What to Expect

Whether you’re looking for some casual family entertainment or you traveled to Branson specifically to target trophy trout, these guides are equipped with the knowledge and fishing gear to make your trip a memorable one!  

What do I need to bring?

  • Weather appropriate clothing
  • Any snacks or drinks that you require
  • A great attitude

That’s it! Your guided trip includes the boat, the gear, the gas, and the guide. All you really have to do is show up and set the hook!

All of our guides are insured and provide the boat and equipment for your trip. Each one is USGS Approved with an OUPV Coast Guard Captain’s License to commercially guide on the White River System of Lakes.

John Callanan rainbow trout
John posing for a photo with his 24″ trophy rainbow trout and guide Blake Harris

What to know before you call a guide:

  • It is up to you to choose fly fishing or spincast fishing – both types of trips are available, but not all guides offer both experiences.
  • You need to know what date you’d like to schedule your trip. The guide can tell you if they are available for that date or not.
  • You need to tell the guide what time you’d like to start. If you’re not sure, the guide will suggest the best start time for the best results. Be sure to arrive a few minutes early. Don’t forget your fishing permits!
  • You need to know how many people are in your party. Depending on the guide’s boat size and configuration, you may have too many people. The number of people determines the number of rods the guide will rig up for the trip, and also affects the total price for the trip.

Considerations

  • Taneycomo’s water temperature is quite cold – averaging about 50 degrees year round. This makes summer morning trips much cooler than you’d expect! We recommend that you bring a sweatshirt or jacket, even if the forecast is calling for triple digit highs.
  • If you plan to keep your catch, don’t forget to make a plan to transport your catch back home. Bring a cooler and ice. Your guide will clean and bag your catch for you if you prefer.
  • We strongly encourage catch and release for trophy trout. If you are fortunate enough to catch a trophy, you have many anglers to thank for releasing it before you. Your guide will help you take pictures of your catch and get the proper measurements if you want to get a replica mount.
  • If you catch a 20-inch or larger trout and release it, Lilleys’ Landing will issue you an official Catch & Release Certificate, a special patch and a nice commemorative pin. You will also be featured on our website. We also have special clubs for 24+ inch, 27+ inch, and 30+ inch trophy fish. Ask your guide about it!