Fishing is one of the biggest pastimes at the Lake of the Ozarks. While this goes along with the boating at the lake it is one of the activities that starts in early January and goes all the way through late December. So, if you’re visiting the Lake of the Ozarks be sure to not only pack your swimsuit but bring your fishing poles as well because you may be surprised at what you will catch. Whether you are a professional angler or just love the outdoors, you can indulge in this activity at the Lake of Ozarks.
If you are a professional angler or one that takes fishing very seriously, you should know that the Lake of Ozarks has produced state record catches with an amazing 111 pound paddlefish. The 90 mile long lake is filled with Largemouth Bass, Smallmouth Bass, Kentucky Bass, Black and White Crappie, Catfish, Rock Bass, Bluegill, White Bass and of course the rare Paddlefish.
Tips on The Top 7 Catches at the Lake of the Ozarks:
Largemouth Bass - widely distributed throughout the Lake of the Ozarks. Anglers consider this fish to be the top sport fish. There is an abundance of 5 pound plus largemouth bass, but there have been over 12 pound largemouth bass caught before so they are around. An important regulation to remember is all largemouth bass less than fifteen inches in length must be returned to the water immediately. Along with that, the daily limit is 6 in the aggregate including smallmouth bass, largemouth bass, spotted bass and all black bass hybrids.
Smallmouth Bass – these are located at the lower lake and upper reaches of the tributaries or streams. Smallmouth bass are recognized initially by their aggressive fighting. A typical fish of this species only weighs about a pound.
Spotted Bass – these are very similar to the smallmouth breed of fish in size and length as well as where they are located at the Lake of the Ozarks. They are also very aggressive. The best way to tell the difference between them and the smallmouth is of course by their spots.
White Bass – usually are found during the summer months schooled up on the shallow flats. This species is not as aggressive as the smallmouth and spotted bass but they are still exciting to catch, not only that but they make a great meal! They usually range between 1 and 2 pounds. The regulation on them is a daily limit of 15 in aggregate including white bass, yellow bass, striped bass and all their hybrids. This is along with a limit of no more than 4 bass exceeding 18 inches in length. There is no size limit for white bass below 18 inches in length.
Blue Gill – these can be found throughout the Lake of the Ozarks generally they are near boat docks, tree trunks, and tree brush. This species is known for their excellent taste, but you will pay for that as they are much more difficult to clean. This is of course due to their size as normally they only weigh a 1/2 pound or less. The Lake of the Ozarks has been known to have a little bit bigger Blue Gill however ranging 3/4 to 1 pound.
Black Crappie - these are more picky about their atmosphere and prefer cool, deep waters with abundant vegetation. They are early spring spawners, and will be found in lake pockets with brush. The best months to set a catch on them are March and April. This is also a very good fish to look for to feed the family that evening. As for regulations, all black crappie less than 9 inches in total length must be returned to the water immediately. The daily limit is 15 in the aggregate including black crappie and white crappie.
White Crappie – very similar to a Black Crappie as they usually occupy the same waters. The one difference is white crappies will stay in warmer, siltier waters. White crappies spawn at the same time as black crappies and the taste is also very similar. The best way to tell the two apart is by their color obviously.
Most resorts on the water will offer boat docks to rent so you can bring your own fishing boat and those are usually available all year long. Some resorts on the Lake of the Ozarks even offer heated fishing docks for those cold winter months.
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Originally built in 1959 but completely renovated in 2008, The Bear Bottom Resort was inspired by our family's love of the outdoors and our children's love of spending the summer barefoot.
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