With 385 acres of water nestled in the middle of 600 acres of undisturbed land, the Holden City Lake offers some of the best crappie, bluegill, bass, and catfish fishing in Missouri. Along with fishing, people from all around enjoy hiking, horseback riding, and picnicking. There are boat ramps and restrooms located at each end of the dam for your convenience. While no rifle or pistol use is allowed, located around the shores are 7 fowl hunting blind sights, which are drawn for each year on the last Tuesday of August.

Maintenance is paid for by proceeds from the lake pass sales and hunting blind rental only. If you are between the ages of 16 to 65, a permit is required to be on the premises of the Holden City Lake. Cost of these permits are:

 $4.00 for a single daily pass

$15.50 for an individual annual pass

$22.50 for a family annual pass

    Permits are sold at the Holden Water Department, 900 South Vine Street, the Holden Package Store, 107 South Pine Street, the Holden Water Treatment Plant located below the dam at the Lake, and permits may be purchased from the Holden Police Department located at 110 West Third Street. Visitors must also possess and abide by any and all permits and rules of the Missouri Department of Conservation that may apply.