Guide To Fishing At Bull Shoals Lake

AKA: Bull Shoals

What to fish for...

Fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, spotted bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, black crappie, white crappie, walleye, rainbow trout, bluegill, longear sunfish, warmouth, white bass and striped bass at Bull Shoals Lake in Missouri.

For outdoor enthusiasts, the Bull Shoals Lake area is a great destination, whether for fishing, camping, hiking, vacation or simply a place to take the family for a weekend. Great bass fishing, crappie fishing, catfish and many other species are abundant.

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

Located in both Missouri and Arkansas, Bull Shoals Lake is a popular fishing destination that offers excellent angling opportunities for a variety of fish species. The lake is known for its clear waters and diverse fish populations, attracting anglers from far and wide.

Bull Shoals Lake is a haven for bass fishing enthusiasts, providing ample opportunities to catch largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass. The lake's structure, including submerged timber, rocky points, and brush piles, creates ideal habitats for these bass species. Anglers can enjoy casting topwater lures along the shorelines, working soft plastics around structure, or trolling deep diving crankbaits to entice these prized game fish.

Walleye is another sought-after species in Bull Shoals Lake. Known for their tasty meat and challenging nature, walleye can be found in the lake's deeper sections and near points and drop-offs. Anglers often target them using live bait such as minnows or leeches, as well as artificial lures like jigs or crankbaits. Spring and fall are particularly productive seasons for walleye fishing when these fish are more active.

Rainbow trout is a popular cold water species in Bull Shoals Lake. The Missouri Department of Conservation regularly stocks the lake with rainbow trout, offering anglers the chance to test their skills in pursuing these prized fish. Anglers can use a variety of techniques such as trolling with spoons or spinners, fly fishing with nymphs or streamers, or still fishing with live bait to catch rainbow trout.

For those seeking a thrill, Bull Shoals Lake is also home to striped bass, which can grow to impressive sizes. Anglers can target these powerful fish by trolling or casting large swimbaits, crankbaits, or live bait near underwater structure or deep channels. Striped bass fishing is especially productive during the cooler months and can provide anglers with memorable battles.

Other fish species found in Bull Shoals Lake include black and white crappie, white bass, bluegill, and various panfish. These species offer additional angling opportunities for those seeking a mixed bag or a family-friendly fishing experience.

Bull Shoals Lake's scenic beauty, abundant fish populations, and wide range of fishing opportunities make it a favorite among anglers. In addition to fishing, the lake also provides excellent opportunities for boating and camping, allowing visitors to fully immerse themselves in the outdoor experience. Whether you're an avid angler, a nature enthusiast, or a family looking for a fun-filled vacation, Bull Shoals Lake has something to offer for everyone.

There is plenty of access and boat ramps in both Missouri and Arkansas. Be sure to add this 71,000-acre lake to your future fishing plans. There is over 1,000 miles of shoreline, plenty of which is accessible for bank fishing. Bass boats, kayaks, canoes, pontoons and fishing boats of all kinds can get you to healthy populations of fish. Multiple marinas and boat rental options are conveniently located around the lake.

Primary fish species residing in Bull Shoals Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Bull Shoals 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

Fishing Boat Rentals

Beaver Creek Marina
Rentals: Fishing boats
417 546-5121

K Dock Marina
Rentals: Pontoon boats
417 334-2880

Pontiac Cove Marina
Rentals: Pontoon boats and kayaks
417 679-3676

Theodosia Marina-Resort
Rentals: Bass boat/fishing boats and pontoons
417 273-4444

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Noland Point Boat Launch Ramp
Located mid lake, on the north side of the lake, off Road 199, this is a two-lane, gravel ramp with gravel parking.

Spring Creek Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast corner of the lake, off HH Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Theodosia Marina Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northeast corner of the lake, off I-160, this is a multi-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.