Crappie

If you're chasing crappie near Bradford, Illinois, your best bet is to explore the area's smaller lakes, ponds, and backwaters connected to the Spoon River. These quieter spots often hold good populations of crappie, especially during the spring spawn. Look for submerged structure like brush piles, fallen trees, and weed edges, as crappie love to congregate around cover. Spring (April-May) and fall (September-October) are prime times, as the water temperatures are ideal and the crappie are actively feeding. A local tip: many of the smaller access points aren't well-marked, so do your research ahead of time using online maps and local fishing forums. Also, be prepared for some muddy conditions, particularly after rain. The crappie here tend to run on the smaller side, but what they lack in size, they make up for in numbers, offering plenty of action for anglers of all skill levels.