Lost on the Lake - Table Rock November 25 Issue 27
Lost on the Lake TABLE ROCK
Lake Lifestyle Magazine
INSIDE:
• Calm Waters - Big Rewards
• The Rogue Chef
• Counting Blessings
• Bald Eagles- Return to the Lake
November drifts into the Ozarks like a soft breath—There’s something about this time of year that feels deeper, more personal. Maybe it’s the way the water mirrors the grayblue skies or how families gather again around warm tables and glowing fires. The holidays are on the horizon, but November is its own season of reflection—a pause between the golden rush of fall and the stillness of winter.
Around Table Rock Lake, it’s also a season of subtle beauty. Bald eagles glide across the coves, deer move quietly through the hills, and the sunsets - those unforgettable Ozark sunsets - turn the world to bronze.
In this issue, we celebrate that quieter rhythm. You’ll find stories about bass fishing in November, fall gatherings by the fire, Thanksgiving traditions, and even a wildlife spotlight on the bald eagles returning to our lake. These aren’t just seasonal features - they’re reminders of what makes this place special. Table Rock Lake isn’t just a destination; it’s a feeling, a sense of home that deepens with every passing season.
As we move into the holidays, I hope you take time to enjoy the simple moments: the laughter around a table, the stillness of a morning on the water, the comfort of being surrounded by people who matter most.
From our family to yours Happy Thanksgiving, and may your November be filled with peace, gratitude, and a little Ozark magic.
Be Happy & Thankful,
Myra Thornton
FallThe Holidays
CREATIVE EDITOR
Myra Thornton
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
The Rogue Chef
Talking Rocks Cavern
The Butterfly Palace
Jeanie Edwards
Jody Gertson
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
The Rogue Chef
Talking Rocks Cavern
The Butterfly Palace
Jeanie Edwards
Jody Gertson
Find us on Facebook Publisher
Myra Thornton
www.lostonthelake.us
Explore Up Close!
Quiet WatersBig Rewards
Table Rock Lake Fishing
Morning mist drifts across the coves, the hills glow copper and gold, and the only sounds are the gulls and the hum of an outboard motor. For those who know the lake well, this is one of the most rewarding months to fish—when the crowds are gone, the bass are hungry, and the water belongs to you.
Cool Mornings, Hot Bite
The lake’s surface temperature slips into the high-50s, nudging bass from their summer haunts toward steeper banks and deeper pockets where shad congregate. It’s a change that rewards anglers who slow down and think strategically. The air may be crisp, but the bite can still be fiery.
Largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass all feed heavily before winter. Early in the day, they chase bait along main-lake points and the mouths of creeks.
By afternoon, when the sun warms the rocks, they slide deeper and hold tight to structure.
Patterns That Pay Off
Start the morning with motion. A suspending jerkbait or spinnerbait worked near schooling shad can draw aggressive strikes. As the day brightens, switch to finesse—Ned rigs, drop-shots, or finesse jigs along ledges and transitions from gravel to rock.
When the lake is glass-calm, don’t put away your topwater. A subtle walking bait can tempt surface-feeding spotted bass even on chilly mornings. Keep colors natural—shad, green pumpkin, or translucent silver match the lake’s clear water perfectly.
Best Places to Try
The James River Arm, Long Creek, and areas around Kimberling City consistently hold late-fall fish. Use electronics to locate shad clouds, then position your boat
“It’s not just about the catch, it’s about the calm. November fishing is when Table Rock shows its soul.”
just outside the bait. The most successful November anglers move deliberately, fish patiently, and let the lake’s rhythm guide them.
Weather Wisdom
November in the Ozarks is a month of contrasts—bluebird skies one day, mist and wind the next. Overcast days often deliver the steadiest bite, especially after a mild warming trend. Dress in layers, keep a thermos of coffee handy, and don’t rush. The lake feels timeless this time of year, and so should you.
Late-Fall How-To: Reading the Lake
• Follow the Bait. Shad schools are your compass—wherever they drift, bass won’t be far behind.
• Target Structure. Focus on bluff ends, ledges, and submerged timber in 15–30 feet of water
• Work with the Weather. Cloud cover or a light breeze keeps bass active longer.
• Time It Right. The afternoon sun often sparks a short but fierce bite near rocky points.
• Stay Subtle. Table Rock’s clear water demands lighter line and quiet boat control.
• Colors: Shad, green pumpkin, smoke, silver flake.
Thankful at the The season of Gratitude in
the Lake: in the Ozarks
“The lake teaches its own kind of thankfulness - slower, quieter, and deeper.”
As the last of the fall colors reflect off Table Rock Lake, Thanksgiving arrives wrapped in golden calm. The water is still, the air crisp, and the scent of woodsmoke lingers on the breeze. Here in the Ozarks, the season feels more intimate—families gather sharing food, stories, and simple moments that remind us what this holiday is really about.
Thanksgiving at Table Rock isn’t about hustle and noise. It’s about pausing long enough to see your breath in the morning mist, to hear the quiet lap of the lake against the shore, and to feel a deep sense of peace.
Before the feast begins, start the day where life feels simplest— on the lake. Mornings on Table Rock in late November are peaceful, with mist hovering just above the water and flocks of geese tracing the sky. The world seems to whisper, slow down.
Bundle up, grab your thermos, and head out for a short cruise or cast a line. Bass fishing can be surprisingly good this time of year, and the stillness of the lake gives every ripple a kind of magic. Even if you don’t catch a thing, the quiet beauty makes the trip worth it.
There’s no better backdrop for Thanksgiving dinner than the lake itself. Picture a rustic deck overlooking still water, the trees framing the view in shades of russet and gold. Inside, the oven hums and the scent of sage and butter fills the air. Laughter spills from the kitchen while the
turkey roasts, and someone sets the table with a view that no dining room could ever match.
For a local twist, try weaving Ozarks flavors into your mealsmoked trout dip, cornbread dressing with apples and sausage, or a homemade pecan pie sweetened with local honey. Thanksgiving tastes even better when it carries with a touch of the lake’s character.
After-Dinner Traditions
As the sun sets over the water, the lake glows like liquid gold. Dinner dishes are stacked, leftovers tucked away, and everyone drifts outside toward the warmth of the fire. A bonfire crackles to life, casting amber light on faces.
The night fills with laughter, clinking mugs of cider, and the pop of a log breaking in the flames. Kids roast marshmallows, dogs curl close, and the stars come alive overhead. The simplicity of the moment—a warm fire, a calm lake, and good company—captures the true meaning of Thanksgiving.
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HighlandS ArtiStS Bring CoSta Rican Jungle to Life in MiSSouri
by
Jeanie Edwards
Branson, MO – For three consecutive winters, the cold of the Missouri Ozarks has been warmed by a vibrant splash of Costa Rican color, thanks to the dedicated efforts of Highlands, North Carolina, artists Jeanie Edwards and Amanda Clark. Over those winters, the duo has undertaken
an immense project, completing one of the largest murals in the state at The Butterfly Palace & Rainforest Adventure in Branson. This colossal work of art, which covers the dome of the gift shop and extends into the aviary, is a breathtaking tribute to Costa Rican biodiversity. It features more than 150 species of animals, insects, and flora, all hand-painted with meticulous detail.
Navigating New Heights
The scale of the mural presented a unique set of challenges for the artists. Reaching the highest points of the building, especially the dome, required the use of 40-foot lifts. Navigating these towering mechanical platforms became a regular part of their creative process.
Edwards described the artistic process as constantly evolving,
with initial plans often changing as they progressed. To maintain accuracy, she conducted extensive online research, studying countless videos to build a vast mental catalog of Costa Rican species.
A Whirlwind of Wildlife
The mural immerses visitors in a realistic jungle environment. Animals on lower levels are painted larger than life to create a sense of being small in a vast rainforest, while depictions on the ramp transition to life-size as visitors ascend. A notable feature is a memorial wall within the aviary, showcasing over 100 life-size butterflies, providing a great photo opportunity.
A Homecoming for Highlands Artists
Edwards, who has her own gallery in Highlands, and Clark embraced the Branson project as an opportunity for large-scale commissions. They hope to return to Branson to contribute to the Butterfly Palace’s expansion, which will double the size of the attraction. This continuation of their Highlands-to-Missouri tradition will further enrich the Ozarks with vibrant depictions of wildlife.
Making Memories:
Family Adventures around The Lake
“At the end of the day, it’s not about the perfect photo or the biggest adventure - it’s about being together. Around Table Rock Lake, those simple, shared moments are what turn into lifelong memories.”
When life feels busy and schedules seem too full, it’s the moments we make together that matter most. The laughter, the shared adventures, the quiet evenings by the fire—these are the memories that become family treasures. Around Table Rock Lake, every season offers simple ways to slow down and create those unforgettable experiences together.
Get Outdoors Together
There’s something magical about sharing the great outdoors as a family. A day on Table Rock Lake means sunshine, laughter, and the kind of peace that only nature provides. Pack a picnic and head to Table Rock State Park, rent kayaks or paddleboards, or take a gentle walk along the lake at sunset.
Fishing is another timeless way to connect. Teach the kids how to bait a hook, cast a line, and feel the thrill of a tug on the rod. Whether you reel in a trophy bass or simply enjoy the quiet water, the joy is in doing it together.
Explore and Discover
The Ozarks are full of family-friendly adventures. Visit Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, where you can hike, bike, or take a tram ride through waterfalls and wildlife. Or spend an aftercont page 20
noon exploring Silver Dollar City, where the smell of funnel cakes mixes with the sound of laughter echoing through the hills.
If you’re after something a bit slower-paced, take a scenic drive through Highway 86 or 265, where fall colors and lake views stretch for miles. Stop for photos, or find a quiet overlook to simply take it all in together.
Create at Home
Sometimes the best memories happen right at home or in your cabin. Gather around the table for a family game night, bake cookies together, or build a fire by the lake. Tell stories, roast marshmallows, and listen to the sounds of the evening settle in.
Try starting a family scrapbook of your Table Rock adventures—photos, ticket stubs, or even pressed leaves from a favorite hike. Over time, those pages will tell the story of your family’s connection to the lake.
Celebrate Every Season
Each season around Table Rock brings something special. Spring blooms call for picnics and wildflower walks. Summer means swimming and fireworks over the water. Fall invites cozy bonfires, fishing trips, and long scenic walks. Winter brings peaceful stillness, perfect for cabin retreats and hot chocolate by the fireplace.
Make it a tradition to visit the lake during each season—revisiting the same favorite spot and seeing how it changes. You’ll find that the memories grow deeper with every visit.
Pause, Play, and Be Present
The truth is, memory-making doesn’t require elaborate plans or faraway trips. It’s about being present. It’s laughing together on a boat ride, holding hands on a trail, watching the sun dip behind the Ozark hills, and realizing how lucky you are to share these moments.
Around Table Rock Lake, it’s easy to find those opportunities—to unplug, reconnect, and let the lake remind you what truly matters: time spent together.
Think of Others
If you are fortunate enough to be surrounded by family or friends this holiday season, know that you are blessed.
Remember your elderly neighbors who might be alone for the holidays. Stop by and say hi, bring a holiday pie or meal.
Have the space? Invite them over to enjoy the meal, or dessert. Your crazy household might be just what they need this time of year. Many are lonely and would love to visit!
Fresh Recipe The Rogue Chef
Smoked Salmon Tartines
Time: 20 minutes
Servings: 6 Tartines
Ingredients
● 6 Slices Rustic Artisan Bread (sourdough or country loaf)
● 3 T Olive Oil
● 8 oz Smoked Salmon, thinly sliced
● 8 oz Whipped Cream Cheese (or crème fraîche)
● 1 T Capers, drained
● 1 Small Cucumber, thinly sliced
● Fresh Dill, for garnish
● Lemon Wedges, for serving
● Flaky Sea Salt and Cracked Black Pepper, to taste
Instructions
1. Toast the bread slices lightly on both sides until golden and crisp.
2. Brush each slice with olive oil while still warm.
3. Spread a generous layer of whipped cream cheese over each slice, reaching all the way to the edges for full flavor in every bite.
4. Arrange ribbons of smoked salmon over the cream cheese, folding them for texture and visual appeal.
5. Top with cucumber slices and scatter capers over the tartines.
6. Season with flaky sea salt and black pepper, then garnish with fresh dill.
7. Serve immediately with lemon wedges on the side for a bright finish.
Go Rogue by adding a touch of caviar for the ultimate Rogue twist.
Want Chef Jeff to make this delicious dish for you? Contact him at www.TheRogueChef.com.
Blessings Counting
Talking Rocks Cavern - Nature Trail
With warm temperatures behind us, and the crisp autumn air settling in, comfortable sweaters and soft flannel shirts make their way to the forefront of the closet. The changing of the seasons is a blessing to appreciate for those of us who call the Ozarks our home. Something stirs the soul when viewing tree covered hills as the leaves turn an array of red, yellow, orange and brown.
There is beauty in the Ozarks that surpasses the splendor seen while driving to the store. Genuine Ozarks hospitality and kind folks are another blessing to be thankful for. It never grows old to be greeted by the man working at the local hardware store or receive a friendly smile from the hard-working employee at the fast food drive thru.
The challenge living in this neck of the woods is that Thanksgiving is almost an overlooked holiday.
November and December are set aside in this tourist driven area for Ozark Mountain Christmas. It takes intentionality to pause and savor this special time of the year. So many blessings surround us. Time to count our blessings!
By Jody Gertson
Talking Rocks Cavern, Branson West, MO
From the Chef’s Table:
Pro Tips for a Flawless Thanksgiving Feast
Thanksgiving may look like a single-day affair, but for most chefs, it’s a week-long symphony of planning, prepping, and plating. Whether you’re roasting your first turkey or hosting your 30th Friendsgiving, there’s a lot to juggle - timing, taste, and tradition. But with a few insider tricks, you can skip the chaos and savor the magic of the meal.
1. Don’t Wing It—Plan It
Chefs swear by prep lists and timelines. Take a page from the playbook and start with your menu. Once it’s set, make a grocery list organized by section (produce, dairy, dry goods), and shop early to avoid the crowds
By The Rogue Chef
and sell-outs. Two days before, chop veggies, prep desserts, and set your table—your future self will thank you.
2. The Turkey Timeline
The number one mistake home cooks make? Waiting too long to thaw the bird. A frozen turkey needs 24 hours for every 4-5 pounds in the fridge. And don’t forget to let it rest after roasting - at least 30 minutes - so all those juicy flavors stay put when you carve.
3. Elevate the Classics
A little twist goes a long way. Stir fresh herbs into your mashed potatoes, add citrus zest to cran-
berry sauce, or finish roasted veggies with a splash of balsamic or maple syrup. These simple upgrades add chef-level flavor without complicating the recipe.
4. Embrace Make-Ahead Magic
Stuffing, casseroles, even gravy
- many dishes can be made a day in advance and reheated to perfection. This not only saves time but frees up oven space for the star of the show. Pro tip: use warming trays or a slow cooker to keep sides hot without overcooking.
5. Don’t Skip the Sips
Whether it’s a sparkling mocktail with rosemary or a batch cocktail infused with apple cider, drinks set the tone. Prep them
ahead of time and let guests serve themselves so you’re not stuck bartending.
6. Relax. It’s a Feast, Not a Performance.
At The Rogue Chef, we always say—if it’s made with love, it’s already special. Don’t worry about perfection. Play music, light a candle, and laugh when the pie crust crumbles. That’s what real memories are made of.
Go Rogue by serving your stuffing in individual ramekins or adding a bold new side to the lineup (spiced sweet potato gratin, anyone?). This year, let your Thanksgiving table tell a new story - one where flavor, fun, and a little rebellion meet.
Financial Focus
SMART FINANCIAL MOVES TO MAKE BEFORE YEAR-END
As the year winds down, it’s the perfect time to make some smart moves before the calendar flips to 2026. Think of it as a financial tune-up that could help with saving money and setting you up for success in the months ahead. Here are some things to consider.
Don’t forget about required withdrawals. If you’re 73 or older, you’ll need to take your required minimum distribution from traditional retirement accounts to avoid a 25% penalty on any amount you should have withdrawn but didn’t. This rule also applies to some people who inherited retirement accounts, including certain Roth accounts.
Use your flexible spending money. Got money sitting in a flexible spending account at work? Remember, these accounts follow a “use it or lose it” rule. Check with your HR department about your plan’s specific deadlines for spending the money and submitting receipts. Whether it’s that dental work you’ve been putting off or new prescription glasses you need, now’s the time to use those funds before they disappear.
Boost your retirement savings.
Consider ramping up your pretax retirement contributions before year-end. Not only will this help your future self, but it might also reduce your current tax bill. If your workplace plan allows it, you can even set up automatic increases for next year so you won’t have to remember to do it later.
Share the wealth through gifting. In 2025, the current tax rules let you give family or friends up to $19,000 per person without affecting your lifetime gift tax exemption. Married couples can combine their allowances to give up to $38,000 per person. Plus, you can pay someone’s tuition or medical bills directly without these payments counting against your gift limits at all.
Navigate new tax changes. The recently passed One Big Beautiful Bill Act has made several tax provisions permanent, including lower individual tax rates and higher standard deductions. However, it also introduces new changes that might affect your situation. It’s worth sitting down with a financial advisor or tax professional to understand how these updates impact your specific circumstances.
Examine your investments. Take some time to review your investment portfolio. Ask yourself: Did your investments perform as expected this year? Do they still match your goals and comfort level with risk? You might need to rebalance things to get back on track.
Build up your emergency fund. It’s ideal to have enough cash saved to cover three to six months of living expenses in an easily accessible account. This safety net can prevent you from having to raid your retirement savings when unexpected expenses pop up.
Review your estate planning documents. This is especially important if you’ve had major life changes like marriage, divorce or a new baby. Don’t forget to check the beneficiary designations on all your bank and brokerage accounts as well as life insurance policies – these often override what’s written in your will.
Taking care of these financial housekeeping tasks now can help you start the new year on solid ground.
This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.
EdwardJones,MemberSIPC Presentedbyourlocal
Edward Jones Financial Advisor: GrantBeasley 417-739-5575
ime to pause.
ow lovely the view~
nd count the blessings ot miss their cue.
ind are the people o many we meet. enuinely pleasant, nteresting; sweet.
ivid the colors
ndeed they won’t last.
ow is the time ive thanks…fast!
By Jody Gertson
Talking Rocks Cavern, Branson West, MO
Talking Rocks Cavern - Treetop Lookout Tower
Bald Eagles Return to The Lake
When the Ozark hills turn from gold to gray and the last of the autumn leaves drift to the ground, a new kind of beauty arrives over Table Rock Lake. November brings crisp mornings, mirror-still water, and the graceful return of one of America’s most majestic birds — the Bald Eagle.
Their arrival marks the quiet shift into winter. As the lake settles into calm, these powerful raptors glide overhead, their white heads gleaming in the soft, slanting light of late fall. Around Table Rock Lake, spotting an eagle isn’t just luck — it’s a seasonal event, a moment that locals and visitors alike wait for every year.
The Eagles’ Return
Each November, bald eagles begin migrating from northern states and Canada, following open waterways in search of food. Ta-
ble Rock Lake, with its mild winters and healthy fish populations, is one of their favorite destinations.
They’re most often seen near the Table Rock Dam, Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery, and the quiet coves near Indian Point and Long Creek, where they perch in tall trees to scan for shad and trout. On still mornings, you might see one swoop low across the lake, talons extended, plucking a fish straight from the water with effortless grace.
By December, dozens of eagles may call the lake home. Some pair off to build or repair their massive nests—often the size of a small dining table— while others continue south along the White River valley.
A Symbol of Strength and Stillness
cont page 36
To see a bald eagle at Table Rock Lake is to feel a sense of awe. Their presence captures everything this time of year stands for: strength, reflection, and quiet endurance.
Eagles are surprisingly gentle in nature, spending much of their day perched silently near the water. They mate for life, return to the same nesting area each year, and raise their young together—symbols of loyalty and resilience that seem to fit perfectly with the Ozarks spirit.
When and Where to Look
Late November through February is the best time to see bald eagles in southwest Missouri. Early morning is ideal—when the air is still and the lake mirrors the sky.
Try these top viewing spots:
Shepherd of the Hills Fish Hatchery - Below the dam, especially at sunrise.
Table Rock State Park-Look along the lakeshore and at the overlook points.
Eagle View Trail – True to its name, this trail near the dam offers frequent sightings.
Long Creek Bridge – A reliable area to spot eagles perched or fishing.
Bring binoculars, dress warm, and move slowly—your patience will often be rewarded.
“Watching an eagle soar above Table Rock Lake feels like witnessing a piece of freedom itself. It’s powerful, calm, and unforgettable.”
Bald Eagle Fast Facts
Scientific Name: Haliaeetus leucocephalus
Wingspan: 6–7.5 feet
Weight: 8–12 pounds
Diet: Fish, waterfowl, small mammals, carrion
Lifespan: Up to 25 years in the wild
Nest Size: Up to 8 feet wide and 1,000 pounds!
Conservation Success: Once endangered, now thriving thanks to decades of protection
A November Tradition
As the chill deepens and the days grow shorter, the return of the bald eagles reminds us that the Ozarks are alive yearround. Each sighting feels like a gift — a glimpse of wild grace that connects lake life with the ancient rhythms of nature. Whether you’re out fishing, hiking, or simply enjoying a cup of coffee on the deck, keep your eyes on the treetops this November. The eagles are back - and Table Rock Lake is their stage once again.
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