Missouri Fishing Areas

With an abundance of rivers, lakes, and other waterways, Missouri is one of the most popular states for enjoying freshwater fishing.

To assist anglers, the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) recently provided highlights of popular fishing locations around the state.

MDC suggests that anglers explore community lakes located in south-central Missouri, public fishing and river access points in the Ozarks, and other waterways when seeking destinations.

Each location offers a unique experience while providing convenient entry to some of the region’s most beautiful waterways. The sites offer high-quality fishing access, trails, and family-friendly facilities, according to MDC.

Community Lakes

Austin Community Lake

Austin Community Lake is situated just a few minutes west of Cabool, conveniently located off Highway 60. Covering an impressive 22 acres, this lake is surrounded by lush, forested acreage. Visitors can access the lake via a concrete boat ramp, a fishing dock, and an ADA-accessible privy. Additionally, there’s a picnic area equipped with a pavilion and multiple grills, providing ample space for relaxation and enjoyment.

Towell Lake

Towell Lake, located at Little Prairie Community Lake, spans a vast 97 acres and is conveniently situated just off I-44. This makes it a short drive from Rolla or St. James. The lake area features a concrete boat ramp with a courtesy dock, a fishing dock, two privies, and several picnic areas. Moreover, a 3.1-mile trail encircles the lake, offering hikers and nature enthusiasts the chance to explore the surrounding landscape and observe diverse wildlife.

Miller Community Lake

Miller Community Lake, located east of Van Buren and just off Highway 60, offers 26 acres of water. Amenities include a concrete boat ramp, ADA parking, a privy, and multiple picnic spots with fire rings. A roughly one-mile trail encircles the lake, perfect for light hikes or leisurely strolls.

Sims Valley Community Lake

Sims Valley Community Lake, situated near Willow Springs or Mountain View (off Highway 60), boasts 42 acres of water. Facilities include a concrete boat ramp with a courtesy dock, a fishing dock, a privy, and a picnic area. The lake offers a good opportunity for anglers to catch a master angler size redear sunfish and offers a unique opportunity to catch chain pickerel.

River Access Points

Blair Bridge Access

Blair Bridge provides direct fishing and floating access to the North Fork of the White River. The area is open daily from 4:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., with access allowed for boat launching. This site is a popular stop for paddlers and anglers alike. Two campsites are also on-site.

Patrick Bridge Access

At 161 acres, Patrick Bridge Access is a full-service destination featuring parking, campsites, privies, and a gravel canoe launch ramp. A highlight of this access is the 0.3-mile Althea Spring Trail, which leads visitors to the beautiful Althea Spring. It’s an excellent choice for those who want both river access and a short hike.

Sycamore Access

Located on Bryant Creek, Sycamore Access spans 16 acres and features a gravel boat launch. It sits next to the historic Hodgson Water Mill, where spring water flows from beneath the mill into the creek. This site is a scenic launch point for floating on the upper Bryant.

Warren Bridge Access

This 7-acre site provides gravel canoe access to Bryant Creek. Visitors will find parking and gravel access roads, but no boat ramp. Warren Bridge is a simple, practical location for those looking to enjoy fishing or floating in a quiet setting.

According to MDC, these four sites provide diverse settings and amenities, giving anglers and families multiple options across the Ozarks.

Missouri Trophy Fish

Each season, anglers scour Missouri rivers, lakes, and other freshwater areas in search of trophy class fish. Missouri is known for its monster freshwater fish including catfish, paddlefish, buffalo, gar, carp, and others.