For Camdenton resident Bill Christian, fishing at Ha Ha Tonka State Park's public dock is one of his favorite pastimes in his retirement.
"I have caught a 42-pound striper down here before," he said. "Before I could pull it up, my line snapped."
On Saturday, he had spent more than two hours in the drizzling rain hoping to secure another momentous catch. Regardless, he finds it, like many of his fellow fishermen along the banks of the Lake in the state park, to be one of the best activities to do anytime on the Lake's waters.
With Memorial Day weekend underway, the rainy weather Saturday didn't stop thousands from flocking to the Midwestern playground. Families, couples and friends enjoyed walking the trails, fishing and camping at the two state parks, shopping at the hundreds of local businesses, indulging in go-kart races and mini-golf tournaments, and boating on the Lake's waters.
This official kick-off to the Lake's tourist season simply heats up as summer progresses. The next few weekends offer up more than a handful of popular and family-friendly events will beckon families to return for a visit.
The second annual Lake Race will begin its week's worth of events Wednesday, with the big Offshore Power Association national on-water races held June 7-8 in Lake Ozark. Among the many parties, meet and greets, poker runs and more, guests can stand on the historic Bagnell Dam to watch the races for free.
The Third Annual LiquidForce Brostock also begins Wednesday at Captain Ron's in Sunrise Beach, showcasing some of the world's best professional wakeboarders competing for the championship title. Events last through June 7.
The Jacobs Cave Meadowlands Summer Swapping Days is held June 5-8 in Versailles. Guests can buy, trade, sell or simply browse through the massive variety of goods, animals and house wares available from participating vendors.
The Canine Cannonball at Dog Days is a family favorite as they watch dogs of all shapes and sizes compete in a dock jumping competition. This year's event is held June 6-8 and is free and open to the public.