Fishing At McDaniel Lake

AKA: McDaniel Reservoir

What to fish for...

Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, white crappie, bluegill and white bass at McDaniel Lake in Missouri.

If you want to fish from the bank in the Springfield area, McDaniel Lake is a nice option. This little-known reservoir is primarily storage for drinking water. The only fishing allowed is from the bank, upstream from Grant Street Bridge.

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

The purpose of this page is to deliver an overview of this lake, the fishing options, and area amenities. Our goal is to provide info to first time visitors, as well as beginner and novice anglers. We gathered details from personal experience, numerous trusted websites, and videos of fishing activity on the lake. These websites include the Missouri Department of Conservation, marinas at the lake, campgrounds, boat rental agencies and others. By consolidating this information to one page it allows visitors to see the entire picture, all in one place.

Lake Video

McDaniel Lake is located in the southern section of Missouri and is a popular fishing destination for both locals and visitors. The lake offers a variety of fish species and a great fishing experience for anglers of all skill levels.

Largemouth and smallmouth bass are among the most popular fish species in McDaniel Lake. Anglers can target these bass using various techniques such as casting with crankbaits, plastic worms, or topwater lures, as well as jigging or drop-shotting. The lake's structure, including submerged rocks, points, and weed beds, provides excellent habitat for bass. Anglers can enjoy the thrill of hooking into a feisty bass while fishing in the pristine waters of McDaniel Lake.

Channel catfish is another prized catch in McDaniel Lake. Anglers can target catfish using techniques such as bottom fishing with cut bait, live bait, or prepared baits. The lake's deeper channels, submerged structures, and rocky areas serve as ideal locations to catch catfish. Anglers can experience the excitement of reeling in a powerful catfish while enjoying a day of fishing on McDaniel Lake.

White crappie and bluegill are also popular fish species in McDaniel Lake. Anglers can target crappie using techniques such as vertical jigging, casting with small jigs, or using crappie nibbles. Bluegill can be caught using techniques such as bobber fishing with live bait, casting small jigs or spinners, or using fly fishing techniques. These panfish provide excellent angling opportunities for both adults and young anglers.

McDaniel Lake in Missouri is a wonderful destination for anglers seeking largemouth and smallmouth bass, channel catfish, white crappie, bluegill, white bass, and other fish species. With its scenic setting, abundant fish population, and recreational amenities, McDaniel Lake provides a memorable fishing experience for all who visit.

This 300-acre lake is not open to boating of any kind. Catfish are the most sought after species here, but the lake also has nice populations of bass, crappie and sunfish - all available for those willing to hike a bit.

Primary fish species residing in McDaniel Lake

Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.

McDaniel Lake Amenities

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

Today's Weather & Forecast

Click here for a Missouri Fishing License.

Find camping facilities near the lake provide opportunities for overnight stays and a chance to fully immerse in the beauty of the surrounding natural environment.