Forest Park Profiles: Anglers at Jefferson Lake
The 14-foot-deep, nine-acre Jefferson Lake sits in the southeastern edge of Forest Park. Parts are shaded by trees, brush and cattails, while others are speckled with lily pads and graceful great blue heron. Dusk is when the bugs come out and fish begin to surface in the hopes of grabbing one for dinner. It is also the time when anglers arrive in the hopes of maybe catching a fish for their own dinners.
Families, couples, siblings and friends — amateurs or experienced — come to Jefferson Lake for quality time, the challenge of the sport and the peaceful quiet. Those walking, biking or driving past can see how serene this activity can be, with the lines stretched out from land into the water bobbing up and down with each ripple or tug from a fish’s mouth.
Everyone has their own story as to why they’re there — why this is the place they’re certain to find their perfect catch.
KENNETH & DOROTHY
Kenneth has been fishing for 50 years, Dorothy for 30.
Married couple Kenneth and Dorothy have 80 years of fishing experience between them, and it shows with their efficient set-up in their favorite spot.
“Some people use bobbers so they can see when the fish is pulling, but we use bells. If you hear a tinkle, it means the fish are biting, but a jingle means it’s on the line.”
TRAMONA & ERIC
Tramona and Eric are on the hunt for blue gill, crappie, bass and catfish.
MARK, SEAMUS & ANGELO
Mark’s trout catch last year at Jefferson Lake.
Mark’s son Seamus and his friend Angelo are certain swords are a very important part of fishing.
KRISTY
Kristy and her mom hope for the best at dusk on Memorial Day weekend.
Editor's note: Jefferson Lake is stocked with fish by the Missouri Department of Conservation. People fishing here might find blue gill sunfish, green sunfish, catfish and bass. Trout, which can only survive in cold water, is stocked in the winter. Jefferson Lake users will be interested to know that Forest Park Forever is currently raising $30 million to complete capital improvement projects in partnership with the City of St. Louis. Jefferson Lake is among those Park sites that will be improved in the coming years, including for those who enjoy using the lake to fish.