2,400 rainbow trout, making it one of the more unique fishing opportunities in central Missouri. Year-round you’ll find largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish, red-ear sunfish, and crappie. Boating is not permitted, so this is a bank-fishing-only spot. It’s a practical option for anglers in the Jefferson City area who want quality fishing without a long drive, and the winter trout program draws a loyal crowd every season.

26. Bilby Ranch Lake

Bilby Ranch Lake is a quiet 110-acre fishing spot in northwest Missouri, near Maryville. It’s part of the Bilby Ranch Conservation Area, which covers over 5,000 acres of public land. The lake has a good mix of largemouth bass, bluegill, and channel catfish, plus some crappie. Shore fishing is solid, and there’s a boat ramp if you prefer getting out on the water. The area isn’t crowded, so it’s great if you want to focus and have a calm day casting lines. There’s also plenty of space to hike or watch wildlife if the fish aren’t biting.

25. Council Bluff Lake

Council Bluff Lake sits inside the Mark Twain National Forest and is one of the clearest lakes in Missouri. It’s around 440 acres, giving anglers plenty of space to spread out. Largemouth bass, crappie, and bluegill are popular catches here. The lake is managed for both fishing and water quality, so the fish populations tend to be strong and healthy. There’s also a boat ramp and a no-wake rule, which keeps the water calm for small boats and kayaks. Shoreline access is solid, especially near the campground. It’s a solid spot if you want quiet fishing without too much traffic.

24. Montrose Lake

Montrose Lake sits in Henry County in west-central Missouri and covers about 1,500 acres. It’s managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation as part of the Montrose Conservation Area, with public boat ramps and shore access available. Catfish are the main draw, with good populations of both channel and flathead cats. Largemouth bass and crappie are present, though bass regulations are strict, with a two-fish daily limit and an 18-inch minimum, reflecting careful management of the population. The lake runs warm in summer due to power plant discharge nearby, so spring and fall are the better seasons to visit. It’s a no-frills spot that rewards patient anglers.

23. Atkinson Lake

Atkinson Lake is a quiet, lesser-known fishing spot near Lake of the Ozarks that’s popular with locals who prefer less traffic on the water. It’s a smaller lake, but it holds a steady supply of bass, bluegill, and catfish. The shoreline is easy to access, especially for bank fishing, and there are plenty of shaded areas to set up for the day. If you’re not into noisy crowds or speeding boats, this is the kind of place that lets you focus on the fishing. Bring basic gear, some snacks, and you’ll likely have a peaceful, productive day by the water.

22. Bean Lake

Bean Lake is a quiet spot in northwest Missouri, not far from the Missouri River. It’s known for good fishing, especially for crappie, bass, and catfish. The lake is fairly shallow, which warms the water quickly in spring, making it a solid early-season spot. There’s not a lot of noise or boat traffic, so it’s easier to focus on fishing. Locals say it’s especially good for shore fishing, with plenty of room to spread out. If you’re looking for a place that’s simple, steady, and full of fish, Bean Lake is worth a stop next time you’re in the area.

21. Lake Springfield

Lake Springfield sits just south of downtown Springfield and covers around 318 acres, making it one of the more convenient fishing spots in southwest Missouri. Largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie are the primary targets, and the lake has a public boat ramp, fishing docks, and shoreline access throughout the surrounding park. One thing worth knowing is that the lake sits near a power plant, which raises water temperatures and can affect fishing conditions in the warmer months. Spring and fall tend to produce the best action. It’s a practical local option for anglers in the Springfield area who want a quick trip without a long drive.

20. Forest Lake

Forest Lake sits inside Thousand Hills State Park in northeast Missouri. It’s not a giant lake, but it packs in plenty of fishing opportunities. Anglers regularly pull out bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill. The lake is quiet enough for kayaks and small boats, with a 90-horsepower limit on boat motors. There’s also a marina with boat rentals and a fish cleaning station nearby. Shoreline access is decent, especially near the campgrounds and picnic areas. If you’re looking for a solid fishing trip without the crowds of bigger lakes, Forest Lake is a solid pick with just enough going on.

19. Hazel Creek Lake

Hazel Creek Lake sits just outside of Kirksville and is well-known among local anglers. It covers around 530 acres and is managed mainly for bass, crappie, and catfish. The lake is a no-wake zone, which keeps boat traffic down and makes it easier to fish from a kayak or small boat. Bank access is pretty solid, with several spots to cast from. The water is usually clear, and fish surveys show good numbers of largemouth bass and channel cats. It’s a solid choice if you’re looking for a quieter spot where you can actually focus on fishing without much hassle.

18. Blue Springs Lake

Blue Springs Lake in Missouri is a go-to spot for fishing, especially if you’re after largemouth bass, bluegill, or catfish. It’s about 720 acres, giving you plenty of room to spread out, whether you’re fishing from a boat or the shore. The lake is part of Fleming Park, so there’s more to do if you bring family or friends who don’t fish. Water levels are managed well, and the lake is stocked regularly. It’s popular, but not overrun, so you can usually find a quiet corner. It’s a solid choice for anglers looking for steady action and good variety.

17. Longview Lake

Longview Lake, just outside of Kansas City, is one of Missouri’s more popular fishing spots. Covering about 930 acres, it’s known for largemouth bass, catfish, crappie, and walleye. There’s a good mix of shoreline access and boat ramps, so whether you’re casting from the bank or out on the water, you’ve got options. Fishing pressure can be high on weekends, but weekdays tend to be quieter. The lake is part of a larger park system, so it’s easy to make a day of it. If you’re looking for solid fishing without a long drive, Longview gets the job done.

16. Fellows Lake

Fellows Lake sits just north of Springfield and is a solid choice for anglers looking for a quieter fishing spot. It’s known for muskie, which isn’t easy to find in most Missouri lakes. You’ll also come across largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill. The lake is around 860 acres, with a mix of open water and coves, giving you different fishing setups. There’s a marina, boat rentals, and a nice fishing dock if you’re not bringing your own gear. It’s managed by City Utilities, so the water levels stay steady, and the fish population stays in pretty good shape.

15. Lake Jacomo

Lake Jacomo sits in Jackson County, Missouri, and is a solid choice if you’re looking to fish somewhere with space to spread out. Covering about 970 acres, it’s part of the larger Fleming Park. The lake has a quiet no-wake rule, so boaters take it slow, which makes fishing a bit more relaxed. Anglers come here for bass, catfish, crappie, and bluegill. The lake is stocked, and there are several boat ramps and fishing docks. If you don’t have your own gear, there’s even a marina where you can rent boats or buy bait. Shore access is easy to find, too. What’s nice is that it doesn’t feel overbuilt. You get enough access without it being packed with buildings or shops. If you like a spot that’s not too loud and gives you a better shot at landing something worth keeping, Lake Jacomo is worth putting on your list.

14. Long Branch Lake

Long Branch Lake sits just west of Macon, Missouri, and has become a favorite spot for anglers looking for a steady catch. It’s not huge, but the lake covers about 2,400 acres and has plenty of shoreline to work with. Bass, crappie, catfish, and walleye are the main draw, and there’s a good mix of both shallow and deep water. What makes Long Branch different from a lot of other lakes in the state is how clean and open it feels, thanks to the surrounding conservation area. There’s easy boat access and even a few fishing jetties for folks who prefer to stay on land. The lake’s design helps cut down on overcrowding, so it often feels less pressured than bigger, more well-known lakes. Whether you’re casting from the bank or trolling from a boat, it’s a solid spot to spend a calm morning chasing bites without too much fuss.

13. Thomas Hill Reservoir

Thomas Hill Reservoir is a solid spot if you’re looking for a less crowded place to fish in Missouri. Located in the north-central part of the state, this lake covers over 4,950 acres and is open year-round, thanks to warm water from a nearby power plant. That means winter fishing stays active, especially for crappie and catfish. Anglers also target largemouth bass, white bass, and hybrid stripers. The lake has a mix of open water and brushy cover, giving fish plenty of spots to hide. There’s a boat ramp and bank access too, so you don’t need a fancy setup to get started. What makes Thomas Hill different is the warm-water discharge—it helps keep fishing good even when other lakes freeze over. It’s a practical spot for folks who want steady fishing without a lot of fuss. Not flashy, but dependable and full of action when other lakes slow down.

12. Mark Twain Lake

Mark Twain Lake sits in northeast Missouri and covers over 18,000 acres. It’s known for great crappie and catfish fishing, but you’ll also find bass, bluegill, and even walleye. The lake is surrounded by the Mark Twain State Park, so there’s plenty of shoreline access for bank fishing and boat ramps if you prefer to get out on the water. This lake isn’t overrun with crowds, which makes it a solid spot if you want to focus and spend some time chasing fish. There are also a few nearby bait shops and campgrounds that keep things easy for weekend trips. The lake was created by damming the Salt River, and the nearby Clarence Cannon Dam Visitor Center gives you a look at how it all works. Whether you’re out early with a rod in hand or hanging around for the sunset bite, Mark Twain Lake holds its own as a reliable fishing spot.

11. Mozingo Lake

Mozingo Lake sits just outside Maryville in northwest Missouri and covers a little over 1,000 acres. It’s known for solid largemouth bass and crappie fishing, with walleye, bluegill, and channel catfish rounding out the mix. The lake has boat ramp access and fishing docks, and the shoreline is accessible for bank anglers as well. Boat and bait availability on site is seasonal, so check ahead before your trip. It’s less crowded than many of the bigger lakes in the state, which makes it easier to settle in and focus on the water. The surrounding park also has campsites and trails if you’re making a weekend of it.

10. Smithville Lake

Smithville Lake sits just north of Kansas City and offers more than 7,000 acres of space to fish, boat, and hang out near the water. It’s one of the bigger lakes in Missouri, and it’s well-known among locals for good reason. Anglers come here for crappie, catfish, and both largemouth and smallmouth bass. The lake has multiple boat ramps and fishing docks, plus long stretches of shoreline if you prefer to fish from the bank. There’s also a decent amount of quiet coves if you want to get away from the busier areas. Water levels stay pretty steady, which helps keep the fishing reliable year-round. You’ll also find camping, hiking, and even a golf course nearby, so it’s easy to make a weekend out of it. Whether you’re new to fishing or have been doing it for years, Smithville Lake has what you need for a solid day on the water.

9. Clearwater Lake

Clearwater Lake sits in southeast Missouri, not far from Piedmont. It’s smaller than some of the bigger lakes in the state, but don’t let that fool you—this spot pulls in a lot of anglers looking for something steady and reliable. The lake is known for crappie and largemouth bass, with white bass and catfish showing up often too. Water levels stay pretty consistent, so it’s a solid place to plan a fishing trip without worrying too much about the conditions changing fast. There’s plenty of shoreline access if you don’t have a boat, and the boat ramps are easy to find if you do. Most people who fish Clearwater like how it feels a little more low-key than the larger, louder lakes. If you’re into fishing without a bunch of distractions, this place makes sense. It’s also managed by the Army Corps of Engineers, so it’s well-kept and easy to get around.

8. Wappapello Lake

Wappapello Lake covers about 8,400 acres in southeast Missouri and offers solid fishing for bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill. The MDC’s most recent surveys show good largemouth bass numbers, with around 23 percent of fish over 15 inches, and white bass runs on the St. Francis River in spring are a reliable seasonal highlight. Crappie fishing is fair, with decent numbers in the 9 to 12-inch range. Water clarity and levels fluctuate significantly after heavy rain, which is worth keeping in mind when planning a trip. Spring and fall are the most consistent seasons. The shoreline stretches over 480 miles, giving bank anglers and boaters plenty of room to spread out and find a quiet spot.

7. Pomme de Terre Lake

Pomme de Terre Lake, tucked in south-central Missouri, is a quiet spot that serious anglers know well. This 7,820-acre lake is known for its muskie fishing, something you won’t find everywhere in the state. Local reports often mention folks pulling in trophy-sized fish, especially in the cooler months. But it’s not just about muskie—there’s also solid bass, crappie, and catfish action year-round. The lake’s two arms, separated by a bridge, each offer different water conditions, which helps keep fishing interesting. There’s a mix of rocky points, shallow coves, and timbered pockets that hold fish in all seasons. Whether you’re in a boat or casting from the bank, there’s plenty of space to spread out without feeling crowded. Nearby towns like Hermitage and Pittsburg have basic supplies, bait shops, and ramps that make getting on the water simple. If you’re chasing something different than the usual Missouri lake, this one’s worth a look.

6. Stockton Lake

Stockton Lake is one of Missouri’s best kept secrets, covering nearly 25,000 acres in southwest Missouri with 300 miles of largely undeveloped shoreline. It holds the Missouri state record smallmouth bass, a 7-pound 2-ounce fish caught in 1984, and remains one of the better smallmouth fisheries in the state. Walleye fishing is consistently strong, crappie populations are healthy with good numbers of keepers, and largemouth bass are spread throughout the upper arms. White bass make strong spring runs up the main tributaries. The lake’s clear water and minimal shoreline development keep fishing pressure lower than you’d expect for a lake this size. Spring and fall are the best seasons, though fish are catchable year-round.

5. Bull Shoals Lake

Bull Shoals Lake sits on the border of Missouri and Arkansas and stretches across thousands of acres. It’s one of the largest lakes in Missouri, known for deep, clear water and steady fishing action. Anglers come here for bass—especially largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass—but there’s also good fishing for crappie, catfish, and walleye. The lake’s long, winding shape means there are plenty of quiet coves and points to fish from a boat or the bank. The underwater structure is full of drop-offs, brush piles, and rocky spots, which help hold fish year-round. It’s also less crowded than some other lakes in the state, making it easier to focus on the water. Several marinas and boat ramps around the lake make access simple, whether you’re fishing for a few hours or setting up for a weekend trip. Bull Shoals is reliable, straightforward, and full of opportunities to catch something worth bragging about.

4. Truman Reservoir

Truman Reservoir is the largest lake in Missouri, stretching across more than 55,600 acres and offering more Army Corps public land access than any other lake in the state. The Missouri Department of Conservation ranks it as the top crappie lake in Missouri, and the numbers back that up. Flooded timber, brush piles, and creek channels hold fish throughout the year, and a multi-year MDC brush pile improvement project running through 2027 is adding new structure across the reservoir. Bass, hybrid striped bass, walleye, and catfish all provide solid action as well. Water levels fluctuate with rainfall and flood control operations, so check conditions before heading out. Spring and winter are the best seasons for crappie, but Truman produces fish year-round.

3. Lake Taneycomo

Lake Taneycomo in southwest Missouri isn’t your typical fishing lake. It looks like a lake, but it actually acts more like a cold-water river. That’s because it’s fed by water released from Table Rock Lake, which comes from the bottom of the dam and stays chilly year-round. Those cold temps make Taneycomo one of the best places in the state to catch trout. Rainbow and brown trout are stocked regularly, and the fishery is managed carefully to support both casual anglers and serious ones. The upper end near the dam is best for fly fishing, while the lower end near Branson gets a little warmer and is good for bait or lures. Boats work well here, but you’ll also see plenty of people fishing from the bank or wading in. With fish biting most of the year, Lake Taneycomo is worth a trip if you’re after cool water and solid action.

2. Lake of the Ozarks

Lake of the Ozarks is one of the premier fishing destinations in the Midwest, with over 1,100 miles of shoreline and a fishery that produces year-round. Bassmaster Magazine ranks it annually among the top 100 bass lakes in the United States, and the lake has produced four Missouri state records including a 41-pound muskellunge and a 36-pound smallmouth buffalo. Largemouth, spotted, and smallmouth bass are all well represented, and the crappie and catfish fishing is consistently strong. The countless docks throughout the lake create ideal structure and hold fish in every season. Water clarity drops in summer as boat traffic picks up, and the density of lakeside development affects water quality in some areas, particularly in the warmer months. Spring and fall offer the best conditions for most species.

1. Table Rock Lake

Table Rock Lake is Missouri’s top bass fishery and one of the best in the country, ranked annually on Bassmaster’s list of the top 100 bass lakes in the United States. It hosts major professional tournaments including REDCREST 2026, the Major League Fishing world championship. The lake holds Missouri state records for spotted bass and white bass, and is one of the only fisheries in the country where anglers can realistically catch all three black bass species, largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted, in a single day. The water is clear, the structure is varied, and the fish populations are in excellent shape according to the latest MDC surveys. Crappie, walleye, catfish, and bluegill round out the catch. Spring and fall are peak seasons, but Table Rock produces fish all year.

More About Missouri’s Best Fishing Lakes

Missouri has no shortage of good spots for fishing. Whether you’re chasing bass at Lake of the Ozarks, hoping for trout at Lake Taneycomo, or just spending a quiet morning at a smaller lake like Pomme de Terre, there’s something for every kind of angler. Some lakes are more developed with marinas and campgrounds, while others are simple and peaceful. If you enjoy fishing, chances are you’ll find a lake here that fits your style.

You don’t need to hit all 30 lakes to have a great time. Pick one or two that match the type of fishing you want, check the local rules, and you’re good to go.

FAQs About Fishing Missouri Lakes

Do I need a fishing license in Missouri?
Yes. If you’re 16 to 64 years old, you need a Missouri fishing permit. You can get one online through the Missouri Department of Conservation or at sporting goods stores.

Can I fish year-round in Missouri?
Yes. Most lakes are open year-round, though spring and fall usually offer the best action. Winter fishing is also popular for trout in some areas like Lake Taneycomo.

Which lakes are best for bass fishing?
Lake of the Ozarks, Table Rock Lake, and Bull Shoals are strong picks for largemouth and smallmouth bass. These lakes are big and offer plenty of structure for fish to hide.

Where can I catch trout in Missouri?
Lake Taneycomo is the top trout spot, stocked regularly and open all year. You can also find trout at Roaring River State Park and Bennett Spring.

Are boats required, or can I fish from shore?
You don’t need a boat. Most lakes have fishing piers, shore access, or even jetties made just for bank anglers. That said, having a boat helps on the bigger lakes.

Is there camping nearby?
Yes. Many of Missouri’s fishing lakes are near state parks or recreation areas that offer campgrounds, RV hookups, and restrooms. Check ahead to reserve your spot.

Are the lakes family-friendly?
Most of them are. You’ll find picnic tables, swim beaches, and sometimes playgrounds nearby. It’s easy to make it a day trip or a weekend getaway.

Do the lakes get crowded?
Some do, especially on weekends and holidays. Lakes like Lake of the Ozarks and Table Rock can get busy. If you’re looking for a quieter day, aim for weekdays or choose a lesser-known lake like Stockton or Clearwater.

Want to catch more than just fish? Pick your lake, grab your rod, and give it a shot. Missouri’s lakes aren’t perfect, but they’re pretty good.