Guide To Fishing At Council Bluff Lake

AKA: Council Bluff Reservoir

What to fish for...

Fishing for largemouth bass, channel catfish, black crappie, bluegill and redear sunfish at Council Bluff Lake in Missouri.

Fishing is one of the primary activities at Council Bluff Lake, which is a 444-acre reservoir 15 miles west of Belleview, MO. Anglers will find good populations of catfish, bass, crappie and sunfish. Two excellent boat launch facilities make it easy to launch watercraft.

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

Council Bluff Lake is located in the eastern section of Missouri and offers great fishing opportunities for anglers of all ages and skill levels. The lake is known for its peaceful surroundings and abundant fish population, making it a popular destination for fishing enthusiasts.

Largemouth bass are one of the most sought-after fish species at Council Bluff Lake. Anglers can test their skills by targeting these feisty bass using various techniques such as casting with topwater lures, working plastic worms or jigs around submerged structures, or trolling with crankbaits. The lake's rocky shorelines, submerged timber, and weed beds provide excellent habitat for largemouth bass, offering anglers an exciting and rewarding fishing experience.

Bluegill, a popular panfish species, can be found in good numbers at Council Bluff Lake. These fish provide great fun for anglers, especially those targeting them with 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 are often found near weed beds, brush piles, or other submerged structures.

Channel catfish are another popular fish species found in Council Bluff Lake. Anglers can target these catfish using a variety of baits such as live or cut bait, stink baits, or chicken livers. Fishing near the lake's deeper areas or along the shoreline can increase the chances of catching channel catfish. These fish are known for their hard-fighting nature and provide a thrilling angling experience.

Black crappie, another sought-after species, can be found in Council Bluff Lake. Anglers can target crappie by fishing around submerged structures, brush piles, or drop-offs using small jigs, minnows, or crappie nibbles. These panfish are known for their tasty flesh and are often sought after by anglers looking for a rewarding fishing experience.

Sunfish, including various species such as redear sunfish and green sunfish, can also be found in Council Bluff Lake. These small but abundant fish are perfect for introducing young anglers to the joys of fishing. Anglers can catch sunfish using basic techniques such as bobber fishing with live bait or casting small jigs or spinners. They provide a great opportunity for anglers to enjoy a relaxed and fun-filled fishing outing.

In addition to the excellent fishing opportunities, Council Bluff 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, to explore different fishing spots and enjoy the scenic beauty of the lake. Camping facilities are available nearby, allowing anglers to extend their fishing trips and immerse themselves in the tranquility of nature.

Council Bluff Lake in Missouri is a wonderful destination for anglers seeking largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish, black crappie, and sunfish. With its diverse fishery, peaceful surroundings, and opportunities for boating and camping, Council Bluff Lake provides an enjoyable fishing experience for anglers of all ages and skill levels.

The lake only allows "no-wake speeds", so canoes, kayaks and electric-powered boats are ideal for fishing here. Roadway access is limited to most of the lake. Reaching the majority of shoreline requires a bit of hiking, but anglers preferring to fish from shore will have large sections of the lake to themselves - if they don't mind the walk.

Primary fish species residing in Council Bluff Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

Council Bluff Lake Amenities

Marina: NO
Boat Rental: YES
Boat Launch Ramp: YES
Campgrounds: YES
RV Hookups: YES
Lodging: NO
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: NO
Restaurant: NO

Today's Weather & Forecast

Public Boat Launch Ramps & Landings

Council Bluff Lake Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the northwest corner of the lake, off DD Road, this is a two-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and paved parking.

Enough Boat Launch Ramp
Located in the southern tip of the lake, off Enough Road, this is a one-lane, concrete ramp with a dock and gravel parking.

Click here for a Missouri Fishing License.