A new season of trout fishing is underway, catch-and-keep. Several parks around Missouri offer this variety of fishing, including Maramec Spring Park, Bennett Spring State Park, Montauk State Park, and Roaring River State Park.
A 90 minute drive from downtown St. Louis, Maramec Spring Park would be the closest option. This majestic spring is the fifth-largest spring in the state and maintains a 56–58-degree water temperature all year long. The Meramec River feeds it daily, providing optimal fishing conditions.
James Foundation, who runs the park, and the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) work together to keep patrons and fish happy all season long. The MDC maintains a fish hatchery within the park and restocks the spring daily.
Wesley Swee, Director of the James Foundation, explains the process. “We take care of the people and MDC raise and take care of the fish.” Adding, “We keep track of every angler coming into the park. In fact, our records date back to 1958.”
Weather plays a pivotal role in fishing. When the Meramec River floods, it creates high water in the spring, making the spring appear more like a lake. This changes how fish react in the water.
“Higher water. The fish are biting better because there’s more food in the water,” says Swee.
However, he urges anglers to change tactics during times of flooding. “Flooding changes the color of the water from a clear blue to more of a chocolate milk.”
Adding “trout are visual feeders. During higher water, you will want to change your tactics by using colorful or even vibrating lures.”
As most fish enthusiast know, time of day and sky coverage remains important. Middle of the day during hot and sunny conditions will minimize your chances of catching fish. “The water will be too warm and fish won’t be as active,” says Swee.
He suggests going around sunrise or just after sunset to improve your chances and even recommends waiting for a cloudy day.
Rules to follow:
Five is the maximum number of rainbow trout you may keep
A brown trout must be greater than 15 inches long to keep
A Missouri Fishing Permit and a Daily Trout Tag are required to fish
The spring is open daily for fishing from sunrise to sunset. At the time of closing, a whistle will sound to let everyone know it’s time to leave the park. This is also the time when the MDC restocks the spring for the next day.
There is a $5 fee per car to enter the park or a $50 yearly per car membership. The money goes to the nonprofit James Foundation to help maintain the park. You must also possess a state fishing license to legally fish at the park.
If fishing isn’t your thing, other amenities at this park include playgrounds, camping, hiking and wildlife viewing. It’s worth the drive down I-44.
Catch-and-keep trout season goes until Oct. 31. From November through February, it becomes catch-and-release trout fishing.
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