Fish and Wildlife

More than 4,000 of the lake's 7,190 water surface acres were left uncleared to provide the aquatic habitat that should provide excellent fishing for many years. Hundreds of irregularly shaped coves will furnish over 175 miles of shoreline fishing. The Missouri Department of Conservation fisheries biologists began building the fish populations in 1975 by stocking the 160-acre Trimble Lake, and numerous farm ponds which were inundated by lake waters. Since the permanent pool was established in October 1979, the biologists have continued to stock game species including largemouth bass, channel catfish, blue catfish, flathead catfish, bluegill, tiger muskie, and walleye. Crappie were already present in sufficient numbers so as not to require stocking.

The public may hunt on more than 7,000 acres in the Smithville wildlife management area. However, about 2,200 acres of land and water in the Honker Cove Waterfowl Refuge closes seasonally (October 15 – January 31) in accordance with waterfowl regulations. The boundaries of the public hunting lands and the refuge are shown on the Smithville Lake Brochure. Sportsmen should familiarize themselves with seasons, limits, and other regulations.

The primary tool utilized for resource management on project lands is our agricultural leasing program. By incorporating special conditions and restrictions, the program protects and conserves soil, water, vegetation and wildlife resources.

Smithville Lake's wildlife management area and water-fowl refuge are for all people to enjoy. Besides hunting and fishing, other recreation you may want to explore includes horseback riding, hiking, cross-country skiing, outdoor photography, nature study, and mushroom hunting.

Large mouth bass, channel catfish, blue catfish, flathead catfish, bluegill, walleye and crappie are all native fish caught at Smithville Lake. The average number of bass tournaments held annually on Smithville Lake is 300. To register your bass tournament on Smithville Lake or obtain a copy of tournaments scheduled, please contact the Missouri State Water Patrol at 573 751-3333. A Missouri fishing license is required for residents and non-residents. For more information, please visit the Missouri Department of Conservation website at http://www.mdc.mo.gov/.