Forest Lake Fishing Spot

• Elevation: 835'
• Last Modified By: vinny60 on 09/17/09 10:20 AM
• Ask about Forest Lake in our Fishing Forums

Nestled in the forested hills of Thousand Hills State Park near Kirksville, this 573-acre lake provides a variety of recreational opportunities, including fishing. Largemouth bass anglers will find plenty of action from abundant fish in the 12-15" protected range, and fish up to 6 pounds are not uncommon. Bass reproduction is high, so anglers are encouraged to harvest up to their daily limit of six bass less than 12" long. White Crappie are plentiful and average 8-10" long. Annually stocked channel catfish provide some of the best fishing in the region for cats in the 1-3 pound range. There is a 90-horsepower limit on boat motors, and the City of Kirksville charges a permit to operate private boats based upon horsepower rating. Facilities and services available include boat rental, a restaurant, camping areas and rental cabins. Bait and other supplies are available at the marina. Forest Lake in Thousand Hills State Park also has a few walleye in it. They are somewhat rare but a real walleye fisherman might find they are nice ones when they find them. The parking lot at the marina in Thousand Hills State Park is the starting and ending place for the (almost) weekly Friday night buddy bass pot tournament on Forest Lake. Local fishermen meet around 6:30 for a 7:00 take off most Friday evenings in the summer. Entry fee is $20.00 per every 2 people. Boat buddies can weigh one limit of 5 bass. Payback is nearly 100% after paying the Thousand Hills Bass Club rental on their digital scale. Public welcome.