Little Platte River

Boat Ramps: 2
Access Points: 3
Species: 22

The Little Platte River in Missouri is a productive waterway known for offering excellent catfish fishing opportunities. Flowing through the northwestern part of the state, this tributary of the Missouri River provides diverse fishing experiences, from the calm tailwaters below Smithville Dam to the more natural river sections downstream. The river features a mix of deep pools, riffles, and bends that create ideal habitat for various fish species. Popular among local anglers, the Little Platte offers both wade fishing and some boat fishing opportunities depending on water levels and location.

Missouri licenses and regulations4 to check before you go

Species & education

Learn what type of fish are at Little Platte River and what's needed to catch them.

Fishing spots, boat ramps & amenities

Learn how to get on Little Platte River. Uncover great fishing access points, boat ramps, and all the facilities you need for an unforgettable day on the water. Some locations shown may border or include private property. Always check property boundaries and applicable regulations before visiting. onWater's Public & Private Land layer can help you plan your access with confidence.

Lathrop Bridge Access

Access Point

Know where you can legally fish on Little Platte River

See public and private land boundaries along the water, turn on private parcels with owner details to know where permission is required, and find land-trust parcels that offer permitted fishing access.

Missouri licenses and regulations

Missouri Boating Regulations

When using any type of watercraft to access a body of water, it is important to follow all federal, state, and local rules and regulations. These rules and regulations include boat permitting and licensing, invasive species inspections and stamps, life jacket and PFD rules, motor size and horsepower restrictions, noise limitations, restrictions on personal watercraft, and many more. Visit the web link below for the most current rules and regulations for this body of water.

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Missouri Fishing License

Residents of Missouri 65 years old and older are not required to purchase a fishing license. Non -Residents 16 years old and older must purchase a non-resident license. Anglers 15 years old and younger are not required to purchase a license regardless of residency.

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Missouri Fishing Regulations

This river has a variety of species and regulations, including potential floating and/or watercraft restrictions. Because this river is specially managed for species, seasons, angling methods, and watercraft, it is strongly encouraged you check all federal, state, and local regulations before fishing. Visit any of the links below, inquire locally, or contact a local fly shop to learn current regulations and restrictions.

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Missouri Stream Access Laws

In Missouri, waterways navigable in fact, or with a long history of use, and the capability of commercial and recreational transport are open to the public. The state asserts a public trust doctrine, allowing recreation, streambed access, right to portage and other incidents of navigation, regardless of ownership.

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Take Little Platte River with you

The onWater Fish app keeps this water's access points, species and conditions in your pocket, with the tools you use once you're there.

Use the map without signal
Download the map around Little Platte River to use it offline when coverage drops.
Log your catches here
Keep a private fishing journal for Little Platte River to find where and when fish are biting for you.

Get the onWater Fish app

Free on iOS and Android

Water and weather conditions (10 day forecast)

See the best times to fish Little Platte River and check the forecast before you go.