Lake of the Woods Fishing Guide, Jackson County, Missouri

• Overview

  Lake of the Woods falls in Jackson County, part of Missouri. The bank is 820 feet above sea level. At roughly 7 acres, the whole thing is within casting reach of a single walk. For supplies, Raytown is 3.1 miles out. The nearest city of size is Kansas City, an 8.1 miles drive. The county line runs close by, so rules can change within a short drive.

• Where to Fish on Lake of the Woods

  Without a survey to go on, judge depth from how the bank falls away. Draw-down through summer strips the margins, so follow the water out. Standing timber shows when the level drops, and fish sit against it. Species logged across Jackson County include bluegill, channel catfish and green sunfish. The county list is broader than any single water. Read Lake of the Woods before you fish it and the day goes better.

• Seasonal Patterns

  In an average year July sits at 79°F and January at 28°F. Some winters cap it and some do not. It is not guaranteed even in a cold spell, so check yourself. The cooler months are the comfortable ones to fish here. Plan around that when you fish Lake of the Woods. A steady wind fishes better than a still, bright day.

• Tackle & Baits

  Public sources are silent on who controls the bank. There is recorded parking some half a mile off. There is a pier recorded roughly 110 yards away. Picnic facilities are recorded some half a mile out. There is a toilet block some half a mile out. State or provincial rules still apply whatever the bank status. Access can change hands, so last year's answer may not hold. Elm Lake, 2.8 miles away, makes the obvious fallback. Confirm before you fish Lake of the Woods.