Mark Twain Lake

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About Mark Twain Lake

Mark Twain Lake is located in Northeast Missouri about 30 miles southwest of Hannibal, MO in Ralls County, Missouri and Monroe County, Missouri. It was created by the Clarence Cannon Dam impounding the Salt River. It was named for Missouri author Mark Twain and part of the area around it is Mark Twain State Park.

The Dam

The Joanna Dam project was first proposed in 1937 to control flooding in the Salt River valley. In 1962 Congress authorized the multi-purpose project in the Flood Control Act of October 1962. Actual construction of the dam began in 1970 and was completed in 1983. The dam was renamed after the death of Clarence Cannon, chairman of the House Appropriations Committee and longtime member of the U.S. House of Representatives.

The Lake

The sparkling waters and scenic lands of Mark Twain Lake provide countless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts. With over 18,000 acres of water and 285 miles of shoreline Mark Twain Lake offers anglers thriving populations of catfish, bass, crappie, walleye, bluegill and sunfish. Timber has been left in the upper ends of the lake and in selected coves to improve fish habitat. Six major boat ramps and 12 single-lane boat ramps surround the lake. Day-use fees are charged at the major ramps.

Recreation

Camping is available in three Corps of Engineers developed recreation areas, at the Mark Twain State Park and in several private recreation areas around the lake. Camping fees and facilities differ in the areas, however most have electric hookups, showers, restrooms, sanitary stations, fire grills, picnic tables and playground equipment. Group Camping areas and a number of individual campsites are also available on a reservation basis.

Lake Level, Moon Phase and Weather
Last updated: Unknown		Data Provided by WeatherBug.
Lake Level 611.19	CURRENT MOON moon phase	Today High:

Fishing Report

Normal Pool Elevation 606

Mark Twain Lake Fishing Report 09/02/2010

Courtesy of The Missouri Department of Conservation

Mark Twain: 86 degrees, high, clear; crappie good on minnows and jigs; channel catfish fair on minnows; all other species slow.