Missouri Department of Conservation

Trout

Paying for Trout

In 1937, the first commissioners of the Department of Conservation decided that trout anglers should “pay their own way” since trout are not native to Missouri and are expensive to produce. Money from the sale of daily tags and trout permits helps balance the cost of raising trout. Each year about a half million daily tags and annual trout permits are purchased statewide.

All anglers support fisheries management through fishing-related purchases. The Sport Fish Restoration Act places a federal tax on fishing equipment and boat fuel. The Missouri Conservation Sales Tax, approved by voters in 1976, is a 1/8 of one-percent general sales tax dedicated to funding statewide conservation efforts.

Funds provided by the Sport Fish Restoration Act and the Missouri Conservation Sales Tax pay for kids' fishing programs, Stream Team volunteer workshops, fish hatcheries and fisheries management.

Get your free Missouri Trout Fishing map.

To order your copy, download the Free Publications brochure (under "Related Information" below) and mail your request for publication FIS210 to:

Missouri Trout Fishing Plan

Trout fishing accounts for about 14 percent of all Missouri angling effort. Trout habitat, however, is limited. Because trout fishing is so popular and the resource is so limited, Missouri's plan ensures the most efficient and effective management. Download and browse this 40-page report for more details.

I Released a Lunker Award

Catching and releasing big trout takes skill and dedication. That's why the Conservation Department's "I Released a Lunker" program recognizes anglers who release big trout to fight another day.

Trout Angling Methods

Fishing for trout can pose difficulties to the novice trout fisherman.

Trout Ethics

A wide variety of trout fishing opportunities are available to Missouri anglers. However, the state's trout waters are limited and can get crowded.