Missouri · Fishing regulations

Fishing regulations in Missouri.

Missouri float-trip rivers in the Ozarks are a unique American fishing experience — wild smallmouth and rainbows in spring-fed water — plus Lake Taneycomo and the four trout parks for accessible trout fishing.

Missouri Department of Conservation · License: Anglers age 16 and older generally need a valid fishing license to fish in Missouri. Resident and non-resident licenses are sold online through the MDC and at most sporting goods retailers. Annual, multi-day, and lifetime licenses are typically available. Senior, military, and youth discounts apply in most cases. A daily trout tag or trout permit is required at Missouri's four trout parks and at certain trout streams. License costs and exact age thresholds change — verify with the MDC before purchase.

Freshwater

Largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, walleye, crappie, white bass, catfish, and bream drive most fishing on the Lake of the Ozarks, Truman, Stockton, and Pomme de Terre. Year-round seasons with reservoir-specific bag limits.

Rivers

Missouri's Ozark spring-fed rivers are a unique American fishery — the Current, Eleven Point, Jacks Fork, Niangua, and Meramec produce wild rainbow trout, smallmouth bass, and goggle-eye in some of the prettiest water in the country. Lake Taneycomo below Table Rock Dam is a trophy trout fishery.

Special

Missouri's four trout parks (Bennett Spring, Roaring River, Maramec Spring, Montauk) require a daily trout tag and have set-hour fishing during catch-and-release season. Designated trout streams have artificial-only sections. Lake Taneycomo has trophy regulations on certain stretches.

Popular species

Smallmouth bass · Largemouth bass · Walleye · Crappie · Rainbow trout · Brown trout · Channel catfish

State agency

Missouri Department of Conservation

Agency site →

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