Lost on the Lake TABLE ROCK
Lake Lifestyle Magazine
Season of Change
• FISHING • ROGUE CHEF RECIPE
FALL ACTIVITIES • LEAF PEEPING - Drives & Boat Rides
October REFLECTIONS
As October settles over Table Rock Lake, a quiet magic arrives with it. The mornings are misty and cool, the trees blaze with autumn color, and the pace of life begins to gently slow. It’s a time for reflection—on the beauty around us, the memories we’ve made through the seasons, and the comforts of community.
This month’s issue celebrates all that makes fall at the lake so special. From scenic drives under golden canopies to local harvest events, cozy cabin getaways, and a look at the changing rhythms of lake life as we head toward the close of the year. Whether you‘re a year-round resident, a weekend visitor, or simply a lover of the Ozarks, we hope you’ll find inspiration and connection in these pages.
As always, thank you for letting us be a part of your Table Rock Lake experience. Here’s to crisp mornings, warm cider, and the quiet beauty of October.
Be Happy,
Myra Thornton
CREATIVE EDITOR
Myra Thornton
CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
The Rogue Chef
CONTRIBUTING PHOTOGRAPHERS
The Rogue Chef Local Readers ADVERTISING SALES
Fishing on Table Rock in October
Cooler Water, Hotter Bites
October is one of the most rewarding times to fish Table Rock Lake. The summer crowds have gone, the air is crisp, and the water has cooled into the 60s, creating ideal conditions for anglers. The lake shifts into a seasonal rhythm, with fish feeding aggressively in preparation for the winter months. For bass, crappie, and walleye enthusiasts, October offers both reliable action and the chance to enjoy the quiet beauty of autumn on the water.
Bass on the Move
Largemouth, smallmouth, and spotted bass respond quickly to the cooling water. Schools of shad become their primary focus, and bass chase them into coves, creek arms, and shallow flats. Anglers will find success with spinnerbaits, square-bill
crankbaits, and other shad-imitating lures worked along rocky points and banks. Calm mornings can produce topwater action with walking baits and buzzbaits. The combination of feeding activity and cooler weather makes October one of the most exciting months for bass fishing on Table Rock.
Crappie Fishing Heats Up
Crappie are often a hidden gem on Table Rock, but October is when they truly shine. As the nights cool, crappie concentrate around brush piles, standing timber, and docks in 15 to 25 feet of water. Small jigs and live minnows fished slowly near cover will produce steady bites. Fall crappie are known for their firm texture and mild flavor, making them a favorite for an-
glers who enjoy cooking their catch. With fish grouped tightly, anglers can quickly gather a mess of crappie for the skillet.
Walleye Opportunities
Walleye activity also improves in October. Cooler water draws them shallower, and anglers can target them on gravel flats and main-lake points near deeper water. Trolling crankbaits in natural shad colors is effective early in the morning and again near sunset. Jigging spoons and nightcrawlers can also tempt walleye holding closer to the bottom. While walleye may
be less predictable than bass, the reward of landing a few makes the effort worthwhile.
The Experience of Fall Fishing
Beyond the steady action, October fishing at Table Rock Lake is about the overall experience. The shoreline glows with fall colors, mornings carry the scent of woodsmoke from nearby cabins, and the lake is peaceful without the constant boat traffic of summer. Anglers can fish in near solitude, interrupted only by the splash of feeding bass or the cry of migrating geese overhead.
October is a time to slow down and enjoy both the bite and the beauty. Dress in layers, bring a camera to capture fog lifting from the water at sunrise, and savor the sense of having Table Rock almost to yourself.
Best Baits:
• Spinnerbaits, crankbaits, and buzzbaits for bass
• Small jigs and live minnows for crappie
• Shad-colored crankbaits and jigging spoons for walleye
Where to Look:
Bass: Shallow coves, rocky banks, and points with shad
schools
Crappie: Brush piles, docks, and standing timber in 15–25 feet
Walleye: Gravel flats and mainlake points at dawn or dusk
Tips for Success:
• Fish early and late for active bites
• Work lures quickly to mimic shad movement
• Bring layers of clothing for chilly mornings
• Keep a fish finder handy to locate bait schools and suspended fish
Foliage &Fun
Family Adventures in the Ozarks
When the air turns crisp and the hills blaze with color, Table Rock Lake becomes one of the most inviting places in the Ozarks. Fall is a season that seems made for slowing down and soaking up the scenery — from weekend festivals to lakeside hikes and cozy evenings by the fire. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, there’s no shortage of autumn adventures waiting around the water.
Festivals and Local Traditions
October weekends are full of community charm. Silver Dollar City’s Harvest Festival draws visitors from across the region with its glowing pumpkins, live music, and handcrafted goods. As daylight fades, the park transforms into a twinkling wonderland of lights, perfect for family photos and cider in hand.
Nearby, small towns like Kimberling City, Branson West, and Crane host their own harvest celebrations. Craft fairs fill community halls, and pumpkin patches pop up along backroads. Per-
simmon Hill Farm offers pumpkin picking, hayrides, and berry jams, while the Kimberling City Craft Fair (October 12–13) showcases handmade Ozark creations from quilts to pottery.
Outdoor Adventures in Autumn
Fall is one of the best times to get outdoors at Table Rock Lake. Cooler weather makes hiking and biking especially enjoyable. The Table Rock Lakeshore Trail near the dam offers a gentle, scenic walk with lake views framed by red and gold leaves. For more rugged terrain, head to the White River Valley Trail System for biking or hiking through rolling hills and forested valleys. Don’t miss Horseback Riding at Dogwood Canyon.
On the water, autumn kayaking and paddleboarding are peaceful and breathtaking. Morning fog rising from the lake gives way to glassy reflections of color-soaked trees. Fishing also reaches its peak, with bass and crappie moving into shallower water and providing steady accont page 14
tion for anglers.
Scenic Drives and Leaf-Peeping
If you prefer to take in the colors from the comfort of your car, the Ozarks offer some of Missouri’s most picturesque drives. The Highway 86 Scenic Byway winds through rolling hills and open vistas, while Highway 13 between Kimberling City and Branson provides endless lake views framed by autumn foliage. Mid to late October is typically the best time to catch the leaves at their brightest.
Bring a picnic, pull off at a scenic overlook, and enjoy the serenity of fall’s reflection on the water.
Evenings by the Lake
When the day winds down, fall nights around Table Rock Lake are made for cozy moments. Many resorts and cabins feature outdoor firepits — perfect for roasting marshmallows under a clear Ozark sky. Local restaurants embrace the season, serving pumpkin desserts, smoked trout chowder, and apple-infused cocktails.
Whether you’re exploring trails, casting a line, or watching the sunset shimmer on the lake, October around Table Rock is pure magic. It’s a season of color, comfort, and community — one that reminds you why the Ozarks feel like home, no matter where
you come from.
Fall Favorites Around the Lake
Must-See Events
• Silver Dollar City Harvest Festival – through Oct. 26
• Persimmon Hill Farm Pumpkin Days – all month
• Kimberling City Craft Fair –Oct. 12–13
• Table Rock Lake Chili CookOff – Oct. 19
• Spooky Shores Trick-or-Treat, Indian Point – Oct. 31
Best Fall Photo Spots
• Table Rock Lakeshore Trail overlook
• Indian Point Marina at sunrise
• Highway 86 Scenic Byway pull-offs
Perfect Fall Pairing:
Hot cider, a warm blanket, and a lakeside sunset.
27-Years of Innovation Comes Down to One Button
Protect Your Investment and Your Back will Thank You
Protecting your investment is our priority! For 27 years, Touchless Boat Cover has been the leader in remote-operated boat covers, known for quality, durability, and innovation. We’re not just another boat cover; we’re the original and the best! Our covers are built to last, backed by an industry-leading 7-year manufacturer’s warranty. Choose from 10 stock colors and 10 custom colors to match your boat and style. Plus, with lead times of only 4 weeks, you’ll be covered in no time! See the difference quality makes.
October VIBES
Haunted Houses, Corn Mazes, Family Farms
McKenna Family Farm
Corn maze & pumpkin patch (family-friendly)
3265 State Highway F, Branson, MO 65616
Hayrides, 2-acre corn maze, pumpkins.
McKenna Family Farm
Retromania / “Slashers”
Haunted House
Indoor haunted walk-through + attractions
3307 W 76 Country Blvd, Branson, MO 65616
Haunted house inside a retro arcade/entertainment complex.
Retromania / “Slashers”
Haunted House
Castle of Chaos
Interactive effects / dark attraction
3030 W 76 Country Blvd, Unit B, Branson, MO 65616
5D / haunted-style experiences on the strip.
Castle of Chaos
Campbell’s Maze Daze & Pumpkin Patch
Corn maze + haunted maze nights
177 Carob Rd, Clever, MO 65631
Daytime family maze and haunted-maze evenings (Oct weekends)
Campbell's Maze Daze & Pumpkin Patch
Exeter Corn Maze
Large daytime corn maze + haunted events at night
State Hwy MM, Exeter, MO 65647
Multi-attraction fall park with night haunts.
Exeter Corn Maze
Aurora Maize
Cornfield Maze, Zombie Harvest. Hayrides, Campfires, Movies
20591 County Rd. 2200, Aurora, MO 65605
Fall farmin’ fun tradition
Aurora Maize
Fresh Recipe The Rogue Chef
Rustic Skillet Lasagna
Time: 35 mins
Servings: 4-6
Ingredients
● 1lb Ground Beef
● 2 T Crushed Garlic
● 1 tsp Crushed Shallot
● 2 tsp Salt
● 2 tsp Pepper
● 44oz Marinara Sauce
● 1 tsp Dried Basil
● 1 tsp Dried Oregano
● 1 tsp Dried Thyme
● 1⁄2 C Heavy Cream
● 1⁄2 C Ricotta Cheese
● 1 1⁄2 C Fresh Spinach
● 9 Lasagna Sheets
● 1 C Mozzarella
● Parmigiano Reggiano, Garnish
Instructions
1. Brown the ground beef with garlic and shallot in a large skillet.
2. Drain excess grease off.
3. Add salt, pepper, dried spices, marinara, heavy cream, ricotta and fresh spinach.
4. Break the lasagna sheets and add to the mixture.
5. Stir and bring mixture to a simmer.
6. Cook for 10 mins.
7. Add mozzarella cheese and put the cover on the skillet.
8. Turn off heat and let lasagna set for another 10 minutes.
9. Top with shredded parmigiana reggiano.
10. Serve hot and enjoy!
*Go Rogue by substituting shrimp and scallops for the beef and top with manchego cheese to make this a Seafood Rustic Skillet Lasagna.
Want The Rogue Chef to make this delicious dish for you? Contact us at
Lake Dogs
Drives
The Ozarks in Full Color
When autumn settles into the Ozarks, the hills around Table Rock Lake glow with fiery reds, golden yellows, and deep rust tones. For locals, it’s a reminder of why fall is the region’s most magical season. For visitors, it’s the perfect excuse to slow down, roll the windows down, and take a drive through nature’s best show.
October’s cool mornings and warm afternoons bring a vibrancy to the hills and ridges surrounding the lake. Whether you’re cruising along a scenic byway or meandering down a quiet back road, the reflections of color in the water make this area one of Missouri’s top fall foliage destinations.
Top Scenic Drives for Fall Foliage
1. Table Rock Lake Loop – Hwy 65 → 13 → 76
This moderate loop wraps around the lake and gives you the full Ozarks experience — forested ridges, sweeping lake views, and quiet roadside overlooks. Start in Branson or Hollister, head north on Highway 65, turn onto Highway 13 toward Kimberling City, then return on Highway 76. Allow at least 2 to 4 hours if you plan to stop for photos or a lakeside lunch.
Best Stop: Indian Point overlook near Kimberling City.
2. Highway 165 Scenic Overlook Loop
A favorite for Branson locals, this 22-mile loop follows Highways 165 and 265 for elevated lake and dam views. It’s an easy drive that can be done in under an hour, but the overlooks make it worth lingering longer. Early morning light over Table Rock Dam is unforgettable.
Best Stop: Dewey Short Visitor Center overlook.
3. Route 86 Scenic Drive
Route 86 offers a quieter, rural stretch with hardwood forests and lake vistas around every curve. Pair it with Highway 13 through Kimberling City for an easy half-day outing. Small cafés and vineyards along the way make it ideal for a slow, scenic drive.
Best Stop: Scenic pull-off west of Dogwood Canyon.
4. Glade Top Trail – Mark Twain
National Forest
If you’re looking for rustic beauty, this 23-mile scenic byway delivers. Gravel in places but smooth enough for most cars, Glade Top is one of Missouri’s best fall drives. The overlooks stretch for miles, giving you a front-row seat to peak fall color.
Best Stop: Caney Overlook on
5. Highway 13 North to Reeds Spring & Galena
This stretch of Highway 13 winds through rolling Ozark hills and farmland, dotted with bursts of maple and oak. It’s less crowded than the lakefront routes but equally beautiful. Great for a relaxed afternoon drive.
Best Stop: Reeds Spring overlook just north of town.
When to Go for Peak Color
The brightest fall colors around Table Rock usually arrive in midto-late October, when maples, oaks, and hickories are at their peak. Early morning or late afternoon drives give the best light and fewer crowds. Fog rising off the lake adds a touch of Ozark magic you won’t forget.
Pack a picnic, bring your camera, and make time to stop at marinas, cafés, and scenic pulloffs along the way. The drive is the destination.
Best Fall Colors by Boat
Glide Through Autumn’s Reflections
Autumn transforms Table Rock Lake into a tapestry of golds, reds, and oranges, and there’s
no better way to take in the full effect than from the water. The gentle slap of waves, the mirrored foliage, and the quiet coves make for an unforgettable fall boating experience. Here are some of the best routes, coves, and shoreline views to explore by boat — plus tips to make your outing extra special.
Top Boat Routes & Views
Cow Creek Cove (between Table Rock State Park & Port of Kimberling)
Cow Creek offers a mix of rugged natural shoreline and quiet backwaters. Because it’s less developed, the trees there — maples, oaks, hickories — are left to grow densely, producing intense color. Cruising slowly in the morning or late afternoon gives you mirror-like reflections on the calm water.
Long Creek Arm
This arm stretches out into forested hillsides, where fall foliage creeps right to the water’s edge. A boat ride into Long Creek is perfect for leaf peeping: the steep banks, colorful forests, and tranquil coves make for dramatic views.
Between the Dam & State Park Marina
The shoreline near the dam cont page 30
has cliffs, rocky outcrops, and changing elevations, which help mix tree species and color. Boaters can follow shorelines near State Park Marina to soak in vivid scenes. The contrast between lake calm and hilltop forest is striking in October.
Branson Belle / Lady Liberty Cruises
For those who want to leave the navigation (and the driving) to someone else, the fall foliage cruises offered by Big Cedar Lodge (Lady Liberty, etc.) are ideal. These guided or dinner cruises often go into coves or along shorelines where fall color is especially rich and easy to appreciate from large windows or decks.
Quiet Cove-Hopping Anywhere Along the Shoreline
With nearly 800 miles of shoreline, Table Rock Lake has countless little fingers of water bordered by woods. Pick a less-trafficked area you haven’t explored, drop anchor in a cove, turn off the motor, and just take in the scenery.
When & How to Make It Best
Peak Color Timing:
Mid to late October is usually the sweet spot for fall color here. By then, maples, oaks, hickories, and sugar maples are changing, especially at mid-elevations
around the lake.
Best Times of Day:
Early morning and late afternoon bring soft light and calm water, which enhances reflections. Midday can wash out colors but works if you’re aiming for vibrant contrasts and crisp views.
Weather & Light:
Overcast skies can actually deepen color saturation; mist or fog gives a magical aura. Clear days give sparkle and contrast.
Boat Type & Pace:
Slow cruising is best. Smaller boats let you explore coves more easily. If you’re on a larger boat or a cruise, pick routes hugging the shore to see trees up close.
Essentials:
Bring layers (it gets cooler on the water), a camera, polarized sunglasses (they help with glare on water), and always check fuel and boat ramp availability — some ramps may close earlier in the season.
Suggested Itinerary:
A Fall Afternoon Boat Ride
Launch from a marina near Kimberling City or Port of Kimberling just after sunrise.
Cruise toward Cow Creek Cove, linger in the quiet coves, taking in reflections.
Head back toward the dam,
passing steep hillsides that drop into the lake, watching color shift as the sun climbs.
Stop near State Park Marina for a lakeside snack or lunch.
In the late afternoon, board one of the sunset foliage cruises for sweeping views from the middle of the lake.
Fall by boat on Table Rock Lake is one of those simple pleasures — peaceful, vivid, and deeply satisfying. The lake’s calm expanses, forested shores, and ever-changing light make every trip an opportunity for a new perspective.
Financial Focus
THE REAL MEANING OF DIVERSIFICATION IN INVESTING
In the world of investing, we’ve all heard the phrase, “Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.” It’s solid advice that emphasizes the importance of diversifying your investments. Unfortunately, some people misinterpret this wisdom to mean they should avoid consolidating their investment accounts and keep their money spread across multiple financial institutions, often working with several different financial advisors.
However, when financial professionals talk about diversification, they’re referring to diversifying your investment assets, not your accounts. There’s a big difference between the two, and confusing them could hurt your financial future.
Scattered accounts may affect costs, paperwork and advice. When your assets are spread among multiple financial institutions, you could face several drawbacks. First, you’re likely paying more in fees than necessary. Multiple providers often mean multiple account fees, transaction costs and mutual fund expenses that can add up quickly. Generally, the more assets you have with one financial provider, the more opportunities you have for reducing or eliminating these costs.
Managing scattered accounts also could create a paperwork nightmare. You’ll receive multiple monthly statements and numerous tax forms, making it much harder to see the big pic-
ture of your financial health. This complexity can lead to missed opportunities and poor decision-making.
Perhaps most important, working with multiple financial advisors may result in conflicting advice and duplicated investment strategies. Without a comprehensive view of your entire portfolio, each financial advisor may recommend investments that don’t work well together, potentially delaying your progress toward reaching financial goals.
There’s strength in consolidation. Consolidating your accounts with a single financial advisor offers numerous benefits. You’ll have opportunities to develop a closer, more comprehensive relationship with someone who understands your complete financial picture. This financial advisor can provide informed guidance and help eliminate the conflicting advice that may come from working with multiple professionals.
Consolidation also makes it easier to implement a well-diversified portfolio that fits your level of risk tolerance. When all your investments are in one place, you can see exactly how your assets are allocated and make strategic adjustments as needed. It becomes simpler to gauge aggregate investment returns, assess your portfolio assets and rebalance when necessary.
For retirement planning, consolidation can be especially valu-
able. IRAs at different providers can be consolidated at any time without tax consequences when assets are transferred directly between providers. When you retire, your 401(k) can typically be rolled over into an IRA, streamlining your retirement income strategy.
True diversification still matters. While consolidating accounts makes sense, diversifying your actual investments remains crucial. A good financial advisor will help you carefully build a balanced mix of stocks and bonds appropriate for your age and goals. As you approach retirement, this typically means shifting toward a more balanced portfolio that still provides growth to combat inflation while offering stability and income.
Diversification goes beyond just stocks and bonds. Take bonds, for instance: You can diversify by bond type (municipal, corporate and government), bond maturity (through a strategy called “laddering”) and bond sector to spread risk across different parts of the economy.
How to get started. If your retirement savings and investment accounts are scattered among various financial institutions, consider consolidating everything with one trusted financial advisor. The streamlined record-keeping, potential for reduced fees and comprehensive financial guidance can help improve your wealth-building potential while making your financial life simpler to manage.
This article was written by Edward Jones for use by your local Edward Jones Financial Advisor.
Edward Jones, Member SIPC Presentedbyourlocal Edward Jones Financial Advisor:
GrantBeasley 417-739-5575
The GreatPumpkin Guide:
Varieties & Carving Ideas for Fall Fun
As the crisp air rolls in and leaves start to crunch underfoot, there’s no better way to celebrate autumn than with pumpkins. Whether you’re decorating your porch, whipping up seasonal recipes, or planning your next Halloween masterpiece, the pumpkin is your go-to gourd.
But not all pumpkins are created equal. From petite table-top cuties to giant showstoppers, pumpkins come in an array of colors, shapes, and textures. Here’s your guide to pumpkin varieties—and the best ways to carve (or decorate) them.
Pumpkin
Varieties You Should Know
1. Sugar Pumpkin (a.k.a. Pie Pumpkin)
Best for: Baking and small carving
These are the sweethearts of the pumpkin world. Small, round, and dense with sweet flesh, sugar pumpkins are ideal for cooking— but they also make charming, manageable carving pumpkins for kids or smaller displays.
2. Jack-O’-Lantern Pumpkin
Best for: Classic carvings
The standard orange pumpkin found in most grocery stores. They’re bred for size and shape, making them perfect for your traditional triangle-eyes-andtoothy-grin jack-o’-lantern.
3. Cinderella Pumpkin (Rouge Vif d’Etampes)
Best for: Elegant décor
Flattened and deeply ribbed with a rich red-orange hue, this French heirloom variety is as whimsical as the fairy tale. Not great for carving, but perfect for stacking on your porch with mums and hay bales.
4. Blue Jarrahdale
Best for: Unique displays and subtle paint designs
With its slate-blue skin and squat shape, the Jarrahdale adds a cool-toned contrast to fall décor. Its tough skin makes carving a challenge, but it’s great for painting or etching.
5. Ghost Pumpkin (Casper or Lumina)
Best for: Glow-in-the-dark effects
These white pumpkins look otherworldly and create striking contrast when carved. Bonus: their pale flesh reflects candlelight beautifully.
6. Warty Goblin & Knucklehead Pumpkins
Best for: Creepy Halloween vibes
Covered in natural bumps and “warts,” these pumpkins practically scream Halloween. You don’t even need to carve them—just add a pair of eyes and call it done.
7. Miniature Pumpkins (Baby Boo, Jack Be Little)
Best for: Table settings and kids’ crafts
Tiny and adorable, these are ideal for painting, stenciling, or using as name cards at your Thanksgiving table.
Creative Carving & Decorating Ideas
Tired of the same ol’ jack-o’lantern face? Here are some creative ideas to elevate your pumpkin game this fall:
Carving Ideas
1. Silhouette Scenes
Use templates to carve out spooky trees, cats, witches, or haunted houses. These detailed designs are striking when lit from within.
2. 3D Layered Carvings
Instead of cutting all the way through, try shaving just the skin to create a glowing, layered look. This technique is great for faces, animals, or ornate patterns.
3. Pumpkin-on-Pumpkin Stacking
Stack two or three carved pumpkins to create a totem pole of Halloween characters—ghosts, monsters, or even a pumpkin snowman.
4. Wordplay Pumpkins
Carve clever phrases like “BOO,” “EEK,” or “TRICK OR TREAT.” Or get punny: “GOURD TIMES” or “SQUASH GOALS.”
Decorating
Without the Knife
1. Painted Pumpkins
Paint pumpkins in metallics, chalky pastels, or Halloween themes. Use stencils for crisp designs, or go freestyle with stripes, polka dots, or spooky faces.
2. Decoupage & Fabric Wraps
Use tissue paper, lace, or napkins to decoupage patterns onto your pumpkin. For a rustic look, wrap in burlap or cheesecloth.
3. Drilled Designs
Use a power drill to create precise dot patterns, stars, or constellation-inspired designs. Safer and quicker than traditional
4. Pumpkin Vases & Planters
Cut the top off a pumpkin and hollow it out to use as a vase for fall flowers—or fill with succulents for a modern twist.
Final Tips for Pumpkin Success
Preserve your carving: Rub petroleum jelly on cut edges to slow down drying and decay.
Light it up: LED tea lights are safer
than candles and last longer.
Think beyond orange: Mix in white, green, and blue varieties for a more sophisticated palette.
No matter your style—spooky, stylish, or silly—there’s a pumpkin (or five) waiting for you to make it your own. So hit the patch, grab your tools, and let your imagination run wild. Fall only comes once a year—make it gourdgeous.
