BOATING AND WATER SPORTS

The most prominent recreational activities at the Lake of the Ozarks are, undoubtedly, boating and water sports. Marinas and boat ramps exist at virtually any section of the shoreline. Private individuals operate some while others are associated with certain resorts, condo rentals, lodges and cabins. Whether you own your own boat or would like to rent one, access to boating will be easy. The difficult part may come when you have to make a choice of the many different kinds of boats to rent! Sailboats, pontoon boats, bassboats, motorboats, cruisers, and speedboats are some of the possibilities. The water sport you want to enjoy may help in making the choice as with water skiing. Then again, you may simply want to sit back and let someone else do the driving with a scenic cruise on an excursion yacht. Other water sports include swimming, scuba diving, parasailing, and a list that goes on and on.

The Lake area also boasts numerous small rivers that provide excellent canoeing and kayaking possibilities. Again, you can bring your own or rent one from the many rental companies along the river that provide drop-off and pick-up services.

FISHING AND HUNTING

The Lake of the Ozarks is well known for its excellent fishing. Largemouth Bass, Crappie, White Bass, Striper and Catfish take center stage for most Lake anglers. Through excellent management, regulation and stocking efforts of the Missouri Department of Conservation, Lake of the Ozarks has provided a number of state record catches over the past ten years including a 20.5 lb. hybrid bass, a 34 lb. drum, a 36 lb. buffalo, a 42 lb. muskie, a 91 lb. blue catfish and a 134 lb. 12 oz. paddlefish. Whether you are a serious pro fisherman or out with the family for a day of relaxation and fun, the Lake of the Ozarks has what you want for a great fishing vacation.

Throughout the year, hunters can pursue deer turkey, squirrel, rabbit, dove, duck, geese and quail in the forests, fields, farmlands, and on the waters at The Lake. Most hunting in the Lake region is done on private land with permission of the landowner. There are also some hunting preserves and some landowners offer land-lease packages for hunting. Information regarding fishing and hunting licenses, seasons, limits and Hunter Training in the state of Missouri is available with the Lake Area Missouri Department of Conservation.

GOLFING

The golfing enthusiast needs look no further than The Lake for a golf course to meet his or her specifications. Dozens of beautifully landscaped and masterfully designed golf courses abound. Some of the courses are open to the public and some are set aside for hotel guests only. Spring and fall discounts are available as well as package deals at resorts that specify lodging, rounds of golf, green fees and other details for one price.

www.lakegolfvacations.com

MUSIC

If music is your passion, the Lake has everything from great country music shows to establishments that offer jazz, blues, and rock. The Lake of the Ozarks Blues Society promotes live performances of that music at the Lake. To create a newtork for performers and fans, they publish a monthly newsletter with a musical calendar for the month. Don't miss the annual BluesFest (in August) with renowned artists and headliners as well as some of Missouri's hottest musicians. The Lake of the Ozarks Jazz Society events occur monthly Janurary through November, with concerts throughout the season.

DINING

More than 100 restaurants at The Lake tempt you with menus that range from simple to the most exquisite gourmet meal. Many are located on or over-looking the water. Whether your style is casual or black-tie or anything in between, The Lake will have what you want. Full menus include continental cuisine, traditional Ozark Bar-B-Que and fish, homestyle cooking, buffets and "fast food". And let's not forget the ice cream parlors and homemade fudge shops!

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SHOPPING

Shopping possibilities are simply endless at the Lake of the Ozarks. Malls, clothing stores offering business, evening and casual wear, specialty stores, home and décor, craft shops, art galleries, music stores, antique shops, flea markets, emporiums, and bazaars make this area a year-round mecca for shoppers. The largest top brand outlet mall in the state is located in the township of Osage Beach. All of this adds up to The Lake having anything that you could possibly need or want and being the perfect destination for the casual browser and those who love to shop 'till they drop.

FAMILY ATTRACTIONS

The Lake area has mini-golf courses, go-kart tracks, amusement centers and waterparks, old time photoshops, the "Strip" just north of Bagnell Dam, arcades, movies, concerts, plays, annual events, festivals and fireworks. Some of the best musicians and comedians in the state stay right in The Lake region. An annual BluesFest is held in August and The Lake of the Ozarks Jazz Society events occur month January through November. The Dixieland Jazz Festival in October is one of the area's favorites. The Lake of the Ozarks Chamber of Commerce will always have a current list of upcoming attractions.

For State Parks, Caves, and Musuems, see our link above titled attractions