DNR
Home PageFishing Report (provided by Department of Conservation)
--listed under Central Region: Lakes
The Lake of the Ozarks is one of Missouri's premier fishing destinations, and can be accessed via one of the park's two paved boat ramps located at both public beaches. Anglers can expect to catch a variety of fish including bass, crappie, walleye, bluegill and catfish. In addition to statewide fishing rules, the Lake of the Ozarks has the following regulations:
Lakewideblack bass -- 15 inch minimum length limit on largemouth and smallmouth bass; 12 inch minimum length limit on spotted bass
crappie -- 9 inch minimum length limit; 15 fish daily limit
non-game fish -- snagging, snaring and grabbing are allowed from March 15 through April 30 only
| On the lake and its tributaries |
| paddlefish -- 34 inch minimum body length |
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| Within 525 feet on the left descending bank and 977 feet on the right descending bank below Truman Dam in the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' restricted zone |
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| From the downstream end of the no fishing zone below Truman Dam throughout the no boating zone (look for signs and buoys) |
| catfish -- The daily limit channel, blue and flathead catfish is four in the aggregate and only one may be more than 24 inches in total length. |
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| From the downstream end of the no fishing zone below Truman Dam to US Highway 65 |
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Regulations are subject to change; please refer to the Wildlife Code of Missouri.
The park has three paved boat ramps; a four-lane ramp at each of the Grand Glaize Beach and Pa He Tsi locations; and a two-lane ramp at Public Beach #1. Daily launch fees are $5 for vessels up to 30 feet in length and $7 for vessels over 30 feet in length. Campground users can launch free at any ramp with a current, valid camping permit. There are no motor restrictions, and the boat launches are open year-round.
There are two main picnic areas located at both public beaches within the park. Picnic areas include tables, outdoor grills, restroom facilities and playground equipment located nearby.
Two open picnic shelters can be reserved for a variety of large outings and family gatherings accommodating as many as 50-100 guests. The shelters, one at each beach, can be reserved at a rate of $40 per day. If not reserved, the shelters are available at no charge on a first-come, first-served basis. The shelter at Public Beach #1 (near the campground) is equipped with electricity.
Water enthusiasts can make use of the park's two sandy beaches, which are open to the public year-round. Swimming in the state park is limited to the beach areas which also offer restroom and changehouse facilities. Shady picnic areas, reservable shelters and children's playground equipment are all located nearby.
