Crappie

If you're after crappie in central Minnesota, the Milaca area offers some solid options, especially on the Rum River and nearby lakes. The Rum is known for its stained water and abundant woody structure, which crappies love. Focus your efforts around submerged logs, fallen trees, and bridge pilings. Spring is prime time, as crappies move into shallower bays and backwaters to spawn. Early ice-out can trigger a feeding frenzy. Another great period is late fall, when crappies school up before winter. For access, check out the public access points along the Rum River south of Milaca. A canoe or kayak is ideal for navigating the river's twists and turns. Local tip: try using small jigs tipped with live minnows or plastic trailers under a bobber. The crappies in this area tend to run smaller than in some other Minnesota lakes, but what they lack in size, they make up for in numbers. Be prepared to move around to find active schools.