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Best Fishing Spots in Pulaski County
Where Trophies Lurk: Fishing in Pulaski County, MO
The waterways of Pulaski County have been a definitive part of the region’s culture from the time the first tie rafters made their way downstream aboard crude, makeshift vessels. Today, the rivers and streams of Pulaski County are a prime recreational destination for floaters, kayakers, and canoers. But for many others, the chance to cast a line and reel in a once-in-a-lifetime trophy is as alluring as lazing in the cool, spring-fed currents.
With varying settings and species, Pulaski County is a paradise for fishing enthusiasts in search of their next unforgettable fish tale — and best of all, no embellishment is needed. Learn more about some of the most popular fishing holes in Pulaski County and tips to land your next trophy.
Big Piney River
Named for the looming pine trees that line its shores, the Big Piney River meanders along the eastern border of Pulaski County with its slow-moving, spring-fed currents. Described as “second to none” by Driftwoods Outdoors, the Big Piney’s designated Smallmouth Bass Special Management Area promises excellent year-round fishing. The bulkiest bronzebacks tend to gather around underwater rootwads and boulders, so try casting crawfish imitations or crankbaits near these areas. Traditional largemouth lures also work great when fishing pools in springtime.
North America’s top game fish, the largemouth bass, also lurks underneath the Big Piney’s flowing waters. Typically found in the river’s backwater areas, largemouth are more easily caught during winter and early spring when the water is clear of vegetation. Crankbaits, spinners, and big, soft, plastic swim baits are all excellent largemouth lures.
Access areas on the Big Piney include:
- Pineyland River Access Point — 21400 Tidal Road, Saint Robert (paid access)
- Ross River — 2.5 miles west of Duke on County Road TT-8S-0N
Gasconade River
Wider and swifter than the Big Piney, the Gasconade River was named for Gascone, France, by 18th century French fur trappers and boasts a 17-mile Smallmouth Bass Special Management Area of its own, described by Game & Fish as “magical.” Like the Big Piney, crawfish imitations and shallow running crankbaits work well for luring smallmouth away from the fallen logs and boulders they tend to congregate around. Meanwhile, largemouth tend to prefer slower-moving waters in the Gasconade, especially around vegetation. Plastic worms on a Texas-style rig should do the trick.
The Gasconade also offers plenty of opportunities for catfishing with channel catfish and flatheads dwelling on the river’s bottom. Small, live sunfish work great for flatheads, while channel cats can be caught on nightcrawlers, chicken livers, or stink bait.
Gasconade access areas include:
- Gasconade Hill — 10 miles south of Dixon on Highway 28, then west on County Road 28-462
- Hazelgreen River — I-44 Exit 145, then west on South Outer Road to Gasconade River
- Mitschele Access — 5 miles south of Richland on Highway 7
- Riddle Bridge — Highway Y north of I-44 at the Gasconade River
- Sclicht Springs — Highway 17 north from Waynesville to Highway 133, then west a mile. Follow signage
Roubidoux Creek
Flowing north from the southern portion of Pulaski County and emptying into the Gasconade north of Waynesville [LINK TO: http://visitpulaskicounty.org/communities/waynesville], Roubidoux Creek features a White Ribbon Trout Area in which anglers may expect to catch brown trout — which are often found in dense cover — and rainbow trout, which prefer cooler waters. All lures are authorized in this area; the length limit for brown trout is 15 inches, but there is no limit for rainbow trout.
Roubidoux Creek access areas include:
- Laughlin/Roubidoux — Highway 17 or Historic Route 66 E. at Laughlin Park
- Roubidoux Access — Highway 17 south of the steel bridge, 1 mile north of Waynesville
- Stone Mill Spring is another smaller White Ribbon Trout Area located at Fort Leonard Wood. For more information on how to access fishing areas on the base, visit iSportsman.net.
Gear & Boat Rentals
Whether you don’t have enough room to bring your fishing gear along, don’t have a vessel, or simply heading onto the water on a whim as part of your getaway, the outfitters around Pulaski County can help make your trip effortless. Many outfitters in the area rent fishing vessels, including Jon boats, canoes, and kayaks. Some also offer public access to the rivers, though others reserve access for paid guests. Contact outfitters and campgrounds individually to check accessibility before arriving.
Fishing is just a small part of the outdoor adventures waiting to be discovered in the heart of the Ozarks! Learn more and plan your getaway today!