Fishing Big Lake

Popular Fish Species
Big Lake Fishing Video
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Boat Launch Ramps
Fishing License
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Contact Info

Big Lake, MO

Popular Fish Species Big Lake, MO

Largemouth Bass Fishing

Big Lake is a decent bass fishing lake. Weekend anglers find the fishing to be slow at times, yet pretty good at other times. Fishing for bass can be quite rewarding, with an occasional bass over 3 pounds being caught. Bass often move shallow and become aggressive when they are in a feeding mood. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap. Around grass, use worms, jigs, topwater and spinnerbaits. In deeper water, drop shot rigs, big worms, jigs and spoons are good options. In winter, spend your time fishing deeper structure where the bass spend much of their time.

Channel Catfish Fishing

To fish for catfish on Big Lake, most any rod and reel will work, as long as the line is strong enough. Use a slip sinker or Carolina rig with popular catfish baits on at least 10-pound line. Use sharp hooks with bait holders on the shank, or circle hooks for live bait. The typical fish are about 2 pounds, with larger ones caught frequently. Night fishing for catfish often delivers better results than daytime fishing. Fishing for channel catfish is often most productive around any kind of structure in the area.

White Crappie Fishing

Big Lake is home to schools of white crappie. The fish population is decent and crappie fishing is fair to good, especially from Spring to Early Fall. The best time to catch crappie tends to be at dawn and dusk. Crappie always like cover and structure, so locate shallow brush and vegetation in Spring and Fall focusing on the 8 to 12 foot range. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here.

Big Lake Fishing Video

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish, white crappie and bluegill at Big Lake in Missouri.

Located in northwest MO, Big Lake is a 646-acre oxbow lake offering a variety of outdoor activities. Camping, hiking, wildlife viewing and fishing are the main attractions. Bass, crappie, sunfish and catfish attract anglers for a day of fishing. Bring your own boat or rent a canoe or kayak from the state park. There are several areas with access to shoreline for fishing from the bank. Big Lake in Missouri is known for its abundance of largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish, and white crappie.

Primary fish species residing in Big Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Big Lake Amenities

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: NO
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Big Lake State Park Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast corner of the lake, off State Park Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.