Fishing Stockton Lake

AKA: Stockton Reservoir

Fish species to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, white crappie, walleye, bluegill and white bass at Stockton Lake in Missouri.

A boating paradise, Stockton Lake is a 25,000 acre impoundment with 300 miles of shoreline for camping, hiking, picnicking and some great fishing. Bass, catfish, crappie, walleye and others await anglers of all ages.

Lake Video
Available Fish Species
Amenities
Today's Weather & Forecast
Rental Boats
Marinas
Boat Launch Ramps
Campgrounds & RV Parks
Map
Contact Info

Lake Video

Stockton Lake, situated in southwest Missouri, is a premier fishing destination known for its crystal-clear waters and diverse fish populations. The lake spans over 24,000 acres, offering ample space for anglers to explore and enjoy their fishing adventures.

Bass fishing is particularly popular at Stockton Lake, with largemouth, spotted, and smallmouth bass being the primary targets. The lake's structure, including submerged points, rock formations, and brush piles, provide excellent habitats for these prized game fish. Anglers can use a variety of techniques such as casting soft plastics, crankbaits, or topwater lures to entice bass. The lake's healthy bass populations and scenic surroundings make it a favorite among bass anglers.

Walleye is another sought-after species at Stockton Lake. These elusive fish can be found near points, drop-offs, or rocky structures, particularly during the spring and fall seasons. Anglers often target walleye using live bait such as minnows or nightcrawlers, as well as artificial lures like jigs or crankbaits. Successful walleye fishing requires patience and finesse, making it an exciting challenge for anglers.

Catfish enthusiasts will find plenty of action at Stockton Lake, with channel catfish and flathead catfish being the most common species. Anglers can target catfish near submerged structures, deep holes, or along the lake's channels. Using cut bait, live bait, or prepared stink baits can attract these bottom-dwelling predators. Stockton Lake's catfish populations offer great opportunities for both novice and experienced catfish anglers.

White crappie is another popular species at Stockton Lake, particularly during the spring and fall seasons when they move into shallower waters to spawn and feed. Anglers can find crappie around submerged brush piles, docks, and other structures. Fishing with small jigs, live minnows, or crappie tubes can result in successful catches. The lake's healthy crappie populations provide exciting angling opportunities.

Other species found in Stockton Lake include white bass and bluegill, which offer additional angling experiences and are particularly popular among young or novice anglers.

Stockton Lake in Missouri offers a diverse range of popular fish species, making it a haven for anglers of all skill levels. Whether you're targeting bass, walleye, catfish, or crappie, the lake provides an exciting fishing experience. With its beautiful surroundings and recreational amenities, Stockton Lake is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families looking to enjoy nature's bounty.

Primary fish species residing in Stockton Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Stockton Lake Amenities

Marina: YES
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: YES
Convenience Store: YES
Bait & Tackle: YES
Restaurant: YES

Today's Weather & Forecast

Stockton Lake not only provides excellent fishing opportunities but also offers a range of recreational activities such as boating and camping. Anglers can explore the lake's scenic beauty, indulge in water sports, or simply relax in the peaceful camping grounds. The lake's multiple boat ramps, marinas, and camping facilities cater to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts.

Marinas and boat launch facilities are located around the lake along with motels, restaurants and convenience stores. Stockton Lake is also a sailing paradise. Put Stockton Lake on your outdoor calendar, you'll want to come back again and again.

Fishing Boat Rentals

Mutton Creek Marina & Campgrounds
Rentals: Bass boats, canoes, kayaks and pontoon boats
417 995-3355

Stockton State Park Marina
Rentals: Bass boats, canoes, kayaks and pontoon boats
417 276-5329

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Aldrich Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast corner of the lake, at the north end of the Highway 123 Bridge, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with gravel parking.

Crabtree Cove Park Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, east side, off 1791 Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

High Point Access Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast corner of the lake, off S 19th Street, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Cedar Ridge Park Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, on the south side of the lake, off Highway RA, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Greenfield Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest corner of the lake, at the south end of the Highway CC Bridge, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Hawker Point Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off H Highway, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Masters Park Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, on the north side of the lake, off Corp Of Engineers Road, this is a four-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Mutton Creek Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, east side, at the east end of the Highway Y Bridge, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Ruark Bluff Beach Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, at the south end of the Highway H Bridge, this is a three-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Stockton Public Use Area Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, off RB Boat Ramp Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Stockton State Park Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest section of the lake, east side, off Boat Ramp Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Stockton State Park Marina Boat Ramp
Located mid lake, on the south side of the lake, off 2000 Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Umberland Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, west side, off E 1860 Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.