Mark Twain Lake

Clarence Cannon Dam and Mark Twain Lake are publicly owned and administered by the US Army Corps of Engineers. The project provides flood control, hydroelectric power, recreation, fish and wildlife conservation and improves navigation on the Mississippi River. The lake was impounded in 1984, creating one of the newest impoundments in Missouri.When the lake was flooded, timber was removed from the main lake basin from the town of Florida east toward the dam. Many areas of the lake have areas of standing timber. Navigation through some of these areas can be difficult as cut-off stumps are present. The land from the waters edge inland to the government boundary stakes is owned by the federal government and is open for public use. Camping is permitted only at designated sites. Modern day-use areas, picnic grounds and boat launching facilities attract many anglers. This lake is extremely popular with tournament fishermen, and increased boating traffic on weekends and holidays is a normal event.The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers has designated the west end of the Middle Fork Arm as a waterfowl resting area. This area is closed to all boating and hunting from October 15 through December 31.The U. S. Army Corps of Engineers has a telephone number and local radio frequency that provide information about camping, fishing and special events. The phone number is 1-314-735-2619 for recorded information. When you are near the dam, tune the radio to 530 AM.Day navigation markers have been placed throughout the lake. These large signs are placed just above the high water mark and help boaters establish their location.Anglers should be aware of special regulations on walleye, largemouth bass and crappie. Consult the visitors center for special restrictions. They are also posted at most public access sites.

Gizzard shad are extremely abundant and provide the primary forage for most species. In fact, their significance is paramount as they drive the system. Newly hatched gizzard shad are small enough to be preyed upon by juvenile panfish and gamefish alike. Shad hatches are excellent in those years when lake levels flood shoreline vegetation during the early summer period. Other minnow species and juvenile panfish are important components.

Walleye move into the upper reaches of the North and South Fork of the Salt River to spawn. It is believed that the upper end of Lick Creek is also utilized.