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Missouri · Fishing
Mexico, Missouri sits in Audrain County in the middle of the state, and its fishing scene is built almost entirely around small lakes and reservoirs rather than rivers.
4 spotsUpdated dailyFree to access
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Mexico, Missouri sits in Audrain County in the middle of the state, and its fishing scene is built almost entirely around small lakes and reservoirs rather than rivers. The four fishable waters near town — Matthews Lake, Number 222 Reservoir, Locke Lake, and Stephenson Lake — are the kind of spots that reward local knowledge and patience over expensive gear. Expect warm-water species typical of Missouri's central lakes: largemouth bass, channel catfish, bluegill, and crappie are the most common targets across this type of still water. None of these are large impoundments, which means bank fishing is genuinely viable and you don't need a boat to reach productive water. Access points and amenities vary by location, so it's worth checking each site before you drive out with a full cooler. Missouri fishing licenses are required for anyone 16 and older and are available online through the Missouri Department of Conservation or at local retailers. The fishing here isn't going to make a magazine cover, but for a half-day trip out of town or a quiet weekday morning, these lakes consistently produce for anglers who show up prepared.
Matthews Lake, Number 222 Reservoir, Locke Lake, and Stephenson Lake are all small, warm-water lakes typical of central Missouri. Largemouth bass, channel catfish, bluegill, and crappie are the species you're most likely to encounter. None of these waters are designated gold-medal or wild-trout fisheries, so don't plan a trout trip here.
Bank fishing is a practical option at small lakes like these. That said, access varies by location, so check the specific site ahead of time to confirm where you can legally and physically get to the water's edge. A kayak or small jon boat will open up more of the lake if you have one.
Frank Russell
~55 min drive
A worthwhile stop near MO.
Stephenson Lake
~1 min drive
A worthwhile stop near MO.
Mark Twain Lake - Frank Russell Access
~47 min drive
Easy
Matthews Lake
~8 min drive
A worthwhile stop near MO.
Locke Lake
~9 min drive
A worthwhile stop near MO.
Williams Lake
~13 min drive
A worthwhile stop near MO.
Number 222 Reservoir
~14 min drive
A worthwhile stop near MO.
Williams Lake
~14 min drive
A worthwhile stop near MO.
Prater Lake
~16 min drive
A worthwhile stop near MO.
Baker Lake
~16 min drive
A worthwhile stop near MO.
Triple Cove Reservoir
~18 min drive
A worthwhile stop near MO.
McCredie Watershed W-1 Reservoir
~21 min drive
A worthwhile stop near MO.
Early morning and the last two hours before sunset are consistently the most productive windows for bass and crappie in Missouri's warm-water lakes. Catfish tend to bite well into the evening and overnight, especially in summer when daytime temperatures push fish into deeper, cooler water.
A medium-light spinning setup covers most situations — it handles bluegill and crappie on lighter jigs or live bait, and it's not overmatched by the bass you'll find in smaller lakes. Bring a heavier rod if you're specifically targeting catfish with cut bait or chicken liver. A basic tackle selection of soft plastics, small jigs, and live worms will cover the main species across all four waters.
Anyone 16 or older needs a valid Missouri fishing license. You can buy one online through the Missouri Department of Conservation website or pick one up at local sporting goods stores and some convenience stores in the area. Make sure you're also aware of any daily limits for the species you're targeting, which are listed in the MDC's current fishing regulations.
