The short version
Montauk sits where the springs that start the Current River come out of the ground. The Missouri Department of Conservation runs a hatchery in the park and stocks the stream with rainbow and brown trout. From March 1 to Oct. 31, a $5 daily tag (and a fishing permit, if you need one) lets you keep up to four trout a day.
What your family needs
| Who | Catch-and-keep (March 1 to Oct. 31) | Winter catch-and-release |
|---|---|---|
| Kids 15 and under | $3 daily tag | Youth trout permit |
| Missouri residents 16 to 64 | $5 daily tag plus a fishing permit | Fishing permit plus annual trout permit |
| Missouri residents 65 and older | $5 daily tag | Annual trout permit |
| Nonresidents 16 and older | $5 daily tag plus a fishing permit | Fishing permit plus annual trout permit |
Daily tags are sold only at the park, so bring cash.
The three zones
| Zone | Allowed |
|---|---|
| Zone 1 | Catch-and-release only |
| Zone 2 | Flies only |
| Zone 3 | Artificial lures and natural bait |
Zone 3 is where families fishing with bait will want to be. The zone map comes with your tag. Only one pole per person is allowed, and food can't be used to attract fish except on a hook.
Accessible fishing
The park has five accessible fishing sites along the stream.
Getting there
Montauk is southeast of Licking. MDC's directions: from Highway 137, take Route VV east 10 miles to Highway 119, turn right, and follow the signs. The park address is 345 County RoadMap 6670, Salem, MO. The park office is 573-548-2201 and the hatchery is 573-548-2585.
Below the park, the Current River becomes a Blue Ribbon Trout Area with different rules, so check before fishing past the park boundary.
Questions
Is Montauk open for fishing in winter?
Yes, for catch-and-release only. From the second Friday in November to the second Monday in February, fishing is open Friday through Monday from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., flies only. You need a fishing permit and an annual trout permit.
What kind of trout are at Montauk?
Rainbow trout and brown trout. Brown trout must be at least 15 inches to keep; there is no length limit on rainbows.
Where is Montauk State Park?
Southeast of Licking, in Dent County. The park address is 345 County RoadMap 6670, Salem, MO.
Sources
- Missouri State Parks: Montauk State Park, checked Nov 10, 2026
- MDC: Montauk Fish Hatchery, checked Nov 10, 2026
- MDC: Trout Parks season, checked Nov 10, 2026
- Missouri Wildlife Code, 3 CSR 10-12.150, checked Nov 10, 2026
- USGS 07064440, Current River at Montauk State Park, checked Nov 10, 2026
Something out of date? Please let us know and we'll recheck it.