Council Bluffs lake

This 440-acre lake, located on Mark Twain National Forest in Iron County, boasts the best redear sunfish population in the region. Fish 7-10" are very abundant (Master Angler fish = 10"), although 11-12" fish are not uncommon. These fish are most readily caught during the spring and early summer on small worms or crickets. Due to very clear water, fish are often found deeper than in other lakes, even during the spawn. Fish for redears on the bottom in water 4-15' deep, targeting points and the mouths of coves. Look for spawning beds in shallow water in May and June. Bluegill are less abundant but of quality size also; 7-8" fish can be found in the lake’s abundant submerged timber. Largemouth bass are abundant and average 12-17". They can be challenging to catch in the clear water, requiring finesse and light tackle. Topwaters in the very late evening and early morning are often the ticket. Channel catfish are stocked annually. The MDC is conducting a study on channel catfish in Council Bluff. A number of catfish in the lake have been marked with tags worth from $10 to $100. If you catch a tagged catfish, return the tag to: Mo. Dept. of Conservation, 1110 South College Avenue, Columbia, MO 65201. Along with the tag, be sure to send the following information–date fish was caught, length of fish, whether fish was kept or released, and your name and address. Angling should continue to be good for catfish up to 20". There is a concrete boat ramp off Highway DD and a gravel ramp off Highway 32.