Perhaps no other recreational activity is enjoyed more widely across our state than fishing, and some of Missouri’s best fishing holes are privately owned ponds and streams that have been developed to provide entertainment for the public.  Private fishing locations differ from state fishing parks in two major respects.  First, no state license or trout stamp is required. This can be a great savings for out-of-state fishermen. Second, it means any fish caught may be kept since there is no size or creel limit on fish caught at private lakes and streams.  Private fishing establishments appeal to experienced fly fishermen who seek a quiet day of catch and release as well as those who go to their favorite location because they know they can fill a stringer.  They also appeal to beginning fishermen since many businesses clean and ice customers’ catch; offer fishing instruction; sell bait and tackle; or even provide bait and tackle for customers who don’t bring their own.  In addition to services related to fishing, many locations offer picnic areas, restaurants, lodging, and hiking trails.  Use the map to find a recreation provider. 

 

 

A Guide to Missouri’s Privately Owned Fishing Areas, is another way to find a fishing location.  The brochure produced by the Missouri Department of Agriculture contains a summary of the services offered by eleven businesses and is available online.  (The PDF may take a few minutes to download since it is a 1 MB file.)  Hardcopies of the brochure are also available from the Department by calling 866.466.8283 or emailing bart.hawcroft@mda.mo.gov.

 

 

 


 

 

 

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