Valley Water Mill Lake

Valley Water Mill Lake is a 13-acre lake managed under a cooperative agreement between the Watershed Committee of the Ozarks and the Missouri Department of Conservation. Largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish, redear sunfish, and few black crappie are present in the lake with largemouth bass, bluegill, and redear sunfish providing the best fishing opportunities.  Largemouth bass between 12 to 15 inches are protected from harvest and will provide ample catch and release opportunities in 2024.  A good portion of the harvestable bass will be greater than 15 inches, and the opportunity exists for anglers to catch a bass greater than 5 pounds.  As for sunfish, several redear sunfish over 9 inches will be available for harvest.  Bluegill are also a favorite of anglers so larger bluegill may be harder to find.  However, harvestable sized bluegill will continue to be available in 2024.  Channel catfish angling should also be good. The Department of Conservation supplements the catfish population by periodically stocking additional 8 to 12-inch channel catfish. Favorite baits for catfish include night crawlers, chicken livers, and prepared dough baits.

The lake’s extremely clear water promotes excessive vegetation during the summer months which can hinder fishing during that time.  However, observations confirm the vegetation harbors numerous large sunfish and largemouth bass.  For easier fishing, try late-fall to early-spring.   To increase chances of success in summer months, use weed-less techniques for bass and fly fish for bluegill. 

The lake is disabled user accessible with two fishing piers and a hard-surfaced shoreline trail bordering a portion of the lake. No boats are allowed on the lake, and the lake and surrounding facilities are only open between sunrise and sunset.   Please protect the lake from invasives species by not dumping excess live bait or aquarium contents.