Crappie

Crappie fishing near Gilmore, Arkansas, centers around the numerous oxbow lakes and sloughs that are connected to the Mississippi River. These backwaters provide excellent habitat for crappie, offering plenty of submerged structure and cover. Spring is the prime time, as crappie move shallow to spawn, but fall can also be productive as they feed up before winter. Minnows fished under a bobber are a classic and effective method, but jigs can also be very productive, especially when tipped with a minnow or crappie nibble. Focus your efforts around submerged brush piles, fallen trees, and other structure. A local tip: try fishing near the mouths of creeks or ditches that flow into the oxbow lakes, as these areas often attract crappie. Be aware of fluctuating water levels, especially during periods of heavy rain or flooding. Access to some areas may require a boat, and be mindful of private property boundaries.