
Reel in the Memories
Covering 54,000 acres and over 1,150 miles of shoreline, the Lake of the Ozarks is home to some of the best fishing in the country. The biggest question for the average angler is, “When and where is the best time to catch largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, white bass, etc.?”
Cast a Line
If you want to just cut to the chase, call one of the Lake's independent fishing guides. These pros will take you directly to the “hot spots” and give you some pointers on when, where, and how to fish the many coves, docks, and shorelines at Lake of the Ozarks. Check out the Missouri Conservation Department's Fishing Prospect Report for more Lake of the Ozarks fishing tips.
Species
The Lake is loaded with a variety of fish species, including:
![]() Largemouth Bass |
![]() Spotted Bass |
![]() Black and White Crappie |
![]() Blue Catfish |
![]() Channel Catfish |
![]() Flathead Catfish |
![]() White Bass |
![]() Hybrid Striper |
![]() Paddlefish |
![]() Walleye |
![]() Bluegill |

Largemouth Bass

Spotted Bass

Black and White Crappie

Blue Catfish

Channel Catfish

Flathead Catfish

White Bass

Hybrid Striper

Paddlefish

Walleye

Bluegill
Fishing at State Parks
The Lake’s state parks also attract anglers year-round. Lake of the Ozarks State Park in Osage Beach offers boat ramps, dock fishing, and crappie beds. Ha Ha Tonka State Park near Camdenton has two boat docks and allows fishing from marked access points. Numerous bait shops and full-service marinas also serve the area around the Lake.
Tips and Tricks!
See the links below for some great tips and tricks when fishing Lake of the Ozarks.