Fish to Catch
Missouri has more than 200 species of fish, but anglers pursue only a couple dozen of them. Browse this section for info on bluegill, fish ID and game fish, including bass, bluegill, catfish, crappie, goggle-eye, muskie, paddlefish, sturgeon, trout and walleye. Bullfrogs and green frogs may also be taken with a fishing permit.
Do you remember your first fishing trip, or maybe your child's first fishing trip? Chances are these early experiences involved worms, bobbers and the bluegill. This scrappy, highly cooperative member of the sunfish family is an important part of many childhood fishing memories.
Cleaning fish is easy after a little practice. You can clean fish on a dock, paddle, cooler lid or flat rock.
Try Missouri fishing without having to buy a permit or tackle at a Free Fishing Days program the first weekend in June.
Game fishing is great in Missouri! Gear up to angle for 21 game fish species, including bass, catfish, crappie, goggle-eye, muskie, paddlefish, trout and walleye.
From the time you catch a fish until you release it, you can practice three phases of handling to improve its chances for survival.
