MDC program has tips on how to fish Valley Water Mill Lake

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News from the region
Southwest
Published Date
03/16/2017
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SPRINGFIELD, Mo. – Look beyond Valley Water Mill Lake’s aquatic vegetation and Springfield-area anglers will find a great “fishing hole” on the city’s north side.

People wanting to learn more about this urban reservoir and wanting tips on how to fish in aquatic vegetation can attend the Missouri Department of Conservation’s (MDC) “Into the Weeds” program April 15 at the Watershed Center at Valley Watermill Park, 2450 E. Valley Water Mill Road in Springfield. This free event will start at 9 a.m. and will provide opportunities to try some weed-fishing techniques at Valley Water Mill Lake. Class size is limited so pre-registration is required. People can register by calling 417-895-6880. The registration deadline is April 13.

MDC’s current fishing regulations for the 13-acre Valley Water Mill Lake went into effect in 2012 and represent the latest chapter in a long tradition of angling activity at this north Springfield reservoir. Originally built in the 1850s as a pond for the operation of a grist mill, this body of water has a long reputation as a local fishing spot for Springfield anglers. In 2006, the Valley Water Mill property was incorporated into the Springfield/Greene County Park system and fishing at the lake is currently managed through a Corporate and Agency Partnership Project (CAPP) between MDC and the Watershed Committee of the Ozarks.

Valley Water Mill Lake is fed by two springs (Sanders and Jarrett) and, thus, has an ongoing supply of clear water. As has been the case throughout the lake’s history, aquatic vegetation is an ongoing challenge for lake anglers. However, opportunities exist for catching fish from the bank and from two fishing piers. Largemouth bass, channel catfish, bluegill and redear sunfish are among the species that can be caught at Valley Water Mill.

More information about Valley Water Mill’s fishing opportunities can obtained by calling the Missouri Department of Conservation’s Southwest Regional Office at 417-895-6880 or by calling the Watershed Center at 417-833-8525.