Missouri is home to a variety of lakes that offer exceptional bass fishing opportunities. Whether you’re targeting largemouth, smallmouth, or spotted bass, these lakes provide some of the best bass fishing experiences in the state. Here’s a guide to the best bass fishing lakes in Missouri.

1. Lake of the Ozarks

Location: Central Missouri

Why It’s Great: Lake of the Ozarks is one of the most popular bass fishing destinations in Missouri. This massive reservoir spans over 54,000 acres and boasts an extensive shoreline with plenty of coves, points, and submerged structures that are ideal for bass. The lake is known for its healthy populations of largemouth bass, spotted bass, and even smallmouth bass in certain areas.

Best Time to Fish: Spring and fall are peak seasons, particularly during the pre-spawn and spawn periods.

2. Table Rock Lake

Location: Southwestern Missouri, near Branson

Why It’s Great: Table Rock Lake is renowned for its clear waters and diverse bass fishing opportunities. Anglers can target largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass here. The lake’s rocky points, submerged timber, and deep channels provide excellent habitats for bass. It’s also a favorite spot for many bass fishing tournaments.

Best Time to Fish: Spring and fall are the best times, with the spawn and post-spawn periods being particularly productive.

3. Stockton Lake

Location: Southwestern Missouri, near Stockton

Why It’s Great: Stockton Lake is known for its excellent smallmouth bass fishing. The lake’s rocky shorelines, clear water, and numerous points and coves create ideal conditions for smallmouth bass. Largemouth bass are also abundant, making this lake a great destination for all types of bass fishing.

Best Time to Fish: Late spring through early fall, with the pre-spawn and spawn periods offering the best fishing.

4. Bull Shoals Lake

Location: Southern Missouri, extending into Arkansas

Why It’s Great: Bull Shoals Lake is another top bass fishing destination that offers both largemouth and smallmouth bass fishing opportunities. The lake’s deep, clear waters and extensive structure, including submerged timber and rocky points, make it ideal for bass. Anglers often enjoy the challenge and rewards of fishing in this expansive lake.

Best Time to Fish: Spring and fall are the best times, particularly during the pre-spawn and spawn periods.

5. Mark Twain Lake

Location: Northeastern Missouri, near Monroe City

Why It’s Great: Mark Twain Lake is a popular destination for largemouth bass fishing. The lake’s numerous coves, submerged timber, and weed beds provide excellent cover for bass. It’s a great spot for anglers looking to catch quality largemouth bass in a scenic setting.

Best Time to Fish: Late spring through early fall, with summer providing steady action.

6. Truman Lake

Location: West-central Missouri, near Warsaw

Why It’s Great: Truman Lake is known for its abundant largemouth bass population. The lake’s flooded timber, brush piles, and numerous coves create perfect habitats for bass. It’s also a popular spot for bass fishing tournaments, drawing anglers from all over the region.

Best Time to Fish: Spring and fall are peak seasons, with the spawn and post-spawn periods being particularly productive.

7. Pomme de Terre Lake

Location: Southwestern Missouri, near Pittsburg

Why It’s Great: Pomme de Terre Lake is a hidden gem for bass fishing in Missouri. The lake’s clear waters, rocky points, and submerged timber provide excellent conditions for both largemouth and smallmouth bass. It’s a quieter, less crowded lake, making it ideal for a peaceful fishing trip.

Best Time to Fish: Spring and early summer, particularly during the pre-spawn and spawn periods.

Missouri offers some of the best bass fishing lakes in the Midwest, each with its unique charm and fishing opportunities. Whether you’re aiming for a trophy bass or simply enjoying a day on the water, these lakes provide fantastic bass fishing experiences. Pack your gear, plan your trip, and get ready to explore the best bass fishing lakes in Missouri.