Fishing Clearwater Lake

AKA: Clearwater Reservoir

Fish species to fish for...

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

Located in the southeast corner of the state, Clearwater Lake is 1,630-acre reservoir on the Black River. Just six miles from Piedmont, MO you can fish for bass, crappie, catfish and sunfish. There are 27 miles of shoreline, sections of which are accessible for fishing from the bank.

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

Lake Video

Clearwater Lake is located in the southeast section of Missouri and offers exceptional fishing opportunities for anglers. The lake is known for its clear waters and abundant fish population, making it a popular destination for anglers seeking various species.

Largemouth and spotted bass are among the most sought-after fish species at Clearwater Lake. Anglers can test their skills by targeting these bass using a variety of techniques, such as casting with topwater lures, working plastic worms or jigs near submerged structures, or trolling with crankbaits. The lake's rocky shorelines, submerged timber, and brush piles provide excellent hiding spots for bass, creating an exciting and rewarding fishing experience.

Catfish enthusiasts will also find plenty of action at Clearwater Lake, with both channel and flathead catfish present in good numbers. Anglers can employ a range of techniques to target catfish, such as bottom fishing with live or cut bait, using stink baits, or setting trotlines or jug lines. Fishing near the lake's deeper areas or along the shoreline can yield impressive catches of catfish.

Crappie fishing is also popular at Clearwater Lake, with both black and white crappie available. Anglers can target crappie using jigs, minnows, or crappie nibbles around submerged structures, brush piles, or drop-offs. These panfish provide exciting angling opportunities, especially during the spawning season when they congregate in large numbers.

Bluegill, a favorite among many anglers, can be found in good numbers at Clearwater Lake. These feisty panfish can be caught using simple and effective techniques such as bobber fishing with live bait, casting small jigs or spinners, or fly fishing with small nymphs or poppers. Bluegill provide fun-filled angling experiences and are often found near weed edges or around submerged structures.

Clearwater Lake in Missouri is a fantastic destination for anglers seeking largemouth and spotted bass, catfish, crappie, and bluegill. With its diverse fishery, clear waters, and opportunities for boating and camping, Clearwater Lake provides a memorable fishing experience for anglers of all levels of expertise.

Two marinas serve the boating visitors and there are public boat ramps for launching. Plenty of good fishing water is available via a canoe, kayak or row boat. Lots of submerged brush and vegetation concentrate the baitfish as well as the bass and crappie. Catfish tend to hang out near the river channels and the shallow feeding areas close to the channel.

Primary fish species residing in Clearwater Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Clearwater 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: NEARBY

Today's Weather & Forecast

In addition to the excellent fishing opportunities, Clearwater Lake offers boating and camping facilities for outdoor enthusiasts. Anglers can enjoy boating on the lake, whether it's a motorized boat, kayak, or canoe, and explore different fishing spots.

Fishing Boat Rentals

Bluff View Marina
Rentals: Pontoon boats
573 223-4849

Webb Creek Marina
Rentals: Pontoon boats
573 461-2344

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Piedmont Park Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southeast corner of the lake, off Camping Area B Road, this is a multi-lane, concrete ramp with docks and paved parking.

Webb Creek Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southwest corner of the lake, off H Road, this is a multi-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.