Crappie

For Crappie enthusiasts, Viola, Arkansas, offers access to the Spring River, a waterway known for its clear, cool waters and surprisingly good crappie fishing. While not a classic crappie lake, the Spring River's slower-moving sections and backwater areas hold decent populations. Target areas around submerged timber, rock piles, and any structure that breaks the current. Spring is the prime time, as crappie move into shallower areas to spawn. Small jigs or minnows fished under a bobber are effective. Summer can also be productive by fishing deeper holes and shaded areas. Public access is available at several points along the river, including the Hardy access. Be aware that the Spring River is also popular for canoeing and kayaking, so be courteous to other users. The water clarity is usually excellent, so use lighter line and natural-colored baits.