Jan 21, 2022
3 of the Best Fishing Spots Near Liberty and Kansas City, MO

Part of the larger Kansas City Metropolitan Area, which straddles the Kansas – Missouri state line, the cities of Kansas City, MO, and Liberty, MO, offer excellent fishing spots where local anglers can test their skills and have fun with friends all year round.  No matter what your experience level is, these are some great destinations you should check out while in the city. Prepare your bait, grab your gear, and hit the road now!

1. Smithville Lake

Home to large populations of bluegill, channel catfish, largemouth bass, white bass, and crappie, Smithville Lake covers a surface area of a little over 7,000 acres and was created with the construction of the nearby Smithville Dam. This manmade reservoir is part of the water supply system of Kansas City and other nearby towns, as well as a popular day trip and weekend destination among groups of friends and families from the region.

Although there are several designated fishing areas all along the shores of Smithville Lake, the best spots are located on the southern and western part. Here, visitors can also find a series of public beaches, campgrounds, vault toilets, and picnic tables. Smithville Lake is located about 17 miles northwest of Liberty and 27 miles north of Kansas City, making it possible to reach it in less than 40 minutes by car.

2. Fleming Park

Encompassing a little under 8,000 acres of land, Fleming Park is a public recreation area located in the city of Blue Springs, about 25 miles southeast of downtown Kansas City and 24 miles south of Liberty. Operated by Jackson Country Parks and Recreation, this park features two large bodies of water where anglers can test their skills and catch some great specimens. Established in the late 1950s, Fleming Park is open year-round and welcomes over 1,3 million visitors each year.

The largest body of water located within the park is Lake Jacomo, which covers a surface area of a little under 1,000 acres and is home to healthy populations of crappie, bluegill, largemouth bass, carp, green sunfish, and walleye. On the other hand, Blue Springs Lake encompasses about 720 acres and is a popular spot for hybrid striped bass, catfish, and carp fishing. Fleming Park is also an excellent destination for other recreational activities including camping, boating, and picnicking.

3. Perry Lake

Located about 60 miles west of downtown Kansas City, and a little under 80 miles of Liberty, Perry Lake was established in 1964 and is home to large populations of white bass, largemouth bass, bluegill, channel catfish, sauger, and walleye. A popular spot for anglers from all over the region, this artificial body of water covers a surface area of over 11,000 acres. Public access is provided by Perry State Park, which features fishing piers, picnic tables, and a marina.

Are you thinking of buying a new set of wheels to check out these fantastic fishing destinations? Visit us at Heartland Chevrolet and take a look at our extensive inventory. Our friendly sales agents will be happy to help you find a great deal for your needs and budget.