The opening of the catch-and-keep trout fishing season on March 1 is an important Missouri tradition, marking the beginning of a season that runs until Oct. 31. The season officially begins at 6:30 a.m. at Bennett Spring State Park near Lebanon, Montauk State Park near Salem, and Roaring River State Park near Cassville. In addition to premier trout fishing, visitors to the state’s trout parks can enjoy miles of hiking trails, lodging and camping options and on-site dining facilities.
Trout Cam
Click here to see a current photo from Bennett Spring State Park.
OPENING DAY TAG SALES
BENNETT SPRING STATE PARK - OPENING DAY PHOTO GALLERY
MONTAUK STATE PARK - OPENING DAY PHOTO GALLERY
ROARING RIVER STATE PARK - OPENING DAY PHOTO GALLERY
Media Coverage
General Coverage:
- Trout Opening Kicks Off Fishing Season On March 1st - KTTS
- MDC and anglers prepare for trout opener today - Houston Herald
- Trout season begins today in Missouri - Fox 2 Now
Bennett Spring State Park Coverage:
- A week of rain won't keep trout angler's from today's season opener - Springfield News-Leader
- Trout Season Gets Started at Bennett Spring - Springfield News-Leader
- Missouri's 2018 Trout Season Underway - Ozarks First
- Trout Parks Packed on Opening Day - Ozarks First
- Trout Season Opens at Bennett Spring State Park - Ozarks First
-
Fewer anglers but a lot of trout at Bennett Spring season opener - Springfield News-Leader
Montauk State Park Coverage:
Roaring River State Park Coverage:
- Roaring River State Park staff ready for Opening Day - The Monett Times
- VIDEO: Trout season opens throughout Missouri - KSPR ABC 33
- Pictures: Anglers wake up early for start of Missouri's trout season - KY3
- New Roaring River superintendent gearing up for Opening Day - The Monett Times