The name, Ozark Hellbender, conjures images of a wicked fast roller coaster or perhaps, an outlaw biker gang yet in reality it’s neither. The Ozark Hellbender is one of the world’s largest salamanders. It’s a homely creature. It’s not going to win second prize or any prize in a beauty contest, but nonetheless it deserves a chance to live. In October 2011, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service listed the Ozark Hellbender as an Endangered Species.

As one of the largest salamanders in the world, it grows up to 2.5 feet long and lives nearly thirty years. It’s native to the Southern Missouri and Northern Arkansas Ozarks. Salamanders are amphibians. This particular amphibian has four legs and a tail, and a flattened body that is green, brown, or black in color. It’s strictly an aquatic animal, and has a thick, moist skin. Although it has lungs, it breathes through its skin.

Hellbenders have a bad, but mistaken reputation among fishermen. Many fishermen believe that Ozark Hellbenders eat game fish and ruin fishing holes. This mistaken belief led to bounties for these salamanders during the 20s and 30s. Fishermen also believe that Hellbenders are poisonous. They are not venomous, but will bite if provoked, and their skin secretes a substance that is somewhat toxic and can cause eye irritation. The fact is that the presence of an Ozark Hellbender is an indication that the stream you’re fishing in is healthy. Since they breathe through their skin, dirty or polluted water is a death sentence.

Ozark Hellbenders begin life as an egg in a fast-flowing, cool stream with lots of large, flat rocks to hide under. The male protects a nest of 140 to 450 eggs which hatch after eighty days. After hatching, they begin the slow process of maturation which takes five to eight years before being able to breed. During that time, most of the baby salamanders are eaten. Because of the long time it takes to reach a reproductive stage, killing an adult Ozark Hellbender puts a real dent in the sustainability of the species.

As an adult, Ozark Hellbenders are nocturnal. They spend their days beneath large flat rocks and come out at night to dine upon their favorite food, crayfish. If crayfish are not available, they will eat small fish as well as cannibalize young of their own species. Their lifespan in the wild is between twenty-five and thirty years.

Despite their homely appearance, Ozark Hellbenders have become a popular pet. Over-collection accounts for part of their endangered status. Siltation—when soil runs off the land and into streams—is another culprit. The dirt covers rocks, smothers the Hellbender habitat, killing the Hellbender as well as other species. Road-building, urbanization, and poor agricultural practices is a significant cause of siltation. Another reason under investigation is a highly infectious fungal disease, chytridiomycosis. Testing revealed that the “chytrid” fungus has infected all Ozark Hellbender populations in Missouri.

One of the best meals on a Missouri float trip is a fish fry. And what could be better than frying up the freshest fish ever from your catch of the day? Experienced Missouri anglers find that fishing in early spring requires different fishing strategies than those used in summer and fall. Early spring water is still generally cold. The following early spring fishing tips will help you with catching more fish.

True anglers believe a bad day of fishing is always better than a good day at work. In fact, they practice this belief by fishing as much as possible and getting out on the water whenever possible. They also watch the weather, an essential fishing technique in early spring. If you have a limited number of vacation days throughout the year, look for unseasonable warm days and approaching weather changes. Such weather patterns make for ideal fishing conditions.

Once you make it to your preferred fishing hole, be sure to go small and slow. In early spring when the water temperature is colder, the fish are swimming slower. Opt for smaller lures that are fished slower because sluggish fish aren’t as likely to put up a fight when it comes to striking a large prey fish. Slower and smaller fish are an easier meal and more attractive to fish in colder water.

If your goal is simply to catch fish, simply using bait is the way to go. A plump, lively night crawler is desirable to nearly any fish regardless of warm or cold water. For young and beginner fishermen, fishing with bait is the best wait to experience the thrill of catching that first fish.

Fishing in early spring requires patience. It’s important to remember that just as fish take their time swimming about in cold water, fish also take their time when it comes to eating and getting a lure into their mouths. So take your time because the fish are taking their time too.

When it comes to finding warmth in early spring the fish are no different than we are, seeking the sun whenever they can. Savvy anglers keep an eye out for the sun and shallow water. The afternoon sun warms early spring water in the shallows, drawing fish to these areas.

Early spring means lots of rain in Missouri that causes muddy water in rivers and streams. How will fish see your lure in the muddy water? They’ll see it better in cloudy water if your lure is brightly colored or dark. And some of the best places to fish are the edges where clear water meets muddy water. A good place to find this is along tributaries coming into lakes and rivers.

While anglers get up early in summer and fall, they sleep in when it comes to early spring fishing. This is because early evening makes for the best fishing in early spring. The water warms throughout the day, making fish more active in the evening as the sun sets.

Finally, don’t forget to experiment. When fishing is slow, early spring is the perfect time to experiment with new lures and fishing techniques that you can use the rest of the year.

When we think of trout fishing most of us think of those early spring gatherings for opening day.  We rarely think much about fishing for trout in the fall.  But true anglers are always thinking about fishing any time of the year.  Fall fishing can be very successful because the fish are feeding heavily in anticipation of winter.  However, fish behavior changes with the temperature changes so fishermen may need to alter their usual techniques to land major catches in the fall.

The physical environment for fall trout fishing can be very pleasant.  The large crowds of the summer months are gone.  The hot, humid Missouri days have given way to cool, crisp air.  The beautiful, multi-colored landscape makes being in the outdoors a wonderful experience.  Even with its challenges fall fishing for trout has its rewards.

Fall is a time of change and trout fishermen will need to adjust their fishing behaviors as changes occur.  For instance, trout feed better during early dawn to mid-morning and during the evening on warm fall days, but fishing time should be moved to the afternoon when the air temperature regularly stays below 50 degrees during the day.  Generally, the trout are more active in the cooler weather.  They may move into shallower water to feed, especially after a light rain.  Sight fishing target trout is very effective in the fall.  A successful trout angler should slowly wade through shallow, calmer water to spot them.

Using the right bait or lure is always an important issue.  Once again, fall fishing has special challenges.  Some recommendations are spinners, PowerBait, and worms.  Artificial flies and bait may work, but try natural bait as well.  Live grasshoppers and beetles can make the fishing effective, especially if used with a jerking action so the fish can differentiate the bait from fall debris like leaves and twigs.  Another good technique is to match bait and actions to the insects in the area.  A certain degree of trial and error may be required so experiment and make adjustments as needed.  If rain has caused the water to be dark or murky, try a dark colored lure so the trout can see it.  The darker lures work better than those with bright colors.  Glow-in-the-dark lures are also helpful at night.

Fall trout fishing requires the usual equipment: waders, a fishing vest for tackle, and a creel to hold the day’s catch.  Just don’t forget to wear sunglasses.  The fall sun can create quite a glare on the water and make trout spotting difficult.  Just deck yourself out properly and head for the nearest trout area.  Fall trout fishing isn’t for everyone, but it just might be the right thing for you!

Bull Shoals Lake is a beautiful waterway known for its clear water and excellent fishing.   Located in southern Missouri, this artificially created lake or reservoir straddles the border between Missouri and Arkansas.  The lake covers over 45,000 acres of which about 16,000 are located on the Missouri side.  Nineteen parks are located along the many miles of shoreline and these include campgrounds, swimming areas, marinas and boat launches.  The Missouri side of the lake boasts various lake bottoms and shorelines made up of bluffs, rock or gravel.

Bull Shoals Lake is a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers project that was begun in 1947, completed in 1951 and dedicated by President Harry S. Truman in 1952.  The Bull Shoals Dam was built to impound the White River and is one of the largest concrete dams in the United States.  The lake is the farthest downstream before the White River opens into the Mississippi River.  Three other artificial lakes also created by the White River are (from farthest upstream) Beaver Lake, Table Rock Lake and Lake Taneycomo.  The upper part of the lake below the dam is known as the “Pothole.”

The heavily forested shoreline of Bull Shoals Lake is completely undeveloped and is managed by the Army Corps of Engineers as a buffer zone.  The lake elevation fluctuates normally from 630 to 680 feet with the average of 654 feet.  The average depth of the lake is 60 feet.  The lake bottom is mainly made up of bedrock.   Recreational activities in the area include fishing, boating, water sports, camping, hunting, horseback riding and hiking.  There are three full service marinas in Missouri – at Pontiac, Theodosia and Kissee Mills.  Lodging is available from primitive campgrounds to lakeside resorts.  The nearest state park is Bull Shoals- White River State Park in Arkansas, near the dam.

Fishing is excellent at Bull Shoals Lake and a number of state record catches have been made there, including the current record for Largemouth Bass at 13 lb. 14 oz.  The average water temperature ranges from 40 to 85.  The lake does not freeze over.

Fish Available in Bull Shoals Lake & Best Baits

Black Bass – Spawning in April-May

Spring:                  Jerkbaits, Jig-Pig, Spinnerbaits

Summer:             Top Water, Plastic Worms and Craws

Fall:                        Top Water, Crankbaits, Spinnerbaits

Winter:                Jig-Pig, Spoons

Crappie – Spawning in April-May

Spring:                  Jigs

Summer:             Minnows

Fall:                        Minnows

Winter:                 Jigs, Minnows

Bluegill – Spawning in June

All Seasons:        Crickets, Worms

White Bass – Spawning in March-April

All Seasons:        Jigs, Spoons

Catfish – Spawning in May

Spring:                  Cut Shad

Summer:             Cut Shad, Stinkbait

Fall:                        Cut Shad

Winter:                 N/A

For further information:

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers at Bull Shoals Lake

Missouri Fishing Guide – Bull Shoals Lake

Bull Shoals Lake / White River Chamber of Commerce

They say a bad day of fishing is still better than a good day at work.  But why settle for a mediocre day of fishing when knowing a few tricks of the trade could be the difference between plain old hotdogs or a feast of catfish for all on your next float trip?  The trick to catching bluegill, catfish or trout is using the right bait or lures.  Here are some trade secrets.

Whether plastic or live, more fish, especially bluegill, are caught on worms than any other bait even though worms aren’t a natural part of a fish’s diet. Plastic worms are available in a variety of colors, lengths, and styles and rigged Texas or Carolina style. The best way to fish with a plastic worm is by slowly hopping or dragging through the water.  Just about everybody who fishes started out using worms like wigglers and night crawlers.  If you’re using live bait, just thread them on a hook and drop or cast your line.  It’s best to keep live worms cool while you’re fishing.  Keeping them in the container will make them last longer.  Between fishing trips the best place to store them is in your refrigerator provided somebody else doesn’t mistake them for leftovers!

Another effective bait for catching bluegill is crickets.  Like worms, crickets are available almost all year-round and last longer when kept cool and out of the sun.  Placing a piece of potato or apple in the container helps with maintaining moisture.  To catch a bluegill, hook a cricket through the mid-section and drop a line.

If you’re looking to catch some trout then pick up some salmon or power eggs at your local bait and tackle.  Use eggs one at a time or clustered on a treble hook in moving water or trolling behind a boat.  

Floating down Missouri’s rivers and streams is the ideal way to catch trout.  Drift rigs work well too.  Be sure to keep the egg just off the bottom above vegetation and debris.  Another good way to catch trout is with tiny jigs.  You’ll need a fly rod or spinning outfit for casting 1/60 ounce or smaller jigs.  Like salmon or power eggs, jigs can be suspended from a float or you can let them sink.  Others have more luck catching trout with flies.  This small lure can be used to imitate the insect as it is made from a small hook, hair, feathers and thread.  Using a fly rod to cast this small lure, many find the best method is what’s called “Match the Hatch.”  This means observing what fish are hitting at or below the surface and have your fly mimic that insect.  You can also try different patterns, casting the fly in different locations, waiting a few seconds and casting again to give the appearance of insects landing on the water’s surface.

If you want catfish on your dinner’s menu, nothing attracts catfish more than stinkbait.  And just as its name implies it really does stink!  There are many brands of stinkbait at local bait and tackle shops.  Some of your friends may even have some secret home recipes.  But it doesn’t matter whether it’s homemade or store bought as long as you hang on when you put some on a hook and cast it into a catfish hole.

Using the right bait and lures makes a mediocre day of fishing a thing of the past.  With the right bait and lures your next float trip could be a successful fishing trip too.

During the month of May, people in Missouri will see a large number of the 13-year cicada emerge from their hibernation.  These noisy bugs are members of the same family as the cicada that arrives in late summer when the weather is at it’s hottest in Missouri.

The nymph of the 13-year cicada spends almost their whole lives living underground.  The nymphs feed off of the juices of plants and tree roots at depths of 1 foot or more.  While living underground they go through five development stages before they emerge from the ground in large swarms on the 13^th year during the month of May in Missouri.

13-year cicadas emerge from the ground in swarms leaving small holes behind.  The reason for this behavior is for survival.  Since the nymphs can emerge from the ground in almost 1.5 million in an acre, there is safety in numbers.  These mass numbers of insects overwhelm predators and insure the survival of this noisy insect species.

The noise that these insects can make is sweet music to some Missourians, but can be annoying to others in the evening hours.  Even though these bugs are no larger then the end of a pinky finger, they can drown out the sound of everything around them with their mating song.  The males of this species make this sound to attract females.  The male uses elastic like membranes that are located behind the last pair of legs on their body to make this loud clicking noise.  The females respond with timed wing flicks in this noisy symphonic mating ritual.

The female cicada once mating with the male, lays their eggs in tree twigs.  They make a V-shaped slit in the twig in which to lay their eggs in.  The twigs frequently die and fall off of the tree branch.  This usually does not hurt mature trees, but small trees need to be protected with mosquito netting or cheesecloth to keep the cicadas from killing them.

Since there are such large swarms of these insects, it creates a huge feeding frenzy for fish and birds.  Even though many Missourians find the noises these insects make aggravating, for those that like to fish, it is music to their ears.  During the few weeks that the cicadas are emerging, it causes the fish to go on eating binges on this insect buffet.  So, anglers that use anything that remotely resembles a cicada are sure to get a bite and land that elusive big fish from one of the many Missouri waterways.

Cicadas are not a threat to animals or humans.  Even though some dogs like to eat these bugs as a crunchy snack, they are not poisonous and might give them a stomachache.  They do not bite or sting generally, so there is no need to avoid the beautiful late spring weather in the backyard with loved ones and pets.  But, you might want to bring some earplugs if love songs are not your first choice in music.

When it comes to river fishing, few things can compare to the thrill of hooking a feisty catfish. Some catfish are large enough to break records and feed an entire family, but for fishermen, the feeling of hooking a fighting monster is a thrill like nothing else. There is effort and time required for reeling in one of these strong fish, but it is well worth it because the meat has a savory flavor which can be prepared in a variety of different ways, and is quite tasty when fried in a delicious cornmeal batter, accompanied by some hush puppies and macaroni and cheese.

The things you will need to catch a catfish include a rod and reel, strong fishing line, treble hooks, nylon hose, stink bate (chicken livers work well), pail with a lid, pocket knife, short rope and a stringer. Because catfish come in a variety of different sizes, it is very important to have a sturdy rod and reel when fishing for them. There will be bending and stress on the rod, so it is important to pick the right test strength of fishing line, most fishermen choose a 100-lb. test because it is very strong and will withstand the extra pressure when you hook a big catfish.

When you get to your favorite fishing hole; spray your hands down with fish attracting spray before you handle any of the bait. Catfish have a strong sense of smell and anything reeking of alcohol, cigarette smoke or humans will be a strong deterrent to them. Applying a good coating of scent cover before stringing up the bait will increase your chances of attracting the big one, so remember to pack some!

Forget about using fishing lures, because catfish are almost blind and will rely on smells, so the stinkier your bait is, the better it will lure them in. If you want to land a giant catfish, use some raw chicken livers or purchase some specialty stink bait from a bait shop. Keeping bait on the hook is going to be hard, if not impossible, so wrap it tightly and shove it into a woman’s nylon stocking and then tie it off, this way you can put it on the hook without it falling off so easily.

Catfish tend to stay close to the banks and this is because the water is shaded and cooler, which is what they like. The ideal scenario in which to catch a BIG catfish would be to use a boat and to cast into the shoreline, but if you are not able to use a boat, stand on the bank and cast your line just a bit downstream. Try to pick a shady location about 3-5 feet from the edge of the water, and you will probably have some good luck!

When you have finished with fishing for the day, it is very important to have a stringer and a pail with lid. You don’t want to take the chance of losing your precious catch! So, by following a few tips mentioned in this article you can grab a pole, some stink bait and venture out knowing it’s only a matter of time before you land a monster catfish, and be prepared for a fight, because these rascals do not give up easily!

The Bluegill is a freshwater fish which can also be referred to as a bream, brim or copper nose. Being a member of the Sunfish family, these fish are native to the waters of North America and can be found from Quebec to northern Mexico. Bluegill are also the most common fish caught in Illinois, Arkansas, Minnesota, Michigan, Missouri, Louisiana and Texas. These fish have an excellent taste and are very easy to catch, and can be caught using anything from flies to hotdogs for bait.

The most notable feature of the bluegill is a blue or black ear, which is actually an extension of the gill cover. The name comes from the bright blue edge which can be seen on the gill rakers and the fish can grow up to 16 inches in length. Bluegills have a bold nature and no fear of humans, which is one of the main reasons why they are so easy to catch. Mostly these fish will bite on brightly colored bait in shades of orange, yellow or red and the prime time to catch them is dawn and dusk.

Because of the size and method of cooking, sometimes bluegills are referred to as “panfish,” and they are notorious sneaky fish which typically steal bait off the fisherman’s hook. A bluegill hits hard on the hook, so you will know if you have caught one, and these fish are prevalent in the many waters of Missouri. Below is a tasty recipe for bluegill which is sure to be a crowd pleaser:

Cajun Bluegill Recipe

• 1 lb. bluegill fillet
• 1/3 c. yellow corn meal
• 1 ½ c. all purpose flour
• ¼ tsp. salt
• ½ tsp. onion powder
• ½ tsp. garlic powder
• ¼ tsp. paprika
• 1 tsp. dried parsley flakes
• ½ tsp. dried oregano
• ¼ tsp. cayenne pepper
• 1 egg
• ½ c. milk
• Corn oil for frying pan

Directions

1. Combine cornmeal, 1 cup flour and all spices into a small bowl and combine well. Beat egg and milk together in a separate bowl. Remove the skin for the bluegill fillets and wash with ice cold water. Dry filets with a paper towel.
2. Put ½ c. of flour into a plastic baggie and add bluegill fillets and shake to evenly coat the fish with mixture. Dip the fish one by one into the egg mixture and then into the bowl of cornmeal, flour and spice mixture.
3. In a large cast iron frying pan, add corn oil until ½ inch deep and heat to approximately 375˚. Place fillets into oil and fry until golden brown on both sides, approximately 45-90 seconds each side depending on thickness. Place on paper towels to drain off excess oil and enjoy. Recipe serves two people.

Bluegill can be served with collard greens, macaroni and cheese, cornbread and hush puppies or any other type of side dish preferred. Enjoy!

Catfish are a diverse group of ray-finned fish which are abundant in lakes and rivers all over the world. Catfish vary in length, size, coloring and behavior and the skin is tough, almost like armor and does not have any scales. Despite the name, not all varieties of catfish have barbels; some are defined by skull features and swim bladder (an organ which helps fish control buoyancy).

Catfish have lived in virtually every type of climatic water and on every continent except for Antarctica and are most diverse in the waters of South America, Asia and Africa. These fish favor shallow, running water and are bottom feeders and will sink rather than float, due to a gas bladder. Catfish have been widely captured and used for food for hundreds of years in North America, Africa, Europe and Asia.

In Central Europe, the fish is a delicacy and is enjoyed on holidays, while in the Southern United States it is an extremely popular dish. The most common species eaten in the US are blue catfish and the channel catfish, of which can be caught wild and are farmed as well. The fish is served in many different ways, depending upon the location and in America; it is commonly crumbled with cornmeal and deep fried.

One of the most common fish caught in the Missouri Rivers is catfish and nothing could be better than sinking your teeth into a tender, juicy fillet. Below is a quick, easy recipe for catfish fillets, which is sure to be a crowd pleaser or good for a family that wants to enjoy the spoils of the catch after a day on the river.

Traditional Cornmeal Encrusted Catfish

Ingredients:

• 2 egg, lightly beaten
• 3 tablespoons lemon juice
• 3/4 cup all-purpose flour
• 1/4 cup and 2 tablespoons yellow cornmeal
• 1-1/2 teaspoons Cajun seasoning
• 3/4 teaspoon garlic powder
• 3/4 teaspoon salt
• 6 (6 ounce) fillets catfish
• 1/4 cup and 1 teaspoon vegetable oil

Directions:

1. In a shallow bowl, combine the egg and lemon juice. In another shallow bowl, combine the flour, cornmeal, Cajun seasoning, garlic powder and salt. Dip catfish into egg mixture, then coat with cornmeal mixture.
2. In a large skillet, heat oil over medium heat. Fry fillets, two at a time, for 5-6 minutes on each side or until fish flakes easily with a fork.

The recipe serves 6 adults and can be enjoyed with a side of hush puppies, cornbread, macaroni and cheese or any other traditional southern type side dishes. Catfish is one of the most versatile of all fish and is a favorite of people all over the world.

People all over Missouri truly enjoy the sport of fly fishing and it is a pastime individuals of all ages can participate in. There are several tips and tricks which a person can try which will increase skills and make it much more enjoyable experience. The following article contains bits and pieces of information which will help everyone from the expert to the novice, make the most of the fly fishing experience.

Common fishing etiquette dictates certain protocols which must be observed when fishing in the streams, rivers and lakes of Missouri and it not only makes your experience better; it is also polite for others as well. When removing a line from the water, make sure you have plenty of room to land the fish, particularly if you are downstream from other fishermen. Never intrude or step into the space of other fishermen it is rude and takes away from the enjoyment of others.

When fly fishing another important tip is to leave anything noisy behind and to be as quiet as possible when fishing. Being noisy, scares away potential catches and disturbs others that enjoy the peace and quiet fly fishing provides. Nobody wants to hear a barking dog, noisy kids or a blaring radio when trying to fly fish, so make sure to respect everyone’s space and keep it down out there!

Another tip to observe when fly fishing is to be ready to lend a helping hand to fellow fishermen; it is the courteous thing to do. When you observe a fellow fisherman struggling with a tangled up line or trying to haul in a particularly big fish, be ready to help because you never know when you may need the favor to be returned. Everyone is there to enjoy the day and when something unforeseen happens, having the help of another person can make the experience enjoyable for all.

When wading, there are a few basic rules to be taken into consideration and observed, for personal safety, as well as for the safety of others. You should never go on a trip alone, take a companion when you are fishing in a remote location to ensure personal safety. It is always important to wear high quality wading boots and use a good staff which is both strong and flexible. Know the areas you will be wading and always be mindful of any potential danger spots when out in a stream, lake or river.

A tackle box is an important and necessary part of fly fishing and it should be well stocked and organized. Keep worms and other bait in a small container located away from lures which could create a chemical reaction and make other baits unusable. Purchase one tackle box per each different type of lures, for example one for worms and another for flies, in order to avoid mixing things up and so you know how much you have and what you might need.

Other important aspects of fly fishing include keeping your vest organized, so that you are not fumbling around looking for something when you need to have it. When fishing in rough water, carry a staff for support and wear good shoes to avoid slipping or falling down. Take sun block along for the trip too and remember to use polarized glasses and wear insect discouraging clothing in shades of blue, yellow, black, red or navy blue.

With time and practice, fly fishing is a sport which many people enjoy and the waterways of Missouri provide a great opportunity to take part of this hobby. Fishing is a sport which provides relaxation, challenge and tranquility, so grab a pole and find solace from the hustle and bustle of daily life and have a great time.