The Best Bass Fishing Lakes in Missouri
Largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass are top gamefish in Missouri, and for good reason. Missouri ranks as one of the top states when it comes to producing giant bass. While nearly every body of water in Missouri seems to produce a giant bass every now and then, the lakes listed below are known for consistently kicking out trophy bass, which is why they're listed as the best bass lakes in Missouri.
- Lake of the Ozarks continues to produce giant largemouth bass due to the abundant forage base. The fish are getting bigger each year, and lunkers exceeding 10 pounds are now possible. Ozarks is the largest lake in Missouri, and also has a healthy population of spotted bass, making this a terrific destination for Missouri anglers.
- Table Rock Lake has plentiful quality smallmouth bass, and sizeable populations of largemouth and spotted bass. Catch rates are high, and the non-stop action makes this a popular destination for tournament and recreational anglers alike.
- Truman Lake, with its vast acres of submerged timber, routinely pumps out largemouth bass in the 4-6 pound range, with a true trophy possible with every cast. Stumps, rocks, logs, old roadbeds and more comprise the various bass-holding structure spanning the 55,000 acre lake. Truman consistently produces big bass, which is why its on the bucket list of many Missouri bass anglers.
- Stockton Lake is probably best known for is abundant trophy largemouth bass, but don't overlook the Kentucky spotted and smallmouth bass fishing opportunities too. Giant largemouth pushing 10 pounds have been caught in recent years, and are becoming more common. The clear waters of Stockton lake combined with the elusiveness of these giants make it a challenge for trophy anglers, but the eagerness of the smallmouth and spotted bass more than make up for the slow times. Catching bass is almost guaranteed with every fishing trip.
Missouri Licensing Information
Licenses By Phone: 573-751-4115