The catch-and-keep trout fishing season opens Thursday, Feb. 1, at the Sikeston Recreation Complex Pond. The trout were stocked in November by the Missouri Department of Conservation (MDC) to give anglers a winter fishing opportunity. Trout are a cold-water fish but can survive in Missouri lakes during winter.

MDC Fisheries Management Biologist Salvador Mondragon said cooler than average temperatures have caused a reduction in recent fishing activity. But he said if more pleasant weather is on the way, “opening day may see lake banks lined with eager anglers trying their luck at harvesting trout.”

Starting Feb. 1, any bait may be used, and four trout may be kept regardless of size. All anglers between the ages of 16 and 64 must have a valid Missouri fishing permit, and any angler harvesting trout must also possess a trout permit.  

“These fish provide a great amount of fishing opportunities through the fall and winter months when warmwater fishing is at a lull,” Mondragon said. “Along with catchable-size fish, a few ‘lunker’ trout were also stocked at each lake.”

Mondragon said that based on years past, many trout are caught during the first week of trout harvest season. Many anglers frequently catch limits of trout using light weight or ultra-lite fishing tackle or fly tackle, he said.

“I recommend anglers use 2-4 lb. test line, small hooks and little or no added weight to their line,” Mondragon said. “Baits include almost any type of small spinner, small crank baits, and natural baits such as worms, cheese, and commercially produced dough baits.”

The trout fishing at Sikeston Recreation Complex Pond is a partnership between MDC and the Sikeston Parks and Recreation Department.

Find winter trout fishing areas online at https://short.mdc.mo.gov/ZoH. For more information, contact the MDC’s Southeast Regional Office at (573) 290-5730 or visit mdc.mo.gov/fishing.