Explore the 20 Best Bass Fly Fishing Lakes in Missouri
Missouri, the “Show Me State,” offers more than stunning landscapes. It harbors some of the best Missouri bass fly fishing lakes in the country. This isn’t just a casual observation; fishing reports and anglers’ tales back it up. Whether you want a trophy largemouth or a feisty smallmouth, Missouri has a lake for you. And if you’re planning any outdoor adventures, explore additional options like Backcountry Hunter.
So, grab your fly rod and fly box. We’re diving into the 20 best bass fly fishing lakes in Missouri.
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20 Best Bass Fly Fishing Lakes in Missouri: A Comprehensive Guide
Bass fly fishing in Missouri is more than casting a fly line. It’s about connecting with nature and enjoying the thrill of the chase.
Lake of the Ozarks Bass Fly Fishing
Lake of the Ozarks is famous for bass fishing. But many folks overlook fly fishing there. This is a mistake. It’s a great way to land some big bass. The lake covers over 55,000 acres. This gives you plenty of spots to explore. You can find largemouth bass all over the lake.
Fly fishing for bass on Lake of the Ozarks is different than fishing with a traditional rod and reel. You need to use the right flies. This will help you succeed. Here are some top flies for Lake of the Ozarks:
- Woolly Bugger: This classic fly looks like a baitfish or leech. Bass love to eat them. It’s a good choice for any bass angler.
- Clouser Minnow: This streamer fly is perfect for largemouth bass. It also works well for smallmouth bass.
- Bass Popper: This surface fly attracts bass. It imitates an injured baitfish, mouse, or frog. It works best in shallow water.
- Frog Pattern: Frogs are a natural food source for bass. Using a frog fly is smart, especially near vegetation.
Bass Fly Fishing Crawfish Pattern
I have found Crawfish to be a very effective pattern for bass and trout. Sun protection on the water is a must. Graphic Peacock Bass Gloves are a UPF-50, striping guard on fingers.
Graphic Peacock Bass Gloves for Fishing, Hiking, Driving
Graphic Hoodie Bass Fishing Apparel
Arms, face, and upper torso need sun protection as well. Graphic Bass Fishing hoodie is a UPF-50 with a sewn in facemask. Green Poppers can silhouette a frog swimming on the surface.
Poppers Fly Fishing Missouri Bass
These are just a few suggestions. It is always a good idea to talk with local fishing guides. They can tell you which flies work best. Water conditions can change. Local knowledge can really help you out.
Where are the best places to fly fish on Lake of the Ozarks? The lake has many coves and inlets. These areas are perfect for bass. They like to hide near docks and brush. Look for areas with submerged structure. These structures give bass places to ambush their prey.
The Niangua River flows into the lake. This area is known for its good bass fly fishing. The Grand Glaize Arm is another good option. It has clear water and lots of bass fly fishing.
Early morning and late evening are good times to fish. The bass are more active then. This is because the water is cooler. The sun isn’t as intense. Overcast days can also be productive. The bass aren’t as wary in low light conditions. They are more likely to strike your fly.
Table Rock Lake
Known for clear waters, Table Rock Lake is a top-ranked bass fishing lake nationally. With an average depth of 70 feet, it provides underwater habitats perfect for largemouth and smallmouth bass. Table Rock Lake is one of Missouri’s top bass lakes.
Bass Fly Fishing on Table Rock Lake
Table Rock Lake is a bass angler’s paradise. But it’s not just for folks with traditional tackle. Fly fishing for bass on Table Rock is awesome! This lake has clear water and tons of underwater structures. This makes it a perfect spot to target big bass with a fly rod.
So, what should you use to catch these Missouri bass? The top flies for Table Rock Lake include Clouser Minnows, Woolly Buggers, and various streamer patterns. These flies imitate baitfish and other tasty snacks bass love. Remember to match your fly to the local baitfish. This will increase your chance of a good catch. You should also adjust your retrieve based on the water’s depth and clarity. Sometimes a slow, steady retrieve works best. Other times, short, jerky movements trigger those big bites.
Finding the bass is key to a successful day on the water. Focus on areas with cover. Look for docks, fallen trees, and rocky points. These spots provide shade and ambush points for hungry largemouth bass. During the warmer months, bass often move to deeper water. So try fishing drop-offs and ledges. Also, watch for schooling shad. Bass often feed on these baitfish near the surface. This gives you a great opportunity to try topwater flies like poppers.
Early morning and late evening are often the best times to fly fish for bass on Table Rock. The lower light levels make it easier to stalk those big fish. Plus, the water is typically calmer, making for easier casting. But don’t rule out midday fishing entirely. If it’s overcast or cloudy, the bass may still be actively feeding.
Fly fishing on Table Rock Lake isn’t just about catching bass. It’s about the experience. This Ozark Mountain lake has stunning scenery. The clear waters let you see the fish follow your fly. This adds to the thrill of the chase. So, grab your fly rod, a selection of your favorite bass flies, and head to Table Rock Lake. You’re in for a great time.
Missouri Bass Fly Fishing Flies
Another great surface pattern for Missouri Bass on the fly are Gurglers. The can resemble, frogs, mice, and injured baitfish.
Mousey Gurgler-Bass Top Water Pattern
Baitfish a main diet of bass and an Olive Dungeon will do the trick, enticing a strike.
Dungeon's Baitfish Pattern for Missouri Bass on the Fly
Truman Lake
Truman Lake, Missouri’s largest reservoir at over 55,000 acres, is teeming with fish. Look for bass around submerged brush piles and shallow water during spring and fall. Flooded timber is prime real estate for hungry bass at Truman Reservoir.
Bass Fly Fishing on Truman Lake
Truman Lake is a huge lake in Missouri. It’s known for great bass fishing. Many anglers love to fish for largemouth bass here. But did you know Truman Lake is also amazing for fly fishing? It’s true! This lake offers a ton of opportunities to catch bass on the fly.
One reason Truman Lake is so good for fly fishing is its size. At over 55,000 acres, there’s plenty of room for bass to grow big. This means more chances for you to hook into a real lunker. Plus, the lake has lots of different habitats. You can find shallow, weedy areas, rocky points, and deep, open water. This variety attracts all kinds of fish, including bass.
So, what flies should you use on Truman Lake? Well, bass love to eat baitfish. This makes streamer patterns a great choice. Clouser Minnows are a classic. Woolly Buggers also work well. These flies mimic baitfish swimming through the water. Try different colors to see what the bass like best on that day. Sometimes, bass prefer something a little different. They’ll go after crayfish or frogs. If you see bass hanging around vegetation, try a frog pattern. If you’re fishing near rocky areas, a crayfish pattern can be a good choice.
When should you go fly fishing on Truman Lake? Bass are most active in the spring and fall. The water temperatures are just right for them then. But you can catch bass year-round if you know where to look. During the summer, bass often hang out in deeper water to stay cool. In the winter, they move to warmer areas near the bottom. No matter when you go, make sure to check the local fishing regulations. It’s important to follow the rules and help conserve Missouri’s bass population.
If you’re looking for a great bass fishing adventure, consider fly fishing on Truman Lake. With the right flies and a little patience, you can have a fantastic day on the water.
Stockton Lake
With lots of gizzard shad (bass food.), Stockton Lake produces many largemouth bass. Some weigh 8 to 9 pounds. Target submerged brush piles and rocky structures, especially during the fall. Stockton Lake is a great Missouri fishing destination.
Bass Fly Fishing on Stockton Lake
Stockton Lake, a fantastic spot for bass fishing in Missouri, covers almost 30,000 acres. This gives you tons of room to explore and find your perfect fishing hole. But where should you start? This lake has a lot of different areas, so it can feel overwhelming to a newcomer. This is where fly fishing comes in. It’s a fun way to target those largemouth bass hiding in the clear waters.
Fly fishing for bass on Stockton Lake isn’t hard to learn. But a little prep work goes a long way. First, think about the time of year. In spring, bass are usually in the shallows, getting ready to spawn. Look for areas with flooded bushes and use flies that mimic baitfish or crawfish. The Woolly Bugger and Clouser Minnow are good choices this time of year.
Summer means hot weather, and the bass head for deeper, cooler water. Focus on points, drop-offs, and submerged structures. A Jig Fly or a Crayfish pattern can work wonders here. As the sun sets, try Bass Poppers or Frog Patterns near the surface.
Fall brings cooler temperatures, and the bass start feeding heavily to prepare for winter. They move back to the shallows, often chasing shad. Shad patterns or streamer patterns can be really effective now. Curly Tail Grubs are another good option. Try different retrieval speeds until you find what the bass want.
Now, let’s talk about locations. The upper reaches of the Sac River and the Spring River arms of Stockton Lake are great starting points. They usually have clearer water and lots of bass. Also, check out the area around the dam. The rocks and deeper water there can hold some big fish. Don’t forget about coves and inlets. These spots provide shelter and attract baitfish, making them perfect ambush points for bass.
Lake Taneycomo
Lake Taneycomo, with its cold, clear water, is a top Missouri bass lake. The unique flow patterns from Table Rock Lake’s dam and depth changes create fly fishing opportunities. Use shad or crayfish imitation flies.
Much of the shoreline is surrounded by Table Rock Lake’s cooler waters. Many anglers have luck closer to Table Rock’s shore.
Warmer water and more aquatic life provide excellent breeding locations for largemouth bass in underwater cover. The deep water of Table Rock Lake flows through turbines of a hydroelectric dam at Table Rock Lake’s depths.
Bass Fly Fishing on Lake Taneycomo
Lake Taneycomo, nestled in the Ozark Mountains, is a fly fisherman’s dream. This lake offers clear waters and a healthy largemouth bass population. But it’s also great for catching trout. This makes it a unique spot in Missouri.
Because the lake is fed by cold water released from Table Rock Dam, the water stays cool year-round. This creates a perfect habitat for trout, but bass thrive here too. You’ll find both largemouth and smallmouth bass lurking in the depths. So grab your fly rod and get ready for some great bass fishing!
Choosing the right fly is important on Lake Taneycomo. Here are a few top choices for targeting bass:
- Woolly Buggers: This classic fly imitates baitfish and leeches, a favorite snack for bass.
- Clouser Minnows: These streamers are great for catching both largemouth and smallmouth bass.
- Bass Poppers: If you like surface action, a popper can entice bass to strike. This is especially true during the warmer months.
- Crayfish Patterns: Taneycomo has plenty of crayfish. A crayfish fly can be deadly.
Remember to check local fishing regulations before you head out. Fishing licenses are usually required. Also, using the proper techniques can help conserve the bass population. Catch-and-release fishing is a great way to ensure healthy fish populations for years to come. This helps everyone enjoy the sport.
Lake Taneycomo is more than just a great fishing spot. The surrounding Ozark Mountains offer breathtaking scenery. This makes for a truly memorable fishing trip. You can enjoy hiking, camping, and other outdoor activities. This lake truly has something for everyone.
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Pomme de Terre Lake
This Ozark foothills lake offers several boat ramps and docks. This provides easy access for bank anglers. Pomme de Terre Lake is perfect for kayaks or small boats.
This lake produces larger bass. Use large and heavy line on baits greater than 5″.
Bass Fly Fishing on Pomme de Terre Lake
Pomme de Terre Lake, nestled in the Ozark foothills of Missouri, is a haven for bass anglers. This lake offers clear waters and plenty of largemouth bass. It’s a fantastic spot to test your fly fishing skills. But what flies should you use?
The Woolly Bugger is a great choice. It’s a classic for a reason. It mimics baitfish and leeches, which bass love to eat. A Clouser Minnow is another good option. This streamer fly is known for attracting both largemouth and smallmouth bass. Because Pomme de Terre has both, it’s a smart pick.
Streamer patterns, like the Lefty’s Deceiver and Baitfish Streamer patterns, are also effective. They imitate injured baitfish. This can trigger aggressive strikes from hungry bass. If you see bass near the surface, try a Bass Popper. This fly makes a commotion in the water. It’s designed to draw the attention of bass looking for an easy meal.
For fishing around weeds or lily pads, a Frog Pattern is a good bet. Bass often hide in these areas. They ambush frogs and other small creatures. Crayfish Patterns are another smart choice. Pomme de Terre Lake has plenty of crayfish. Bass see them as a tasty snack.
Remember, fly fishing for bass on Pomme de Terre Lake, like any lake, takes practice. Pay attention to what the fish are eating. Match your fly to the local baitfish and water conditions. This will give you the best chance of landing a lunker largemouth bass. And remember, always follow local fishing regulations.
Bull Shoals Lake
Rocky structures and submerged islands make Bull Shoals Lake ideal for largemouth bass. Target bass near deep water channels or cut timber. Bull Shoals Lake is one of the best bass lakes in Missouri.
Bass Fly Fishing on Bull Shoals Lake
Bull Shoals Lake, a fantastic spot for bass fishing, sits in both Missouri and Arkansas. It’s known for its clear waters and big bass. This makes it perfect for fly fishing. But where should you cast your line? What flies should you use?
This lake has lots of coves and points. These spots are great places for largemouth bass to hide. Look for rocky areas and drop-offs. This is where bass like to hang out. Look for places where the wind is blowing into the shore. Baitfish often get pushed there, and bass will follow.
Early morning and late evening are usually the best times to fish. The low light makes it harder for the bass to see your line. The water is often cooler then too. This makes the bass more active. Overcast days can also be good because they give you similar conditions.
So, what flies should you use on Bull Shoals? The Woolly Bugger is a classic. It imitates leeches and baitfish. The Clouser Minnow is another good option. It’s a streamer fly that bass find hard to resist. If you see bass near the surface, try a Bass Popper. This fly makes a splashing sound. It gets the bass’ attention.
If you’re fishing in areas with weeds, a Frog Pattern is a good choice. Bass love to ambush frogs hiding in the vegetation. Crayfish patterns also work well in rocky areas. They imitate the natural food bass find there.
Remember, fishing regulations can change. Make sure to check the current rules before you go. Practicing catch-and-release helps keep the bass population healthy. So, grab your fly rod and head to Bull Shoals Lake. You’ll have a great time fishing for largemouth bass!
Norfork Lake
Shared between Arkansas and Missouri, Norfork Lake offers stained and clear waters. It gets over 80 feet deep, making Clouser minnows ideal. Its varied habitats create excellent bass locations.
Bass Fly Fishing on Norfork Lake
Norfork Lake is a beautiful place to fish. It’s located in the Ozark Mountains of southern Missouri and northern Arkansas. The lake has clear waters and lots of largemouth bass. This makes it a great spot for fly fishing. But smallmouth bass, another favorite of fly fishers, are in there too. So, Norfork Lake is a great place for bass fishing in Missouri.
Because Norfork Lake is so clear, you’ll want to use a longer leader. This will help your fly look more natural. Also, light tippets are a good idea. These are less visible to the fish. So, a long leader and light tippet are key for success at Norfork Lake.
Many fly fishers use streamer patterns at Norfork. These flies look like baitfish swimming through the water. This is good because Norfork Lake has lots of shad and other baitfish. Some good choices include Clouser Minnows, Woolly Buggers, and Lefty’s Deceivers. These are great Missouri bass flies.
If you see bass near the surface, try poppers or other topwater flies. Poppers make a splashing sound. This sound can get a bass’s attention. Frog patterns also work well. Bass like to eat frogs. Try fishing these near lily pads or other vegetation.
If you want to fish deeper, use a sinking line with a jig fly or crayfish pattern. Jig flies come in different colors and sizes. Match the jig fly to the type of baitfish in the lake. Crayfish patterns are great to use near rocky areas. Bass like to hide near rocks, looking for crayfish.
When fly fishing on Norfork Lake, think about the time of year. In the spring, bass are often in shallow water. They’ll be looking for a place to spawn. So, try fishing near the banks with poppers, streamers, or other Missouri bass flies. During the summer, the bass move to deeper water. Try using sinking lines with jig flies or crayfish patterns.
Fly fishing for bass on Norfork Lake can be a fun adventure. Remember to check the local fishing regulations. Always practice catch-and-release to help keep the bass population healthy.
Fly Storage Missouri Bass Fly Fishing
Fly storage, I like boxes for my streamer, except when backpacking. Then I limit my selection. Streamer Boxes for Freshwater & Saltwater flies, Great way to dry your flies after use. A clouser minnow is hard to beat, I have three favorites, Black Knight Bunny, Purple Bunny and Olive Clouser Bunny Ghost.
Purple Ghost Bunny Clouser
Clearwater Lake
Clearwater Lake’s clear water requires stealth techniques. Use Fluorocarbon Leaders, lines, and approaches. Clearwater Lake drains the Black River into the St. Francis and Mississippi Rivers.
This system feeds and protects an abundant underwater ecosystem. The submerged forests and rock piles provide great cover for many fish species. Catching bass in Clearwater Lake can be a challenge.
Bass Fly Fishing on Clearwater Lake
Clearwater Lake, nestled in the Ozark foothills, is a sweet spot for bass fishing. This Missouri lake is known for its clear waters. Many largemouth bass here can weigh up to 8 pounds. But you can also find smallmouth bass in Clearwater Lake. So, let’s talk about fly fishing for these bass.
Fly fishing for bass on Clearwater Lake is a little different than using lures. It takes more finesse. But it can be really rewarding. The quiet approach of a fly line landing on the water lets you sneak up on those bass. You won’t scare them away like you might with a loud, splashing lure.
Think about what the bass are eating. This will help you choose the right fly. In Clearwater Lake, bass often go after baitfish, like shad. They also like crayfish and frogs. This means you’ll want to use flies that look like these creatures. Some good choices are Clouser Minnows, Woolly Buggers, and frog patterns. A Curly Tail Grub can also work well. It looks like a small baitfish or leech. You should also try some shad patterns, because there are a lot of shad in the lake.
Where should you fish on Clearwater Lake? Bass like to hang out near structures. This means things like docks, fallen trees, and rocky areas. Look for these spots, because the bass are probably nearby. Also, pay attention to the time of day. Early morning and late evening are often the best times to fish for bass. They are more active during these cooler times of day. This is especially true during the hot summer months. The bass might be deeper during the day to escape the heat.
Clearwater Lake is a great place to get away and enjoy some time outdoors. It’s one of the best bass fishing lakes in Missouri. So grab your fly rod, pack some snacks, and head to Clearwater Lake for some excellent bass fishing.
Mozingo Lake
This 1,006-acre Mozingo lake is loaded with rock points, coves, weed beds, and 18 brush piles. The large shad population creates ideal fish-feeding, producing largemouth bass and crappie.
Bass Fly Fishing on Mozingo Lake
Mozingo Lake, a hidden gem in Northwest Missouri, offers fantastic bass fishing. It’s a great spot to test your fly fishing skills. This 1,006-acre lake is known for its healthy largemouth bass population. But it also holds crappie, bluegill, and channel catfish. This variety makes it an exciting place for any angler.
Fly fishing for bass on Mozingo Lake is a unique experience. The lake’s clear water lets you sight fish. This means you can actually see the bass before you cast. This adds an extra layer of challenge and excitement to your fishing trip. It’s a real test of skill and patience.
Many different flies work well on Mozingo Lake. Try a Woolly Bugger. It imitates a baitfish or leech, a favorite snack for bass. The Clouser Minnow is another great option. This streamer fly is super effective for both largemouth and smallmouth bass. If the bass are feeding near the surface, try a Bass Popper. This fly makes a splashing sound that attracts hungry bass.
When fishing Mozingo, focus on areas with structure. Look for docks, submerged trees, and weed beds. These spots provide cover for bass. They also attract baitfish, which brings in the bigger fish. During the summer, bass often move to deeper water. So, try fishing along drop-offs and ledges. A Jig Fly can be a good choice in deeper water.
Although Mozingo Lake is known for bass, don’t overlook the other species. Bring some flies for crappie and bluegill, too. A Curly Tail Grub is a good choice. It imitates a small baitfish or insect. You might be surprised at what you catch!
Mozingo Lake offers a great opportunity for bass fishing with flies. So, grab your gear and get ready for some fun on the water.
Smithville Lake
Close to Kansas City, Smithville Lake is bass haven with its abundant crappie and other aquatic life. Bass here often grow over 6 pounds. Try a little Panfish Fly Fishing.
Bring various baits, as the bass become lure-shy easily with year-round fishing pressure. Smithville Lake is a popular spot for Kansas City anglers.
Bass Fly Fishing Smithville Lake
Smithville Lake, a fantastic spot for bass fishing in Missouri, covers a good chunk of land at over 7,000 acres. It’s a popular place for folks in Kansas City because it’s not too far from the city. This lake gives you plenty of room to explore.
The lake has tons of little coves and inlets. These spots are perfect for largemouth bass to hide out. Plus, there’s stuff underwater like old trees and rocks that bass love. These structures give them a place to ambush their prey.
But what about fly fishing? Smithville Lake is great for that too. This is because it has shallow areas full of plants where bass like to hang out. So, you can wade in with your fly rod and try your luck.
When you go fly fishing for bass at Smithville, try some of these flies. The Woolly Bugger is a good one because it looks like a small fish or leech. Another one is the Clouser Minnow. This fly looks like a minnow, and bass can’t resist it. Streamer patterns are great too. They look like hurt fish, which bass find easy to catch. Also, try poppers. Poppers float on the surface and make a popping sound that draws bass in.
Now, let’s talk strategy. When fly fishing Smithville Lake, look for areas with vegetation. Cast your fly near the edges of the plants. Bass often hide there waiting to attack. Also, look for areas with fallen trees or rocks. Bass like to hang around these structures. Retrieve your fly slowly, twitching it every now and then. This makes it look like a real baitfish or insect.
Other Notable Lakes
| Lake Name | Key Features |
|---|---|
| Longview Lake | Urban fishing, easy access |
| Fellows Lake | Springfield area, great for families |
| Lake Springfield | Recreational lake, consistent action |
| Ha Ha Tonka State Park Lake | Camdenton area, smaller lake option |
| Lake Wappapello | Southeast Missouri, abundant bass |
| Thomas Hill Lake | North-central Missouri, under-the-radar |
| Montrose Lake | Henry County, peaceful fishing experience |
Top Flies for Missouri Bass
Fly fishing for bass? Missouri is the place, but choosing the right fly is key. Different lakes and seasons require different flies. Matching your fly to local water conditions is critical.
- Woolly Bugger: A classic that imitates leeches or baitfish. It’s a favorite among seasoned fishermen.
- Clouser Minnow: Great for largemouth or smallmouth bass, this fly has proven successful in Missouri’s rivers and lakes.
- Streamers: Excite large bass with streamer patterns like Lefty’s Deceiver or Baitfish streamers. These mimic weak fish, an easy meal for hungry bass.
- Poppers: Coming off the bank or structure can be explosive. Use frog and mice patterns. Gurglers work well in these situations.
For more tips, check out Missouri Fishing Reports to learn which baits work. Missouri offers a wide range of fishing opportunities.
FAQs about 20 Best Bass Fishing Lakes in Missouri
Where is the best bass fishing in Missouri?
Many consider Lake of the Ozarks and Table Rock Lake the best for trophy largemouth. Many fish over 5 pounds thrive in these lakes. Don’t overlook Truman Lake, Stockton Lake, and Bull Shoals Lake for excellent fishing.
Where are the biggest bass in Missouri?
Stockton Lake is known for record-breaking bass, reaching 8-9 pounds. But smaller lakes and ponds can surprise anglers with large bass hiding in secluded locations. Fellows Lake, for example, produces large bass over 6 pounds. The competition for food and habitats is fierce in larger lakes.
What lake has the most bass?
Truman Lake, Missouri’s largest lake, offers abundant fishing. It’s packed with aquatic life, including various bass species and sizes. The Truman Reservoir offers diverse fishing opportunities.
What is the cleanest lake in Missouri?
Table Rock Lake and Lake Taneycomo are known for water clarity. Lake Taneycomo is consistently praised for its clear waters. Line visibility plays a significant role in luring bass in these clear lakes. These lakes are located in the Missouri conservation area.
Conclusion of Missouri Bass Fly Fishing
From trophy hunts at Stockton Lake to Truman Lake’s abundant waters, Missouri caters to all anglers. Choosing the right spot and fly technique, based on conditions, makes a difference.
Missouri consistently exceeds expectations for largemouth fishing diversity. The state’s rich bass life abounds in its waterways, including the 20 best bass fishing lakes highlighted here. The Missouri Department of Conservation manages these fishing resources.
So, pack your gear. Missouri’s incredible bass fisheries await anglers of all skill sets. Explore the best bass fishing Missouri has to offer.
