Lake Taneycomo

You know, this really doesn’t look like a lake at all. It more resembles a river and was once considered warm water until the construction of Table Rock Dam in 1958. The waters released from the dam into Lake Taneycomo (stands for Taney County, Missouri) were much cooler in temperature. This prompted the county to create a cold water fish hatchery at the base of the dam which provides excellent fishing for Rainbow and Brown Trout, making Branson a fisherman’s destination.
Diving a little more into why this is called a «lake», I find myself baffled by this use of the word on this body of water. But in truth, it has the characteristics of both river and lake. A lake most often is regarded as a still body of water. Lakes are also enclosed by land whereas rivers are not. A river generally speaking has flow and movement (current), usually in one direction along the banks. For that reason, «Lake» Taneycomo can be considered a lake, because it is enclosed on both ends by Dams (Table Rock upstream and Bull Shoals downstream). However, when Table Rock Dam is open and generating power, it will cause a sudden increase in the speed of the current and depth of the water. The overflow can raise the level of water nearby several feet in a matter of minutes. Therefore it’s important to pay attention to the warning horn when it blows, unless of course you enjoy risking your life.
My favorite part of this «lake» is the part that passes Branson Landing mall where they have a great Las Vegas style outdoor fountain. Be sure to check it out, especially in the evenings. Lots of rental properties along the lake as well as boating, fishing and Kanakuk Kamps, an excellent Christian based summer camp for youth!

Great fishing and casual boating. At night, when the foggy mist rolls in, it’s so beautiful and peaceful. Close to the dam is fantastic fly fishing for trout. Taneycomo is so different from Table Rock (also fantastic lake) fishing. This is COLD water so you won’t be swimming, rather one of those picturesque places to be. Branson Landing is also on this lake and you can fish for trout next to the Landing and try out that new Bass Pro gear. The best places on the Lake are the quiet spots though, don’t miss it.

One of Branson, Mo greatest gems is this pretty little lake.
Some of the best mornings of my life have been spent on this quite little lake; guiding kayak tours in the spring and summer months, admiring all the adorable, chicks, ducks, Heron, turtles, fish, Canada Geese, and bald eagles-​it was wonderful to watch the seasons change with the chaning colors of the leaves and the changing colors on the breasts of all the waterfowl; saying good morning to all the polite and funny fly-​fishermen at dawn; giggling at the beavers who would sometimes scare the cr*p outta me by splashing into the water while I was admiring a Great Blue Heron; paddling my kayak through the icey waters, myself and my kayak covered in snow, during the winter.
What I really loved, during the super-​hot summer months, was when they would do a dam release and the cold water from the bottom of Table Rock lake would turn Lake Taneycomo into a super-​cold 40degrees stream, creating this beautiful foggy mist, making morning kayak trips gloriously romantic, refreshing, and a luxurious treat.
Some may think it’s a stream or a gentle river upon first inspection because there is usually a bit of a current.
This is because they let do «dam releases» from Table rock lake which regulates the lake levels of Taneycomo.
So, even though it moves like a river it is technically a lake since it is dammed on both sides.
SUGGESTIONS:
Bring a kayak.
You’ll see so much more.
You’ll never disturb the little critters.
Youll get to sneek up on happy little turtle families.
Make more friend with the fly-​fishermen by telling them where all the great fishing holes are without disturbing the fish.
Bring a camera.
Enjoy!