Impounded 1979 by the Army Corps of Engineers with 7,910 acres of water surface and 175 miles of shore line. More than 4,000 acres were left UN-cleared to help provide excellent fishing on the lake for many years to come. The lake has a lot of  species of game fish including Largemouth Bass, Channel Catfish, Blue catfish, Flathead Catfish, Bluegill, Tiger Muskie, Walleye and Crappie. The Missouri Department of Conservation manages the Lake. The average number of bass tournaments held annually on Smithville Lake is 300. The lake has boat ramps, camping facilities and two full service marinas. Lodging Is available near by Smithville. In Clay And Clinton Counties of