Montrose Lake (Kansas City Region)

Information: (660) 530-5500

Bass sampling between spring 2003 and 2005 revealed an improved bass population compared to the past several years. Improvement in the number of 10-14 inch bass will result in better angling for large bass over the next few years. Bass abundance remains on the low to moderate side compared to other lakes, but bass caught by anglers are in good condition and often large. Anglers may fish longer between strikes than in some other lakes, but the bass they catch may be 18 to over 20 inches long.

Bass anglers at Montrose Lake should plan on fishing murky water that may have less than 8 inches of visibility. Lures that make some noise or vibration may help trigger strikes. Montrose Lake is a power plant cooling reservoir and usually warms earlier in spring than other large reservoirs. Anglers may begin catching bass near the outlet of the warm water discharge during February and March. Bass may be located in stands of water willow in 12-18 inches of water during April and early May. Fallen trees cover much of the shoreline and shelter bass during spring and early summer. Montrose Lake is very shallow, particularly in the upper portion so anglers are urged to use caution while boating. A special length and daily limit is in effect for largemouth bass on Montrose Lake. The length limit of 18 inches and reduced daily limit of two black bass was implemented to allow these fast growing bass to reach quality size.

Crappie angling will be poor during 2006. Crappie numbers were poor when sampled during fall 2004, but many fish were 10 inches or larger

Catfish angling is very good. Anglers may catch catfish from two to over ten pounds. Channel catfish are the most numerous, but some large flathead catfish are also present. Evidence as to the size of flathead catfish present in Montrose Lake was demonstrated in April 2003. An angler from Odessa tied the current pole and line state record for flathead catfish by catching a 77 pound 8 ounce fish and a 35 pound fish the same morning. Anglers are reminded that outboard motors larger than 10 horsepower are allowed, but are required to be operated at no wake speed.

Report Courtesy MDC