Crappie

Crappie anglers, take note! Bellevue, Iowa, situated on the Mississippi River, is a prime location for targeting these panfish. The backwaters, sloughs, and interconnected lakes of the Mississippi River system near Bellevue offer ideal crappie habitat. Look for areas with submerged timber, brush piles, and weed beds. Spring is the peak season, as crappie move shallow to spawn. Focus on areas near structure in 5-10 feet of water. Local Tip: Fish around the many docks and piers along the riverfront; these often attract crappie. A simple jig suspended under a bobber is a classic and effective crappie presentation. Minnows are also a reliable bait. The crappie in the Bellevue area tend to be good-sized, offering both quality and quantity. Be aware of the river current, which can impact your presentation. The Bellevue boat ramp provides easy access to the river and surrounding backwaters.