Fishing McDaniel Lake
AKA: McDaniel Reservoir
Popular Fish Species McDaniel Lake, MO
Largemouth Bass Fishing
McDaniel Lake offers bass fishing to those who enjoy fishing from the bank. Because bank fishing only is allowed upstream from the Grant Street Bridge, and there is no boating or wading allowed, these bass receive very little fishing pressure. Anglers are catching bass in decent numbers with quality fish mixed in with the average catch. A history of careful fisheries management by the Missouri Department of Conservation has helped to maintain a thriving bass fishery. Anglers can also catch smallmouth bass, which reside here in decent numbers. Enjoy fishing for largemouth bass while enjoying the lush green setting. On McDaniel Lake, bass often move shallow and become fairly aggressive when they are in a feeding mood. If they seem disinterested in your presentations, try slowing down and use smaller, lighter baits. Use shallow crankbaits around rip rap.
Channel Catfish Fishing
McDaniel Lake has held a catchable population of channel catfish for many years now. The typical fish are about 2 pounds, with larger ones caught frequently. For weekend anglers, most any rod and reel will work for catching channel catfish, as long as the line is strong enough. For serious catfish enthusiasts, using the right equipment enhances success, especially when you hook one of the big boys. A medium action, to medium-heavy action rod is ideal, in the 6' to 7' range. Use a slip sinker or Carolina rig with popular catfish baits on at least 10-pound line. Use sharp hooks with bait holders on the shank, or circle hooks for live bait. The state record channel catfish is over 34 pounds, and McDaniel Lake holds some hefty ones. Night fishing for catfish often delivers better results than daytime fishing. Fishing for channel catfish is often most productive around any kind of structure in the area.
White Crappie Fishing
Plenty of healthy white crappie populate the waters of McDaniel Lake. The fish population is healthy and crappie fishing is quite good. The best time to catch crappie tends to be at dawn and dusk. Crappie always like cover and structure, so locate shallow brush and vegetation in Spring and Fall focusing on the 8 to 12 foot range. Live bait and small jigs are the most common method for crappie here.
Fish species to fish for...
Guide to fishing for largemouth bass, smallmouth bass, channel catfish, white crappie, bluegill and white bass at McDaniel Lake in Missouri.
McDaniel Lake Fishing Video
If you want to fish from the bank in the Springfield area, McDaniel Lake is a nice option. This little-known reservoir is primarily storage for drinking water. The only fishing allowed is from the bank, upstream from Grant Street Bridge.
McDaniel Lake is located in the southern section of Missouri and is a popular fishing destination for both locals and visitors. The lake offers a variety of fish species and a great fishing experience for anglers of all skill levels.
Largemouth and smallmouth bass are among the most popular fish species in McDaniel Lake. Anglers can target these bass using various techniques such as casting with crankbaits, plastic worms, or topwater lures, as well as jigging or drop-shotting. The lake's structure, including submerged rocks, points, and weed beds, provides excellent habitat for bass. Anglers can enjoy the thrill of hooking into a feisty bass while fishing in the pristine waters of McDaniel Lake.
Channel catfish is another prized catch in McDaniel Lake. Anglers can target catfish using techniques such as bottom fishing with cut bait, live bait, or prepared baits. The lake's deeper channels, submerged structures, and rocky areas serve as ideal locations to catch catfish. Anglers can experience the excitement of reeling in a powerful catfish while enjoying a day of fishing on McDaniel Lake.
White crappie and bluegill are also popular fish species in McDaniel Lake. Anglers can target crappie using techniques such as vertical jigging, casting with small jigs, or using crappie nibbles. Bluegill can be caught using techniques such as bobber fishing with live bait, casting small jigs or spinners, or using fly fishing techniques. These panfish provide excellent angling opportunities for both adults and young anglers.
McDaniel Lake in Missouri is a wonderful destination for anglers seeking largemouth and smallmouth bass, channel catfish, white crappie, bluegill, white bass, and other fish species. With its scenic setting, abundant fish population, and recreational amenities, McDaniel Lake provides a memorable fishing experience for all who visit.
This 300-acre lake is not open to boating of any kind. Catfish are the most sought after species here, but the lake also has nice populations of bass, crappie and sunfish - all available for those willing to hike a bit.
Primary fish species residing in McDaniel Lake
Click images for fishing tips and details about each species.
McDaniel Lake Amenities
Marina: NO
Boat Rental: NO
Boat Launch Ramp: NO
Campgrounds: NEARBY
RV Hookups: NEARBY
Lodging: NEARBY
Convenience Store: NEARBY
Bait & Tackle: NEARBY
Restaurant: NEARBY
Today's Weather & Forecast
Fishing License
Click here for a Missouri Fishing License.
Find camping facilities near the lake provide opportunities for overnight stays and a chance to fully immerse in the beauty of the surrounding natural environment.
Campgrounds & RV Parks Nearby
Cook's RV Park - 417 833-1252
USDA Forest Services Campground - 417 864-3650
McDaniel Lake MO Map - Fishing & Camping Areas
Contact Information
McDaniel Lake
Springfield - McDaniel Lake
Farm Rd. 68
Springfield, MO
417 863-9000
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McDaniel Lake in Missouri.
MISSOURI
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McDaniel Lake offers excellent catfish fishing from the bank.
