Lake of the Ozarks Fishing update - June 2023

The weather has been quite hot of late and the summer fishing pattern is in full swing.  One can catch Crappie and Bass on structure or on shad schools.  Though main channel fishing is challenging due to boat traffic, one can fish the channel if getting out of bed early isn't objectionable.  There are also fish in shallow coves that hold good shad numbers however we prefer to fish deeper water this time of year as there are more consistent numbers of fish and more quality fish.   The thermocline is around 20' now and the surface temperature is 83.5 degrees.  You'll mark a lot of fish deep right now but you'll also see plenty of active fish in the 10-15 foot depth range.  The top water bite has been slower the past week or so.  Forward imaging is quite helpful in current conditions.  If one is single pole crappie or bass fishing, focus on deep water structure (20' or deeper).   For Bass, plastics shine this time of year and use of Ned Rigs, plastic worms, or drop shot techniques have been productive.  Crappie will bite jigs or live bait if fished in the aforementioned habitat.  The catfish bite is improving as the spawn has mostly completed and the catfish are now pursuing shad and other forage.  Cut shad, bluegill, and goldfish are productive choices.  Though recreational boat traffic is always a challenge this time of year at Lake of the Ozarks there are locations where one can fish and we try to encourage our clients to start and finish charters early to have more enjoyable and productive outings.    Good luck on the water and stay safe out there!