Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to questions about our guided fly fishing trips, gear, locations, and what to expect on the water.
What rivers do you guide on in Missouri?
We offer guided fly fishing trips on the North Fork of the White River and the Eleven Point River — two of the best trout and smallmouth fisheries in the Ozarks.
What fish can I catch on a guided trip?
It depends on the river, season, and conditions.
On the North Fork of the White, you can expect a mix of:
- Rainbow trout and brown trout (year-round)
- Striped bass (May through October, with peak conditions in June–July)
- Occasional smallmouth bass, walleye, and goggle eye
On the Eleven Point River, the primary targets are:
- Wild rainbow trout (consistent through most of the year)
- Smallmouth bass, especially in warmer months
- You might also encounter chain pickerel or goggle eye, though they’re less common
When is the best time to fly fish for striped bass in Missouri?
The best time to catch stripers on the fly is June through July, when fish move upstream from Norfork Lake into the North Fork. Trips run from May to October, with the best window in early summer.
Do I need experience to book a fly fishing trip?
No experience needed. Our Eleven Point trips are great for beginners. If you’re chasing stripers on the North Fork, some fly fishing experience is recommended.
What’s included in a guided fly fishing trip?
We provide all gear: rods, reels, leaders, tippet, and flies. Also included are soft drinks, cooler space, a drift boat with a guide, and lunch on full-day trips.
How much do guided trips cost?
Full Day (1–2 anglers): $500
Half Day (1–2 anglers): $400
Rates include gear, lunch (full-day only), and all essentials.
Where do trips start?
North Fork trips begin at Sunburst Ranch in Caulfield, Missouri. Eleven Point trips begin at a pre-arranged location, shared the day before your trip.
What should I bring for a fly fishing trip?
Bring a valid fishing license, polarized sunglasses, a hat, sunscreen, bug spray, and clothing suited for the weather. Waders are optional in cooler months, but studded boots are not allowed in the drift boat.
Do I need a fishing license for guided trips?
Yes, every angler will need a valid Missouri fishing license. You can buy one online through the Missouri Department of Conservation.
Are kids or families allowed on the trip?
Yes. Our Eleven Point trips are well-suited for families and younger anglers. We recommend that kids be old enough to comfortably spend several hours on the water.
Is lodging available for these trips?
Yes. We offer on-site lodging at Sunburst Ranch for North Fork trips. For Eleven Point trips, lodging is available nearby in Alton or Caulfield, MO.
Do we wade or fish from a boat?
Most trips are done from a drift boat, with minimal wading. If you prefer to wade, let us know in advance and we’ll plan accordingly.
Do we wade or fish from a What gear do I need to bring for fly fishing?
You’re welcome to bring your own gear, though we provide everything needed. For stripers, we use 8–9 weight rods with sink-tip lines. For trout and smallmouth, 4–6 weight rods with floating lines are ideal.
Do you run trips year-round?
Our season typically runs spring through fall. Striper season is May through October. Trout/smallmouth fishing is good much of the year on the Eleven Point.
Can I keep the fish I catch?
Our trips are primarily catch-and-release, especially for trout and stripers. If you want to keep a fish that’s legal to harvest, let us know before the trip.
How do I book a trip?
Use the form on our Book a Trip page or give us a call at 314-560-3323. We’ll confirm details and get you scheduled.
What flies or techniques do you recommend?
For stripers, we use big streamers on sink-tip lines. For trout and smallmouth, we often use nymphs, streamers, and sometimes dry flies depending on conditions. If you’re bringing your own flies, we’re happy to give recommendations ahead of your trip.
Ready to Fish?
We take care of the details so all that’s left is the fishing. Let’s make the most of it.