A Day in Neosho, MO
A Father-Son Fishing Trip to Neosho, Missouri: A Day Well Spent
Last October, my son and I found ourselves with an unexpected opportunity for adventure. We were in Joplin, Missouri, for his early-morning cross-country meet, and after a quick race under the rising sun, we realized we had an entire Saturday ahead of us. Instead of heading straight home to Kansas City, we decided to take a short detour—just 30 minutes away—to the charming town of Neosho, Missouri.
A Hidden Gem for Trout Fishing
Neosho might not be the first place that comes to mind when you think of fly fishing, but nestled within Morse Park is Hickory Creek, a unique and accessible trout stream. What makes this place special is that it’s only about two hours from Kansas City, unlike other popular trout destinations that require three or more hours of driving.
Morse Park itself is a multi-use space with softball fields, walking and biking trails, playgrounds, and even a disc golf course that weaves its way through the park—meaning you might find yourself casting for trout while someone tees off on the fourth or fifth hole nearby. The creek, stocked nine to ten times a year, boasts a healthy population of rainbow trout, rock bass, bluegill, and other species. Its clear waters make for an exciting fishing experience, as you can often spot trout before making your cast.
The Experience: Coffee, Casting, and Catching
After grabbing coffee in Joplin, we arrived in Neosho, geared up, and hit the water. We kept our fly selection simple, using a white mop fly, our signature egg pattern called the Pompadour, and Pat’s Rubber Legs—each proving effective throughout the day. The beauty of Hickory Creek is that it provides an excellent environment for teaching and learning. My son is still getting the hang of fly fishing, and this was the perfect place to practice reading the water, casting, and honing his ability to gently hook and release trout.
“More than the fish we caught, the real reward was the time spent together—teaching, learning, and sharing moments that will last a lifetime.”
Midway through the day, we took a break for lunch at Briar & Thistle in the town square—fantastic sandwiches and great service. A quick stop for another coffee, and we were back on the water for an afternoon session. We caught a few more trout before wrapping up the day and making the easy two-hour drive home.
Why Neosho?
For anglers in the Kansas City area, Neosho is a fantastic option for a quick getaway. It’s not as well-known or crowded as Missouri’s larger trout parks, making it a peaceful spot to hone your skills, introduce someone to the sport, or simply enjoy a day outdoors. While it may not offer the world’s best fishing, it offers something even more valuable—the chance to step away from daily routines and create lasting memories.
