Fishing Swofford Lake in Ray County, Missouri

• Overview

  Within Ray County, Missouri, you have Swofford Lake. Land around it is open valley. At roughly 7 acres, the whole thing is within casting reach of a single walk. Richmond lies 3.3 miles from the water. Albany lies 5 miles off, Lexington another 9.7 miles. The nearest boundary is a fair way off. It gives up fish to patience rather than to gear.

• Where to Fish on Swofford Lake

  Open data we checked carries no depth for this water. Draw-down through summer strips the margins, so follow the water out. Points where the flooded channel swings in are the reliable ones. County-wide records name bluegill, orangethroat darter, green sunfish, plains darter and common carp. County records show the wider picture rather than this one place. Swofford Lake fishes better once you know its edges.

• Seasonal Patterns

  Between January at about 26°F and July at about 78°F, the water has a wide range to work through. The year turns gently, without extremes at either end. It should never be assumed safe, whatever the month says. Autumn steadies things again once the heat lets go. Swofford Lake runs to its own calendar within the local pattern.

• Tackle & Baits

  We have no record of the rules that apply on this bank. Access points are not mapped for this water, which suits people who like quiet. Largemouth respond to soft plastics tight to cover; go weedless where the growth is heavy. A phone call first saves an afternoon. Some stretches are reserved and marked as such on the ground. For a change of water, Vandiver and Barchers Number A-2 Reservoir is 0.8 miles distant. Signs at Swofford Lake carry more weight than any list.