Hazel Creek Lake Fishing Report Guide
Hazel Creek Lake Fishing Report Guide
Hello, friends! If you’re looking for a great fishing spot, Hazel Creek Lake at Thousand Hills State Park in Greentop, Missouri, is a fantastic choice. Whether you’re a fishing pro or a beginner, this guide will help you get the most out of your trip. So, grab your fishing gear and let’s explore all the wonderful things Hazel Creek Lake has to offer!
About Hazel Creek Lake Fishing Guide
Nestled in the picturesque Thousand Hills State Park, Hazel Creek Lake is a serene spot located in Greentop, Missouri. Managed by the Missouri Department of Conservation, this lake is known for its calm waters, beautiful surroundings, and excellent fishing opportunities. It’s a perfect place for fishing, boating, and enjoying nature.
Hazel Creek Lake Fishing Guide Details
Let’s dive into the specifics of Hazel Creek Lake:
- Water Surface: 530 acres
- Shoreline: 11 miles
- Average Depth: 20 feet
- Max Depth: 58 feet
- Surface Elevation: 1,020 feet
- Location: Greentop, Missouri
- Coordinates: 40.2897° N, 92.5655° W
- Accessibility: Boat ramps, fishing docks, and ample parking
- Type of Lake: Reservoir
- Lake Amenities: Boat rentals, fishing docks, picnic areas, hiking trails, restrooms, and a marina
Types of Fish in Hazel Creek Lake
Hazel Creek Lake is home to a variety of fish species. Here’s a breakdown of the types of fish you can find and where to look for them:
- Largemouth Bass: These fish are commonly found near submerged structures like fallen trees and rock piles. Early mornings and late evenings are the best times to catch them.
- Crappie: Often located in shallow waters near brush piles and docks, especially during the spring when they spawn.
- Bluegill: These fish are plentiful near the shorelines and around aquatic vegetation, making them great for family fishing trips.
- Channel Catfish: Typically found on the lake bottom near river channels and deep holes. They’re more active at night.
- Walleye: Prefer deeper waters, especially around drop-offs and underwater structures. Night fishing can yield great results.
- White Bass: Often schooling in open waters and can be caught near the surface during feeding times.
- Flathead Catfish: Found in deep, slow-moving waters, often near large submerged structures. They’re a bit more challenging to catch.
Best Fishing Baits, Lures, and Tackle Recommendations for Hazel Creek Lake Fishing Guide
Choosing the right bait and tackle is key to a successful fishing trip. Here are some recommendations tailored to the fish species at Hazel Creek Lake:
- Largemouth Bass:
- Baits: Live shiners, plastic worms, and crayfish
- Lures: Spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and topwater frogs
- Tackle: Medium-heavy rod with 12-15 lb. test line
- Crappie:
- Baits: Small minnows and worms
- Lures: Crappie jigs, spinners, and small soft plastics
- Tackle: Light rod with 4-8 lb. test line
- Bluegill:
- Baits: Worms, crickets, and small insects
- Lures: Small jigs, spinners, and flies
- Tackle: Ultra-light rod with 2-6 lb. test line
- Channel Catfish:
- Baits: Chicken liver, stink bait, and cut bait
- Lures: Typically, none needed, but weighted rigs help
- Tackle: Heavy rod with 15-30 lb. test line
- Walleye:
- Baits: Nightcrawlers, minnows, and leeches
- Lures: Jigs with soft plastics, crankbaits, and spinners
- Tackle: Medium rod with 10-14 lb. test line
- White Bass:
- Baits: Live minnows and shad
- Lures: Jigs, spoons, and small crankbaits
- Tackle: Medium rod with 8-12 lb. test line
- Flathead Catfish:
- Baits: Live bait such as bluegill or large minnows
- Lures: Not typically used; focus on natural baits
- Tackle: Heavy rod with 20-50 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 Hazel Creek Lake Fishing Guide
Hazel Creek Lake has several prime fishing spots. Here are some of the best locations to try your luck:
- North Cove: This area has rocky structures perfect for bass and crappie fishing.
- South Shoreline: Known for its deeper waters, it’s a hotspot for walleye and catfish.
- East Boat Ramp Area: Convenient and productive for various species, including bass and bluegill.
- West Fishing Dock: Accessible and great for families, this spot is ideal for catching bluegill and crappie.
- Dam Area: The deeper waters near the dam attract larger fish like walleye and catfish.
Fishing Tips and Recommendations for Hazel Creek Lake Fishing Guide
Here are some tips to help you have a successful fishing trip at Hazel Creek Lake:
- Time of Day: Early mornings and late evenings are generally the best times to fish.
- Seasonal Patterns: Spring and fall are prime fishing seasons, but summer evenings and winter mornings can also be productive.
- Weather Conditions: Overcast days tend to be better for fishing as fish are more active and less wary.
- Local Knowledge: Talk to local anglers or visit nearby bait shops for up-to-date information on where the fish are biting.
- Patience and Persistence: Sometimes the fish aren’t biting right away. Be patient, try different spots, and switch up your baits and lures.
Hazel Creek Lake Fishing Guide Reviews
Here are five positive reviews from fellow anglers who have enjoyed fishing at Hazel Creek Lake:
- Tom H.: “Hazel Creek Lake is my favorite spot for a relaxing day of fishing. The largemouth bass are always biting, and the scenery is just beautiful.”
- Jane M.: “Great place for a family fishing trip! My kids caught their first fish here, and the facilities are clean and well-maintained.”
- Bob S.: “The crappie fishing in the spring is phenomenal. I’ve never left without a cooler full of fish.”
- Lisa R.: “I love night fishing for catfish at Hazel Creek Lake. It’s peaceful, and the catches are fantastic.”
- Mark D.: “The variety of fish species here is amazing. I’ve caught bass, catfish, and even a big walleye all in one trip.”
Nearby RV Parks and Campgrounds for Hazel Creek Lake Fishing Guide
Planning to stay a while? Here are five top-rated RV parks and campgrounds near Hazel Creek Lake:
- Thousand Hills State Park Campground:
- Features: Electric hookups, restrooms, showers, and picnic areas
- Amenities: Hiking trails, marina, and boat rentals
- Distance to Lake: On-site
- Hickory Ridge RV Park:
- Features: Full hookups, Wi-Fi, and laundry facilities
- Amenities: Restrooms, showers, and picnic areas
- Distance to Lake: 10 miles
- Kirksville Campground:
- Features: Full hookups, Wi-Fi, and playground
- Amenities: Restrooms, showers, and picnic areas
- Distance to Lake: 8 miles
- Hidden Valley RV Resort:
- Features: Full hookups, Wi-Fi, and swimming pool
- Amenities: Laundry, restrooms, and playground
- Distance to Lake: 12 miles
- Big Creek RV Park:
- Features: Full hookups, cable TV, and Wi-Fi
- Amenities: Laundry, restrooms, and camp store
- Distance to Lake: 15 miles
Hazel Creek Lake Fishing Guide Summary
Hazel Creek Lake at Thousand Hills State Park in Greentop, Missouri, is a fantastic fishing destination that offers a diverse range of fish species, beautiful scenery, and great amenities. Whether you’re a seasoned angler or just starting, Hazel Creek Lake provides the perfect setting for a memorable fishing trip. With its variety of fishing spots, excellent bait and tackle options, and nearby RV parks, you’re all set for an amazing outdoor adventure. So pack your gear, grab your fishing buddies, and head to Hazel Creek Lake for a day of fun and fishing!
Frequently Asked Questions for Hazel Creek Lake Fishing Guide
- What is the best time to fish at Hazel Creek Lake? Early mornings and late evenings are generally the best times to fish. Spring and fall are the prime seasons.
- Do I need a fishing permit at Hazel Creek Lake? Yes, a valid Missouri fishing permit is required to fish at Hazel Creek Lake.
- Are there boat rentals available at Hazel Creek Lake? Yes, there are boat rentals available. Check with the lake’s marina for availability and rates.
- Can I fish from the shore at Hazel Creek Lake? Absolutely! There are plenty of spots along the shoreline where you can fish.
- Is Hazel Creek Lake kid-friendly? Yes, Hazel Creek Lake is great for family outings. There are easy access points and facilities that make it convenient and enjoyable for kids.
There you have it! Hazel Creek Lake is a treasure trove for fishing enthusiasts, offering everything you need for a perfect fishing adventure. So, get out there and make some great memories! Happy fishing!
