There are two small lakes (Buteo and Clearfork) and a creek (Clearfork) that offer visitors the opportunity to fish. Catfish, bass, bluegill and crappie are some of the fish anglers may catch while fishing at Knob Noster State Park. Fishing is available sunrise to sunset daily, except during special management activities when the park may be closed.
Adult anglers must have a valid fishing license as described in the Wildlife Code of Missouri. (Depending on age, some anglers may not need a license to fish.)
Bank fishing is the most common way to fish here. There are no boat launches, however, small boats such as canoes can be carried from the parking lot to the water and hand launched. Electric trolling motors may be used.
Note: Due to some potential for health effects, it is recommended that pregnant women, children and those with lowered immune systems limit their consumption of catfish caught in Lake Buteo to less than one pound per week. This is recommended as a result of chemicals found in the lake some years ago.
