Fishing the Fall Bounty at Lake of the Ozarks - A Primer for Anglers

As of October 13, 2024, the fishing scene at Lake of the Ozarks is looking promising, especially with the fall season in full swing. Here’s what you need to know for a successful day on the water.

### Weather and Tidal Report
The weather is expected to be crisp and cool, with a high of around 65 degrees Fahrenheit and a low of 50 degrees. Sunrise is at 7:23 AM, and sunset will be at 6:33 PM. Since Lake of the Ozarks is a freshwater lake, there are no tides to worry about, but the water levels are stable, which is ideal for fishing.

### Fish Activity
The fall season has brought a surge in fish activity. Black bass, both largemouth and spotted (Kentucky) bass, are biting well, particularly around points, brush piles, and docks. Crappie, including white and black crappie, are active in the deeper waters, especially around brush piles located on or near points.

### Types and Amounts of Fish Caught
Yesterday saw a good number of bass and crappie being caught. Bass were taken using topwater baits early in the morning and jigs or soft plastics later in the day. Crappie were caught using small jigs and minnows, with many fish exceeding the 9-inch minimum length limit.

### Best Lures and Bait
For bass, topwater baits like buzzbaits and spook-style baits are effective in the mornings. As the day progresses, switch to jigs, plastic worms, crankbaits, and spinnerbaits. For crappie, small jigs (1/32 to 1/8 ounce) and minnows are the go-to choices. If you're after catfish, drifting with live or cut shad is a good strategy, especially in open water and around the mouths of coves.

### Hot Spots
One of the best areas to fish is the Niangua Arm, where the structure around points and brush piles is rich with bass and crappie. The Glaize Arm is also productive, especially for those targeting younger bass. For crappie, focus on the brush piles placed by the Missouri Department of Conservation, which can be located using their online resources.

In summary, Lake of the Ozarks is offering excellent fishing opportunities this fall. With the right lures and knowledge of the hot spots, you're set for a memorable fishing trip. Enjoy the cool mornings and the vibrant fall scenery while reeling in some impressive catches.