Lake of the Ozarks Fishing
Posted by Samuel in Missouri Vacations on 01 21st, 2010Time spent in the Lake of the Ozarks is not complete without spending a little time out on the water. Some of the best fishing in the Midwest occurs at the Lake of the Ozarks every year. Anglers from throughout the United States and beyond come to the area for the various species located in the waters of Lake of the Ozarks.
From the Catfish to the Largemouth Bass, there truly is something for fishermen of all tastes. Besides Catfish and Largemouth Bass, anglers have the opportunity to catch Crappie, Walleye, White Bass, and Hybrid Striped Bass. The wide variety of fish makes it possible for each fishing trip to be successful and the serene environment adds to the overall experience.
Fishing is an all year sport in the large Missouri lake. The typical fishing season begins (for the most devoted of anglers) on January 1. It extends to December 31, only to start again once a new year has begun. The typical lures used in the spring are either jig-n-frog bait or crankbaits. These lures allow anglers to fish in some of the deeper waters, when the water is cold.
In the warmer months, lures such as plastic worms are used for surface fishing. This type of fishing is some of the most exciting in the Ozarks and many anglers travel here to experience a catch in this breathtaking region. Topwater fishing usually occurs after the bass spawn. This happens in between late April and early May.
In Lake Ozarks, bass are most often found near the deeper waters. They also tend to stay around the boat docks and near drop off points until the fall and early winter months, when they tend to head to shallower waters again.
The limit for the amount of fish you can catch is fifteen. This can be filled in 15-20 casts for the more experienced angler on the lake. White Bass tend to school and swim in the shallower waters while the Black Bass are in the deeper waters. Crappie fishing is also incredibly popular for anglers who fish in Lake of the Ozark waters. There is a length limit for Crappie fish of 9 inches. The best time to fish for Crappie is after spawning which tends to occur from mid to late April. However, this fluctuates depending on the weather. The best indicator of the best time for crappie is when the dogwoods bloom.
The Hybrid Stripers and the Striper Bass, which were originally stocked in the Lake back in 1980, are some of the most sought after fish in this area. At this time, the state record for Hybrid Stripers stands at 20.5 lbs. and came from the lake back in 1986. Other state records for fishing in the dragon lake include a 36 lb. 12 oz. Small Mouth Buffalo, a 111 lbs. Paddlefish, a 41 lbs. 2 oz. Muskie, a 40 lbs. Freshwater Drum, and a 91 lbs. Blue Catfish.
Of course, the true catch of the lake is the Paddlefish. Paddlefish, which are also known as Spoonbills, have been around for centuries. In fact, it is believed they date back as far as the dinosaurs. Anglers typically catch Paddlefish by blind snagging. How this is done is the angler will scout the area for Paddlefish using large hooks and heavy lead sinkers. They can also find these rare fish by casting and retrieving hooks through jerking. The only Paddlefish that can be caught, if they will be caught, are 34 inches and longer during the Paddlish season, which is March 15-April 30.
Lake of the Ozarks fits the needs of so many freshwater fishermen. It does not matter whether you are new to fishing or a seasoned professional. If you want to relax and kick back or catch the Bass you have been dreaming about, then you have come to the right place.
If you want to experience fishing with the assistance of a qualified guide, you should consider one of the many fishing charters in Lake of the Ozarks. Some of the most popular charters include Firstmate Fishing Charters, Show Me Guide Service, and Hook-Em Guide Service. To find out more, search online for Fishing Charters in Lake of the Ozarks.
read comments (0)Top Five Things You Must Do in Branson Missouri
Posted by Samuel in Deals/Specials on 01 20th, 2010I recently got the opportunity to spend a lot of time in Branson, Mo. I got to go and see some of the shows. Spend time a the many lakes in the area. It wasn’t as dull as I thought, I thought it was just a place where old people went to vacation. Anyway here is my list of things you must do while in Branson.
1st, Spend a day at Table Rock Lake, Plan a nice picnic or a day of fishing. It’s peaceful and relaxing. The big parks, Like the state park by the damn can get a little crowded but if you don’t mind the crowds it has good access to the lake. It also has a visitor center with the history of the lake. Another big spot is at Indian Point it’s a resort but if go past it, you will find a lot of place to with access to the lake. Now if you want to get away from the crowds just do a little driving. If go out to Kimberling City go down hwy. 13 until you reach hwy. 86 (Take a left). Right before you reach the next big bridge, There are a lot of little campsites with great access to the lake. Plus not many people out there during the day.
2nd, You must go to the the fish hatchery. This a great family activity. The kids can feed the fish, Just get a hand full of fish pellets and toss them into one of the holding areas. The fish go crazy and the kids get a kick out of it. While you there walk down to the spill ways. There right a the base of the damn. It’s the cleanest clear water and if you watch the water you can see the trout swimming around. Be careful, Don’t plan on fishing there unless you have a trout license and the water is really cold, even in the middle of the summer.
3rd, A day of shopping. Drive down to historic downtown Branson where you will find many little shops to browse. The best part is you can park your car and walk to all the store and when your finished with these stores, You’re within walking distance of the Branson Landing. The Branson Landing is an outlet mall which features a Bass Pro Shop. There is all ways some kind of live entertainment going on. Plus there is a great view of lake Taneycomo. If you can’t fill your day in old down town Branson there three other big outlet mall; Tanger Outlet Center, The Shoppes at Branson Meadows and Factory Merchants Branson. Plus two many craft stores to count.
4th, Spend the day at Silver Dollar City. Time will fly. There are so many things to do; rides, shows, crafts and of course Marvel Cave. You spend hours here and not know it. I find it a lot more fun then Six Flags just a lot more to do.
5th, A day of fun with the kids. There are many places to visit. White Water, A water park in Branson has a lot of activities, water slide, water bumper cars, pools and much more… Celebration City, Has lots rides, shows and arcades. There are go carts, bumper cars, water bumper cars and arcades all over Branson.
There many other things to do of course. If you’re a golfer there are some great golf courses there and the surrounding areas. Countless shows to attend. Some of the best fishing you may ever do.
Getaway to Branson, Missouri
Posted by Samuel in Deals/Specials on 01 18th, 2010At first glance, Branson, Missouri may sound like your average Midwest town. After all, its population is less than 7,000, and it only has an area of about 18 square miles. But the saying “big things come in small packages” could not be truer, and Branson has come a long way from its roots as a small town in southwest Missouri.
With more than 7.5 million visitors each year, Branson has become one of the nation’s most popular vacation destinations. Its convenient location in America’s heartland is just one of the many reasons the city has risen in popularity, and with such a variety of things to see and do, it’s easy to see why visitors return here year after year.
For many, the draw to Branson is its shows, attractions, and shopping. For others, it’s the area’s pristine lakes and rolling Ozark hillsides. Either way you look at it, this vacation destination has it all.
The area plays host to over 50 theaters with more theater seats than you’ll find in New York City’s Broadway. It’s shows range from a variety of music genres to comedy, magic, acrobatics, impersonators, and Broadway-style productions. You’ll even find dinner shows like the Dixie Stampede and the Showboat Branson Belle.
The city is also home to world-class theme parks like Silver Dollar City, a variety of interesting museums including the world’s largest Titanic Museum attraction, several arcades, go-karts, miniature golf courses, and other great attractions, as well as hundreds of restaurants, three outlet shopping malls, and more. One of its newest shopping attractions is the Branson Landing bordering beautiful Lake Taneycomo, where you can ride a trolley, shop along cobblestone streets, watch street performers, relax and dine by the water, or even catch a water show!
Those who love the outdoors enjoy the area’s three gorgeous lakes. In fact, Table Rock Lake boasts some of the best bass fishing around, while Lake Taneycomo claims the best trout fishing. Other popular lake activities include parasailing, swimming, boating, jet skiing, and scuba diving. If you prefer dry land, you can always take a nature walk or trail ride through the area’s beautiful countryside or try your swing at one of 12 world-class golf courses.
Plus, the Branson area hosts a variety of exciting festivals and events. Here craft festivals, car shows, patriotic celebrations, historical festivals, and beautiful Christmas displays can all be found. One of its best-known festivals, Branson Fest, gives attendees the chance to sample a variety of the area’s live shows and restaurant fare all from one convenient location.
The places to stay are just as varied as the entertainment choices. From economy class hotels to 4-star resorts or luxurious waterfront cabins and condos, there’s a place for everyone in Branson.
Show Me Beautiful Missouri
Posted by Samuel in Deals/Specials on 01 18th, 2010Sitting at the foot of the Ozark Mountains, Missouri has a rich history and an assortment of attractions to offer the entire family. Lodging in Missouri is both easy and affordable, providing ease and comfort to vacationers and business travelers alike.
Stunning History of Saint Louis Lodging
Missouri’s most famous landmark is perhaps the Gateway Arch (http://www.nps.gov/jeff/). At 630 feet high, it is the tallest national monument in the United States. Approximately one million visitors each year ride its trams to the top to take in the stunning St. Louis skyline.
Right across the street from the Arch is the Adam’s Mark St. Louis. This riverside hotel has an impressive three-story atrium in the lobby, complete with a pair of nine-foot bronze horses imported from Italy. Guestrooms offer a view of the Arch, downtown, and the Mississippi River. Cardinals fans are only two blocks from Busch Stadium, and for a fee, you can reach downtown destinations by a romantic, horse-drawn carriage.
While in St. Louis, be sure to visit the zoo, or take a stroll through historic Laclede’s Landing. In 1763, a French fur-trapper named Pierre Laclede began exploring the Illinois Country in search of a place to set up a trading post. In 1764, he chose the west bank of the Mississippi River, in the place now occupied by St. Louis. In 1784, the area he chose was cleared, cabins were built, and Laclede christened the place Saint Louis to honor the Patron Saint of the King of France.
If you have never visited this intriguing city before, you will find a variety of lodging in St. Louis within easy reach of this city’s historic landmarks and attractions.
Exciting Entertainment Near Kansas City Lodging
If you are taking a business of pleasure jaunt through Kansas City, you will be in for a surprise for the interesting lodging options available in this fine city. You will find lodging in Kansas City – Missouri’s other well-known city – that offers many affordable and comfortable options.
In the exciting casino district, try the Argosy Casino Hotel & Spa. For exciting entertainment, this Kansas City hotel includes a 62,000 square-foot casino, a luxury spa and health club, and 42″ plasma screen televisions.
For a stylish experience, the gorgeous Hotel Phillips is located in downtown Kansas City, less than two miles from Union Station. This trendy art deco hotel was built in 1931 and is on the National Register of Historic Places, and guests include many former Presidents of the United States. Live jazz and swing music is offered every Friday and Saturday night to liven up your Kansas City experience.
While in Kansas City, do not miss its many attractions, such as the Worlds of Fun and Oceans of Fun theme parks, the Liberty Memorial (http://www.libertymemorialmuseum.org/), and the World War I Museum. These are great for an interactive, educational experience for both little and big kids alike.
Internationally Renowned Activities by Branson Lodging
Surrounded by three lakes at the foot of the Ozarks, Branson has a large variety of activities, sight-seeing opportunities, and theme park adventures. Try taking a guided tour by motorcycle, or soar above it all on a helicopter adventure. Ride the Branson Scenic Railway, or test your mettle at the Haunted House & Monster Asylum. For a more tasteful experience, visit the Stone Hill Winery.
Just three miles from Table Rock Lake – popular for bass fishing and water sports – is Stonebridge Nightly Rentals. This 3,200 acre gated resort includes an 18-hole championship golf course, putting green, driving range, pro shop, three tennis courts, and two outdoor pools. Scuba diving in Table Rock Lake is said to rival that in the Caribbean! This is a great way to get away from it all, without having to even leave the country.
Take the kids down to visit the exciting Strip, a seven-mile stretch of amusement parks, restaurants, and shops. Branson’s newest theme park, Silver Dollar City, has a nightly laser and fireworks show that should not be missed, as it was voted the number one amusement park in the world by the International Association of Amusement Parks & Attractions. Or treat your family to the amazing Celebration City, with over 100 working craftsmen demonstrating their skills.
Missouri has many varied and interesting things to show her visitors, and lodging in Missouri makes it easy to take in her stunning sights.
The History of Branson, Missouri
Posted by Samuel in Missouri Vacations on 01 18th, 2010Today, Branson Missouri is the live music capital of the world and a city bustling with tourism and action. It was not always this way, considering the fact that Branson got its start as a tiny little river town. From its humble start, it quickly grew over the years to one of the top family destinations in the country.
How Branson Began
In 1837, Taney County, the county in which Branson is located was developed. Many years later, in 1882, Reuben Branson built a general store and post office, and the location became known as Branson, Missouri, named after the owner.
The year 1884 saw a great migration of settlers to the Ozark area in search of free land and a better life, allowing Branson to become homesteaded, with each family getting 160 acre lots. In 1912 Branson was officially incorporated with 1,200 residents, and business began to come to the city. The Winch Spoke Company and American Pencil Company were just a few of the companies that set up shop here.
The Birth of Branson Tourism
Throughout the following years, tourism began with the birth of Silver Dollar City and Marvel Cave founded by William Henry Lynch in 1894. As early as 1904 a resort city began to form, with the creation of a new bank, hotel, stable, and resorts, all of which were formed to accommodate the local travelers and workers.
The famous author Harold Bell Wright wrote the book “The Shepherd of the Hills” in 1907, which brought thousands of tourists to the city in order to experience the Ozark country for itself. This spurred Branson tourism even further, and made it a must see destination. His work is now depicted in a theatrical performance, several times weekly in downtown Branson.
The Beginning of Branson Shows
In 1959, an enterprising family began putting on shows in the basement of the Branson City Hall with nothing but folding chairs. The Mabes family entertained visitors with their wit and musical charm, and called themselves, “The Baldknobbers.” They toured the area putting on shows with homemade instruments while their wives stood by the roadside with signs for advertisement. Today, they are one of the most popular Branson shows.
Another entertaining family, the Presleys, started their own show alongside a road, just west of Branson. The erected a small metal building and played each night for anyone who happened to be passing by. It was slow going, but they too also developed into one of the most popular local Branson shows.
Growth and Development in Branson from 1950’s to Present
In 1963 The Table Rock Dam was completed, which created the first major lake for fishing in the area and stopped the constant threat of flooding that had terrorized the waterfront town. In the mid 1970’s a two lane road was blasted through the area to cut down on the driving time to get to Branson, and a short decade later, the amount of shops, shows, and dining options along the newly constructed Highway 76 skyrocketed. A tribute to the rapid growth was evidenced by the fact that in 1959, Baldknobbers was the only area show, and by 1980 there were 16 Branson entertainment options.
Major news publication began to see the potential of Branson Missouri beginning in 1991 when it was featured in Time magazine, The Wall Street Journal, and People magazine. The hit show 60 Minutes also did a spotlight on the town and started a flow of tourism that fed the cities growing tourism market.
After the public media attention many big name stars began to see the potential of this booming waterfront town. Ray Stevens, Moe Brandy, Mel Tillis, and Andy Williams are just some of the stars who began to bring their business and attention to Branson.
In recent years Branson’s tourism industries have continued to grow, with the addition of the massive Branson Landing with its rows of huge outlet stores, fine dining, and entertainment options. Championship golf courses have formed vacation resort destinations, and a new convention center has brought in big businesses looking for convenient meeting facilities. In 2009 ground was broken on the brand new Branson Airport, which will be sure to bring even more traffic to this booming city.
Even though it started off as only a humble river town, Branson Missouri has grown in an exciting city full of entertainment choices and activities. With more than 100 live shows, 12 golf courses, and three large fishing lakes, it is easy to see why Branson is now considered one of the premier vacation destinations.
Happy New Year Let it Snow
Posted by Samuel in Uncategorized on 01 5th, 2010So we just wanted to wish everyone a Happy New Year from all of us here at Show-Me-Lakes. 2009 was a great year and hopefully 2010 will bring more good fortune for everyone.
Just wanted to update you on the conditions down at Bull Shoals. When we left last Sunday there was already about 7 inches of snow on the ground and it was still falling. In total the area got hit with about 10 inches of snow! And if you have never been down in the area before, navigating dirt roads with several inches of snow becomes interesting very quickly! All in all there is not too much to update you one as the weather is very cold, but we hope you had a happy holiday and are getting ready for some warmer weather.
