“Lake Taneycomo is one of the best, if not the very best, of all trout streams in the U.S.”
– Harold D. Eastman in “Trout Fishing on Lake Taneycomo,” 1987
Accessible from historic downtown Branson and at multiple points east including the communities of Rockaway Beach, Forsyth and Powersite and south of Hwy. 76 in Hollister and the Fall Creek area,Lake Taneycomo was formed with the completion of Powersite Dam in 1913. It was originally a section of the White River, and although Taneycomo is now technically a lake, it retains the look and feel of a river. When the Table Rock Dam was completed at Taneycomo’s headwaters in 1958, the nature of the lake changed. Taneycomo’s water now comes from the bottom of Table Rock Lake, making it a coldwater lake. The cold, clear water, stocked annually with approximately 750,000 10-12″ rainbow trout, makes Taneycomo a world-class trout fishing lake.
Resorts, campgrounds & RV parks and full-service marinas and outfitters offer canoeing, kayaking, fishing boats, motors, guides, tackle, and pontoons for relaxing and fun-filled lake activities.
Quick Facts
- 2,000+ (approx.) acres of surface area depending on the water level
- 40+ miles of shoreline
- 58 degrees – average water temperature
- 750,000 + rainbow and brown trout stocked annually
Fishing Lake Taneycomo
The uppermost portion of the lake is reserved for artificial lures only such as tiny jigs and crankbaits. These headwaters are also ideal for fly fishing with flies that imitate the freshwater shrimp and other natural bait that the trout feed upon.
The locals say that the best way to catch trout is by drifting salmon eggs or angleworms. Affix the eggs or worms to a small hook and cast into holes with an ultra light rod and reel. This method used from a drifting boat or from a dock will yield a nice stringer of trout.
Lower Lake Taneycomo harbors a well-kept secret. The downstream area closer to Forsyth offers considerably warmer water and many other species of fish, making Taneycomo a versatile and challenging destination for anglers who are aware of its changing character from one end to the other.
Many area resorts and marinas can hook you up with an experienced guide to help make the most of your Lake Taneycomo fishing experience.
The Taneycomo lakefront in historic downtown Branson is home to the Branson Landing, which includes shopping, dining, lake excursions, boat rentals, all along a 1-mile lighted boardwalk.