Northern Pike

While not as famous for Northern Pike as some northern states, the Lake of the Ozarks near Barnett, Missouri, does hold a population of these toothy predators. It's a bit of an under-the-radar fishery, but persistence can pay off. Focus your efforts in the upper reaches of the lake, where the Osage River flows in, and in the cooler months (October-April). Pike will often be found around submerged timber, creek channels, and weed edges. The water can be quite clear at times, so using fluorocarbon leaders is recommended. Finding submerged creek channels using your electronics can be a real key to success here. Consider targeting them during the pre-spawn period in early spring. Access to the lake is plentiful, with numerous public boat ramps. The pike population is not as dense as in more northern climates, but the chance of landing a truly large fish is there, making it a worthwhile pursuit for dedicated anglers.