Trout Fishing

The Best Trout Fishing is HERE

Known for its trout fishing, Roaring River is stocked frequently from the park’s hatchery. The hatchery is managed by our friends from the Missouri Department of Conservation.

We encourage you to visit our Park Store to obtain your fishing licenses and tags. Our Park Store offers equipment and supplies for your time at Roaring River State Park.

The Fishing Permits, Seasons, Regulations and Fishing Report are provided by the Missouri Department of Conservation. When navigating the Fishing Report, you will find Roaring River under Trout Areas. 

Missouri Department of Conservation also manages the hatcher of Roaring River State Park. One of the oldest hatcheries in Missouri, this historic location produces over 250,000 trout each year. Fishing fanatics flock to Roaring River each year to experience this incredible fishing. 

The Conservation Department stocks trout daily from the opening of season on March 1st, to the close of season on October 30th. Stocking is determined by the amount of anglers expected. Normally the rate of fish per angler is three fish per angler. This rate of stocking ensures the experience at Roaring River is unmatched and remembered. 

Roaring River State Park Live Cam's

Trout Fishing Regulations

Zone 1

From the Hatchery to mouth of Dry Hollow Creek, artificial lures, soft plastic baits and flies are permitted. Artificial lures are defined as manufactured lures. Soft plastic baits include worms, grubs or synthetic eggs. Flies are constructed lures on a single pointed hook of feathers, tinsel, chenille, yarn, fur, silk, rayon or nylon thread or floss. They may also include a spinner. No food, natural baits or putty-dough baits are permitted in this area. 

Zone 2

From the mouth of Dry Hollow Creek or the end of Zone 1 to the old dam at the lower end of Campground 3. This is the FLY-ONLY area of our trout fishing experience. Zone 2 is specifically designated as catch-and-release ONLY. Trout must be immediately returned to the water unharmed. Be mindful of your surroundings while fishing, Zone 2 is designated for swimming and wading.

Zone 3

From the old dam at the lower end of Campground 3 to the Roaring River State Park boundary is Zone 3. Flies, natural or scented baits, artificial lures and soft plastic baits are permitted. Natural and scented baits include live baits or any substance that grabs the attention of fish by taste and or smell. The baits also include dough, putty or paste-type baits. 

Trout Fishing Hours

*Central Standard Time | **Central Daylight Time

March
Beginning Time: 6:30am* | 7:30am**
Ending Time: 6:00pm* | 7:00pm**

April
Beginning Time: 7:00am
Ending Time: 7:30pm

May
Beginning Time: 6:30am
Ending Time: 8:15pm

June
Beginning Time: 6:30am
Ending Time: 8:30pm

July
Beginning Time: 6:30am
Ending Time: 8:30pm

August
Beginning Time: 7:00am
Ending Time: 8:00pm

September
Beginning Time: 7:30am
Ending Time: 7:15pm

October
Beginning Time: 7:30am
Ending Time: 6:30pm

Catch-and-Release Season

2nd Friday in November through the 2nd Monday in February
Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday
8:00am – 4:00pm

Trout Fishing Rules and Regulations

Trout fishing is permitted in accordance with the state wildlife code and posted restrictions daily from March 1 through Oct. 31, and during the winter catch-and-release season from the second Friday in November to the second Monday in February on Friday, Saturday, Sunday and Monday only.

Each angler shall display a daily trout tag purchased on the area and bearing his or her signature.

Each angler shall have a state fishing permit except those 15 years and younger or Missouri residents 65 years and older.

Each angler shall keep their trout separate at all times and identified with their name and address.

Daily limit is four, all brown trout must be equal to or greater than 15”. There is no length limit on rainbow trout. Possession limit is 8 trout.

Only a single pole or rod may be used. Gigging, snaring or snagging is not permitted.

No person shall continue to fish for any species in these trout waters after having four trout in possession.

The use of game fish or parts thereof for bait is prohibited; chumming is not permitted.

No trout may be possessed in the catch-and-release area.