Springtime Fishing Heats Up at the Lake of the Ozarks - Hot Spots, Lures, and Expert Advice for Anglers

Fishing conditions at the Lake of the Ozarks today, April 11, 2025, are shaping up to be excellent for anglers of all skill levels. Spring has brought increased fish activity across the lake, driven by warming water temperatures and the pre-spawn behavior of many species. Here's your detailed update:

The current weather is cool, following a series of cold nights. Temperatures have dipped into the 30s overnight, but a warming trend is expected, which will encourage fish to move shallow and actively feed. Sunrise today is at 6:34 AM, and sunset will be at 7:37 PM, giving anglers a full day of prime fishing opportunities.

Water temperatures range between 50°F and 58°F across different parts of the lake, depending on location. Clarity remains good in most areas, especially on the Glaize and Gravois Arms, where jerkbaits have been highly effective.

**Fish activity and recent catches:**
- **Bass**: Both largemouth and spotted bass are in pre-spawn staging, favoring main lake and secondary points, bluff ends, and steep rocky banks. Recent reports indicate some hefty catches in the 6–7-pound range. The Alabama rig has been a standout lure, mimicking shad and triggering reaction strikes. Jerkbaits, such as the Smithwick Rogue and Megabass 110, are also excellent options, especially for suspended bass.
- **Crappie**: Action is improving as crappie move towards shallow brush piles and pea gravel pockets to spawn. Using small jigs (1/32 to 1/8 ounce) or minnows beneath a bobber has resulted in good catches near coves and docks.
- **Catfish**: Channel and blue catfish are becoming more active as the waters warm. Drift-fishing with cut or live shad has produced consistent results, particularly near deep flats and the mouths of coves.
- **White Bass**: These fighters are running in tributaries like the Niangua and Gravois Arms. Small spinners and jerkbaits are your best bets for these fish.

**Top fishing spots:**
1. **Grand Glaize Arm**: Points, brush piles, and docks in this area continue to be productive for bass and crappie.
2. **Gravois Arm**: Known for good bass and catfish action, this arm offers rocky ledges and steep banks where fish are staging.
3. **Bagnell Dam spillway**: A great spot for shore fishing, offering chances to catch white bass, catfish, and crappie.

**Lure and bait recommendations:**
- For bass: Alabama rigs, jerkbaits, plastic worms, and jigs.
- For crappie: Small jigs and minnows.
- For catfish: Cut or live shad, and for flathead catfish, try live bluegill or sunfish.

With the weekend around the corner, conditions are projected to warm further, improving fish activity even more. It’s a great time to hit the water. Tight lines, and good luck!