Crappie

If crappie are your target, Natural Dam, Arkansas, offers some excellent opportunities. The key is locating submerged structure in the Illinois River and its connected backwaters. Brush piles, fallen trees, and even bridge pilings are all crappie magnets. Spring and fall are traditionally the best times, coinciding with the crappie spawn and their pre-winter feeding frenzy. Minnows and jigs are your best bets, but don't be afraid to experiment with different colors and jig weights to find what the fish are keying on. A local secret: try fishing near the old mill dam itself, as the turbulent water often dislodges food and attracts crappie. Also, be aware that the crappie population can be cyclical, with some years producing larger fish than others, so check local fishing reports before you go.