Table Rock Lake is a popular fishing destination for recreational and competitive anglers alike. At normal pool, the lake boasts 43,000 acres of water and 750 miles of shoreline. With so much area to cover, it’s helpful to break it down into popular sections for the best fishing and lodging at Table Rock Lake. All areas offer excellent lakefront lodging with boat launch access.
Most of Table Rock Lake lies within the state of Missouri; however, keep in mind the upper reaches of the Long Creek, Kings River and White River arms stretch into Northern Arkansas. Before you fish, it’s best to make sure you are properly licensed for the water you are fishing in.
Consider a spring or fall fishing trip to maximize your adventure. You’ll find lower resort rates and better fishing during these times. Grab your fishing poles, hook up the boat and head for one of the most beautiful lakes you’ll ever see.
From the Cape Fair Bridge to the mouth of Aunts Creek, largemouth bass, crappie and catfish are abundant. Each spring, anglers troll the upper reaches of this area for massive paddlefish, or spoonbill as they are often referred to (the state record of 140 lbs. came from this area). This is an excellent area to stay if you are participating in one of the many competitive fishing tournaments held at Table Rock Lake each year.
A popular area to stay if you plan to fish the James River arm of the lake is Aunts Creek. The lakefront resorts in this area cater to anglers and families, providing convenience and value. Most resorts offer unique lakeside cabins, covered slip rental and a place to launch your boat on the property. They’ll even provide valuable fishing tips.
Bridgeport Resort, located adjacent to the Highway 76 Bridge over Table Rock Lake in Cape Fair, is an excellent home base if you will be fishing the upper James River area (also ground zero for those giant spoonbill). The resort features 24 units spread over seven acres, a private dock and boat launch, swimming pool, large screened pavilion and activities for guests.
Often referred to as the “eye of the needle,” the Indian Point area offers excellent fishing, especially if you are in search of smallmouth bass. Pick nearly any cove within three miles of the dam and drop a line. You are almost guaranteed to catch fish. It’s a popular area with its proximity to Branson and Silver Dollar City, but don’t let that detract you.
If you plan to stay on Indian Point, lodging options include full-service resorts, new cabins with all the modern amenities, cozy mom-and-pop cottage resorts and luxury nightly rental condos.
Still Waters Lakefront Resort is the flagship property on Indian Point and is an excellent family adventure for anglers bringing the entire crew.
Rock Lane Resort is also popular. The resort offers a full-service marina with gas dock and the lively Parrot’s Pavilion Tiki Bar. Enough said.
If you are here just for the fishing, consider White Wing Resort. Popular with tournament anglers, individual guest cabins feature cozy beds and furnished kitchens, including a stove, refrigerator and microwave—everything the angler needs.
Long Creek is a major tributary flowing north from Arkansas into Table Rock Lake. During the spring and fall seasons, there are large numbers of fish concentrated in this area. Fish the numerous bends from the Highway 86 Bridge to Cricket Creek Marina and you will find success. Watch for the large MO/AR sign along the bluff and you’ll know when you are crossing into Arkansas (again, be sure you have the appropriate fishing licenses).
A good home base for this area is Happy Hollow Resort. The 14 resort cabins feature covered porches, and most have full lakefront views. Boat slips are available in a lighted 16-stall covered dock adjacent to a concrete boat launch ramp for easy loading and unloading. Boat trailer parking is located close to the cabins.
Bass Pro Shops Long Creek Marina is located just south of the Highway 86 Bridge. This full-service marina reports it will open Camp Long Creek in 2019. The camp will combine the rustic appeal of the great outdoors with the relaxing comfort of today’s modern amenities. Guests can choose from glamping units, shepherds huts or cottages.
Kimberling City is at the heart of Table Rock Lake. No matter which area of the lake you want to fish, and especially if you want to explore multiple sections, you’ll be hard pressed to find a more convenient spot. Plus, this is the most consistent area of the lake for fishing throughout the year. You’ll find largemouth, spotted and smallmouth bass plentiful, and other species abundant as well.
The Port of Kimberling Resort offers a hotel, cabins and campsites. The complex offers everything you need, including a full-service marina with slip rentals, gas dock, boat launch ramp and restaurant.
Mill Creek has long been a favorite fishing location for locals. A perfect place to stay is the aptly named Mill Creek Resort. The resort offers individual lakefront log cabins and cottages. All units feature furnished kitchenettes with a beautiful lake view. Additional amenities include a covered boat dock, outdoor pool, party deck, barbecue grills and more. The resort is open year-round.
If you are looking for something with perhaps a little less fishing pressure, try the Shell Knob area around Campbell Point. This area is located approximately 28 miles from the dam (by water) and offers some of the best fishing on Table Rock. The vibe is pretty laid back and offers easy access to the upper reaches of Table Rock Lake, including the Kings River, which flows into the lake near the Shell Knob Bridge.
There are dozens of fishing resorts in the area ready to welcome you. Lunker Landing Resort has been a favorite for visitors for many years. One- and two-bedroom cabins with fully equipped kitchens, cable TV, wireless internet, Weber grills and picnic tables are perfect for extended stays. Fishing enthusiasts will appreciate the large covered boat dock and concrete launch ramp.
The quality of fishing at Table Rock Lake has made it one of the country’s best places to fish recreationally and hold tournaments for decades. Dozens of unique lakefront resorts and the outstanding natural beauty of the area make this the perfect spot for your next fishing adventure.
