Tasty Catfish, feisty Bass species, and eye-catching Rainbow Trout in the nearby creeks...there's plenty on offer in Table Rock Lake that'll make you want to wet your line. Even better, you'll find a whole host of local and experienced Table Rock Lake fishing guides just waiting to show you around these bustling fishing grounds. Choose your target species, grab your friends and family, and come explore the best-kept secret in the Ozarks!
What can I catch?
Branson, Missouri is Table Rock Lake's main departure point. In fact, you'll be hard-pressed to find a fishing guide who departs from elsewhere, especially on the Arkansas side. The best way to select your trip is by deciding on the fish you'd like to target. So what are your options?
Bass, Bass, and more Bass!
What makes Bass fishing in Table Rock Lake so special is that it's common to hook Largemouth, Smallmouth, and Spotted varieties all in one trip. These fish can be found all throughout the lake, and are available year-round.
Generally, the best places to target this trio of Bass is around Table Rock Dam, as well as the skinny 'fingers' of the lake. An experienced guide will be able to take you to the secret coves, channels, creeks, and honey holes that these fish love.
Tasty Table Fare
If you're a newer angler or are looking for a family-friendly trip, why not opt to target some of Table Rock Lake's delicious dinner options? These waters are home to tasty Catfish, Crappie, and Bluegill. All of these fish taste great and are fun to catch, especially for little ones who are just discovering their love for casting a line.
Like Bass, these species can be targeted year-round in the lake. Catfish are especially plentiful around the James River – this is also a favored spot for Crappie, too. Bluegill tend to lurk around the shallow shoreline waters of the lake. Your guide will usually have you casting your line for them as you start your trip.
Lake Taneycomo Trout Fishing
Although Table Rock Lake has plenty to offer all on its own, keen Trout fishermen looking to potentially hook Rainbow and Brown varieties should head to nearby Lake Taneycomo. Located just on the other side of Branson and connected to Table Rock Lake by creeks, you'll find plenty of Trout-fishing charter guides waiting to help you reel in your very own haul.
Need to Know
Fishing in Table Rock Lake and Lake Taneycomo is possible year-round, but the best time to visit depends on the fish you want to hook. Bass-chasers should visit from March–May, which covers the pre-spawning and spawning seasons. Crappie fishing is especially strong in winter, whereas Catfish and Bluegill are best during those hot summer months.
If you're fishing with a local charter or guide, they'll make sure you're decked out with all the fishing gear you need. Before your trip, you should purchase a Missouri fishing license with a 'White River Border Permit,' as this will let you fish the entirety of the lake. Then it's just a case of heading to Table Rock Lake and getting ready to cast your line in this incredible pocket of nature!