Fishing Charters in Missouri
Browse fishing charters in Missouri that can help you catch smallmouth bass.
Loz Guide Service
Kaiser, Missouri
Proffesional Fishing Guide Services
Marshall, Missouri
Out The Mud Catfishing
St. Louis, Missouri
Hawg Stump Guide Services
Dodson Guide Service
Come experience fishing in Missouri with Dodson Guide Service. Our expert fishing guide will provide a great time on the water and help you catch the big one!
Bransons Reel Fishing
Greenough Fishing Guide Service
Maloneys Fishing Guide Service
Your Trip Begins Here With Maloney's Fishing Guide Service, your fishing experience exceeds all expectations. Book Your Trip Today Take a Trip With Captain Parker Being native to the Ozarks, Captain Parker turned his passion for the lakes into his livelihood. Parker is the second generation to be raised on Table Rock Lake and Lake…
Branson Fish Tales
Welcome - YOUR Fishing Guide Branson MO - We Wanna Take YOU Fishin' Professional Commercially Insured and Licensed by the US Coast Guard.
Lake Ozark Fishing Guide Service
Ozark Trout Runners
Hooked On Branson Fishing Guide Service
We're Branson's premier fishing charter and offer fishing trips on Table Rock Lake, Lake Taneycomo and Bull Shoals Lake. Book your trip today!
Best Time to Catch Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass can be caught year-round in Kansas City. Right now in February, activity is low.
Seasonal Activity Chart
Smallmouth Bass
Kansas City offers some surprisingly good smallmouth bass fishing opportunities. The rocky stretches of the Missouri River, along with tributaries like the Blue River, are prime locations. Additionally, nearby reservoirs such as Longview Lake and Shawnee Mission Lake hold populations of smallmouth. Spring and fall are the most productive times, as smallmouth become more active in cooler water. Look for rocky structure, current breaks, and submerged wood. Crayfish imitations, tubes, and spinnerbaits are effective lures. A local tip: Smallmouth in the Missouri River can be challenging to target due to the strong current. Focus on eddies and slack water areas behind rocks and other obstructions. Also, be aware of changing water levels, which can significantly impact fish location. When fishing the reservoirs, target rocky points and riprap areas. The smallmouth in this region tend to be opportunistic feeders, so experiment with different lure presentations to find what they're biting.
How to Catch Smallmouth Bass
Smallmouth Bass Fishing Regulations in Missouri
Open Season
Year-round
Daily Bag Limit
1 per day
Size Limit
12-inch minimum length limit on streams; varies on some impoundments
License Required
Fishing permit
Check specific regulations for impoundments as length limits may vary.
⚠️ Always verify current regulations with the Missouri state wildlife agency before fishing.
Related Species in Missouri
Frequently Asked Questions
Where are some good spots to catch smallmouth bass near Kansas City?
Try the smaller rivers and streams around Kansas City. Focus on areas with rocky bottoms, riffles, and deeper pools. The La Cygne Reservoir is also known to hold some quality smallmouth.
What's the minimum size smallmouth bass I can keep in Missouri?
In Missouri streams, you can keep smallmouth bass that are 12 inches or longer. However, size limits can vary on some impoundments, so be sure to check local regulations.
What is the daily bag limit for smallmouth bass in Missouri?
You are allowed to keep 1 smallmouth bass per day in Missouri.
What's a good bait to use for smallmouth bass in the Kansas City area?
Smallmouth bass in this area respond well to various lures and baits. Popular choices include crankbaits, spinnerbaits, jigs, and live bait like crawfish or nightcrawlers.
More Smallmouth Bass Fishing in Missouri
Other Species to Fish in Kansas City
Ready to Catch Smallmouth Bass in Kansas City?
Book a trip with an expert guide who knows the best local spots and techniques.