Crappie

Chasing crappie near Little Rock? You're in for a treat! The Arkansas River, Lake Maumelle, and Lake Conway are prime spots, each offering unique habitat. Spring and fall are peak seasons as crappie move shallow to spawn or fatten up for winter. Focus your efforts around submerged timber, brush piles, and bridge pilings. The key is to match your presentation to the forage – small minnows or jigs are usually effective. Water clarity can vary greatly depending on rainfall, so be prepared to adjust your lure color and retrieve accordingly. A local tip: Lake Conway can get crowded, especially on weekends, so consider fishing during the week or exploring less-pressured areas. Also, pay attention to the water temperature; crappie tend to suspend at specific depths, so experimenting with your jig or minnow depth is crucial for success. The crappie here are known for their good size, so be ready for a fun fight!