Fishing & Lakes
The Parks & Recreation Department owns and operates two public access lakes within the city. Schuman Lake, located at 14th & Oak Streets, was deeded to the city in 1953. Ber Juan Lake, purchased in 1968, is located behind the Centre. The lake was restructured in 2000.
Fishing is permitted on both lakes with an appropriate fishing license (lifetime, annual or daily). Conservation fishing regulations are also strongly enforced. Fishing guidelines are posted. A complete list of Missouri Department of Conservation fishing guidelines can be found at http://mdc.mo.gov/fish/how.htm.
Ber Juan Lake was stocked in 2001 with catfish, largemouth bass, blue gill and hybrid bluegill. Schuman has perch, blue gill and bass in it.
Boating and swimming are not allowed in either lake unless a special permit is issued by the Parks & Recreation Director. No swimming signs are posted at both locations.
During the winter months, park staff monitors both lakes daily for ice-skating conditions and measures the thickness of the ice. Ice conditions are posted daily on the Park Department’s information line (364-0847) after 10:00 a.m. Please warn your children of the importance of obeying the posted no-skating signs, and the deadly dangers of falling through thin ice. These signs are put up for their safety.
The Missouri Department of Conservation wants to increase close-to-home fishing opportunities. Starting in 2005, the Parks & Recreation Department, the Centre, the Department of Conservation and the Optimist Club sponsored a youth fishing clinic. The clinic was designed for youth to learn and experience the joys of fishing. For the first two hours, families attended educational sessions on fish Identification, casting, knot tying, bait & tackle and conservation regulations & ethics. A casting contest followed the sessions and then concluded with family fishing time. The 2009 Fishing Fair will be held from 8 am – 12 pm, Saturday, May 9.
For more information about Ber Juan or Schuman lakes, to inquire about a permit or other programming, please contact the Parks & Recreation office at 364-4278.
