John Scofield Lake Fishing in Montgomery County, Missouri

• Overview

  In Missouri, John Scofield Lake belongs to Montgomery County. Height above sea level is 873 feet. At 4 acres it is the sort of place you fish for an evening rather than a day. Most waters listed here for Montgomery County are larger. Supplies mean a trip to Warrenton, 8 miles off. The big place round here is Columbia, 57 miles distant. The boundary is close enough to be worth checking before you fish.

• Where to Fish on John Scofield Lake

  Depth figures are not published for this one. Look for where the old bank line still shows under the surface. Draw-down through summer strips the margins, so follow the water out. Species logged across Montgomery County include orangethroat darter, fantail darter and bluegill. The county list is broader than any single water. On John Scofield Lake the quiet end is the one worth the extra effort.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Expect July to average close to 77°F, with January the cold end at about 28°F. A long season, with weather mattering more than the month. It should never be assumed safe, whatever the month says. Autumn steadies things again once the heat lets go. Anyone fishing John Scofield Lake regularly works to that calendar.

• Tackle & Baits

  We hold no note on access for this one. Public mapping records no formal access here, so plan for a walk and soft ground. Bluegill and other panfish take small jigs or worms under a float near any cover. Where a permit is needed, the nearest town usually sells it. Fishing rules and camping rules are set separately here. Failing this one, try Crancers Lake, 4 miles away. Where John Scofield Lake is concerned, a local answer beats a written one.