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Missouri · Fishing
Montrose, Missouri is a small town in Henry County, and its main draw for anglers is Montrose Lake, a reservoir managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation that sits just outside town.
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Montrose, Missouri is a small town in Henry County, and its main draw for anglers is Montrose Lake, a reservoir managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation that sits just outside town. All four fishing listings in this area point to Montrose Lake, which tells you something useful: this is a lake-fishing destination, full stop. The lake covers several hundred acres and holds a mix of species typical of central Missouri impoundments, including largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, and bluegill. It is not a trophy trout stream or a designated wild-trout water, so set expectations accordingly — this is a solid, accessible Midwest lake fishery that rewards anglers who learn its structure and seasonal patterns. Bank fishing access is available, and a boat ramp serves those who want to cover more water. The surrounding area is rural and quiet, which means lighter pressure than you would find at reservoirs closer to Kansas City. If you are driving out from the metro, it is roughly 90 minutes southeast, and the lack of crowds is a genuine advantage, particularly on weekday mornings in spring and fall when crappie and bass are most active near structure.
Montrose Lake supports largemouth bass, crappie, channel catfish, and bluegill, which are the standard species for central Missouri lake fisheries. Crappie fishing around submerged timber and dock structure tends to be the most consistent draw, particularly in spring.
Yes, a valid Missouri fishing permit is required for anyone 16 and older. You can purchase one online through the Missouri Department of Conservation website or at local retailers. Make sure to check current regulations for any lake-specific rules before your trip.
Sparrowfoot
~22 min drive
A worthwhile stop near MO.
Bucksaw
~34 min drive
A worthwhile stop near MO.
Truman Lake - Bucksaw Recreation Area
~54 min drive
Easy
Outlet Park
~1h 16m drive
A worthwhile stop near MO.
Pomme de Terre Lake - Pittsburg Landing
~1h 20m drive
Moderate
Berry Bend
~44 min drive
A worthwhile stop near MO.
Long Shoal
~46 min drive
A worthwhile stop near MO.
Bledsoe Ferry
~53 min drive
A worthwhile stop near MO.
Shawnee Bend
~51 min drive
A worthwhile stop near MO.
Osage Bluff
~55 min drive
A worthwhile stop near MO.
Thibaut Point
~53 min drive
A worthwhile stop near MO.
Crabtree Cove
~1h 17m drive
A worthwhile stop near MO.
Also worth it near here
Spring and fall are the most productive seasons. Crappie move shallow to spawn in April and May, making them easier to target near brush piles and timber. Bass fishing picks up through late spring and again in September and October as water temperatures drop.
Montrose Lake has a boat ramp for those who want to get out on the water, and bank fishing is also an option at accessible points around the lake. A boat or kayak gives you a significant advantage for reaching submerged structure where crappie and bass tend to hold.
For crappie, light spinning tackle with small jigs or live minnows is the standard approach. Bass anglers will want a mix of soft plastics and crankbaits to work different depths depending on the season. Catfish respond well to cut bait or chicken liver fished on the bottom, especially in warmer months after dark.
