March 2nd, 2026 Local News
Bonne Terre, Mo. (KFMO) - Missouri’s trout parks opened Sunday, marking the start of the 2026 fishing season. The state’s four trout parks, Maramec Spring Park, Bennett Spring State Park, Montauk State Park, and Roaring River State Park, are known for their high-quality trout fishing on cold-water streams, supported by on-site trout hatcheries.
The parks are stocked daily from March 1 through October 31. During the off-season, from the second Friday in November through the second Monday in February, fishing is catch-and-release only, and only flies may be used. Maramec Spring Park is open daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., while the other three state parks are open Friday through Monday during the same hours.
Anglers must have a fishing permit unless exempt, along with a daily trout tag. At all four parks, daily trout tags are $5 for adults and $3 for anglers 15 and younger. Daily limits are four trout combined between rainbow and brown trout, with a maximum of eight trout in possession for all species. Specific regulations, fishing methods, and zones vary at each park, so anglers should ask for details when purchasing their tag.
Looking ahead, Bonne Terre City Lake will offer trout fishing beginning in 2027. City Administrator Shawn Kay explains.
Kay says the addition of trout is part of an ongoing effort to expand recreational fishing opportunities for the community. Once completed, the new trout program at Bonne Terre City Lake is expected to attract anglers from across the region.