Thomas Hill Reservoir Fishing Report Guide
Thomas Hill Reservoir Fishing Report Guide
Hello, fellow fishing enthusiasts! Welcome to our ultimate guide to fishing at Thomas Hill Reservoir, a prime fishing spot located in Randolph and Macon Counties, Missouri. If you’re looking for a peaceful getaway with great fishing opportunities, Thomas Hill Reservoir is the place for you. This guide will cover everything you need to know about the lake, including its details, types of fish, best baits and lures, fishing spots, and nearby campgrounds. So grab your fishing gear, and let’s dive in!
About Thomas Hill Reservoir Fishing
Thomas Hill Reservoir, also known as Thomas Hill Lake, was created by the Associated Electric Cooperative for cooling water for their power plant. Over time, it has become a beloved spot for fishing and other recreational activities. This man-made lake offers a serene environment with abundant wildlife, making it a perfect destination for a relaxing fishing trip.
Thomas Hill Reservoir Fishing Details
Let’s start with some essential details about Thomas Hill Reservoir:
- Water Surface: 4,950 acres
- Shoreline: 85 miles
- Average Depth: 20 feet
- Max Depth: 50 feet
- Surface Elevation: 660 feet above sea level
- Location: Randolph and Macon Counties, Missouri
- Coordinates: 39.6022° N, 92.4506° W
- Accessibility: Multiple public access points and boat ramps
- Type of Lake: Man-made reservoir
- Lake Amenities: Boat ramps, fishing piers, picnic areas, campgrounds, and hiking trails
Types of Fish in Thomas Hill Reservoir
Thomas Hill Reservoir is home to a variety of fish species, making it an excellent fishing spot. Here’s a detailed look at the types of fish you can catch and where to find them:
Largemouth Bass
Location: Found in shallow waters near structures such as fallen trees, docks, and weed beds. During the spring and early summer, they are more active and easier to catch.
Best Baits and Lures: Live minnows, plastic worms, spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and topwater lures.
Hybrid Striped Bass
Location: Often located in open waters and can be caught near the surface during feeding times, particularly in the early morning and late evening.
Best Baits and Lures: Live shad, minnows, jigs, spoons, and small crankbaits.
Channel Catfish
Location: These bottom dwellers are commonly found in deeper parts of the lake, especially near drop-offs and river channels. Night fishing can be particularly effective.
Best Baits and Lures: Stink baits, chicken liver, nightcrawlers, and catfish rigs with heavy sinkers.
Flathead Catfish
Location: Usually found in areas with plenty of cover like logs and rocky outcrops. They prefer deeper waters and are more active during the night.
Best Baits and Lures: Live bluegill, large minnows, large jigs, and catfish rigs.
Crappie (Black and White)
Location: Typically found near submerged structures and brush piles. The best time to catch crappie is during the spring spawning season.
Best Baits and Lures: Live minnows, small jigs, tube jigs, and small spinners.
Bluegill
Location: Found in shallow waters near weed beds and docks, especially during the summer months.
Best Baits and Lures: Worms, crickets, small insects, small jigs, and spinners.
Carp
Location: Often found in shallow, muddy areas of the lake. They are active throughout the day, especially in warmer months.
Best Baits and Lures: Corn, dough balls, bread, and no special lures needed.
Best Fishing Baits, Lures, and Tackle Recommendations for Thomas Hill Reservoir Fishing
Choosing the right bait and tackle is crucial for a successful fishing trip. Here are some specific recommendations for Thomas Hill Reservoir:
Largemouth Bass
- Baits: Live minnows, plastic worms, and crayfish
- Lures: Spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and topwater lures
- Tackle: Medium-heavy rod with a baitcasting reel
Hybrid Striped Bass
- Baits: Live shad and minnows
- Lures: Jigs, spoons, and small crankbaits
- Tackle: Medium-light rod with a spinning reel
Channel Catfish
- Baits: Stink baits, chicken liver, and nightcrawlers
- Lures: Catfish rigs with heavy sinkers
- Tackle: Medium-heavy rod with a spinning or baitcasting reel
Flathead Catfish
- Baits: Live bluegill and large minnows
- Lures: Large jigs and catfish rigs
- Tackle: Heavy rod with a baitcasting reel
Crappie
- Baits: Live minnows and small jigs
- Lures: Tube jigs and small spinners
- Tackle: Light rod with a spinning reel
Bluegill
- Baits: Worms, crickets, and small insects
- Lures: Small jigs and spinners
- Tackle: Ultralight rod with a spinning reel
Carp
- Baits: Corn, dough balls, and bread
- Lures: None needed, as they are primarily caught using bait
- Tackle: Medium-heavy rod with a spinning reel
- 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 Thomas Hill Reservoir Fishing
Thomas Hill Reservoir has numerous prime fishing spots. Here are some top locations to check out:
- South Fork Area: Great for bass and crappie fishing near the submerged structures and brush piles.
- Cottonwood Point: A popular spot for hybrid striped bass and catfish, especially near the deeper waters.
- Thomas Hill Access: Known for its easy access to shore fishing and a variety of fish species, including bluegill and carp.
- Windmill Point: Offers excellent opportunities for bass and crappie fishing with plenty of submerged structures.
- North Shore: Ideal for catfish and hybrid striped bass, with deep waters and plenty of cover.
Fishing Tips and Recommendations for Thomas Hill Reservoir Fishing
To make the most of your fishing trip to Thomas Hill Reservoir, keep these tips in mind:
- Time of Day: Early morning and late evening are the best times to fish, as fish are more active during these cooler parts of the day.
- Season: Spring and fall are prime fishing seasons, with fish more likely to bite due to cooler water temperatures.
- Weather: Overcast days can be excellent for fishing, as fish tend to be more active when the sun isn’t as intense.
- Structure: Focus on areas with structures like fallen trees, docks, and submerged brush piles, as fish often use these for cover.
- Patience: Fishing requires patience and persistence. Don’t be discouraged if you don’t get a bite right away.
Thomas Hill Reservoir Fishing Reviews
Here are five positive reviews from anglers who have enjoyed fishing at Thomas Hill Reservoir:
- Sara M.: “Thomas Hill Reservoir is my favorite fishing spot! The variety of fish and the peaceful environment make it a perfect place to unwind. I’ve had great success with bass near the South Fork Area.”
- Ryan P.: “I’ve been fishing at Thomas Hill for years, and it never disappoints. The facilities are well-maintained, and the fishing is always good. My favorite spot is Cottonwood Point for hybrid striped bass.”
- Jessica L.: “Thomas Hill Reservoir offers some of the best fishing in Missouri. The fishing piers at Thomas Hill Access are fantastic, and I’ve caught some big catfish there.”
- Mike T.: “I love fishing at Thomas Hill Reservoir! The variety of fish and the beautiful scenery make it a perfect getaway. Windmill Point is my go-to spot for crappie fishing.”
- David R.: “Thomas Hill Reservoir is a hidden gem for anglers. The North Shore area is great for catfish, and I’ve had some amazing catches there. Highly recommend it!”
Nearby RV Parks and Campgrounds for Thomas Hill Reservoir Fishing
For those looking to extend their stay and enjoy the great outdoors, here are five top-rated RV parks and campgrounds near Thomas Hill Reservoir:
- Thomas Hill Campground
- Features: Electric and water hookups, restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and playgrounds
- Amenities: Boat ramp, fishing pier, hiking trails
- Distance to Lake: On the lake
- Randolph County State Park Campground
- Features: Full hookups, restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and playgrounds
- Amenities: Boat ramp, fishing pier, hiking trails
- Distance to Lake: 5 miles
- Long Branch State Park Campground
- Features: Electric and water hookups, restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and playgrounds
- Amenities: Boat ramp, fishing pier, hiking trails
- Distance to Lake: 10 miles
- Macon City RV Park
- Features: Full hookups, restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and laundry facilities
- Amenities: Nearby shops and restaurants
- Distance to Lake: 15 miles
- Pershing State Park Campground
- Features: Electric and water hookups, restrooms, showers, picnic areas, and playgrounds
- Amenities: Boat ramp, fishing pier, hiking trails
- Distance to Lake: 20 miles
Thomas Hill Reservoir Fishing Summary
Thomas Hill Reservoir is a fantastic destination for fishing enthusiasts of all levels. With its abundant fish species, beautiful scenery, and excellent facilities, it’s no wonder that it’s a favorite spot for many anglers. Whether you’re looking to catch largemouth bass, hybrid striped bass, catfish, crappie, bluegill, or carp, Thomas Hill Reservoir has something for everyone. Don’t forget to check out the nearby RV parks and campgrounds to make the most of your fishing adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions for Thomas Hill Reservoir Fishing
1. What are the best times to fish at Thomas Hill Reservoir?
The best times to fish are early morning and late evening, as fish are more active during these cooler parts of the day.
2. What types of fish can I catch at Thomas Hill Reservoir?
You can catch largemouth bass, hybrid striped bass, channel catfish, flathead catfish, crappie (black and white), bluegill, and carp.
3. Are there any boat rental facilities at the lake?
Boat rental facilities are not available at Thomas Hill Reservoir. However, there are multiple boat ramps available for those who bring their own boats.
4. Are there any special events or fishing tournaments held at the lake?
Yes, Thomas Hill Reservoir occasionally hosts fishing tournaments and other special events. Check local listings and the Missouri Department of Conservation’s website for upcoming events.
5. Is there a fee to access the lake or use the boat ramps?
No, there is no fee to access Thomas Hill Reservoir or use the boat ramps. The lake is open to the public for free.
So, what are you waiting for? Pack your fishing gear and head over to Thomas Hill Reservoir for an unforgettable fishing experience. Tight lines, and happy fishing!
