I've always been curious why Lake of the Ozarks in Missouri is constantly referred to as one of America's most 'dangerous' lakes when it's such an easy going place. The numbers back up that the danger is real and a new theory may explain why.
I have fished much of my life in Missouri and I'll never forget the first time I came across a large number of fish floating near the shore dead as a door nail. It always made me wonder exactly what in the world would cause so many fish to suddenly go belly up? There is some science at work although there's still an air of uncertainty about it all.
What makes a lake 'magical'? I am guessing the answer would be different for just about everyone. There is one lake in Illinois that was given the honor of being named "the most magical" and it's probably one you'd never ever think of, but maybe should.
I'm so used to seeing Lake of the Ozarks or Table Rock Lake mentioned as go-to Missouri places, I barely notice new lists that include them anymore. However, there's a recent one that claims the most 'crystal-clear lake in Missouri isn't Lake of the Ozarks or Table Rock. It's one you may have never heard of.
It makes perfect sense when you think about it, but I must admit that I was more than a little surprised to learn that one of the world's most dangerous lakes is in Illinois. Few water places can rival it for elements that can take your life.
Some small Missouri places that seem to be forgotten by modern society have interesting backstories if you dig deep enough. That's true of a small Missouri village that appears will be soon overtaken by a large lake, but it has another history to share, too.