Missouri Fly & Spin Fishing
The North Fork River is ranked in the Top 100 trout streams of the US. Trout Fishing on the North Fork River is open ALL YEAR, and our lodges or cabins are relaxing and cozy no matter what the weather is like.
While trout are not native to Missouri, Rainbow trout were introduced in Missouri waters in 1882 and are restricted to a few areas of the Ozarks. The North Fork River is one of those areas where Fly Fishing enthusiasts come to experience great trout fishing.
The North Fork of the White River not only sustains trout, but is one of the few waters in the Ozarks that supports a naturally reproducing population of wild Rainbow trout. Fly fishing enthusiasts from all over not only enjoy the fishing, but also the landscape.
The prime conditions of the North Fork River also produce trophy size trout, of both Rainbow and annually stocked Brown trout.
The North Fork River has both Wild Trout and Special Trout Management areas (formerly the Championship Trout Management Area).
The North Fork is a limestone bottomed river, fed by multiple cold springs. Because it’s somewhat off the beaten path of other Ozark rivers, the North Fork may be sometimes enjoyed in complete serenity.
Is Spin Fishing legal here in the Blue Ribbon area? YES!
The North Fork River can be divided into 3 differing sections. The upper part of the river sports excellent Smallmouth, Sunfish, and Rock Bass (Goggle-eye) fishing. This area starts at the source, within the Mark Twain National Forest, and goes to Rainbow Springs where the habitat of the river changes.
The upper section of the North Fork is located predominately in the Devil’s Backbone region of Mark Twain National Forest and features warmer water than the rest of the North Fork. This area has several public access points including Topaz, Hebron, and Twin Bridges. Fish are commonly taken by fly fishing and spin fishing.
The Missouri Wild Trout Management Area
Between Rainbow Springs and Blair Bridge is the Missouri Wild Trout Management Area of the North Fork River. This area has not been stocked with Rainbow trout since 1964 and features excellent fly fishing for wild rainbow trout .
In 1995 the stocking of Brown trout was stopped in this 5.9 mile stretch of the river designated as Wild Trout area.
This lack of habitat competition, along with the protective regulations, have allowed the Rainbow trout population to steadily improve in both size and amounts.
Many huge Brown trout wander upstream from the Special Trout Management Area and may also be caught in the Wild Trout Area. While 80% of the trout in this area are native rainbows, when it comes to trout over 18″ in length about 80% are Brown trout.
Because most of this portion of the North Fork is privately owned, the best method to fish the Wild Trout Area is by canoe, or as a guest of the River of Life Farm.
For catching wild trout, the North Fork is a true gem of the Ozarks.
Special trout fishing regulations apply within the Wild Trout Management Area. These regulations include a limit of one trout per day, that must measure 18″ or greater. This one trout limit is for either a Rainbow or Brown trout, not both.
Only flies and artificial lures may be used. Soft plastic baits, natural and scented baits are specifically prohibited. These strict harvest regulations ensure there are quality trout for everyone!
Fly fishing is the norm for success in this section of the North Fork River. Dry flies and nymphs are local favorites.
A trout stamp is required for harvesting a trout anywhere in the state of Missouri.
The Missouri Special Trout Management Area
Between Rainbow Springs and Blair Bridge is the Missouri Wild Trout Management Area of the North Fork River. This area has not been stocked with Rainbow trout since 1964 and features excellent fly fishing for wild rainbow trout .
In 1995 the stocking of Brown trout was stopped and this 5.9 mile stretch of the river was designated as a Wild Trout area.
This lack of habitat competition, along with the protective regulations, have allowed the Rainbow trout population to steadily improve in both size and amounts.
Many huge Brown trout wander upstream from the Special Trout Management Area and may also be caught in the Wild Trout Area. While 80% of the trout in this area are native rainbows, when it comes to trout over 18″ in length about 80% are Brown trout.
Need a Missouri Fishing License? Call 800-392-4115 or visit the Missouri Department of Conservation website
Missouri Fly Fishing Lodging
River of Life Farm offers many lodging selections to choose from. We can accommodate from 1 to 14 guests. After a great day of fishing, relax in our comfortable cabins secluded in the scenic Ozarks.
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417-261-7777
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River of Life Farm
1746 River of Life Drive
Dora, MO 65637
417-261-7777
