Fishing Update

Posted by Matt K

June 13, 2008

Fishing Information for Valley Water Mill Lake

Information provided by: Kara Tvedt, Fisheries Management Biologist, Missouri Department of Conservation

UPDATE/CURRENT STATUS– CLOSED

Valley Water Mill Lake has been closed to fishing for some time, but each day we get one step closer to once again having a great fishing spot on the north side of Springfield. Read below for some information on the history and character of the lake, the fisheries management plan for the lake, and other Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s). We are making every effort to provide a premier fishing destination for the Ozarks region.

What can anglers do? Please be patient as we let the new populations develop!! The lake renovation process has taken time, but we are almost to the finish line. Illegal harvest will reduce the overall quality of the new fishery, and if excessive, can derail the entire process. For more information on the developing fishery at Valley Water Mill Lake, please contact Kara Tvedt, Fisheries Management Biologist, at 417/895-6881, ext. 265.

Lake History and Characteristics

Management Plan & Philosophy

FAQ’S

>When will the Lake be open to fishing?

–Once the newly stocked fish have been able to establish themselves and reproduce in the lake in a sustainable manner, the lake can be opened. The first surveying opportunities will occur in the fall of 2009 and early summer of 2010.

>How do I get there?

–Valley Water Mill Lake is on the north side of Springfield nestled in between Highway H and Highway 65 on Valley Watermill Rd. From Hwy H, take Valley Watermill Rd. to the east. From Hwy 65 take County Rd. 102 to the west. Look for Watershed Center and Valley Water Mill Park signs at the entrance to access the lake.

>Can I launch a boat or a canoe?

– NO. The lake is managed by City Utilities of Springfield as a drinking water supply reservoir and as such is under strict regulations related to human contact. If you see an un-authorized individual in a boat on the lake, please call the WCO office at (417) 866-1127 or the Missouri Department of Conservation at (417) 895-6880.

>What kind of fish are in the lake?

– Largemouth bass, Bluegill, and Channel catfish (See below for further information)

The following provides some additional life history information about the three actively managed fish species in Valley Water Mill Lake. (Text is provided by http://www.mdc.mo.gov/ and the pictures are provided by Duane Raver/USFWS.)

Fish History-Largemouth Bass, Bluegill and Channel Catfish