Fishing
With it’s three pristine lakes, Table Rock (bass fishing), Taneycomo (fly fishing for trout) and Bull Shoals (Walleye & Crappie), the Branson/Lakes area provides plentiful opportunities for fishing. The lakes’ waters don’t freeze, welcoming visitors’ activities year round. All three lakes offer easy access to the water at a number of public marinas and boat docks/launch areas. Several commercial marinas offer fishing guide service and a wide range of boat rentals including ski boats, pontoon boats, bass boats and wave runners. The Stone Castle Hotel and Conference Center has ample parking above the hotel for guests who wish to bring their boats and gear for a day on the water. Information regarding lake levels is available at www.swl-wc.usace.army.mil. If tournaments catch your attention, the first of the year is the Vince Elfrink Memorial Tournament on February 28th on Lake Taneycomo.
Lakes & Nature
Pick a lake- any lake! Table Rock, Taneycomo, and Bull Shoals. Water sports enthusiasts can swim, water ski, wakeboard, tube, boat, sail, scuba dive, jet ski, parasail, kayak and of course, fish. Table Rock is the warmest of the three.
Hiking
There are numerous trails and hiking areas in the Ozarks for you to enjoy. Half way between Springfield and Branson is Busiek State Park, where hiking can take as little or as much time as you’d like. While you are there be sure to visit the National Tiger Sanctuary (open Wed – Sunday for guided tours). Another beautiful area to hike, bike,ride horses or Segways is Dogwood Canyon, down Highway 13 south of Table Rock Lake. With many activities to choose from there is something for the entire family — tram rides for an overview of the park (and viewing of elk, bison, and long horn cattle as well as the beautiful scenery), catch-and-release of catch-and-keep fishing. And Talking Rocks Cavern, just west of Branson, introduces you to caving among stalactites, stalagmites and other amazing rock formations.
