Walleye do have some natural reproduction in Missouri’s lakes and rivers, but they don't keep up with the fishing demand. Therefore, broodstock (mature adults) are collected each year so the Department can artificially produce and raise young walleye. These fish are stocked as fry and fingerlings (1-2” fish) into a selected number of Missouri’s lakes and rivers.
To learn more about fish hatcheries and fish rearing process, visit the Lost Valley Hatchery (ADD LINK in DRUPAL). The hatchery offers tours and educational programs.
Some of Missouri’s best walleye rivers include the Black, Current, St. Francis and Mississippi rivers. Lakes with good walleye populations include, Lake of the Ozarks, Lake Show-me, Mozingo, Bilby Ranch, Stockton, Bull Shoals, Norfork, Table Rock and Smithville lakes.
In order to increase our knowledge of the species, biologists conduct studies to determine the genetic diversity of walleye found throughout Missouri, walleye movement in various lakes and streams, the impact anglers have on individual walleye populations, survival of stocked fingerlings, etc.