March 1 marks the beginning of Missouri's annual catch-and-keep trout season. Nontrout fishing is also available in Columbia and across the state.

Missouri has four Trout Parks: Maramec Spring Park, Bennett Springs State Park, Montauk State Park and Roaring River State Park. The nearest of these, Maramec Spring Park and Bennett State Springs Park, are each only a two hour drive from Columbia.

Those interested in fishing at trout parks must buy a fishing permit and trout tag, which can be purchased through the Missouri Department of Conservation website. Daily permits are $9, and season-long permits are $14 for Missouri residents and $57 for Nonresidents, lifetime permits are also available for dedicated anglers. Trout tags can be purchased at participating parks and vary from $3 to $5 per day.

The daily limit in Missouri per angler is four trout — rainbow and brown trout combined — with an overall possession limit of eight fish.

The Trout Parks are all stocked by on-site trout hatcheries and are supported by cold-water streams.

Columbia Fishing

As the weather warms, anglers in Columbia can find several parks that meet their needs for non-trout fishing. Fishing hours at most city parks are from 4:30 a.m. to 11 p.m., and fishing on public land requires a permit.

Missouri fishing season is around the corner as catch-and-keep trout season begins