Fishing Fun: 7 Missouri State Parks to Reel in the Big One

Missouri is a prime destination for anglers, particularly those who enjoy combining scenic camping with exceptional fishing. Here's a guide to the best state parks to cast your line in the Show-Me State to visit from a private boat lift rental or a local marina.

1. Bennett Spring State Park

Bennett Spring State Park, situated in Lebanon on the Niangua River, is a historic destination featuring a daily-stocked spring creek with clear shallow water ideal for fly fishing. Anglers gather by zone, and there’s a daily whistle that signals the official start of fishing. Fishing zones include fly-only upstream, fly and lures mid-stream and bait-only downstream.  

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Rainbow and brown trout
• Fishing Type: Shore, fly, boat

2. Montauk State Park

Located in Salem, Montauk State Park has springs that feed pristine waters and a trout hatchery. The waters are divided into zones, including catch-and-release, a fly-only section and a bait and lure-permissible section. Cabins, trails and a historic mill make it a full-day adventure.  At the headwaters of the Current River in the Ozarks 

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Rainbow and brown trout
• Fishing Type: Shore, fly, kayak/canoe, pier, boat (electric trolling motors only - gas-powered boats are not allowed)

3. Roaring River State Park

Roaring River State Park is situated in a dramatic Ozark gorge with seven trails and stunning bluffs. The hatchery feeds crystal pools and cascades and has several different zones that focus on different regulations, such as flies only, bait, lure types and catch-and-release. Try Zone 2 for wading and catch‑and‑release. There’s a swimming area, a lodge with a restaurant and a new fish‑cleaning station at this Cassville park. Motorized boats are not allowed, as the park puts a sole focus on fishing. 

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Rainbow trout
• Fishing Type: Fly, shore

4. Pomme de Terre State Park

One of Missouri’s best muskie fisheries, Pomme de Terre State Park is perfect for anglers targeting a trophy-sized catch. The 7,800-acre lake is fed by Lindley Creek and the Pomme de Terre River. The Pittsburg park has two distinct camping sections along the scenic lake.  Multiple campsites and hiking trails make it a terrific family trip. There are boat ramps within the park, making it convenient if you’re trailering a boat from a private boat slip for rent.

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Catfish, muskie, largemouth bass, crappie, white bass
• Fishing Type: Shore, boat, pier

5. Stockton State Park

Located on Stockton Lake's northern peninsula, this Dadeville park offers a marina with boat ramps and more than 300 slips, making it ideal for anglers and boaters. The park also offers scuba diving and sailing, making it an excellent spot to mix fishing with water sports. The 24,900-acre lake is perfect for all levels of anglers. Pontoon and kayak rentals are available.

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Walleye, bass, catfish, bluegill, crappie
• Fishing Type: Kayak, shore, boat

6. Thousand Hills State Park

The 573-acre lake at Thousand Hills State Park, near Kirksville, is well-stocked with gamefish. It features a fishing dock, a fish-cleaning station and good campsite capacity. It’s a solid spot for bass and crappie fishing from a private boat dock rental or marina. 

• Water: Fresh
• Key Species: Bass, crappie, walleye, channel catfish
• Fishing Type: Shore, dock, boat (under 90 hp)

7. Castlewood State Park

Located south of St. Louis, on the Meramec River in Ballwin, the 1,800-acre Castlewood State Park offers diverse fishing spots such as deep holes and riffles (shallow and fast-flowing water with rocks) as well as multi-species action. It’s an excellent park to practice various fishing techniques. You’ll also find hiking trails, kayaking and canoeing, bicycling, nature-watching and horseback riding.

• Water: Fresh 
• Key Species: Bass, catfish, walleye, carp, drum, crappie, bluegill, sunfish
• Fishing Type: Shore, canoe, boat