Crappie

If you're looking to fill your cooler with crappie near Richwood, Louisiana, Cheniere Lake is a great place to start. This lake, part of the larger Ouachita River system, is known for its healthy crappie population. Spring is the peak season, as crappie move shallow to spawn around brush piles and submerged timber. However, fishing can also be productive in the fall as the fish feed up before winter. Minnows and small jigs are the go-to baits. The Cheniere Lake boat launch provides easy access to the lake. A local tip: Look for crappie around the numerous boat docks and piers, as they often congregate there. The crappie in Cheniere Lake are known for their good size, with many fish exceeding a pound. Keep an eye on water clarity, as crappie prefer slightly stained water. Check the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries regulations for creel and size limits, as they can change.