Family Outdoors

Atlanta Conservation Area has a number of fishing spots on its property. The area is split into two properties...the 2,355-acre Atlanta tract and the 2,454-acre Long Branch tract. The East Fork of the Little Chariton River runs 3 miles through the NW portion of the Long Branch tract, which includes the upper reaches of Long Branch Lake. If you are fishing for bass, there is a fair population in ponds 1, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 11. If you are fishing for catfish, there is fair fishing in ponds 1, 4, 8, 9, and 11 and Long Branch Creek. If it is sunfish you want, there is good fishing for bluegills in ponds 1, 4, 6, 7, 8, 9, and 11.

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Driving Directions: Five miles north of Macon on Highway 63, and two miles west on Route AX, then 2.5 miles north on Jupiter Avenue.

Bee Hollow Conservation Area has access to the East Fork of the Little Chariton River. The fishing is fair for catfish.

Driving Directions: Eight miles south of Macon on Highway 63, then two miles west on Jackpot Road.

Dodd Access offers about 1/4 of a mile of access to the Chariton River. On the Chariton River, the fishing for catfish is usually pretty good.

Driving Directions: Take Highway 36 west of Callao to Highway UU, turn north five miles, then one mile on Echo Avenue to the area. 

Griffiths Memorial Conservation Area has a 1.5 acre pond worth checking out if you happen to be there anyhow. The fishing is fair for bass, catfish, and bluegill.

Driving Directions: Two miles north of New Cambria on Highway 149 and 0.6 mile west on Derby Street, then 0.4 mile north on Crystal Avenue.

La Plata City Lake is about 80 acres in size and has pretty good fishing for bass, catfish, and crappie as well as fair fishing for bluegill. The City of La Plata has established boat user fees of $2.00/day or $25.00/year (as of December 2010) for those using boats on the lake. Daily fees can be paid at the lake. Annual fees can be paid at City Hall. 

Driving Directions: Two and one-half miles east of La Plata on Highway 156, then one-half mile south on Leopard to the entrance road. 

Long Branch Lake Management Lands fishing mostly centers around Long Branch Lake. The East Fork of the Little Chariton River runs 3 miles through the NW portion of the Long Branch tract, which includes the upper reaches of Long Branch Lake.There is fishing for species like bass and crappie at Long Branch Lake. For catfish, carp, drum, and buffalo, the fishing on Long Branch Lake is quite good.

Driving Directions: Located five miles north of Macon on Highway 63, then two miles west on State Road AX.

Long Branch State Park- Long Branch Lake has an excellent reputation for bass fishing, but you can cast your lines for catfish, walleye and crappie as well. The lake's 24 miles of shoreline have many small coves that offer good fishing. A partially covered accessible fishing dock is located near the beach. Statewide fishing regulations apply.Long Branch State Park offers basic and electric campsites and a special-use camping area. On-season (April through October) services include a dump station, showers, water and reserve-able sites. There are also several walk-in basic campsites available. The campground is open year-round. Reservations can be made for stays during the on-season. For reservations, there is a required two-night minimum stay for weekends. During the off-season (November through March), potable water is available at the frost-free spigot near campsite 13. Firewood is sold during park office hours. 

Blees Lake in Macon, Missouri is a 10 acre small lake that has good fishing for bass, catfish, crappie, as well as sunfish. There are handicap accessible facilities for fishing at this lake.

Driving Directions: Located on the south edge of Macon, across from the fairgrounds on the west side of Highway 63. 

Macon City Lake, just outside of Macon, is a 200 acre lake with good fishing for bass and catfish and fair fishing for crappie, sunfish, and carp. The lake has a boat ramp as boats with motors at or under 10 HP are permissible with a no wake requirement. (Regs as of 12/12/2010)

Driving Directions: One mile north of Macon on Highway 63, then one mile west on Lake Street, then south on Macon Lake Road.

Fairgrounds Lake-Macon County, Missouri, you will find an approximately 2 acre pond with public fishing access. The fishing here is fair for bass, catfish, and sunfish. No boats are allowed.

Driving Directions: Two and one-half miles south of the junction of Highways 63 and 36 in the city of Macon. Turn east into the Macon County Fairgrounds. 

Mussel Fork Conservation Area has 4 ponds with a little over 4 acres of fishing water as well as Mussel Fork Creek. The fishing is fair for bass, catfish, and sunfish.

Driving Directions: Ten miles east of Brookfield on the south side of Highway 36. 

Thomas Hill Reservoir Conservation Area is an incredible fishing resource. It has the advantage that the power plant feeds warm water into one end of the lake which provides for exceptional Winter fishing on this end of the lake (see map below). The lake itself is medium sized at about 5,000 acres. As of this writing (Dec 12, 2010), boats, including sailboats, may be used on lakes and ponds designated as open to boats. Boats may not be left unattended overnight. Thomas Hill Reservoir is managed primarily for largemouth bass, crappie, hybrid striped bass and catfish. Camping is available at the Highway T campground which includes 10 improved sites. The campgroud offers small covered shelters, concrete pads, a privy and picnic tables. Primitive overflow camping is available adjacent to the permanent campground when campsites are full.

Driving Directions: Main entrance is 5.25 miles west of Macon on Highway 36, then 10 miles south on Route C to College Mound, and 2.4 miles west on Route T.

Amidon Memorial Conservation Area has some fair fishing opportunities through its access to the Castor River. The fishing in this stretch would be considered fair for bass and sunfish.

Driving Directions: The main entrance is in Madison County east of Fredericktown on Rte J, then south on Rte W and east on County Rd 208. 

Fredericktown City Lake is approximately 140 acres in size and has good fishing for bass and catfish. The fishing would be considered fair for crappie and sunfish. There is also access to the Little St. Francis River.

Driving Directions: Fredericktown City Lake is north of Fredericktown on Route OO, then one mile west on County Road 209.

Marquand AccessThis access offers access to the Castor River. There is 1 mile of access, but the river is very amenable to wading further in most conditions. The fishing is quite good for largemouth and smallmouth bass. There is also good fishing for goggle-eye (rock bass).

Driving Directions: Marquand Access is .75 miles south of Marquand on Route DD

Millstream Gardens Conservation Area-This conservation area offers about a mile and a quarter of access to the St. Francis River. This stretch of river should only be done by experienced canoe/kayak persons. The fishing is good for bass, goggle-eye (rock bass) and even walleye. The fishing is fair for crappie.

Driving Directions: Millstream Gardens Conservation Area is eight miles west of Fredericktown on Highway 72. 

Millstream Gardens Conservation Area-This conservation area offers about a mile and a quarter of access to the St. Francis River. This stretch of river should only be done by experienced canoe/kayak persons. The fishing is good for bass, goggle-eye (rock bass) and even walleye. The fishing is fair for crappie.

Driving Directions: Millstream Gardens Conservation Area is eight miles west of Fredericktown on Highway 72. 

Thompson Ford Access-This access is for the Little St. Francis River. The fishing on this stretch of stream is good for bass, goggle-eye (rock bass), and sunfish. The fishing is fair for catfish.

Driving Directions: From Hwy 72 west of Fredericktown, turn south on county road 504, then south on county road 503. The entrance is on the west side of the road just before the river crossing

Bell Chute Access-This access gives about 1/10th of a mile of access to the Gasconade River. There is fair fishing for bass and sunfish as well as good fishing for catfish and suckers. There is a partially shaded, open field for tent camping. There is also a concrete boat ramp.

Driving Directions: Two and one-half miles south of Vienna on Highway 63, then 2 miles south on Highway 28, then left on Highway Y for 6 miles (the last 2 miles are on gravel Road 513).

Paydown Access-This is another access to the Gasconade River. There is fair fishing for bass and sunfish as well as good fishing for catfish and suckers. There are six tent camping sites with fire rings - some partially shaded. There is also a concrete boat ramp.

Driving Directions: Five and one-half miles northeast of Vienna on Highway 63, then right on County Road 201 for 8 miles.

Rinquelin Trail Lake Conservation Area-There is good fishing for bass, catfish, redear, and bluegill in Rinquelin Trail Lake. There is camping in individual campsites next to parking lot. There are no amenities provided.

Driving Directions: Take Highway 42 west from Vienna, go south on Highway 133, then west on Highway DD, then south on County Road 631, and east on County Road 630 to area entrance.

Black Hawk Access-Offers approximately 1.8 miles of public fishing access to the South Fabius River. The fishing is good for catfish and sunfish. The fishing is fair for bass and crappie. There are two parking lots and three graveled camping pads provided. One parking lot is adjacent to the graveled access ramp, which is suitable for launching and taking out canoes and small boats. A parking lot 500 feet south provides additional parking for hunters and other area users. Camping is permitted adjacent to this lot and at the camping pads just off the access road.

Driving Directions: One and one-half miles south of Emerson on County Road 159, then 1.5 miles east on County Road 134

Callahan Mound Access-Offers public fishing access to the North River in Marion County. Camping is allowed on or adjacent to area parking lots. No camping is allowed along roadways. The fishing here is good for catfish and fair for crappie and sunfish.

Driving Directions: Two and one-half miles west of Philadelphia on Highway 168, go .25 mile south on County Road 197.

Dunn Ford Access-This public fishing access offers about 3/4 of a mile of access to the South Fabius River. The fishing here is good for catfish and sunfish and fair for bass and crappie. Access to the river is by a short foot path off the area's parking lot. The South Fabius River extends 0.7 miles along the north boundary of the area. This small river has several pools and riffles and numerous root wads that provide good fish habitat. This portion of the river is suitable for bank fishing, wading, and floating.

Driving Directions: Two miles north of Philadelphia on Route D, go .50 mile west on Route J, then one mile north on County Road 123.

Elmslie Memorial Conservation Area: This area offers public fishing access to a little less than a half mile of South Fork of the North River. The fishing is fair for bass, catfish, and crappie and good for sunfish.

Driving Directions: One mile east of Warren on Route C, go 1.5 miles south on County Road 229.

Fabius Chute Access-This public fishing access is where North River and Fabius Chute meet at the Mississippi River. There is good fishing for catfish across this area. There is also good fishing for crappie and sunfish within the side channel and in the lower reaches of North River.

Driving Directions: Two and one-half miles north of Palmyra on Highway 61, then 2.2 miles east on County Road 332, and two miles northeast on County Road 342

McPike Access-This public fishing access offers about 3/4 of a mile of access to Troublesome Creek. The fishing here is good for catfish and fair for bass and sunfish.

Driving Directions: One and one-half miles northeast of Emerson on County Road 137

Akerson Access at Palmyra, Missouri-This public fishing access offers a bit less than 0.4 miles of access to the North River. There is fair fishing prospects for bass, catfish, carp, and drum.

Driving Directions: Go west on Ross Street, then north on Breckenridge to Flower City Park. Well Nature Park is located on the north end of Flower City Park.

Soulard Access-This public fishing access offers 2.7 miles of access to the Fabius River. Camping is allowed on or adjacent to area parking lots. The fishing is good for catfish, carp, drum, and gar. The fishing is fair for crappie and sunfish. For crappie, fish the woody cover areas of the stream.

Driving Directions: Six miles north of Palmyra on Highway 61, then 1.5 miles east on County Road 344.

Sunrise Access-Offers 0.4 miles of public fishing access to the South Fork of the Fabius River in Marion County, Missouri. There is good fishing here for bass, catfish, and sunfish. The fishing is fair for crappie.

Driving Directions: Sunrise Access is three miles west of Highway 61 on Highway 6, then one mile west on County Road 150.

Dabbs Greer Town Hole Park and Access=This neat little access point to Indian Creek in Anderson, Missouri has a little to offer everyone. The park allows canoers to access the creek but they must carry in their canoes. The fishing here is good for bass and suckers and is fair for sunfish. There are special regs at this access...see special regs. 

Driving Directions: Dabbs Greer Town Hole Park and Access is in Anderson on Main Street next to the Post Office.

Cowskin Access-There is public fishing access to the Elk River at this facility. You will find good fishing for bass, catfish and sunfish and you will likely find good gigging opportunities for suckers. There is fair fishing for crappie.

Driving Directions: Eight miles north of Southwest City on Highway 43

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Deep Ford Access-There is about 1/2 a mile of public fishing access to Big Sugar Creek here. The fishing is good for bass and sunfish and fair for catfish.

Driving Directions(In Pineville): Take Big Sugar Creek Road which runs east from the elementary school. Go 3.5 miles east to the access.

Lanagan Access-This public fishing access offers 0.5 miles of fishing access to Indian Creek and offers many handicap accessible amenities. There is a camping area provided by the City of Lanagan. Lanagan Access provides canoe access to Indian Creek approximately 2.5 miles above its confluence with Elk River. Indian Creek at this location is floatable by canoe throughout most of the year. There is good fishing for bass in this area, but observe the special regs. 

Driving Directions: Take Missouri Highway 59/76 to Lanagan. The access is located in the city park along Indian Creek

Mount Shira Access-This public fishing access offers stream access to the Elk River. The fishing in this section is good for bass and sunfish and is often utilized for gigging suckers. The fishing is fair for catfish. 

Driving Directions: Mount Shira Access is two miles north of Noel on Highway 59.

City of Pineville Elk River Access-This nice little access to the Elk River offers about .15 miles of direct access to the stream. There are special area regs. The fishing is good for bass. It is fair for catfish, goggle-eye, and sunfish. This area provides access to Elk River just downstream of where Big Sugar Creek and Little Sugar Creek meet.

Deep Ford Access is on Big Sugar Creek 4.5 miles upstream of Pineville Access.

Mt. Shira Access is 6 miles downstream of Pineville Access.

Driving Directions: From U.S. Highway 71 take the Highway EE exit and turn east to Business 71. Turn south on Business 71 to Highway W and turn east. Proceed to Rhine Rd. and turn south to the access.

Lake Paho Conservation Area-There are 12 ponds and Lake Paho in this conservation area. These areas are where the fishing will be located. Between 2004 and 2009 an effort was made to improve fish habitat in Lake Paho by increasing submerged brush piles. These areas in 10-15 feet of water and near the shoreline are where bass are concentrated. As of this writing (12-18-2010), bass are restricted to 2 being over 18". For further information consult mdc.mo.gov. There is also good fishing for catfish. The fishing is fair for crappie and sunfish. Apparently there are a few walleye remaining as vestiges of past stocking programs. The lake is approx. 275 acres.Privately-owned boats and/or float tubes are not permitted. Boats are available on a first-come, first-served basis at no charge. Only electric motors are permitted. 15 boats are available for your use. Users are responsible for providing equipment needed to comply with Missouri State Boating Laws. Bait transported or held in containers with water is prohibited.There are also 12 ponds for a total of about 7 and 1/2 acres that have some fishing potential. 46 individual camping sites are divided in 3 separate campgrounds. Campgrounds are on the east and north sides of the lake. No amenities provided.

Driving Directions: Four miles west of Princeton on Highway 136. North of Hwy. 136 on Fathom street. 

McClure Conservation Area-This conservation area in Mercer County, Missouri offers 1 mile of access to the Weldon Fork of the Grand River. There is fair fishing for catfish and sunfish.

Driving Directions: Drive six miles south of Princeton, MO on US Highway 65 to State Route D, then west on Route D approximately one mile to Icabod Place (gravel), then north .25 mile to where Icabod Place dead ends at our parking lot.

Bagnell Dam Access-This area provides access to the Osage River at the base of Bagnell Dam. WATER LEVELS CHANGE DRASTICALLY HERE Exercise extreme caution! This is more of an area used as a boat launch. There is good fishing in the area for bass, catfish, crappie, hybrid striped bass, white bass, as well as paddlefish.

Driving Directions: Bagnell Dam Access is at the base of Bagnell Dam on the Osage River. Immediately north of the Osage River Bridge on Highway 54, go west on the Osage River Bridge Road approximately 0.4 mile to the access

Kings Bluff Access-This access offers a more subdued access to the Osage River. The access is to a rather limited stretch of river. There is good fishing for bass, catfish, and sunfish. There is fair fishing for white bass and crappie.

Driving Directions: Take Highway 17 south from Eugene to Route H. Take H to Marys Home and continue straight on a gravel road for .75 mile. Watch for signs to the area and turn south on the designated gravel road. This access is located 60.5 river miles above the mouth of the Osage River.

Madden Ford Access-This access gives public fishing access to Tavern Creek and Big Tavern Creek. There is about 2 combined miles of access to these two creeks here. The fishing here is fair for bass and good for sunfish.

Driving Directions: Madden Ford Access is south of Iberia off of Highway 17, and west on County Road 17-42 (Madden Ford Road). Stay on this road, cross two low-water bridges, and watch for boundary signs.

Osage-Tavern Access-This is where Big Tavern Creek and the Osage River come together and there is good fishing for bass, catfish, and sunfish. There is fair fishing for crappie and white bass. There are 17 camp sites that have steel fireplace rings. There is also a boat ramp.

Driving Directions: Osage-Tavern Access is north of St. Elizabeth, take Route E to end, go north on Hoecker Road about one mile. This access is located 50 river miles above the mouth of the Osage River

Saline Valley Conservation Area-This conservation area has public fishing access in Miller County, Missouri on several streams and the Osage River. There is access to Jim Henry Creek, Little Saline Creek, Jack Buster Creek, and Big Saline Creek. The fishing within the confines of this area is good for bass, particularly in Big Saline Creek. Fishing for catfish is also good, and here you want to concentrate on Big Saline Creek near its confluence with the Osage River. There are also some white bass and suckers in this same stretch of stream. 

Driving Directions: Saline Valley Conservation Area is 2.3 miles southeast of Eldon on Highway M off of Highway 54

Tuscumbia Access-This public fishing access and boat ramp offers a very short stretch of access to the Osage River. This stretch of the Osage, and the stretch nearby, has good fishing for bass, catfish, white bass, and sunfish. There is also fair fishing for crappie.

Driving Directions: Tuscumbia Access is marked by a cantilever sign on Highway 52, just west of the junction of highways 17 and 52. This access is located 66.1 river miles above the mouth of the Osage River.

Wilson Camp Access-This public fishing access and boat ramp offers about 1/2 of a mile of access to Tavern Creek in Miller County, Missouri. The fishing here can be quite good for bass and sunfish.

Driving Directions: Wilson Camp Access is 4.2 miles southeast of Tuscumbia on Highway 17; then east on Highway A for 4.4 miles; then look for a cantilever sign on the south side of the gravel road and follow the gravel road .50 mile to Wilson Camp Access.

Bird's Blue Hole-This is a fishing hole that is created by floodwater and is stocked with fish from the river from these flood events. The species that can be consistently caught here are catfish, crappie, and bass. The catfish and crappie fishing is the best here. The fishing is best for crappie when the river has just receded after a flood event. It is legal to camp adjacent to the parking lot.

Driving Directions: At the junction of Co. Rd. 301 and Levee Junction southeast of Hwy 62 near Bird's Point.

Robert G. Delaney Lake Conservation Area-This lake is adjacent to a slough and has good fishing for catfish, crappie, and yellow bass. The yellow bass are consistently in the 7" size range. The fishing for black bass is fair. To get a feel for the layout of this area visit the area map page. There is ample space along the shore of the lake and the dam for fishing.

Driving Directions: Robert G. Delaney Lake Conservation Area is north of Charleston on Route N, then .50 mile west on County Road 222.

Dorena Access=This access offers public fishing access as well as a boat ramp on the Mississippi River. The fishing in this area is good for catfish, carp, and buffalo. The fishing is fair for white bass and sauger. Camping is allowed in the parking lot area.

Driving Directions: Dorena Access is near the levee at the junctions of county roads 507 and 510.

Jos Hunter Moore Access-This public fishing access and boat ramp offers good fishing for catfish, carp, and buffalo. This area also has fair fishing for sauger, white bass, and crappie. There is camping allowed, but is not reccomended.

Driving Directions: Joseph Hunter Moore Access is east of Wyatt on Route HH near the junction of County Road 305 in Mississippi County

Seven Island Conservation Area-This area has public fishing access and a boat ramp located on Old #7 Chute. There is good fishing for bass, catfish, sauger, capr, buffalo, and crappie amongst the various fishing area options here. It is strongly suggested that you look over the regs here as they differ between the lakes and the Mississippi River.

Driving Directions: Seven Island Conservation Area is east of East Prairie on Highway 80, south on Highway 102, then east on Route A

Ten Mile Pond Conservation Area-This area has fishing in Ten Mile Pond Ditch. There is opportunities for catching bass, catfish, carp, buffalo, and white bass.

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Driving Directions: Ten Mile Pond Conservation Area is east of East Prairie on Highway 80, then five miles south on Highway 102. To reach area headquarters, from Highway 102 turn east on the gravel county road 518, continue 2.5 miles and turn north on Highway VV. Go 2.5 miles north on VV to the headquarters on the west side of the road.

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Thirtyfour Corner Blue Hole-This public fishing access on a blue hole of the Mississippi River offers a 9 acre pond that is formed by the seasonal floodwaters of the river. There is good fishing for catfish, crappie, carp, and buffalo. There is fair fishing for bass.

Driving Directions: Thirty-Four Corner Blue Hole is 10 miles east of East Prairie on Highway 80.

Proctor Park Lake: This 7 acre lake in picturesque California, Missouri has some pretty decent fishing for its size. The fishing is usually good for bass, catfish, redear sunfish, and bluegill.

Driving Directions: On Highway 87 in California, go .50 mile south of Highway 50, and turn east on Parkway Drive into the area.

Manito Lake Conservation Area: Manito Lake in Moniteau County of Central Missouri is approximately 77 acres in size. This medium sized lake has fair fishing for bass and sunfish, but good fishing for catfish. The area does offer a boat ramo on Manito Lake.

Driving Directions: South from Tipton on Hwy 5 for 4.5 miles, then west 0.5 mile on East Manito Rd.

Marion Bottoms Conservation Area: This area offers public fishing access to about 3 miles of Moniteau Creek and to about 6 miles of the Missouri River. The fishing here is good for catfish, carp, buffalo, and drum. The fishing here is fair for crappie and sunfish.

Driving Directions: Located east of Highway 179 2.5 miles north of Marion. Go east on Moniteau Creek Rd.

Plowboy Bend Conservation Area: This area offers 6 miles of public fishing access to the Missouri River. There is primitive camping in 2 areas but there are no amenities whatsoever. The fishing here is good for catfish, carp, buffalo, and drum.

Driving Directions: Follow Highway Y north of Jamestown for 5 miles. When the pavement ends, continue east (right) on Riverbottom Road one-half mile until you enter the area after crossing the railroad tracks.

Prairie Home Conservation Area: This area offers public fishing access to Johnson Lake (14 acres), Cattail Lake (6 acres) and Church Lake (6 acres). The fishing is usually pretty good for catfish, bass, and sunfish. Camping in the area is permitted.

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Driving Directions: Take Highway J west out of Prairie Home, then south on Highway W two miles.

Tipton Park Lake: This lake is located just outside of Tipton, Missouri in Moniteau County. The fishing is good for bass and fair for catfish and sunfish. 

Driving Directions: Take Highway 5 south from Tipton approximately .50 mile, then east on Wade Boulevard which enters the park

Cedar Bluff Access: This public fishing access yields approximately 1/4 mile of access to the Elk Fork of the Salt River. The fishing in this particular area is good for crappie, catfish, and sunfish and it is fair for bass. Camping is allowed on or adjacent to area parking lots, but not along the roads. There are no restrooms or other amenities.

Driving Directions: One mile west of Paris on Hwy 24, go 2.5 miles south on Co. Rd 209.

Paris Access: This access provides 1/4 mile of public fishing access and a boat ramp for the Middle Fork of the Salt River. The fishing here is good for catfish and the fishing is fair for bass, crappie, and sunfish.

Driving Directions: On Highway 15 and Business Highway 24 near the north edge of Paris.

Santa Fe Access: This access provides only about 1/10th of a mile of public fishing access to the South Fork of the Salt River. The fishing here is good for catfish and fair for crappie, catfish, and sunfish.

Driving Directions: Santa Fe Access is one-half mile east of Santa Fe just off Route D.

Robert M. White II Conservation Area: This conservation area offers public fishing access in White Lake, Long Branch Creek, Youngs Creek, as well as a small fishing pond. The fishing here is good for bass, catfish, and bluegill as well as fair fishing for crappie. This area has campsites but not restroom or other amenities.

Driving Directions: Eight miles north of Mexico on Highway 15, then 2 miles east on Route Z, and 2 miles east on Route ZZ

Woodlawn Access: This public fishing access is for the Middle Fork of the Salt River. The fishing here is good for catfish. The fishing is fair for bass, crappie, and sunfish.

Driving Directions: On Highway 151 about five miles north of Madison

Marshall I. Diggs Conservation Area: Two large lakes (totaling 20 acres) are stocked with largemouth bass, bluegill, redear sunfish, and channel catfish. There is good fishing for each of these species. There is a boat ramp and camping, but does not have any amenities.

Driving Directions: Go 3 miles west of Wellsville on Route ZZ, then .50 mile west on Route RA

Loutre Lick Access: From this access managed by the MDC, there is 1 mile of public fishing access to the Loutre River. Also, there is a boat ramp as well as camping (no amenities) allowed. The fishing here in the Loutre River is good for catfish. The fishing is fair for bass, crappie, buffalo, carp, and sunfish.

Driving Directions: Take the Mineola exit off I-70 and go south on Highway J to Highway N and go west to County Road 278, follow it south .75 mile to area entrance

Wellsville Lake Conservation Area: This area managed by MDC offers public fishing access at an old clay pit which is approx. 14 acres in size. The fishing here is fair for bass, catfish, and sunfish.

Driving Directions: Wellsville Lake Conservation Area is south of Wellsville on Highway 19. Travel 1.5 miles south on County Road 21 and a quarter-mile west on County Road 27.

Big Buffalo Creek Conservation Area: This area managed by the MDC offers public fishing access to Big Buffalo Lake (6 acres) as well as Big Buffalo Creek and Pole Hollow Creek. The fishing is good for bass, catfish, and sunfish in Big Buffalo Lake.

Driving Directions: From Versailles go west 10 miles on Highway 52, then south eight miles on Highway FF to the end of the blacktop, turn west on Big Buffalo Road, and watch for area signs

Coffman Beach Access: This area offers a precious, if rather small (1/10th of a mile), bit of public fishing access to the Lake of the Ozarks. Having said this, the reality is that the area is utilized almost exclusively as a boat launch area. There is good fishing in the vicinity for bass, catfish, crappie, various sunfish, and white bass. The fishing is typically fair in this area for walleye and paddlefish.

Driving Directions: Coffman Beach Access is west of Eldon off of Highway 52 to Route Y. Travel east on Route Y to Lake Road Y-20 and watch for the cantilever signs. This access is located at the 2.6 mile marker of the Gravois Arm of Lake of the Ozarks

Gravois Mills Access: This is another MDC operated access to the Lake of the Ozarks. This area also is used primarily as a boat launch. The fishing is good in the area for bass, catfish, crappie, white bass, and sunfish.

Driving Directions: Gravois Mills Access is marked by a cantilever sign on the east side of Highway 5 inside the northern city limits of Gravois Mills. This access is located at the 10.1 mile marker of the Gravois Arm of the Lake of the Ozarks.

Lamine River Conservation Area: In this diverse public fishing access, we will start with the fact that there is 12 miles of access to the Lamine River. There is also fishing access for Richland Creek, Flat Creek, and Otter Creek. There are also 9 fishing ponds totaling 19 acres in size. The fishing is fair for bass in these area ponds. The fishing for catfish is good in both the ponds, the Lamine River, and the streams. There is carp, drum, and buffalo in the streams. These streams are nice wade-fishing ponds.

Driving Directions: Lamine River Conservation Area has five tracts. The main tract is 1 mile east of Otterville on Route A, or take Highway 50 to the Lamine River

Manito Lake Conservation Area: Manito Lake in Moniteau County of Central Missouri is approximately 77 acres in size. This medium sized lake has fair fishing for bass and sunfish, but good fishing for catfish. The area does offer a boat ramo on Manito Lake.

Driving Directions: South from Tipton on Hwy 5 for 4.5 miles, then west 0.5 mile on East Manito Rd

Wigwam School Access: This public fishing access run by the Missouri Department of Conservation is on the Osage Arm of the Lake of the Ozarks. There is about 1/2 of a mile of access to shoreline, but as are most MDC sites on Lake of the Ozarks, can have a pretty busy boat launch area. The area fishing here on Lake of the Ozarks is good for bass, catfish, crappie, sunfish, walleye, white bass, and paddlefish.

Driving Directions: Ten and two-tenths miles west from Laurie. Travel west on Highway 135, then south (left) on Ivy Bend Road (Lake Road 135-12) to Webb Loop. Turn west (right) and follow Web Loop approximately 1.8 miles to the area sign cantilever sign and entrance road. The access is located at lake mile marker 66.2 on the Osage Arm of the Lake of the Ozarks.

Donaldson Point Conservation Area: This conservation area run by the MDC has 5 holes that area created by flooding of the Mississippi River as well as 7 miles of access to the Mississippi River. There are varying regs for the Mississippi River vs. the ponds/lakes. These regs are available at mdc.mo.gov. The fishing is good for catfish and crappie and fair for bass and sunfish. Designated camping areas have picnic tables and fire rings.

Driving Directions: Donaldson Point Conservation Area is east of New Madrid on Route WW, then south on Route AB to County Road 405

John L. and Georgia Girvin Conservation Area: This conservation area is also run by the MDC and offers 2 miles of public fishing access to the Mississippi River. The fishing is good for catfish, carp, buffalo, and drum. The fishing is fair for crappie.

Driving Directions: East of Portageville on Highway 162, one mile south on gravel road 439, cross the levee and park. Proceed by ATV about 2.5 miles southeast on private farm dirt roads. The area is also accessible by boat from the Mississippi River.

New Madrid Bend Access: This area offers a relatively short stretch of public fishing access to the Mississippi River. The fishing is good for catfish. It is fair for crappie, carp, buffalo, drum, and white bass.

Driving Directions: On Interstate Highway 55 take Exit #44 east on Highway 61 for about one mile to cantilever sign designating access road on south side of Highway 61.

Seven Island Access: This area offers about 2 miles of public fishing access to the Mississippi River. The fishing is good for catfish, carp, and buffalo. It is fair for bass and crappie.

Driving Directions: Seven Island Access is 11 miles east of New Madrid on Highway WW.

St. John's Bayou Access: This area is an access to a ditch that runs off the Mississippi River system. There is good fishing for catfish, carp, buffalo, and in the Spring, white bass. There is fair fishing for crappie.

Driving Directions: St. John's Bayou Access is .50 mile east of New Madrid on Route WW.

Swift Ditch Access: This access to Swift Ditch (also called St. John's Bayou Ditch) provides public fishing access to an area with fair fishing for bass, catfish, carp, and buffalo.

Driving Directions: Swift Ditch Access is six miles south of Sikeston. From I-55, take the Highway 80 exit east, then turn south on Highway V and go one mile, then turn east on gravel road 702 for .50 mile. The area is on the north side of the road

Allen Bridge Access: This area offers 0.3 miles of public fishing access to Shoal Creek in Newton County, Missouri. The fishing at this access run by the MDC is good for bass and rock bass and is fair for catfish.

Driving Directions: Two miles east of Neosho on Bus. Hwy 60, turn north onto the blacktop road marked with an MDC sign to Shoal Creek

Capps Creek Conservation Area: This conservation area owned and operated by the MDC has approximately 2 miles of access to Capps Creek and 2/10 of a mile of access to Shoal Creek. This area has some good fishing for trout which are periodically stocked in Capps Creek by the MDC. There is fair fishing for bass in Shoal and Capps Creek. Shoal Creek has some decent sunfish populations.

Driving Directions: Seven and one-half miles west of Monett on Hwy 60, then 1.75 miles south on Wallaby Rd to its junction with Jolly Mill Rd.

Cherry Corner Access: This area offers MDC run access for fishing in Shoal Creek. The fishing is good for bass and rock bass. The fishing is fair for catfish.

Driving Directions: Three and one-half miles south of Diamond, east on Greenbriar Dr., then south on Otter Dr. to Shoal Creek

Lime Kiln Access: This access offers about 1/2 a mile of access to Shoal Creek. The fishing is good for bass, catfish, and rock bass. The fishing is fair for crappie.

Driving Directions: Lime Kiln Access is .50 mile east of Neosho on Business Highway 60, then .25 mile north at the water treatment plant on Lime Kiln Drive. 

Morse Park: This little area in Neosho, Missouri offers good fishing for trout in Hickory Creek. Also, there is fair fishing for bass, suckers, and goggle-eye.

Driving Directions: Morse Park is located in Neosho, a few blocks from the town square on Coler or Spring streets. Facilities are located along Hickory Creek between Highway 86 and College Street.

Smack-Out Access: This area offers public fishing access to Shoal Creek. The fishing is good for bass and rock bass as well as fair fishing for catfish.

Driving Directions: Smack-out Access is 6.5 miles east of Granby on Highway 60, then south on Ivy Drive to end of road

Tipton Ford Access: This area offers public fishing access to Shoal Creek and has good fishing for bass, catfish, suckers, and rock bass.

Driving Directions: Six and one-half miles west of Diamond on Route V, then one mile south on Old Highway 71.

Wildcat Access: This area offers public fishing access to Shoal Creek. The fishing here is fair for bass and catfish. The fishing is good for rock bass.

Driving Directions: Wildcat Access is one mile south of I-44 on Highway 86 through the entrance to Wildcat Glade Nature Center.

Bilby Ranch Lake Conservation Area: This area run by the MDC features 152 acres Bilby Lake, but also has 14 ponds managed for fishing. These smaller ponds total 52 acres. This area has good fishing for bass in both the main lake and the 14 ponds. The same good fishing exists in the main lake and 14 ponds for catfish, crappie, and sunfish (redear). Also, there are walleye with "reward tags" in the main lake.

Driving Directions: Fourteen miles west of Maryville on Highway 46.

Bridgewater Access: This access for the 102 River offers 1/4 mile of public fishing access. The fishing here good for catfish, carp, and buffalo.

Driving Directions: Travel four miles south of Maryville off Hwy 71, then east 1.50 miles on Route U, then south .75 mile on Jet Road to the access

Bristle Ridge Access: This area offers public fishing access to the Long Branch of the Platte River. The fishing here is good for catfish, carp, and buffalo.

Driving Directions: Travel one mile west of Guilford on Route M to the access.

Keever Bridge Access: Offering public fishing access to the Platte River in Nodaway County, Missouri, there tends to be good fishing for catfish, carp, and buffalo.

Driving Directions: Travel south and west of Parnell off of Hwy 46 where 200 Street crosses the Platte River.

Mozingo Lake: Mozingo Lake, located in Maryville, Missouri, is approximately 1000 acres in size and offers public fishing access. The fishing here is good for bass, catfish, crappie, walleye, and sunfish. The lake is stocked every 2 years with walleye and every year with catfish. The park that the lake is in is run by the city of Maryville- specifics are found at City of Maryville Mozingo Lake.

Driving Directions: Mozingo Lake is three miles east of Maryville off Highway 136, take Liberty Road north off Hwy 136 travel past golf course entrance then take 245th Street west of park entrance at Park/Lake access.

Nodaway County Community Lake: This 73 acre lake in Nodaway County, Missouri has good fishing for catfish, carp, and sunfish as well as fair fishing for bass and crappie.

Driving Directions: Travel 5.5 miles north of Maryville on Hwy 148, the area is on the west side of the highway.

Possum Walk Access: This area offers public fishing access to the Nodaway River. The fishing is good for catfish, carp, and buffalo.

Driving Directions: Travel two miles west of Clearmont; south side of Route C where it crosses the Nodaway River.

Dan and Maureen Cover Memorial Wildlife Area: This area offers public fishing access on a 1 acre pond called Cover Lake. The fishing here is fair for catfish and sunfish.

Driving Directions: Five miles west of Alton on Route P, then one mile on County Road P-314.

George and Vida Martin Access: This area offers public fishing access to approximately 1/2 mile of the Warm Fork of the Spring River in Oregon County, Missouri. The fishing is fair for sunfish and suckers.

Driving Directions: George and Vida Martin Access is 1.5 miles east of Thayer on County Road 19-213.

Myrtle Access: This area offers public fishing access to the beautiful Eleven Point River. In this area, the river has some very nice smallmouth fishing. There is also good fishing for goggle-eye, suckers, chain pickerel, and walleye.

Driving Directions: Myrtle Access is 15 miles east of Thayer on Highway 142 and four miles south on Route H to the end of the pavement. Continue two miles on County Road H-278.

Warm Fork Park: This area in Thayer, Missouri offers public fishing access on the Warm Fork of the Spring River. The fishing here is fair for bass, suckers, and sunfish.

Driving Directions: Warm Fork Park is in Thayer just north of the bypass at Highways 63 and 142, with an exit off of Highway 63

Ben Branch Lake Conservation Area: Ben Branch Lake, Beaver Pond, and one other small pond together offer 42 acres of fishing. The fishing is fair for bass and good for catfish and sunfish.

Driving Directions: Ten miles northeast of Linn on Highway 89. Go west on County Road 314

Bonnots Mill Access: Here you will find access to the Osage River and the Missouri River. The fishing is good for catfish, carp, buffalo, and drum.

Driving Directions: (From Highway 50) Take State Route A six miles to Bonnots Mill. Turn left on Riverview Drive leading under the RR tracks to County Road 416. Cantilever sign is .5 mile west of town. It is located 2.2 river miles above the mouth of the Osage River.Dr.

Bernard Bruns Access: This conservation department access provides public fishing access to the Maries River in Osage County. The fishing here is fair for bass and catfish and good for suckers.

Driving Directions: Located north of Westphalia off Highway 63, east on County Road 609.

Chamois Access: Public fishing access to the Missouri River can be found here. The fishing is good for catfish, carp, buffalo, and drum.

Driving Directions: Chamois Access is .1 mile west of Chamois on Highway 100.

Cooper Hill Conservation Area: The primary fishing opportunity at this conservation area is the public fishing access to the Gasconade River. The fishing is good for bass, catfish, suckers, and sunfish. The fishing is fair for crappie.

Driving Directions: Cooper Hill Conservation Area is 2.5 miles south of Mt. Sterling on Route A, then 2.75 miles west on Route D to the village of Cooper Hill

Painted Rock Conservation Area: The two main fishing opportunities here are at Clubhouse Lake and the Osage River. The fishing in the area is fair for bass and sunfish (bluegill and warmmouth). The fishing is good for catfish in the lake and river and is good also for carp, buffalo, and drum in the river.

Driving Directions: Seven miles southwest of Westphalia on Highway 133.

Pointers Creek Access: The primary fishing opportunity here is in the Gasconade River. The fishing is fair for bass and sunfish but is good for catfish and suckers.

Driving Directions: Eight miles southeast of Linn on Highway CC, turn east and drive to the end of County Road RA. (Route RA is impassable when Pointers Creek is at flood stage).

Rollins Ferry Access: The primary fishing access here is to the Gasconade River. The fishing is fair for bass and sunfish but is good for catfish and suckers.

Driving Directions: Rollins Ferry Access is 7 miles south of Linn on Highway 89 on the east side of the highway

Smoky Waters Conservation Area: This conservation area yields public fishing access to both the Osage River and Missouri River. There is good fishing for catfish, carp, buffalo, and drum.

Driving Directions: Smoky Waters Conservation Area is 2 miles east of Osage City on Engineer Road. 

Flo Cook Access: This public fishing access to Bryant Creek offers good fishing for bass and catfish as well as fair fishing for walleye and sunfish.

Driving Directions: Florence C. Cook Access is 3.5 miles east of Gainesville on Highway 160, then three miles north on County Road 308

Norfork Lake Management Lands: Norfork Lake is a fishery that offers opportunities for many species. There is good fishing for bass, catfish, crappie, walleye, and sunfish. We have given some explicit advice and tips for fishing for walleye at Norfork and other Missouri areas if that is your interest.

Driving Directions: Norfork Lake is about 20 miles southwest of West Plains, and can be reached from routes O, T, or Highway 160.

Patrick Bridge Access: This section of the North Fork of the White River has good trout fishing and fair bass fishing. If it is smallmouth bass you are after, visit North Fork of the White River Smallmouth Bass Fishing.

Driving Directions: Patrick Bridge Access is in Ozark County on Route H, four miles north of Highway 160, Highway H junction.

Sycamore Access: This area on Bryant Creek has fair fishing for smallmouth bass as well as catfish. There is good fishing for sunfish.

Driving Directions: Sycamore Access is 12 miles north of Gainesville on Highway 181

Warren Bridge Access: This portion of Bryant Creek has good smallmouth bass fishing. The fishing for catfish is fair and for sunfish is good.

Driving Directions: Go south from Dora on Highway 181 to Route H. Take H south five miles to County Road 328, then continue on 328 for 2.5 miles.

Gayoso Bend Unit of Black Island Conservation Area: This area offers public fishing access to the Mississippi River. It is imperative that you know the regulations for this area as they differ depending on whether you are fishing in the main channel or not. As always, visit mdc.mo.gov for more on regs for the area. Otherwise, the fishing is good for catfish, carp, buffalo, and drum and there is also fair fishing for crappie.

Driving Directions: Walk-in or boat-in area. This area can be accessed by boat along the Mississippi River or from Boat Club Chute. There is also a gravel boat slide on Stephen C. Bradford Unit that provides access to Gayoso Unit. During dry periods, it can be possible to walk into Gayoso Unit at the boat slide

Stephen C. Bradford Unit of Black Island Conservation Area: Boat Club Chute is your fishing opportunity here. The fishing is good for catfish, carp, buffalo, and drum as you would expect, but there is also fair bass fishing here.

Driving Directions: Take the Hayti exit off I-55, go east on Hwy 84, north on Co. Rd 337 to Co. Rd 338, and east to the area.

Wolf Bayou Unit of Black Island Conservation Area: There are three fishing options here. They are Sample Bayou, Hosler Bayou, and Wolf Bayou. Access to Sample Bayou can be difficult. There is good fishing for bass, catfish, crappie, carp, buffalo, and drum.

Driving Directions: Take the Wardell exit off I-55 and follow the eastbound outer road south to Highway BB, then take Highway BB over the levee until it ends

John L. and Georgia Girvin Conservation Area: This conservation area yields public fishing access to the Mississippi River. There is good fishing for catfish, carp, buffalo, and drum. There is fair fishing for crappie.

Driving Directions: East of Portageville on Highway 162, one mile south on gravel road 439, cross the levee and park. Proceed by ATV about 2.5 miles southeast on private farm dirt roads. The area is also accessible by boat from the Mississippi River.

Little River Conservation Area: At Little River Conservation Area, there are several attractive fishing options. There is Jerry P. Combs Lake, a 150 acre lake good for bass, catfish, and crappie. Then, there is a floodway ditch that is primarily good for carp.

Driving Directions: Four miles east of Kennett on Highway 412.

Triangle Boat Club Access: This MDC operated access is for the Mississippi River. There is good fishing for catfish, carp, buffalo, and drum. There are also fair populations of white bass, crappie, and sauger. Make sure to follow Mississippi River regs (mdc.mo.gov).

Driving Directions(From Highway 84):  Go north on Highway N for about .50 mile, and northwest on County Road 337 for .50 mile, then turn east up the levee and into the access

S. P. Reynolds Access: This MDC run access to the Mississippi River has good fishing for catfish, carp, buffalo, and drum. There are also fair numbers of white bass, sauger, and crappie. Follow Mississippi River regs (mdc.mo.gov).

Driving Directions: S.P. Reynolds Access is at the east end of Ward Avenue in Caruthersville

Twin Borrow Pits Conservation Area: There are two ponds with 18 acres of lake for fishing at this MDC operated property. There is fair fishing for catfish, carp, and buffalo.

Driving Directions: Twin Borrow Pits is 1.5 miles east of Route T on County Road 439, near the junction with County Road 317. Watch for signs.

Perry County Community Lake: This 103 acre lake offers public fishing access for some good bass and catfish chances. Also, there is fair fishing for crappie and occasional stockings of hybrid striped bass (when available).

Driving Directions: Perry County Community Lake is 1.5 miles west of Perryville on County Road 700 off Route T.

Red Rock Landing Conservation Area: This area offer public fishing access for the Mississippi River as well as Cinque Hommes Creek. There is a fair population of bass. With all species, there may be different regs for the Mississippi River as for Cinque Hommes Creek. Visit mdc.mo.gov for more on these regs. There is good fishing for catfish, carp, buffalo, and sauger. There is also fair fishing at times here for white bass.

Driving Directions: Take Highway 61 south of Perryville to Route P. Continue on P to the Route C junction and turn north into Crosstown. From Crosstown, take County Road 350 to the area.

Seventy-Six Conservation Area: This area has public fishing access to the Mississippi River as well as Cline's Branch. There is almost always differing regs for the Mississippi River as other bodies of water, so check with mdc.mo.gov before going. There is good fishing for catfish, buffalo, and carp. There is fair fishing for crappie, white bass, and sauger.

Driving Directions: To reach Seventy-Six Conservation Area, go seven miles south of Perryville on Highway 61 to Longtown. At the south edge of Longtown, turn east on Route D and continue to the Route C junction. Turn southeast on C, and in Brazeau turn northeast on D until it ends at a gravel road. Follow this road into the area.

Tower Rock Natural Area: This natural area operated by the MDC offers public fishing access to the Mississippi River. As always, keep in mind regs for the Mississippi River are different than statewide regs and can be found at mdc.mo.gov. The fishing is good for catfish, carp, and buffalo. It's fair for crappie, white bass, and sauger.

Driving Directions: Take Route A east from Uniontown to County Road 460 and follow this road south to the area.

Kahrs-Boger Park: There is a 1 acre pond in this park offering public fishing access. The fishing is good for bass and sunfish. The fishing is fair for catfish.

Driving Directions: From the eastside of Sedalia on 50 Highway take Route M southeast 11 miles.

J. N. Turkey Kearn Memorial Wildlife Area: J. N. Turkey Kearn Memorial Wildlife Area near Knob Knoster, Missouri in Johnson County, has several ponds that are perhaps worth checking out. The fishing here is fair for bass, catfish, and bluegill.

Driving Directions: Seven miles southeast of Knob Noster on Highway 23, then 2 miles east on County Road SE600 which turns south onto the 1201 RD.

Marshall Junction Conservation Area: The primary fishing opportunity here is on the Blackwater River. There is also a small 1/4 acre fishing pond. In the pond, the fishing is fair for bass and the fishing is good for catfish. In the Blackwater River here, the fishing is good for catfish, carp, buffalo, and drum.

Driving Directions: Two miles south of I-70 on Highway 65, go 3 miles west on Route CC. From CC, go 1 mile north on State Route RB.

Ralph and Martha Perry Memorial Conservation Area: At Ralph and Martha Perry Memorial Conservation Area, there are several ponds with decent fishing, but there is also access to 6 miles of the Blackwater River. The Conservation Department stocks area waters with catfish, bass, and bluegill. Fishing access is provided to the Blackwater River at two locations.

Driving Directions: This area consists of two tracts. The largest tract is in Johnson County five miles south of Concordia on Highway 23. The second tract lies in northwest Pettis and southwest Saline counties seven miles southeast of Concordia.

Pinhook Access: This public fishing access is for Muddy Creek. The fishing here is fair for bass, catfish, and sunfish and is highly dependent on water levels.

Driving Directions(From the Highway 65 and 50 intersection in Sedalia):  Go 3.3 miles north on Highway 65, then three miles east on Route HH, and 3.8 miles north on Route EE.

Clover Dell Park Lake (Sedalia) This 12 acre pond offers public fishing access to some good fishing for bass, catfish, and sunfish.

Driving Directions: South off of 32nd St one mile west of Sedalia

Liberty Park Pond (Sedalia) This 3 acre pond in Sedalia has good fishing for catfish as part of the urban stocking program as well as winter trout fishing (stocked).

Driving Directions: At the intersection of Third and Park Street, 1.5 miles north of Highways 50 and 65 (east off Highway 65 on Third St.).

Spring Fork Lake (Sedalia Water Department): This 115 acre lake offers public fishing access in Sedalia. The fishing is good for bass, catfish, and sunfish. The fishing is fair for crappie.

Driving Directions: South of Sedalia on Highway 65, go east on Highway V for about 1.25 miles, then south on Spring Fork Lake Road, staying left at the T intersection. The lake is on the right about one mile farther up the hill

Farrington Park Lake (Windsor): This 15 acre lake offers good fishing for bass, catfish, and sunfish. It also has fair crappie fishing.

Driving Directions: Farrington Park is one mile south of County Line Road off Highway 52 near Windsor.

Jerome Access: This MDC access offers public fishing on the Gasconade River. The fishing is good here for bass, catfish and gigging for suckers. The fishing is fair for crappie. If you are concentrating on fishing for smallmouth bass on the Gasconade, you may wish to visit our page, Smallmouth Fishing the Gasconade River.

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Driving Directions: Jerome Access is one-tenth of a mile off Highway D in Jerome.

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Little Prairie Conservation Area: At this MDC property there are a number of fishing opportunities. There are a couple of lakes and ponds as well as a stream below the lake. The main lake is approximately 95 acres. The fishing in the area is fair for bass and crappie. The fishing is good for catfish and sunfish.

Driving Directions: Located on Route RA five miles east of Rolla off the north outer road of I-44.Maramec Spring Park

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Maramec Spring Park is one of the most popular fishing spots in Eastern Missouri. We have detailed information on the trout fishing here at Trout Park Fishing in Missouri.

Driving Directions: Six miles southeast of St. James on Highway 8. Both areas are inside Maramec Spring Park

Schuman Park Lake (Rolla): This 5 acre pond offers fair fishing for bass, catfish, and sunfish.

Driving Directions: Schuman Park Lake is in Rolla, west on 18th Street then left on Cedar Street.

Scioto Lake: This 5 acre lake offers good fishing for bass, catfish, and sunfish.

Driving Directions: Scioto Lake is in St. James Park on James Lane off Highway 8 in St. James.

Woodson K. Woods Memorial Conservation Area: At Woodson K. Woods Memorial Conservation Area, the primary fishing is on the Meramec River. There is good fishing for bass, catfish, crappie, and trout. If you are interested in smallmouth fishing here, visit Meramec Smallmouth Bass Fishing. If you are focusing on trout fishing, visit Meramec River Trout Fishing.

Driving Directions: Southeast of St. James on Highway 8.

Edward Anderson Conservation Area: This conservation area offers limited access to the Mississippi River. The Mississippi River has specials regs available at mdc.mo.gov. The fishing in this area is good for catfish, carp, gar, as well as other big river species. There is fair fishing for crappie.

Driving Directions: Twenty miles north of Louisiana on Hwy 79

Ashley Access: This access is for the North Fork of the Cuivre River. There is fair fishing for bass and good fishing for sunfish.

Driving Directions: Ashley Access seven miles south of Bowling Green on Highway 161.

Jack Floyd Memorial Lake (Bowling Green): This 38 acre lake offers some good fishing in Bowling Green, Missouri for bass, catfish, and sunfish.

Driving Directions: Three miles east of Bowling Green on County Road 282 (accessed from the Highway 61/161 overpass), go 0.6 miles south on County Road 280 to the entrance road.

West Lake (Bowling Green)This 28 acre lake offers good fishing for bass, catfish, and sunfish.

Driving Directions: East of Bowling Green on County Road 282 (accessed from the Highway 61/161 overpass.

Calumet Creek Access: At times, this area offers access to Pool Number 24 of the Mississippi River. There is fair fishing for bass, carp, and other big river fish. There is good fishing for catfish.

Driving Directions: Four miles north of Clarksville on Highway 79.

Clarksville Riverfront Park: This area offers public fishing access to the Mississippi River. There good fishing for catfish and fair fishing for other big river species.

Driving Directions: Located one block east of the four-way stop on Hwy 79 in Clarksville.

Dupont Reservation Conservation Area: This conservation area offers public fishing access to the Mississippi River. Keep in mind the special regs for the Mississippi River that can be accessed through mdc.mo.gov. The fishing here is good for catfish, carp, gar, buffalo, and many other big river species. It is fair for bass and crappie.

Driving Directions: Sixteen miles south of Hannibal on Highway 79 near Ashburn

Hamburg Ferry Access: This conservation area offers public fishing access to the Mississippi River. Keep in mind the special regs for the Mississippi River that can be accessed through mdc.mo.gov. The fishing here is good for catfish, carp, gar, buffalo, and many other big river species.

Driving Directions: Hamburg Ferry Access is 10 miles east on Route P off Highway 79 near Elsberry

Louisiana Access: This conservation area offers public fishing access to the Mississippi River. Keep in mind the special regs for the Mississippi River that can be accessed through mdc.mo.gov. The fishing here is good for catfish, carp, gar, buffalo, and many other big river species.

Driving Directions: In Louisiana, six blocks south of Highway 54 on Third Street, then three blocks east on South Carolina Street

Prairie Slough Conservation Area: This area, also known as Prairie Slough Fishing Paradise, has good fishing for catfish, crappie, and carp.

Driving Directions: Five miles northeast of Elsberry on Highway P

Ranacker Conservation Area: This area offers public fishing access to Peno Creek. The fishing here fair for bass, catfish, and suckers. The fishing is good for sunfish.

Driving Directions: Three miles south of Frankford on Highway 61, then west on Highway RA.

Ted Shanks Conservation Area: This area offers public fishing access to Horseshoe Lake, Rainbow Lake, Flag Lake, the Salt River, and the Mississippi River (special regs apply... visit mdc.mo.gov). Fishing for smallmouth bass is good on the Salt River. Largemouth bass fishing is fair on Flag Lake, Horseshoe Lake, Rainbow Lake, the Salt Pits, and Threemile Ditch. For catfish, opportunities are good for the Salt and Mississippi rivers and fair on Horseshoe Lake, Rainbow Lake, Flag Lake, the Salt Pits, and Threemile Ditch. For crappie, the best opportunities exist on Horseshoe Lake, Flag Lake, Rainbow Lake, the Salt Pits, and Threemile Ditch. Some fish may also be caught on the Salt River. Other species present include bowfin, common carp, and gar species.

Driving Directions: Seventeen miles south of Hannibal on Highway 79, then east on Route TT. Highway 79 is closed and will likely remain so until fall of 2011. Hunters coming from the south are advised to take Highway 61 to New London, and then go east on Highway V to Highway T. Go south on Highway T to Highway 79, then go south on highway 79 to Highway TT. Finally, go east on Highway TT to the area headquarters. This adds approximately 15 minutes to the drive time for most drivers.

Humphrey Access: This public fishing access to the Platte River is a spot where you can find good fishing for catfish...reward tagged fish are present. Also, you might find there to be fair fishing for carp, buffalo, and gar.

Driving Directions: Humphrey Access is south of Platte City 2 miles on Route N then west on a blacktop road

Anthony and Beatrice Kendzora Conservation Area: A 35 acre lake that is good for fishing can be found in Platte County's Anthony and Beatrice Kendzora Conservation Area. There is also 1.5 miles of Platte River frontage in this area. In the lake, find good fishing for bass and catfish. In the lake you will find fair fishing for carp and drum. In the Platte River you might find some good fishing for catfish.

Driving Directions: One and one-half miles north of Edgerton off Highway B or off the county road one mile west of Highway B

Dr. Frederick Marshall Conservation Area: This conservation area yields approximately 1/2 mile of public fishing access to the Platte River in Platte County, Missouri. The fishing is good for catfish, carp, buffalo, and gar. Some of the catfish are tagged reward fish.

Driving Directions: Dr. Frederick Marshall Conservation Area is three miles west of Platte City on Highway 92, then south three miles on North Farley Road.

Guy B. Park Conservation Area: This conservation area offers public fishing access to Tobacco Hills Lake (18 acres) and a small 1 acre pond. The fishing is fair for bass and crappie but is good for bluegill as it is a special management area for this species.

Driving Directions: Guy B. Park Conservation Area is three miles north of Platte City on Highway 371

Platte Falls Conservation Area: This conservation area offers public fishing access to the Platte River as well as 3 fishing ponds/lakes. The fishing in 2 of the ponds is catch and release only. Fishing is good for catfish in the Platte River. Fishing for carp, gar, mooneye/goldeye, and buffalo can be good on the Platte River.

Driving Directions: Platte Falls Conservation Area is in Platte County off Interstate 29 near Platte City. Visitors can access the south side of the area by heading east 0.6 miles on Route HH (Platte City exit). To reach the north side of the area, take Highway 371 exit off I-29, travel northeast on Elm Grove RD about 1.5 miles, then east on Sharps Station RD 1.6 miles and south on Settle Station RD 0.5 miles

Schimmel City Access: This access for the Platte River yields about 1/10th of a mile of public fishing access. The fishing here is good for catfish, carp, buffalo, and gar. Tagged reward fish are present.

Driving Directions: Schimmel City Access is .50 mile off Highway 45 northeast of Farley

Sharps Station Access: This access has about 0.25 miles of public fishing access. The fishing here is good for catfish, carp, buffalo, and gar. Tagged reward fish are present.

Driving Directions: From I-29 at Platte City go east on Route HH (Platte City exit) then turn northwest on Interurban Road and go about one mile.

Union Mill AccessT: his access area offers about 1/10th of a mile of public fishing access to the Platte River. The fishing here is good for catfish, carp, buffalo, and gar. Tagged reward fish are present.

Driving Directions: Union Mill Access is two miles west of Edgerton on Route Z

Pleasant Hope Conservation Area: This conservation area offers limited fishing opportunities. In the small pond on this MDC Property, there is fair fishing for bass, catfish, and sunfish.

Driving Directions: Pleasant Hope Conservation Area is 1.75 miles south of Pleasant Hope on Route H, then west on FR-564.

Pomme De Terre Lake Management Lands: Pomme De Terre Lake has good fishing for bass, catfish, and crappie. Also, the lake supports a growing walleye population. Walleye and white bass fishing is good in the lake year-round, and seasonal (March - April) fishing opportunities are available for both species in tributary streams. The lake supports an excellent muskie population, with fish up to 48 inches in length. Fall is the prime time for muskie fishing.

Stockton Lake Management Lands: Stockton Lake has good fishing for bass, catfish, crappie, walleye, carp, various sunfish, and white bass.

Driving Directions: This 24,900-acre lake extends into Cedar, Dade, and Polk Counties and has many accesses. Please see map. For specific information, contact MDC's Southwest Regional Office, 2630 N. Mayfair, Springfield, MO 65803, (417) 895-6880

Sunset Park Access: This area gives access to the Pomme De Terre River. You will find fair fishing for bass, catfish, and sunfish.

Driving Directions: Sunset Park Access is two miles south of Bolivar on Highway 13, 3.5 miles east on Route Y, and 1.5 miles on County Road 480

Bloodland Lake (Fort Leonard Wood): This lake is on Fort Leonard Wood base. The fishing in this lake is fair for bass and good for sunfish.

Driving DirectionsFrom I-44, take Exit 161. Go south on Business 44 to the front gate of Fort Leonard Wood. Obtain a map and directions at the front gate.

Gasconade Hills Conservation Area: This conservation area in Pulaski County, Missouri offers public fishing access to the Gasconade River. There is good fishing for bass, catfish, and sunfish as well as fair fishing for crappie and suckers.

Driving Directions: Gasconade Hills Conservation Area is 10 miles south of Dixon on Highway 28, then west on County Road 28-462.

Mitschele Access: This conservation area in Pulaski County, Missouri offers public fishing access to the Gasconade River. There is good fishing for bass, catfish, and sunfish as well as fair fishing for suckers.

Driving Directions: Located on Highway 7, about five miles south of Richland

Riddle Bridge Access: This conservation area in Pulaski County, Missouri offers public fishing access to the Gasconade River. There is good fishing for bass, catfish, and sunfish as well as fair fishing for crappie and suckers.

Driving Directions: Riddle Bridge Access is six miles north of St. Robert at the end of Route Y

Ross Access: This area is an access for the Big Piney River. The fishing is good for bass, catfish, and sunfish as well as being fair for crappie.

Driving Directions: Ross Access is 2.5 miles west of Duke. Take Western Road to Windsor Lane. Go approximately .50 mile north on Windsor Lane.

Roubidoux Creek Conservation Area: This conservation area offers access to the Gasconade River as well as Roubidoux Creek. The Gasonade is a great bet for bass and catfish. Roubidoux is a red ribbon trout stream.

Driving Directions: Roubidoux Creek Conservation Area is on Highway 17, one mile north of Waynesville

Schlicht Springs Access: This conservation area in Pulaski County, Missouri offers public fishing access to the Gasconade River. There is good fishing for bass, catfish, and sunfish as well as fair fishing for crappie and suckers.

Driving Directions: From Crocker Missouri, take HWY 133 which heads south and west of Crocker approximately five miles to Resort Road. Turn South (Left) on Resort Road and travel approximately 1.25 miles to Riverside Road. Turn east (left) on Riverside road and travel approximately one mile to the access.

Laughlin/Roubidoux Parks (Waynesville): At this park in Waynesville, you will find Roubidoux Spring and access to Roubidoux Creek. Mainly, the good fishing here is for trout, but there is fair fishing for bass and sunfish.

Driving Directions: Laughlin/Roubidoux Park is downstream from the Roubidoux Spring near the Highway 17 bridge over Roubidoux Creek

Mineral Hills Conservation Area: 4 area ponds provide most of the fishing opportunities at this area run by the MDC. The ponds have fair fishing for bass, catfish, and sunfish.

Driving Directions: Three miles south of Unionville on Highway 5 and 2.5 miles east on Route F.

Morris Prairie CA: 2 ponds provide the public fishing opportunities at this area. The fishing is fair for bass and sunfish.

Driving Directions: (From Unionville) Take Highway 5 south three miles to State Highway F. Go six miles east on Highway F to 235th Street. Go west on 235th Street for .75 mile.

Mullanix Ford Access: An access fishing point to the Chariton River can be found at Mullanix Ford Access. Just like Cook Memorial Access, fishing is good for catfish, and fair for drum and carp.

Driving Directions: Six miles west of Greentop on Route K to the Chariton River bridge.

Rebel's Cove Conservation Area: This area has access to the Chariton River. The fishing is good for catfish as well as fair for some drum and bullheads.

Driving Directions: Four miles north of Livonia on Route N.

Union Ridge Conservation Area: At Union Ridge Conservation Area there is an 11 acre pond/lake called Union Ridge Lake. This holds fair populations of bass, sunfish, crappie, and catfish. The lake is located at parking lot E. There are also 2 smaller ponds simply named ponds 1 and 2. They hold the same species as Union Ridge Lake except for there are no crappie.

Driving Directions: Route D, two miles north of Greencastle.

Lake Mahoney (Unionville): This 85 acre lake has fair fishing for bass and crappie and good fishing for catfish.

Driving Directions: Go one mile north of Unionville on Highway 5, then one mile west on CR 120 across the dam to the access area.