Clearwater Lake Fishing Report Guide
Clearwater Lake Fishing Report Guide
Hey there, fishing enthusiasts! Welcome to the ultimate guide to fishing at Clearwater Lake, located on the beautiful Black River, just six miles from Piedmont, Missouri. This guide will provide you with everything you need to know about fishing at Clearwater Lake. From lake details to the best fishing spots, we’ve got you covered. So grab your fishing gear, and let’s dive in!
About Clearwater Lake Fishing
Clearwater Lake is a stunning reservoir situated in the Ozark foothills of southeastern Missouri. It’s known for its crystal-clear waters, scenic beauty, and fantastic fishing opportunities. The lake was created by the construction of Clearwater Dam on the Black River, primarily for flood control, but it has become a beloved spot for recreational activities, including fishing, boating, swimming, and camping.
The surrounding area is lush with forests, providing a picturesque backdrop for your fishing adventures. Clearwater Lake is not only a great place to catch fish but also to enjoy the tranquility of nature. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or a beginner, you’ll find Clearwater Lake to be an ideal fishing destination.
Clearwater Lake Fishing Details
Here are some quick facts about Clearwater Lake to get you acquainted:
- Water Surface: 1,630 acres
- Shoreline: 54 miles
- Average Depth: 21 feet
- Max Depth: 100 feet
- Surface Elevation: 498 feet above sea level
- Location: Wayne County, Missouri
- Coordinates: 37.1206° N, 90.7329° W
- Accessibility: Easily accessible by car, with multiple boat ramps and parking areas
- Type of Lake: Reservoir
- Lake Amenities: Boat ramps, picnic areas, swimming beaches, campgrounds, restrooms, and fishing piers
Types of Fish in Clearwater Lake
Clearwater Lake is home to a diverse range of fish species. Here’s a look at some of the most popular ones and where you’re likely to find them:
- Largemouth Bass
- Where to Find: Often found near submerged structures, fallen trees, and weed beds. Look for them in shallow waters during spring and fall, and deeper waters during the hot summer months.
- Tips: Early morning and late evening are the best times to catch largemouth bass. Use spinnerbaits, plastic worms, and topwater lures.
- Crappie
- Where to Find: They like to hang around submerged brush piles, fallen trees, and dock areas. Crappie are often found in schools.
- Tips: Use small jigs or live minnows. The best time to catch crappie is during the spring spawning season.
- Catfish
- Where to Find: Catfish are bottom dwellers and can be found in deeper parts of the lake, especially near creek channels and rocky areas.
- Tips: Night fishing with stink bait, chicken liver, or cut bait works well. Catfish are more active during warm weather.
- Bluegill
- Where to Find: These fish prefer shallow waters near the shore, especially around weed beds and submerged structures.
- Tips: Use small worms, crickets, or artificial baits. Bluegill are great for kids to catch due to their abundance and willingness to bite.
- White Bass
- Where to Find: White bass are often found in open waters, especially during their spawning run up the Black River.
- Tips: Use small spinners, jigs, or live minnows. They are most active in the spring and fall.
Best Fishing Baits, Lures, and Tackle Recommendations for Clearwater Lake Fishing
To have a successful fishing trip at Clearwater Lake, you’ll need the right gear. Here are some recommendations:
- Largemouth Bass
- Baits and Lures: Spinnerbaits, plastic worms, crankbaits, and topwater lures.
- Tackle: Medium-heavy rod, 10-20 lb test line.
- Crappie
- Baits and Lures: Small jigs, live minnows, tube baits.
- Tackle: Light rod, 2-6 lb test line.
- Catfish
- Baits and Lures: Stink bait, chicken liver, cut bait.
- Tackle: Heavy rod, 15-30 lb test line.
- Bluegill
- Baits and Lures: Small worms, crickets, small jigs.
- Tackle: Ultralight rod, 2-4 lb test line.
- White Bass
- Baits and Lures: Small spinners, jigs, live minnows.
- Tackle: Medium rod, 6-12 lb test line.
- 8 SEGMENTS LIFELIKE LURES: Designed with 8 segment multi-jointed body, TRUSCEND fishing lure can sink slowly and move flexible in water. In addition, life-like swimming actions make it attracting more catches and provoking predator fish to strike.
- BERKLEY POWERBAIT POWER MINNOW FRESHWATER SOFT PLASTIC BAITS: Featuring lifelike details, these pre-rigged Power Minnow baits have 3D eyes and holographic inserts to attract attention, making them an essential tool for any angler.
- ULTRA-SHARP OWNER HOOKS – Equipped with sharp high quality OWNER high carbon steel hooks and built-in magnet, the innovative design of these soft lures can help ensure increased fish hook ups in all situations while Reduce the odds getting hung up when fishing, thus saving your bait for future use.
- ✅ Purpose and Size: These grubs for fishing attract a wide variety of fish including trout, crappie, panfish, bluegill, bream, roach, carp and more. Using grub fishing lures that imitate worms offers many advantages over live worms or minnows. These crappie lures are equipped with an optimal size hook and a rubber grub. The hook dimensions are 10 mm wide and 25 mm long, and the length of the larva itself is 22 mm.
Best Fishing Spot Locations at Clearwater Lake Fishing
Finding the right spot can make all the difference. Here are some top spots around Clearwater Lake:
- Bluff View Marina Area
- Why It’s Great: This area is popular for bass and crappie fishing due to the submerged structures and marina docks.
- Webb Creek Recreation Area
- Why It’s Great: Known for good catfish and bass fishing, especially around the creek channel.
- Piedmont Park Access
- Why It’s Great: Offers easy shore fishing access with plenty of bluegill and crappie near the docks.
- Black River Inlet
- Why It’s Great: Excellent spot for white bass during the spring spawning run.
- Clearwater Dam Tailwater
- Why It’s Great: Great for catching catfish and white bass, especially in the tailwater area where the current attracts fish.
Fishing Tips and Recommendations for Clearwater Lake Fishing
To make the most of your fishing trip to Clearwater Lake, keep these tips in mind:
- Time of Day: Early morning and late evening are typically the best times to fish, as fish are more active during these cooler parts of the day.
- Seasonal Changes: Different seasons affect fish behavior. Spring and fall are generally the best times for fishing, while summer might require you to fish deeper waters.
- Weather Conditions: Overcast days can be great for fishing as fish tend to be more active. Avoid fishing during extreme weather conditions for safety.
- Local Regulations: Always check local fishing regulations and obtain the necessary permits. Follow size and bag limits to help preserve the fish population.
- Patience and Persistence: Fishing requires patience. If you’re not having luck in one spot, try moving to another. Sometimes small changes can make a big difference.
Clearwater Lake Fishing Reviews
Here are five positive reviews from fellow anglers who have enjoyed fishing at Clearwater Lake:
- John M. from St. Louis, MO
- “Clearwater Lake is my go-to spot for bass fishing. The scenery is breathtaking, and I’ve always had good luck near the Bluff View Marina. Highly recommend it!”
- Lisa T. from Springfield, MO
- “I took my kids fishing at Clearwater Lake, and we caught a ton of bluegill near the shore. The kids had a blast, and the lake is absolutely beautiful.”
- Mike R. from Little Rock, AR
- “The catfishing at Clearwater Lake is phenomenal. I’ve had great success using chicken liver at night. This place never disappoints.”
- Sarah W. from Memphis, TN
- “Crappie fishing here is excellent, especially in the spring. The locals are friendly and the lake is well-maintained. Can’t wait to come back!”
- Tom B. from Kansas City, MO
- “White bass fishing during the spring run is incredible. The action is non-stop, and the views are fantastic. Clearwater Lake is a gem.”
Top Rated RV Parks and Campgrounds Near Clearwater Lake
If you’re planning to stay overnight, here are five top-rated RV parks and campgrounds near Clearwater Lake:
- Bluff View Park
- Features: Full hookups, picnic areas, restrooms, and showers.
- Amenities: Boat ramps, swimming beach, hiking trails.
- Distance to Lake: On the shoreline, immediate access to the lake.
- Webb Creek Recreation Area
- Features: Electric and water hookups, tent sites, restrooms.
- Amenities: Boat ramps, fishing docks, picnic areas.
- Distance to Lake: Lakeside, immediate access to the lake.
- Piedmont Park Campground
- Features: Full hookups, restrooms, showers, laundry facilities.
- Amenities: Playground, picnic areas, boat ramps.
- Distance to Lake: 1 mile, easy access to the lake.
- Clearwater Lake Resort
- Features: Full hookups, cabins, tent sites, restrooms, showers.
- Amenities: Swimming pool, boat rentals, fishing docks.
- Distance to Lake: Lakeside, direct access to the lake.
- River Road Campground
- Features: Electric hookups, tent sites, restrooms.
- Amenities: Boat ramp, picnic areas, nature trails.
- Distance to Lake: 2 miles, short drive to the lake.
Clearwater Lake Fishing Summary
Clearwater Lake is a fantastic fishing destination in Missouri, offering a variety of fish species and beautiful scenery. Whether you’re casting for largemouth bass, crappie, catfish, bluegill, or white bass, you’re sure to have a memorable experience. With accessible fishing spots, excellent amenities, and nearby campgrounds, Clearwater Lake is perfect for a weekend getaway or a longer fishing adventure. Remember to follow local regulations, practice catch-and-release when appropriate, and most importantly, enjoy your time on the water.
Frequently Asked Questions for Clearwater Lake Fishing
Here are five FAQs about fishing at Clearwater Lake:
- What is the best time of year to fish at Clearwater Lake?
- The best times are during the spring and fall when fish are more active and water temperatures are cooler.
- Do I need a fishing license to fish at Clearwater Lake?
- Yes, a valid Missouri fishing license is required. Be sure to check local regulations for any specific requirements or restrictions.
- Can I rent a boat at Clearwater Lake?
- Yes, there are boat rental services available at the lake, especially at the marinas and some campgrounds.
- Are there any fishing tournaments held at Clearwater Lake?
- Yes, Clearwater Lake hosts several fishing tournaments throughout the year. Check local listings for upcoming events.
- What amenities are available at the lake for families?
- The lake offers picnic areas, swimming beaches, playgrounds, and hiking trails, making it a great destination for families.
That’s it for our guide to Clearwater Lake! We hope you found this information helpful and that you have a fantastic time fishing at this beautiful lake. Happy fishing, everyone!
