My Favorite Little-Known State Park in Missouri Is an Oasis for Trout Fishing

When Missourians think of trout fishing in the Show Me State, two of our popular spots come to mind first, Roaring River State Park and Bennett Spring State Park. But, did you know there’s a little-known Missouri state park that promises all of the fishing action and natural beauty with fewer crowds? Montauk State Park is truly a hidden gem.

Why Montauk State Park Feels So Peaceful

Located in south central Missouri, Montauk State Park is off the beaten path near the small town of Salem. Whenever we visit, my mind goes into vacation mode as we make our way along the twisting roadways swathed by lush forests. I know I’m far from the hectic pace of everyday life once we enter the state park. Instead of worrying about deadlines and chores, I begin to daydream about catching trout.

The rippling waters of the Current River snake through the park, starting at effervescent blue springs. It’s hard to believe this gentle stream eventually grows into the mightier swell of the Current, where it becomes part of the Ozark National Scenic Riverways, a National Park Service unit protecting lands and waterways. While you can’t paddle or boat within Montauk State Park, you aren’t far from prime floating locations.

These chilly spring waters make trout fishing possible, as Missouri’s sweltering summers warm most rivers too much for delicate trout. The onsite fish hatchery plumps up approximately 200,000 trout per year, which are stocked overnight in the waterway. A blaring horn signals the start of fishing each morning, marking your best chance to reel in a big one.

What To Know Before You Go Trout Fishing

Admittedly, although I’ve been trout fishing with my husband for much of our 29-year marriage, I’m far from an expert. I’m a casual angler who hasn’t mastered the art of tying a fly, and I don’t like removing the slimy-but-shimmering fish from my hook. Luckily, since the river is so well stocked, even novices like me enjoy the thrill of a catch. (Yes, I know some people considered this cheating.)

When fishing at this popular Missouri state park, be aware that there is a limit of four per day. This is to help keep the trout population healthy and prevent overfishing. You're more likely to encounter Rainbow trout, but there are some brown trout as well. Typically, the trout stocked in this little-known Missouri state park are about one foot long. Remember, you'll need to purchase a trout tag to fish here. These generally cost $3 to $5.

Where To Stay and Eat at the Park

While I enjoy trying to perfect the arc of my fishing line as I flick my fly rod, I am a fair-weather angler who eventually wants to leave the river to find other adventures. Luckily, Montauk offers more to do, including hiking and biking trails and interpretative programs. Aside from being naturally photogenic, the 125-year-old Montauk Mill is a fascinating place to tour and to learn about the history of the grist mills that once used the power of these waters to grind grains. 

To make sure you’re there for the morning bell, it helps to stay on-site. The park offers a variety of accommodations, including tent and RV campsites, cabins, and a resort lodge. My family likes to park our RV under the canopy of trees, where we have easy access to the river. You don’t have to leave this scenic oasis to find food, luckily, as the Dorman L. Steelman Lodge—a full-service restaurant—offers up homestyle cooking, snacks, and ice cream (which is always one of my favorite treats on a warm day in the park). 

While in the region, make sure to check out the Devil’s Well, a massive underground lake located near Salem, or the Blue Spring near Eminence, to see its brilliant blue waters. Then, head into the Ozark National Scenic Riverways to enjoy more of the Show Me State’s epic hills and waterways. 

It’s easy to see why this scenic lake state park is one of my favorites for fishing, but the real secret is that our visits to spots like this are hardly about catching trout. Instead, we visit Montauk State Park to catch our breath and take a break from the fast-paced world outside of this oasis in the Ozarks.