Ready to spend three full days chasing trophy fish across Missouri's top waters? Hop aboard with Hollis Crawford, the owner of C&H Fishing Outfitters, for a private fishing charter that'll have you hooked from start to finish. Whether you're after hard-fighting stripers or chunky largemouth, Hollis knows exactly where to find 'em. With access to hotspots like Truman Lake, Mark Twain Lake, the mighty Mississippi, and Long Branch Lake, you're in for some of the best fishing Missouri has to offer.
This ain't your average day trip, folks. We're talking three solid days of non-stop fishing action. Hollis will get you dialed in on the best techniques for whatever's biting, whether that's working a jig for bass or soaking cut bait for catfish. You'll be using top-notch gear (all provided), so no need to lug your tackle box along. Hollis has been guiding these waters for years, so he knows all the honey holes and secret spots that consistently produce big fish. Plus, with just you and a buddy on board, you'll get plenty of one-on-one instruction to really up your fishing game.
Look, there's a reason C&H Fishing Outfitters is a customer favorite in these parts. Hollis doesn't just put you on fish – he teaches you how to become a better angler. You'll learn how to read the water, understand fish behavior, and pick the right lures for different situations. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting started, you're guaranteed to pick up some new tricks. And let's be honest, three full days on the water? That's the kind of immersive experience that'll have you dreaming about your next trip before this one's even over.
Alright, let's talk fish. Missouri's waters are teeming with some real beauties, and on this trip, you've got a shot at landing some true wall-hangers. We're talking striped bass that'll make your arms ache, smallmouth that fight like they're twice their size, and catfish big enough to make you question your choice of line strength. Hollis knows these lakes and rivers like the back of his hand, so he'll put you right where the action is hottest. Depending on the season and conditions, you might be trolling for stripers on Truman, flipping jigs for smallies on the Mississippi, or soaking bait for monster cats. No matter what, you're in for some world-class fishing.
Striped Bass: These hard-fighting bruisers are the crown jewel of Missouri's fisheries. Stripers in these parts can easily top 20 pounds, with some real monsters pushing 40+. They're most active in the cooler months, but Hollis knows how to find them year-round. When a big striper hits, hold on tight – these fish will test your gear and your stamina!
Smallmouth Bass: Pound for pound, smallies are some of the scrappiest fish you'll ever tangle with. Missouri's rivers and lakes are home to some trophy-sized bronzebacks, especially in the fall when they're fattening up for winter. Hollis will show you how to work rocky points and current seams where these aggressive predators love to ambush their prey.
Channel Catfish: Don't let anyone tell you catfish are just "bottom feeders." These whiskered warriors put up one heck of a fight, and they can grow to impressive sizes in Missouri's waters. Hollis has some tried-and-true spots where the cats stack up, and he'll teach you the finer points of presenting bait to entice the big ones.
American Yellow Perch: While they might not be the biggest fish in the lake, yellow perch are a blast to catch and make for some mighty fine eating. These tasty panfish travel in schools, so when you find 'em, it's often non-stop action. Hollis will show you how to use light tackle to really appreciate the spunky fight these little guys put up.
Bluegill: Another pan-sized favorite, bluegill are the perfect target if you want to introduce kids to fishing or just want to enjoy some laid-back action. These feisty sunfish are abundant in Missouri's waters and bite year-round. Hollis can put you on some slab-sized bulls that'll give you a run for your money on ultralight gear.
Listen, if you're serious about experiencing the best fishing Missouri has to offer, this 3-day trip with C&H Fishing Outfitters is the way to go. You're not just booking a charter; you're signing up for a fishing education with one of the top guides in the state. Hollis Crawford knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he's passionate about putting his clients on fish. Whether you're looking to land that personal best, learn new techniques, or just enjoy some quality time on the water, this trip delivers.
Remember, this is a private charter for up to two anglers, so it's perfect for you and a buddy, or even a parent-child duo looking to make some lasting memories. Hollis provides all the gear and know-how – you just need to bring your enthusiasm and maybe a lucky hat. With multiple lakes and rivers to choose from, every day brings a new adventure and a chance at that fish of a lifetime.
Spots fill up fast, especially during peak seasons, so don't wait to lock in your dates. Whether you're a local looking to explore your own backyard or an out-of-stater wanting to experience Missouri's legendary fishing, this trip is your ticket to three days of non-stop action. So what are you waiting for? Grab your fishing buddy, clear your calendar, and get ready for the fishing trip of a lifetime with C&H Fishing Outfitters. The big ones are waiting – let's go get 'em!
Yellow perch are feisty little fish that are a blast to catch. Most run 7-10 inches and rarely top 2 pounds. You'll find them in clear lakes and slow-moving rivers, often near weeds or submerged structures. They're active year-round, but spring and fall are prime times. Anglers love perch for their tasty fillets and the fact that they often school up - when you find one, you've usually found a bunch. To boost your chances, try small jigs tipped with worms or minnows. Here's a tip: in summer, look for perch in deeper, cooler water. They'll often suspend over drop-offs. Don't be afraid to downsize your tackle - these guys have small mouths but big attitudes!
Bluegill are the perfect fish for anglers of all ages. These palm-sized panfish usually run 6-8 inches, but a 10-incher is a real trophy. You'll find them in ponds and lakes, often near docks, fallen trees, or weed beds. They're active spring through fall, with spawning season in late spring being prime time. Folks love bluegill for their eager bites and excellent table fare. To up your odds, try small jigs or worms under a bobber. Here's a local trick: look for circular nests in shallow water during spawning - you'll often find big males guarding them. Just remember, bluegill have small mouths, so use light line and small hooks for best results.
Channel catfish are the bread and butter of many Missouri anglers. These whiskered fish usually run 2-4 pounds, but 10-pounders aren't uncommon. You'll find them in lakes and rivers, often near structure or in deeper holes. They're active year-round, but fishing heats up in summer. Folks love catching channel cats for their strong pull and excellent eating. To increase your chances, try fishing at night using stinkbait or cut bait - catfish hunt by smell. Here's a local trick: after a heavy rain, fish the mouths of creeks flowing into larger bodies of water. Catfish often gather there to feed on washed-in food. Just watch out for those fins when you're handling them!
Smallmouth bass are scrappy fighters that punch above their weight. Most run 2-4 pounds, but you might land a 6-pounder if you're lucky. Look for them in clear, cool water around rocky areas and fallen trees. They're most active in spring and fall when water temps are moderate. Anglers love smallies for their acrobatic jumps and never-say-die attitude. To up your odds, try fishing early morning or late evening with soft plastic lures or small crankbaits. Here's a tip: when the water's warm, try deeper spots - smallmouths will often hang out in cooler water near the bottom. Just be ready for a battle when you hook one!
Striped bass are powerhouse fish that'll give you a real workout. They typically run 10-30 pounds but can get up to 70. You'll find them near structures like drop-offs and rocky areas, often in cooler, moving water. Spring and fall are prime seasons when they're migrating. Anglers love stripers for their strong fight and tasty meat. To boost your chances, try fishing at dawn or dusk using live bait like herring or squid. A local trick: look for diving birds - that usually means stripers are feeding on baitfish below. Just remember, these guys can be picky eaters, so be patient and ready to switch up your tactics.
Vehicle Guest Capacity: 4
Manufacturer Name: Mercury Optima
Maximum Cruising Speed: 20
Number of Engines: 2
Horsepower per Engine: 53