While the city is primarily known for its various entertainment venues, fishing in Branson, MO will be a pleasant surprise for any angler. When you’re done with exploring the theaters along 76 Country Boulevard, come on down to the local lakes and experience a real freshwater fishing adventure, Branson-style! Home to some of the finest angling hotspots in the Ozarks, you’re in for quite a treat.
Branson Fishing Spots
Branson and its anglers can consider themselves blessed to be surrounded by so many incredible freshwater hotspots. And word gets around quickly. Lake Taneycomo is considered to be the best Trout fishery in the entire Midwest. Likewise, Bull Shoals and Table Rock Lake are both frequently featured in FLW and B.A.S.S. tournaments thanks to their world-class Bass fishing.
Table Rock Lake
Known all over the States for Bass fishing that’s out-of-this-world amazing, Table Rock Lake has made quite a reputation for itself. When you see the Largemouth and Smallmouth bite during the season, you’ll be coming back for years to come. The lake is also home to there species like Crappie, Catfish, and Bluegill, so don’t worry about things getting repetitive any time soon.
Lake Taneycomo
Widely considered to be among the best in the world, Lake Taneycomo Trout fishing is an absolute must when you find yourself in these parts. The local Rainbows and Browns are here all year long, and are great targets for both fly and conventional anglers. Taneycomo’s headwaters are known as Trophy Trout Central among the locals, making them a great place to start (or end) your fishing adventure.
Bull Shoals Lake
Straddling the state line between Missouri and Arkansas lies Bull Shoals Lake, yet another fishery near Branson with exquisite fishing opportunities. Full of various types of bass, as well as Crappie and Walleye, this diverse lake is well worth your time. The best time to fish here is definitely around October and November, but you can still land fish at other times of the year too.
Branson Fishing Tips
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During the fall months, the local fish will be eating a lot in preparation for winter. Creek mouths make for some of the best fishing at this time, thanks to the deeper water levels.
- It’s good to be aware of how the weather can help you when fishing. You might be surprised, but clouds and wind can be good allies on the water. Fish prefer no direct sunlight, while windy conditions dirty the waters which helps to attract Bass.
Need to Know
While there’s great fishing in Branson all year long, it really pays off to hire a professional guide. You can save a lot of time otherwise spent looking for productive spots that way.
Regulations
You’ll need to have a fishing license for any freshwater fishing you plan on doing here. In addition, if you’re fishing Trout on Lake Taneycomo, you’ll also need a federal Trout stamp. These regulations apply for everyone over the age of 16.
Budget
Fishing with a guide can be very affordable if you take the time to browse around. A four-hour trip can cost you as little as $250, while a full day’s worth of fishing rarely costs more than $400. Branson is great if you’re in the market for a guided trip that won’t break the bank.
Getting There
U.S. Route 65 is the main link to other nearby cities and the one you’ll be taking whether coming up from Springfield up north or Little Rock down south. If you’re flying in, however, then you’ll have the local Branson Airport at your disposal.
Bass (Largemouth)
Bass (Smallmouth)
Bass (Spotted)
Brown Trout
Catfish
Crappie
Rainbow Trout (Steelhead)
Sunfish
