Howell Island
Fishing the Missouri River, Weldon Springs, Mo.
This is a really great area to catch some large catfish, crappie, paddlefish, carp, drum, and gar. The road shown above allows you to cross the river and reach the island. The road is often flooded during high water. There are several large pipes under the road that allow water flow from one side to the other. This creates some nice rapids and good fishing. Many people fish along the road. Cars are not permitted for traveling across the road so you don't have to worry about that. Also, there is plenty of good bank access on either side of the river. There is no boat access here.
The island itself is hugh and offers much to explore. Often you see people on mountain bikes and hikers. Also, there is plenty of wildlife to observe.
Directions: Access Chesterfield Airport Rd. from highway 40. At the light make a right. Go about 4-5 miles and make a left at the gas station. Follow this road for about another 4-5 miles then you see the gravel road at the right with Missouri Conservation Area sign.
For a area map click here Howellmap
Click here for river levels at St. Charles At water level of 16 feet causeway is still flooded!
Fishing Report:
2001: I found it not very good. I caught too many gar and turtles. However, the spring spawn here can be very interesting. Go to the left bank as you walk in(follow the path). Don't forget the bug dope. I caught about a 3.5 foot long big head carp here. They have a head like a catfish with no wiskers. The body has scales. Really strange looking. Nobody knew what they were. I emailed MDC and they called it a big head carp.
Causeway near flooded:
