More than 5,400 anglers took part in Mo. trout season opening day

JEFFERSON CITY, Mo. (KFVS) - Missouri’s catch-and-keep trout season started Monday morning, March 1.

According to the Missouri Department of Natural Resources, more than 5,400 anglers visited Bennett Spring, Montauk and Roaring River state parks on opening day.

“Opening day of Missouri trout season is always exciting,” said Mike Sutherland, director of Missouri State Parks. “When so many family, friends and fellow anglers gather at our parks to share their passion for trout fishing, it creates a unique energy unlike any other season or event. I absolutely love getting to watch lifelong memories being created and our state parks are privileged to host this very special annual event.”

Based on trout tag sales, the department said 1,709 anglers visited Bennett Spring State Park near Lebanon; 1,793 anglers visited Montauk State Park near Salem; and 1,956 anglers visited Roaring River State Park near Cassville.

According to DNR, 2021′s total is lower than 2020 numbers by nearly 2,000.

You can watch video streamed from the trout cams. They are located near the most popular fishing spots.

Below is Bennet Spring State Park trout cam.

Below is Roaring River State Park trout cam.

Below is the Roaring River State Park Hatchery trout cam.

Trout tags can be bought at the state park stores.

For more information on trout season opening, visit mostateparks.com or call Roaring River State Park at 417-847-2539, Bennett Spring State Park at 417-532-4338 or Montauk State Park at 573-548-2201.

The season closes on October 31.

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