Damn Good Deering Hunting Guides

Fishing in Deering, Missouri, is as much about the journey as it is about the catch. Nestled along the banks of the St. Francis River, this small town offers a slice of quiet, natural beauty that makes it an ideal getaway for those looking to slow down and reconnect with the water. The river here runs deep and wide, offering prime spots for both boat fishing and shoreline casting. Whether you’re navigating the gentle currents in a kayak or setting up along the banks, Deering’s riverside charm sets the perfect backdrop for a day of fishing. It’s the kind of place where the simple act of casting your line feels like a moment of peace you can hold onto.

For anglers, Deering offers a nice variety of species to target, and the waters of the St. Francis River are known for their abundance. The river is home to several types of bass, including largemouth and smallmouth, which are perfect for those looking for a good fight. Catfish are another staple in these waters, and if you're patient, you can reel in a whopper. The river’s many deep pools and submerged structures create perfect hideouts for fish, making it a haven for anglers who know how to work the water. Whether you’re chasing the thrill of a bass strike or hoping to land a big catfish, Deering provides plenty of chances to test your skills and enjoy the solitude of the river.

What makes fishing in Deering, Missouri, so special isn’t just the fish—it’s the sense of getting away from it all. There’s no rush, no crowds, just you and the water. The town may be small, but its natural surroundings are vast, giving you the feeling of being completely off the grid. You won’t find the commercialization of other fishing destinations here—just quiet mornings by the river and the sound of your line slicing through the air. Whether you're a local or just visiting, the waters around Deering offer an authentic, peaceful fishing experience that feels like a well-kept secret, waiting for you to discover.

Fishing in Deering, Missouri, takes on a whole new rhythm with each changing season, and the St. Francis River, which runs through this hidden gem of a town, provides a perfect backdrop for year-round angling. In the spring, the river comes alive as the waters warm and fish start to stir. Bass are especially active during this time, making it the ideal season to catch largemouth and smallmouth bass as they move closer to the shore to spawn. The weather is still cool enough to make for comfortable fishing conditions, and with fewer crowds on the water, spring is one of the best times to get out and enjoy the peaceful solitude of the riverbanks.

As the heat of summer rolls in, Deering’s fishing takes a bit of a shift. With the warmer waters, the fish become a little more sluggish, but this is when the catfish action really picks up. Summer evenings, when the air cools and the river slows, are prime time for reeling in big catfish. The deep holes and shaded pockets along the river are where these big fish like to hang out, and patience is key. Fishing from a boat or setting up along the banks with some solid bait will have you hooked in no time. Summer in Deering is all about the relaxed vibe—casting your line in the early morning or late evening when the river is at its most tranquil.

Fall is when Deering truly shines, with the crisp air and cooler temperatures bringing the river back to life. The bass are active once again, feeding aggressively before the winter chill sets in, making it one of the best times to target them. The St. Francis River’s waters drop to just the right temperature for a successful catch, and with the changing colors of the leaves surrounding the river, it’s hard to imagine a more picturesque fishing experience. With fewer anglers on the water, fall offers a chance to enjoy the peace of the river as you cast for your next big catch, all while soaking in the beauty of Missouri’s wilderness at its peak. Each season in Deering brings something special, and whether you're after bass in the spring or catfish in the summer, there’s always a good reason to get out on the water.

Fishing in Deering, Missouri, is about getting back to the basics—finding the perfect spot, making a solid cast, and letting the river do the work. If you’re into the thrill of a fight, bass fishing is the name of the game here. The St. Francis River is home to both largemouth and smallmouth bass, and targeting them requires a bit of finesse. For the best results, focus on the river’s deep pools and structure, where these fish like to hang out. A classic technique is casting a crankbait or spinnerbait near the submerged rocks or downed trees—spots where bass tend to ambush their prey. As the seasons shift, you can adjust your technique, working deeper waters during the hotter months and targeting shallower areas when the fish move closer to shore.

If you prefer something a little slower-paced but equally rewarding, catfishing in Deering is a tried-and-true tradition. The St. Francis River is home to some hefty catfish, and it’s all about patience here. Setting up along the riverbank with a simple rig—like a weighted bottom rig with cut bait—will do the trick. You’ll want to find the deep holes, where catfish like to lurk, especially during the warmer summer months. Night fishing is particularly effective, as catfish are more active under the cover of darkness, so it’s not unusual to spend a few peaceful hours by the water, waiting for that steady tug on the line that signals you’ve got a big one. Deering’s catfishing offers the kind of solitude and reward that you can’t get from the fast-paced action of other fishing spots.

For those looking to change things up, fly fishing on the St. Francis River is an underrated gem. The river’s calm pools and riffles provide an ideal setting for casting a fly, whether you’re after smallmouth bass or other river species. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a glimpse of some trout that make their way into the river from time to time. Fly fishing here is all about understanding the flow of the river, reading the currents, and making precise, delicate casts. With its clear waters and the quiet, steady rhythm of the river, Deering is the perfect place to slow down and perfect your casting technique. Whether you're trolling for bass or setting a line for catfish, fishing in Deering is as much about honing your craft as it is about enjoying the peace that comes with it.

Fishing in Deering, Missouri, gives you a chance to chase some of the best freshwater species in the region, all within the serene, winding waters of the St. Francis River. For starters, the smallmouth bass here is one of the main attractions, known for its fierce fight and aggressive strikes. These fish thrive in the river’s rocky pools and fast-moving riffles, and they’re always up for a challenge. Whether you’re casting from the shore or drifting with the current, targeting smallmouth bass with lures like jigs, crankbaits, or spinnerbaits is a sure way to get your adrenaline pumping. These fighters put up a strong battle, especially during the spring and fall when they’re most active—giving you a memorable experience with every catch.

The St. Francis River is also a prime spot for the iconic largemouth bass, which is another staple species in the area. While their cousin, the smallmouth, tends to stick to the faster-moving sections of the river, largemouth bass are more likely to hang out in the quieter, deeper holes. These fish prefer the cover of submerged logs, rocks, and vegetation, making them perfect for anglers who enjoy a little more stealth in their approach. Casting with soft plastics or swimbaits near these natural structures will increase your chances of landing a good-sized largemouth. They tend to bite more aggressively in the warmer months, especially during the spawn, making Deering an excellent spot to reel in a trophy bass.

But the St. Francis River is more than just bass country—it’s also a haven for catfish. The river’s deep, slow-moving stretches are perfect habitats for both channel and flathead catfish, and they’re a favorite among those looking for a more laid-back yet rewarding experience. Catfish are known to hang out in the deepest, murkiest parts of the river, often near submerged rocks or fallen trees. You’ll need a little patience, but once you’ve hooked a big one, you’ll know it was worth the wait. Using bait like cut shad or chicken liver on a simple bottom rig is the key to landing these river giants. Whether you're after a feisty smallmouth or a hefty catfish, Deering, Missouri, offers an exciting mix of species that make every trip to the river feel like a new adventure.

Deering, Missouri, might be small, but it’s packed with hidden fishing spots that any angler worth their salt would appreciate. One of the best places to start is right on the St. Francis River itself, especially along the stretch near the Highway 61 bridge. This section of the river features a mix of shallow riffles, deep pools, and plenty of submerged structure that bass, catfish, and other species love to call home. Whether you're casting from the shore or floating down the river in a kayak, you’ll find ample opportunities to target smallmouth bass in the faster-moving currents and largemouth bass in the slower backwaters. The best part? Because Deering is still a quiet, off-the-beaten-path town, you won’t have to fight for space on the water, making it a peaceful and productive place to fish.

For those looking for a little more seclusion, the area around Twin Rivers Conservation Area is a must-visit. Just a short drive from Deering, this sprawling area offers multiple fishing options, with ponds and creek-fed backwaters that are teeming with fish. The shallow, weedy edges of the ponds are perfect for targeting largemouth bass and panfish, while the deeper pools in the creeks are home to some monster catfish. The peace and solitude you get out here are hard to beat, and the rolling terrain and thick woods make it feel like you’ve found a little pocket of untouched wilderness. It's the perfect place to spend a quiet day fishing and exploring without the crowds.

If you're looking for some real adventure, head to the more rugged parts of the St. Francis River, especially around the rocky, steep sections near the Deering Conservation Area. These spots are known for holding some of the biggest smallmouth bass in the area, as the fast-moving water and rocky structure provide the perfect environment for them to thrive. Getting to these spots requires a bit of effort—whether it’s wading through the shallows or using a boat to access deeper sections—but the payoff is worth it. The combination of clear water, scenic views, and abundant fish makes this stretch of river one of the best in the region for anglers who love a good challenge. With a little patience and the right gear, you’ll be reeling in trophy fish while soaking up the beauty of this wild, untouched corner of Missouri.

Deering, Missouri, may not be on the map for every angler, but it’s got all the ingredients for a killer fishing experience. Tucked along the St. Francis River, this quiet little town is home to some of the best hidden fishing spots you won’t find in the crowded tourist hubs. Whether you’re chasing smallmouth bass in the rocky riffles, lunker largemouth bass lurking in the deeper pools, or the massive catfish that call the river’s slower stretches home, Deering has a variety of fish to keep you busy year-round. The river’s diverse waters—from swift currents to tranquil backwaters—create the perfect environment for both seasoned anglers and those looking to wet a line in peace.

What really sets Deering apart is its unspoiled, no-frills charm. Unlike many popular fishing destinations, you won’t find sprawling resorts or overcrowded launch ramps here. Instead, it’s all about simple, authentic fishing—just you, the river, and the quiet hum of nature around you. With easy access to the river and several secluded spots for fishing, Deering offers a level of tranquility that’s hard to come by. The town’s low-key vibe means you’re not competing for space on the water, making it a refreshing escape for anyone who’s looking to step away from the hustle of more tourist-heavy destinations.

Add to that the fact that the St. Francis River is teeming with fish year-round, and Deering becomes a true sleeper fishing destination. Spring brings out the aggressive smallmouth bass, while summer is all about the big catfish runs. Come fall, you’ll find plenty of bass still active, feeding aggressively before winter sets in. Whether you’re after a trophy catch or simply looking to enjoy a few quiet hours by the water, Deering delivers in spades. It’s one of those places where you can truly get away from it all, cast your line, and let the peaceful surroundings do the rest. If you’re after a fishing trip that’s all about raw, authentic experience, Deering’s got what you need.