Old Lake in Pike County: How and When to Fish It

• Overview

  Old Lake is listed under Pike County, Missouri. It lies 840 feet above sea level. With some 31 acres of water, there is room for a boat but no need of one. It ranks high for size among our Pike County listings. Bowling Green is the closest place, 1.8 miles off. After that come Louisiana at 9.5 miles and Vandalia at 18 miles. The nearest boundary is well away, so one set of rules covers the water.

• Where to Fish on Old Lake

  Depth figures are not published for this one. The old creek line under the surface is the feature worth finding. Points where the flooded channel swings in are the reliable ones. Reported across Pike County: orangethroat darter, bluegill, green sunfish and red shiner. Records at this level tell you what is in the area. Old Lake gives up its fish to patience rather than distance.

• Seasonal Patterns

  The warmest month averages 77°F, the coldest about 26°F. Temperature moves within a narrow band, and so does the fishing. In milder years the edges alone go, and the middle never sets. April and May are the settled weeks, with October close behind. Anyone fishing Old Lake regularly works to that calendar.

• Tackle & Baits

  Nothing we hold confirms whether access is permitted. Mapping shows no built access close by; expect to walk in from wherever you can leave the car. 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. Keep proof of licence with you rather than in the car. Should this one be busy, Bowling Green Reservoir is 0.6 miles off. Nothing here settles the position at Old Lake for certain.