There's nothing quite as relaxing as fly-fishing in the fall. The 573 is blessed to have many trout fishing hot spots, both public and privately owned. There are several trout farms that even offer amenities such as luxury lodging, gourmet meals, and spirited events. With the exception of trout parks, trout fishing season lasts all year in most trout areas in Missouri. But there's something about hitting the streams in the fall that centers the heart, frees the mind, and feeds the soul.
October is probably the most popular time to enjoy trout fishing. Fall is a dryer fishing season. After the summer heat, the water tends to be lower, and low clear water is easy for even the amateur angler to read. With clear low water, shade from the leaves, and a nice October breeze, it's simple and comfortable to spend the day casting your line and your worries away.
The Trout Parks
Missouri's trout parks provide easy accessible trout fishing. You'll need a state fishing license and a daily trout tag, available at the park's store, but a seasonal trout permit will not be required. March 1 to October 31, the daily limit is 4 trout in combination, but brown trout must be 15 inches or longer.
Here's a few popular trout parks in the area:
This 573 Magazine Story is brought to you by Workspace co-working space in Farmington, Missouri!
Blue Ribbon Areas
Blue Ribbon Trout Areas are managed to produce trophy-sized trout. The daily limit is one trout at least 18 inches or longer. Regulations calls for flies or lures only.
Local Blue Ribbon Areas:
Barren Fork Creek, Blue Springs Creek, Crane Creek, Current River, Eleven Point River, North Fork of the White River, Mill Creek, Little Piney Creek, and Spring Creek
Winter Trout Lakes
Farmington - Giessing Lake in located in Engler Park: Stocked first week of Nov. MORE INFO
Jackson - Rotary Lake is located in Jackson City Park: Stocked first week of Nov. MORE INFO
Columbia - Cosmo-Bethel Lake is located in Cosmo-Bethel Park: Stocked first week of Nov. MORE INFO
Mexico - Kiwanis Lake is located just southwest of the Plunkett Park baseball field: Stocked first week of Nov. MORE INFO
This website is not affiliated with the Missouri Department of Conservation. Double-check the regulations before you go fishing.
Need a great grilled trout recipe? Click here.
models adam & aj koehler!
words & pics by t. smugala
