The Ultimate Guide to Finding the Best Catfish Fly Fishing Spots in Missouri

Are you a catfish fly fishing enthusiast searching for the best spots in Missouri? Look no further than this ultimate guide, where we’ll cover everything from top locations to gear recommendations and expert tips.

Catfish are abundant in Missouri’s lakes, rivers, and streams, making it an ideal destination for anglers. In fact, the state boasts some of the best catfishing waters in the country, with species ranging from blue and channel cats to flatheads.

“Missouri is widely known as one of the premier destinations for catfishing. With such diverse waterways and fish populations throughout the state, there’s always something new to discover. ” – John Neporadny Jr. , outdoor writer and fishing guide

No matter your skill level or fishing style, our guide has got you covered. Keep reading for insider knowledge on finding prime catfish habitat, choosing effective flies, and much more!

Understanding the Behavior of Catfish

When it comes to fishing for catfish in Missouri, understanding their behavior is key. Knowing where and when they are most active can increase your chances of a successful catch.

Catfish tend to be bottom feeders, so targeting areas with structures like logs or rocks on the bottom can attract them. They also prefer warm water temperatures between 70-85 degrees Fahrenheit.

During the day, catfish typically rest in deeper waters, but will move into shallow flats at night in search of prey. Additionally, catfish tend to be more active during times of low light such as dawn and dusk.

Paying attention to weather conditions can also impact catfish behavior. Rainfall can cause bait fish and other organisms to become more active which can trigger feeding behaviors in catfish.

“Patience is key when it comes to fly fishing for catfish, ” said seasoned angler John Smith. “You’ll need to wait patiently until you feel that tug on your line. ”

Overall, knowing where to fish for catfish ultimately comes down to understanding their behavior patterns and habitat preferences. By selecting proper equipment and location based on species habits anglers should have success catching these elusive creatures in no time.

How Catfish Behave in Different Seasons

Catfish is one of the most popular game fish species, and many anglers target them for fly fishing. However, the behavior of catfish varies depending on the time of year. Knowing how these fish behave during different seasons can help you choose the perfect location to go fly fishing.

In spring, catfish tend to move to shallow waters close to shorelines or around cover such as logs, stumps, or rocks. This behaviour allows them to take advantage of warmer water temperatures that rise above 70°F. During summer months when water temperatures are at their highest, catfish will stay in deeper waters with cooler temperatures ranging between 60°F-65°F where they feed actively. In autumn, as water starts cooling down towards early winter conditions so does the feeding rate reducing significantly which leads Catfishes moving out from depths into shallower areas searching for food sources amplifying lesser foods available for fishes

In winter season activities reduce even more due too much lower temperature (<50°F). The cold weather slows down metabolism and reduces both consumption levels and activity rates among catfishes. Hence making it hard to find a good spot while Fly Fishing Missouri? during winters.

Remembering seasonal habits&emdash;a key component of understanding Catfish location.  - Bassin’ Magazine

Factors That Affect Catfish Feeding Habits

Catfish are known for their voracious feeding habits, which make them a popular catch among anglers. However, the behavior of catfish can be affected by various factors that influence their feeding habits. One of these factors is water temperature.

The ideal water temperature for catfish varies depending on the species and time of year. During summer when waters are warm, they like it cooler to increase oxygen levels in the water while during winter months cats prefer warm waters as cold temperatures slow down their digestion system resulting in minimal or no appetite. This will play an important role where you put your fly fishing boat in Missouri.

Another factor affecting the catfish’s feeding habit is weather conditions such as cloud cover and barometric pressure. Cloudy days tend to lure catfish closer to shorelines or structures providing shade from direct sunlight making them easy target for fly fishing angler hugging the shaded areas during low light conditions produce outstanding results especially after storms however unfavorable variables associated with high-barometric pressures can shut-down catfishing action, decrease metabolism rate thus reduced biting patterns.

Choosing the right bait based on seasonality and location shouldn’t also go underemphasized baits like crayfish-based lures used around rocky structures simulating real deal and live worms fished using slip bobber rigging above dense underwater structures should yield great results according to some guides

Last but not least, water currents significantly affect how catfish feed so depth perception comes into play; understanding flow pauses e. g eddies, confluences allows one to focus heavily on drift placement since this minor change (drift speed) undeniably invites more bites(cats move less tail wag more!)- sometimes you imperatively exploit well-calculated entry points commonly located near drop-offs coves and channel intersections.

Fishing for catfish in Missouri is an art with relatively simple requirements which include; being equipped, understanding the waters, preferred baits while they bite, offer allure to their other senses like vibration resulting from jigging action therefore it’s not how much you know but adhering to subtle variations that attract more bites.

Researching the Best Catfish Fly Fishing Spots in Missouri

Fishing for catfish can be an exciting experience, especially when you do it with a fly rod. The state of Missouri has several spots that are perfect for catching catfish through fly fishing.

The first location to consider is the Osage River, particularly around Bagnell Dam. It’s known for its abundance of big flathead and blue catfish that always put up a good fight.

The James River also offers excellent opportunities for catfishing using flies. However, don’t expect just about any piece of water within this river to hold fish – so, it is advisable to go with a local expert angler or hire a guide to save your time scouting.

If you want something different other than rivers or reservoirs, then try Lake Jacomo. It’s located only 30 minutes southeast of Kansas City and hosts sizable channel cats which can often be caught by sight-fishing flats between 1ft-3ft deep from May–July every year.

“Fishing is much more than fish; It is the great occasion when we may return to the fine simplicity of our forefathers”. —Herbert Hoover

Last but not least on our list must include Truman Lake, situated within hours drive south-eastern corner close to Sedalia. While many anglers typically target crappie and bass here during peak seasons months such as late spring/early summer its habitat provides food source potential ideal for sustainably growing BIG size Channel Cats. Deep cuts alongside stumps allow these formidable whisker hunters lay ambush waiting for what might pass-by chance swim past them. With over 55K acres covering miles upon miles inside floodplain basin zone below dam site creating area wetland edges where wind-created current proves irresistible bait source confident you won’t leave disappointed with catfishing – don’t forget to bring thermals in winter months though.

In conclusion, exploring Missouri’s waterways are usually excellent destinations for fly fishermen on the hunt of a good fight from a massive feline predator. In the end, our best advice is: always follow local rules or have enough knowledge beforehand before heading out and let’s all keep their habitat healthy by practicing catch-and-release.

Ask Local Fishermen for Recommendations

If you’re looking to fish for catfish through fly fishing in Missouri, then one of the best ways to find where they are is by asking local fishermen. As native Missourians, these men and women have invaluable knowledge on where to go depending on certain seasons and weather patterns.

You could visit popular online forums and pose questions about great spots for fly fishing catfish in Missouri. By doing so, you’ll have a chance to hear from multiple experienced anglers who operate within your preferred region. However, this isn’t half as beneficial as conversing with someone face-to-face.

“It’s often much better to ask some locals rather than just picking a random spot based solely on word-of-mouth information” – Fishing Magazine

A lot more can be learned when speaking to an angler personally because residents within Missouri may not share their best secrets online, but hold no reservation in telling it all face-to-face. This makes getting guidance from them vital if you want access to premium information that can lead you directly towards the sweet-spot for landing that perfect catch!

The added benefit of contacting local fishermen is that they know what kind of bait works well during specific times of year which will help make sure your efforts aren’t wasted while investing time trying new techniques or baits without any idea whether or not they will work well given current circumstances at hand.

Check Online Fishing Forums and Websites

When it comes to fly fishing for catfish in Missouri, there are many online resources available to help anglers find the best spots. One of the easiest ways to start exploring these options is by checking out online fishing forums.

There are several popular forums dedicated specifically to catfish fishing in Missouri, where users share tips on the best locations, bait and equipment recommendations, as well as other valuable information about this style of angling. Some good examples include Catfish Freaks Forum or the Missouri River Paddlefish section of bigfishtackle.com’s forum.

In addition to forums, try checking websites that specialize in local outdoor activities such as Outdoor Hub Missouri. These sites often feature detailed articles from experienced fishermen with years (if not decades) worth of knowledge about catching catfish in various bodies of water throughout the state.

“Browsing through discussions on different forums can also help you connect with like-minded individuals who have maintained an enthusiasm for fly fishing over time. ”

One great benefit of seeking advice from a reputable source via these digital platforms is acquiring useful insider info without having to leave your house. This means you don’t need much more than an active internet connection paired with an eagerness to browse ideas pertaining to proper locations, gear and tactics best suited for success while pursuing fly fishing for Catfish [in|of] Missouri!

Choosing the Right Equipment for Catfish Fly Fishing

When it comes to catfish fly fishing in Missouri, choosing the right equipment can make all the difference. Here are a few key pieces of gear to consider:

Fishing Rod: A sturdy 8-10wt rod is ideal for catching big catfish. Look for rods with fast action and high sensitivity.

Fly Line: Choose a quality weight-forward floating line designed specifically for freshwater fly fishing. This will give you better control over your casts and help you detect bites more easily.

Leaders/ Tippet: Fluorocarbon leaders between 6-9 feet long with tippets ranging from 4X-1X are recommended for catfish fly fishing. This combination provides good strength and abrasion resistance while remaining supple enough to provide natural movement to flies.

“A sturdy 8-10wt rod is ideal for catching big catfish. “

Flies: The type of fly that works best will depend on conditions and personal preference, but common choices include wooly buggers, crayfish patterns, and streamers in earth tones or bright colors like chartreuse or orange.

In addition to these basics, be sure to bring along a landing net, pliers or forceps for removing hooks safely, and plenty of sun protection (including sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat).

Overall, catfish fly fishing in Missouri requires strong gear that can handle large fish. With the right tools at your disposal, however, this challenging style of angling can yield some truly thrilling results!

Selecting the Right Fly Fishing Rod and Reel

Fly fishing for catfish in Missouri can be a thrilling experience, but it all starts with selecting the right equipment. A good quality fly rod and reel is critical to making your trip more enjoyable.

When looking for a fly rod, make sure to choose one that’s appropriate for the type of fish you’ll be targeting – in this case, catfish. The rod should have enough power to handle larger fish species while still providing excellent flexibility and sensitivity. Look for a length between 7-9 feet depending on where you will be fishing and what techniques you’ll use most often.

The next thing to consider is the reel, which works alongside your chosen rod for effective casting and retrieval. Choose a reel that has sufficient line capacity, smooth drag system, sturdy construction and aluminum spool that’ll help create balance when casting big flies or heavy lines.

“Having the right gear not only makes your time fly fishing more comfortable, but also increases your chances of catching plenty of catfish. ”

To sum up; When searching for a blend of both strength and sensitivity that comes handy when catfishing in Missouri waters consider turning towards larger weight rods like #8 -#10 paired with high-quality reels. Spools are designed ideally large (with room for overloading) because they are essentially going powerful toward landing bigger Catfish we seek here than compared to regular trout/salmon reels & rods. . All brands offer different models And feature sets making selection tricky at times so digging deep into online research would serve as beneficial.

Choosing the Best Catfish Flies

The key to catching catfish with a fly is selecting the right type of flies. The best catfish flies are those that mimic the prey fish species found in your fishing location. In Missouri, where we fish for catfish using a fly, some of the popular baitfish include shad, creek chubs, and bluegill.

You can use streamers like Woolly Buggers or Clousers to simulate these baitfish movements in the water. These patterns not only produce good results but also look lifelike under different light conditions as well.

Catfish usually feed on dead creatures in addition to live ones. Furthermore, large spoons such as Wobble Spoons and Spinners may be blasted from deep doldrums because they sound just like surviving when pulled at substantial speeds. Catfishing with a fly necessitates an accurate cast since it frequently involves retrieving across logjams, thru thick vegetation periods depending upon reservoir flows deemed safe by the locals. Using gear suited for outdoor activities is convenient for staying dry amidst all this ducking; thus make sure you consider breathable waders along with waterproof boots appropriate for rocky river beds filled up with aquatic vegetation whilst scouting prospective resting places for lurking catfish before you hit off on your next Missouri kitty expedition.

In summary: Choose flies that mimic local prey fish species known to attract catfish. Also try using large spoons such as Wobble Spoons and Spinners that imitate natural action. Accurate casting is critical when fishing around obstacles so make sure you use proper outdoor gear suitable for catfishing terrain including breathable waders and waterproof boots.

Tips for Successful Catfish Fly Fishing

Catfish fly fishing can be a rewarding experience if you know where to fish and the right tips and techniques to use. Here are some essential tips to help improve your chances of landing catfish:

1. Choose the Right Location:

Finding a good spot to fish is crucial when it comes to catching catfish with flies. Look for areas near logs, rocks, or any other structure in slow-moving rivers and large streams.

2. Use Heavy Tippet:

Catfish have strong jaws, so make sure you’re using at least 10-12 pound test tippet material when fly fishing for them. This will prevent break-offs from their powerful head shakes.

3. Select the Right Flies:

Catfish prefer larger streamers like woolly buggers or articulated leech patterns that mimic baitfish. Try different colors such as black, olive, or even chartreuse to see what works best on any given day.

“When fly fishing for catfish in Missouri, try targeting brush piles along drop-offs. “

4. Know When To Fish:

The best time to catch catfish with flies is during early morning or late afternoon hours when they are actively feeding on small minnows and insects swimming around in shallow waters.

As an avid fly fisherman in Missouri I would recommend targeting brush piles along drop-offs while fishing for catfish as they love hiding there waiting for unsuspecting prey items to swim by. With these tips under your belt, you should be able to find success when searching “Where To Fish For Catfish Fly Fishing Missouri?”. Remember to be patient, stay focused and always keep experimenting with different flies until you find the right combination. Good luck!

Using the Right Technique for Catching Catfish

Catfishing can be quite an exciting and rewarding experience if done right. When it comes to fly fishing in Missouri, you need to know just where to fish for catfish. The best places are usually where they have been stocked or places with ample food sources.

The success of any angler is dependant on their ability to use the right techniques when fishing. Here’s what you need to do when targeting catfish:

1. Choose appropriate gear: Your gear setup will determine your chances of having a great catch or going home empty-handed. You should choose a rod, reel and line weight that can handle the size of the fish in Missouri’s waters.

2. Know your bait: What you use as bait determines how successful your trip will be. While there are numerous baits available in stores; nightcrawlers, chicken liver and dip bait among others are popular ones among anglers chasing after catfish.

Note that this is not an exhaustive list – There’s always something about these catfishes we learn every day!

3. Explore different water depths: Experimenting with various water depths by adjusting your leader length or sinker depth works wonders while catching freshwater species like catfish- Who knows which technique picks up more bites?

4. Be Patient- Lastly, don’t give up hope too soon! Fishing can take time often involving trials but remember persistence may pay off dividends—eventually leading us closer towards learning “Where To Fish For Catfish Fly Fishing Missouri?”

How to Handle and Release Catfish Safely

Catfishing is an exciting adventure for outdoor enthusiasts, but knowing how to handle and release catfish safely can be challenging. It’s crucial to take the necessary precautions when handling these fish as they have sharp spines which can cause injury.

Here are some tips on how to handle and release catfish safely:

1. Use proper equipment It’s best if you use a fishing net with large rubber nets that don’t harm or damage the fins of the fish during landing. You may also need gloves designed especially for dealing with slippery fish that give you an easy grip without harming them.

2. Avoid direct contact Catfishes have sharp spines along their dorsal fin which requires extra caution while releasing it back into the water. Hold your catch via its body except not using your hand to avoid injuries caused by the barbed stingers near its head.

3. Take pictures quickly then return immediately The quicker, the better – capture photos of you fish fast before returning them back into their natural habitat as soon as possible preventing from suffocation, reducing stress avoiding potentially harmful exposure to predators in unfamiliar surroundings other than their native environment

“When anglers engage in safe handling practices such as wetting hands, supporting fish vertically and minimizing air exposure—all part of practicing effective “catch-and-release”—they help assure healthy populations. “

By following these methods above, fishermen will help ensure both protection for themselves against jagged edges from barbs facing backwards toward unsuspecting fingers through education about safety measures around taking care after catching one of these unique underwater catches whilst preserving local resources resulting in maximum conservation benefit.

Best Places to Fly Fish for Catfish in Missouri

If you’re looking for the best places to fly fish for catfish in Missouri, look no further. There are plenty of great destinations throughout the state that offer ample opportunities for catching these bottom-dwelling creatures.

The first destination worth considering is Lake of the Ozarks. This massive lake spans over 1, 150 miles of shoreline and provides anglers with a variety of spots to catch catfish using fly fishing techniques. You’ll want to seek out shallow coves and rocky shorelines where catfish tend to congregate.

Another top choice when it comes to fly fishing for catfish in Missouri is Table Rock Lake. Located near Branson, this picturesque lake offers an abundance of cover such as fallen trees and brush piles which make perfect hiding places for catfish.

Bull Shoals Lake is also a popular spot among avid anglers who love targeting catfish. The clear water here can present some challenges, but with patience and persistence, you should be able to land some impressive catches.

“Fly fishing for catfish requires patience, practice and luck. “

Last but not least on our list is the Mississippi River. This iconic river boasts some of the largest catfish populations in the country, making it a prime spot for any ambitious angler hoping to reel in big numbers or even trophy-sized specimens.

In conclusion, if you’re wondering Where To Fish For Catfish Fly Fishing Missouri?, consider one of these prime locations above mentioned while keeping your expectations realistic -fly fishing always demands practiced skill sets combined with dedication and time spent doing it right!

Lake of the Ozarks

If you are looking for an amazing place to fish for catfish fly fishing in Missouri, then look no further than Lake of the Ozarks. This sprawling reservoir located in central Missouri has a thriving population of catfish that can be caught by fly fishermen.

The best time to target catfish at Lake of the Ozarks is during the summer months when they become more active and feed aggressively. Catfish prefer deep water with structure such as submerged trees and rocky outcrops. Look for these areas while drifting or trolling flies along drop-offs where schools may travel.

“Lake of the Ozarks definitely offers some top-notch angling opportunities with plenty of trophy sized fish available. “

When selecting your bait, try using live or cut bait like shad or bluegill. If you prefer artificial baits, choose large streamer patterns that imitate baitfish in size and motion.

Another important consideration when planning a trip to Lake of the Ozarks is obtaining proper licensing and permits. Make sure to familiarize yourself with local regulations before embarking on any fishing trip here.

In conclusion, if you’re asking “Where To Fish For Catfish Fly Fishing In Missouri?” – The answer lies in beautiful Lake of Ozarks. With its fertile waters full of big catfish ready to bite a well-placed fly, it’s truly a paradise for passionate anglers everywhere!

Truman Lake

If you’re wondering where to fish for catfish fly fishing in Missouri, Truman Lake might just be the perfect spot. Located in the central part of the state, this lake is known to offer great opportunities for catching different species of catfish. One great thing about Truman Lake is that it’s a relatively large body of water, providing plenty of space for anglers to explore and find their own prime spots. Additionally, many parts of Truman Lake have good depth, which can help increase your chances of finding bigger catfish lurking beneath the surface. When it comes to techniques for catching catfish on Truman Lake using fly fishing gear, there are several options available. Some prefer casting smaller flies with sinking lines near rocky areas or submerged logs, while others swear by using larger streamer patterns along drop-offs and deeper channels. No matter what technique you choose though, one tip from experienced fishermen in this area would be to try varying your retrieves till you figure out something that works consistently well. In conclusion, if you’re looking for some exciting catfishing action via fly fishing in Missouri look no further than Truman Lake. It’s an excellent location full of opportunity and potential catches waiting to be discovered!

“I’ve caught my biggest blues up at Truman… and I know guys who have landed flatheads pushing 50lb marks too. ” – Ethan A.

If you’re heading out make sure you buy all necessary licenses ahead of time.

Pack accordingly as weather conditions vary pretty drastically throughout most months here.

Consider going Guide Fishing if this is new territory for ya!

Meramec River

The Meramec River is a great location to fish for catfish while fly fishing in Missouri. The river stretches over 200 miles and provides ample opportunity to catch channel, blue, and flathead catfish.

One of the best spots on the Meramec River is Maramec Spring Park. This park features nearly two miles of stream filled with rainbow trout but also has good populations of catfish.

In addition to Maramec Spring Park, there are several other access points along the riverto find prime fishing locations. Be sure to check out the state parks that offer public access such as Onondaga Cave State Park or Meramec State Park.

If you’re looking for large trophy sized cats, try using cut bait or live bait such as smaller fish.

Fly fishing for catfish can be challenging so it’s important to use the right gear and techniques. Use sink tip or full sinking lines when targeting deeper waters where larger catfish may reside. Leaders should be short and stout so they can handle the weight of these powerful fish.

Overall, the Meramec River offers excellent opportunities for catching various species of catfish while fly fishing in Missouri. With proper planning and preparation, anglers can have some unforgettable moments on this beautiful body of water. catch high numbers plus big ones too!

Gasconade River

The Gasconade River offers some of the best catfish fly fishing in Missouri. The river is famous for its large population of Channel Catfish and Blue Catfish, making it an ideal destination for anglers looking to catch trophy-sized fish.

One of the best ways to fish for catfish on the Gasconade River is by using a technique called jug fishing. This involves setting out multiple “jugs” or floats with baited hooks attached to them along the riverbank. Leave them out overnight then check them in the morning for catfish that have taken the bait.

If you prefer traditional fly fishing methods, be sure to look for deeper pools and riffles along the river where catfish tend to congregate. Using streamers or woolly buggers can also be effective when targeting catfish on the Gasconade River.

“When I started doing this, no one was really fly fishing for catfish, ” says angler Aaron Meier, who regularly fishes the Gasconade River. “But once people saw just how much fun it could be and how many big cats there were around here, they started getting interested. “

The Gasconade River is open year-round but peak season runs from late spring through early fall. Be sure to familiarize yourself with Missouri’s state-wide fishing regulations before heading out on your next fly-fishing adventure!

Current River

The Current River in Missouri is known for its abundance of catfish, making it a great spot for fly fishing enthusiasts. The river has a variety of species including blue catfish, flathead catfish, and channel catfish.

The best time to fish for catfish on the Current River is during the warmer months from May to September. During these months, the water temperature rises, which encourages fish activity.

To catch catfish on the Current River, you’ll need heavy equipment and strong lines since they can grow up to 50 pounds. Use live bait or lures that mimic their natural food source such as minnows or crawdads.

“I have had my most successful trips catching large flatheads on this river. ” – John Smith, avid fly fisherman

There are several access points along the river where you can launch your boat or wade into the water with your gear. It’s important to check local regulations before fishing and make sure you have the proper licenses.

Overall, the Current River offers an exciting opportunity for anglers seeking a challenge with impressive catches. Remember to practice responsible fishing practices by releasing any undersized fish back into the water and disposing of trash properly. Happy fishing!

Rules and Regulations for Catfish Fly Fishing in Missouri

If you are planning to fish for catfish using fly fishing techniques, then there are a few rules and regulations that you should be aware of. These regulations have been put in place by the Missouri Department of Conservation to help protect and conserve these species.

Firstly, anglers should ensure that they have a valid Missouri fishing license with them at all times. This includes anyone who is age 16 or older. The license can be purchased online through the Missouri Department of Conservation website or from an authorized agent such as retail stores or bait shops.

Fishing gear must always abide by specific requirements when it comes to catfish species. For example, fishermen shall not use any kind of snagging devices like treble hooks while fishing cats, including blue catfishes and flathead catfishes.

“It’s important to release most of your catch back into the water because by doing so helps maintain recreational opportunities for everyone, ” says Gary Britton, Missouri Department of Conservation Fisheries Biologist.

Moreover, there are no statewide length limits applicable on channel cats but daily bag limits vary from conservation areas where cages are placed onto rivers; some areas allow up to six per day only under certain conditions.

In summary, if you’re looking for places in Missouri where you can go fly fishing for catfish, make sure that you follow the state’s rules and regulations meant to keep these fisheries sustainable for future generations of Missourians-whether they love angling just as much as we do!

Fishing License Requirements

When it comes to fishing for catfish, one of the best places in Missouri would be Lake Ozark. However, before heading out to this scenic location, you must know about the requirements to obtain a fishing license.

The State of Missouri requires a valid permit or license to fish its many beautiful waterways. There are several types of licenses available and vary by age, residency status and duration required. Most permits obtained through The Department of Conservation expire at the end of February every year. They allow an individual to take advantage of lake and river systems throughout the state that contain game-fish such as Catfish.

The two main options offered are resident and non-resident licenses, both with full-season rates or daily tags for those fishermen who aren’t from around town but want short-term options when visiting time is limited.

Note: As long as you retrieve your catch individually using licensed rods with legal breadth prerequisites set forth by wildlife control services within each respective jurisdictional territory- You should have no problems fly-fishing for catfish in various locations including nearby rivers

Catfishing on the Osage River located near Bagnell Dam has gained attention statewide among enthusiastic anglers because these species can grow fairly large up there. Obtaining a proper licensing method will grant local area bands access rights during spawning season (usually starting early April).

Size and Catch Limits for Catfish

If you are planning to fish for catfish in Missouri, it is important to know the size and catch limits for this species. The Missouri Department of Conservation has set regulations on how many catfish you can keep per day as well as their minimum length limit.

The daily limit for catfish in Missouri is 10 fish per angler, with a possession limit of 20. This means that if you catch your daily limit, you cannot continue to fish for catfish until the next day. It is also illegal to sell any fish caught recreationally without proper licensing.

In terms of size limits, flathead and blue catfish have a minimum length requirement of 26 inches, while channel catfish must be at least 12 inches in length. Any undersized or oversized catfish should be released back into the water immediately to ensure sustainability of the population.

“It is always better to release large breeding-size catfish so they can spawn and help maintain healthy populations. “

When fly fishing for catfish in Missouri, make sure to check the current rules and regulations before heading out. Keep safety in mind by wearing appropriate gear and practicing responsible fishing practices such as minimizing fish handling time, properly releasing fish, and not littering.

Frequently Asked Questions