New dock at Maple Leaf Conservation Area hopes to open accessibility to fishing

KANSAS CITY, Mo. (KCTV) - A new fishing dock at the Maple Leaf Conservation Area has been installed in hopes that anglers of all ages and abilities can cast a line.

The Missouri Department of Conservation announced on Wednesday, May 21, that crews have installed a new dock at the Maple Leaf Conservation Area, east of Odessa. The new dock, which measures 36 by 18 feet, replaces 2 older wooden docks that were removed in the fall of 2024.

Department leaders noted that the new dock includes a covered fishing area and an uncovered patio. The area was designed with a focus on accessibility, with an open-center design that provides improved fishing access for various age groups and abilities. The dock is also compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act standards.

Conservationists indicated that the area also includes two additional fishing docks, an accessible parking lot, a boat ramp and a privy. Maple Leaf is named for the fishing lake on the property that is in the shape of a leaf. Anglers can fish for channel catfish, bluegill, redear sunfish and black bass.

MDC said the open fields and wooded draws around the lake are managed for deer, turkey, rabbits, quail and songbirds. An 11.5-acre wetland below the dam also provides waterfowl hunting and viewing opportunities.

For more information about Maple Leaf Conservation Area and directions, click HERE.

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