Special Waterbody Regulations

Unless exempt, you need fishing permit as well as a daily trout tag from March 1 to October 31. The daily trout tag is $4 for adults and $3 for youth 15 and younger. Trout tags and permits can be purchased at the park.

During the November through February catch-and-release season the annual trout permit replaces the daily trout tag.

November 10, 2023 - February 12, 2024
Trout fishing is allowed from 8:00 am to 4:00 pm CST, Fridays through Mondays.
Catch-and-release fishing only.  (Fishing permit and annual trout permit required.)
Allowed lures: flies only

March 1 - October 31
Daily limit: 4 of all species combined. You must stop fishing after have 4 trout in your possession.

Allowed lures: Flies, artificial lures, or soft plastic baits, depending on zone. See the Bennett Spring Hatchery area map for details.

Methods:

• Not more than one pole and line may be used by one person at any time.
• Gigging, snaring, snagging, and the taking of live bait are prohibited.
• Some waters are posted as restricted to specific baits or lures.
• The use of any foods to attract fish, except when placed on a hook, is prohibited.

Fishing zones, allowed methods, and regulations vary. Ask for additional information when you purchase your tag.

Bennett Spring State Park is open from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Friday through Monday.

From Highway 17 to the Gasconade River:
Length limit: Goggle-eye: minimum 8"

From Slabtown Access to the Gasconade River:
Daily limit: 6 black bass including only 1 smallmouth bass.
Length limit: Smallmouth bass: minimum 15"

From Highway Y in Pulaski County to Highway D in Phelps County

Length limits: Smallmouth bass—minimum 15"

Daily limit: 6 black bass may include only 1 smallmouth bass.

Riverwide
Walleye and sauger: No seasonal restrictions on the hours for take and possession.
Nongame fish may be taken by bow and possessed at any hour of the day in all flowing portions.

Downstream from Carl R. Noren Access to Chamois Access
All shovelnose sturgeon must be returned to the water immediately after being caught.

The use of porous-soled waders is prohibited.

While on any waters with length limits, all trout you possess must be kept with head, tail, and skin intact.

From Bennett Spring Branch to Prosperine Access - 11.5 miles of stocked stream: 

White Ribbon Trout Area, see restrictions below.

The use of porous-soled waders is prohibited.
While on any waters with length limits, all trout you possess must be kept with head, tail, and skin intact.

Downstream from Roubidoux Spring to its junction with the Gasconade River - 3.1 miles:  White Ribbon Trout Area

The use of porous-soled waders is prohibited.
While on any waters with length limits, all trout you possess must be kept with head, tail, and skin intact.

Entire Spring Branch - 0.3 mile: White Ribbon Area