Whether you’re a Bass enthusiast or are just discovering your love for freshwater angling, a Table Rock Lake Bass fishing adventure is something you really shouldn’t sleep on! Largemouth, Smallmouth, and Spotted Bass varieties can be found here all throughout the year, which explains why the lake is often described as a Bass-fishing haven. It also covers a whopping 43,000 acres, meaning that there’s plenty of this species to go around. What are you waiting for?
What can I catch?
It’s all about Bass here, of course! Passionate Bass anglers love exploring Table Rock Lake, because it allows them to target three varieties of their favorite game fish all in one trip. Newbies will love the convenience of being able to go after multiple species and earn their first Bass-fishing stripes, too! As the lake is so vast, the best way to experience it is alongside a local and experienced fishing guide, who will usually depart out of Branson, MI. They’ll take you to best secret honey holes and hotspots around.
Largemouth Bass
Largemouth Bass are always welcome on the end of a freshwater fisherman’s line, and this holds true in Table Rock Lake. Their intelligence makes them fun to battle, and will keep you on your toes during your adventure. As is common with Bass species, this fish can be found in different parts of the lake depending on spawning season, but some favored Largemouth hotspots are the back ends of the lake’s famous creeks and coves.
Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass are another favorite on the lake. Although smaller than the Largemouth, this fish is exceptionally feisty and agile, so you’ll have plenty of hands-on action if you find one at the end of your line! They also taste great, too, but keep in mind that you can only keep six Bass (this includes Largemouth and Spotted, too) per day. You’ll find them along the many deep channels that the lake has to offer, although during spawning season they’ll venture to clearer, shallow waters.
Spotted Bass
The poor Spotted Bass is often overshadowed by its more famous brothers, but is still plenty of fun to target. If you want to hook this species, make sure that your guide or charter operator provides light tackle. This means you’ll really get to feel your fish when it bites! Like Largemouth and Smallmouth Bass, this species flocks to clear, shallow waters during spawning season, and can be found throughout the lake’s deeper channels during the rest of the year.
How to Prepare
Table Rock Lake’s Bass-fishing guides will make sure you’re decked out with all the gear you need to cast your line in these waters. One thing you will need to bring with you, however, is a valid fishing license. It’s suggested that you purchase a Missouri Fishing License with a “White River Border Permit,” as this will allow you to explore the entire lake. Then all you need to do is head to Table Rock Lake and get ready to discover this Bass fishing paradise!
