
Smithville Lake
Smithville Lake, situated in Clay County, Missouri, is a large reservoir covering 7,190 acres of land. The lake was constructed on the Little Platte branch of the Platte River, and it is located in close proximity to the town of Smithville. The reservoir serves as the primary water supply source for the municipalities of Smithville and Plattsburg, and a portion of the lake has been reserved for water supply for the city of Kansas City. The lake offers a wide range of recreational opportunities for visitors, including fishing, boating, and hiking. Anglers can catch a variety of fish species such as channel catfish, blue catfish, flathead catfish, white bass, crappie, and largemouth bass. Boat ramps and docks are available at various locations around the lake, allowing boaters to enjoy water skiing, tubing, and other water-based activities. The lake's expansive size makes it an ideal location for kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing. Smithville Lake also boasts several scenic trails for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The Crow's Creek Trail and Little Platte Trail are popular options for visitors, offering beautiful views of the lake and surrounding landscape. The park features picnic areas with tables and grills, playgrounds, and several camping facilities. Visitors can choose from a variety of camping options, including primitive campsites, full-service campsites, and cabins. In addition to its recreational opportunities, Smithville Lake also serves as an important wildlife habitat, with several species of migratory birds, waterfowl, and other wildlife calling the area home. The lake's natural beauty and abundant recreational opportunities make it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
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Smithville Lake
Smithville Lake, situated in Clay County, Missouri, is a large reservoir covering 7,190 acres of land. The lake was constructed on the Little Platte branch of the Platte River, and it is located in close proximity to the town of Smithville. The reservoir serves as the primary water supply source for the municipalities of Smithville and Plattsburg, and a portion of the lake has been reserved for water supply for the city of Kansas City. The lake offers a wide range of recreational opportunities for visitors, including fishing, boating, and hiking. Anglers can catch a variety of fish species such as channel catfish, blue catfish, flathead catfish, white bass, crappie, and largemouth bass. Boat ramps and docks are available at various locations around the lake, allowing boaters to enjoy water skiing, tubing, and other water-based activities. The lake's expansive size makes it an ideal location for kayaking, paddleboarding, and canoeing. Smithville Lake also boasts several scenic trails for hikers and nature enthusiasts. The Crow's Creek Trail and Little Platte Trail are popular options for visitors, offering beautiful views of the lake and surrounding landscape. The park features picnic areas with tables and grills, playgrounds, and several camping facilities. Visitors can choose from a variety of camping options, including primitive campsites, full-service campsites, and cabins. In addition to its recreational opportunities, Smithville Lake also serves as an important wildlife habitat, with several species of migratory birds, waterfowl, and other wildlife calling the area home. The lake's natural beauty and abundant recreational opportunities make it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Read more detailsCurrent Conditions
Water Temperature
Latest Water Temperature Data: Current water temperature for Smithville Lake is 82° Fahrenheit - providing real-time thermal conditions for fishing, swimming, and water recreation planning.
Current Snapshot
Forecast: Tuesday, Jul 8
Thunderstorms
Hourly Insights
Temperature
Precipitation
Wind
Sun, Moon & UV
Weather Forecast & Fishing Conditions at Smithville Lake
Today's weather at Smithville Lake features partly cloudy skies with temperatures ranging from 66°F to 85°F. Wind conditions will average 3 mph with gusts reaching up to 18 mph, creating excellent fishing conditions with calm waters. The UV index will reach 7 (High), and there's a 56% chance of precipitation. The current water temperature is 82°F (updated Jul 4), indicating that warm-water species like bass and panfish will be highly active. These conditions will significantly impact fish behavior and angling success throughout the day.
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Solunar Fishing Forecast
Todays action is rated a 3 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)
Best Bite Times
Major Times (Peak)
5:00 AM - 5:00 AM
3:24 PM - 5:54 PM
Minor Times (Good)
12:06 AM - 1:36 AM
8:01 AM - 9:31 AM
Fishing Intelligence
Today's fishing action at Smithville Lake is rated 3/5 (Todays action is rated a 3 (scale is 0 thru 5, 5 is the best)). For the best results, target the major bite times around 5:00 AM and 3:24 PM.
Water Temp Impact: With the water at 82°F, expect good activity from warm-water species like bass and panfish.
Common Fish Species
Nearby Lakes
Water Temperature History
Trends for Smithville Lake
Current Temp
Measured on Jul 1
Latest recorded surface temperature.
Lowest in Period
32°F
On Jan 12
Coldest point in the Last 12 Months.
Average in Period
57°F
Typical temp during the Last 12 Months.
Temperature Trend: Last 12 Months
Surface temperature over the selected period.
Key Observations (Last 12 Months)
- Warmest avg: August (84°F).
- Coolest avg: January (33°F).
- Rapid warming often occurs: March → April (+14°F).
- Sharpest cooling trend: September → October (-14°F).
Weather Forecast
Wind speed and pressure trends
Hourly Wind Forecast
Wind Direction
131°
Pressure
1016 mb
Cloud Cover
15%
Visibility
12 miles
Daily Pressure Forecast


Frequently Asked Questions About Smithville Lake
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