Crappie

Crappie fishing near Columbus, Mississippi, centers around the abundant waters of the Tennessee-Tombigbee Waterway (Tenn-Tom). These fish thrive in the structure-rich environment the waterway offers. Spring is the prime time for crappie, as they congregate in shallow areas to spawn. Look for them around brush piles, submerged timber, and bridge pilings. Minnows and jigs are the go-to baits, typically fished under a bobber or by slow-trolling. The Tenn-Tom provides numerous access points, including boat ramps and designated fishing areas. Keep an eye out for local fishing reports to pinpoint areas where crappie are actively biting. A helpful tip: Crappie tend to school up, so once you find one, you're likely to find more. Also, be aware of the current; crappie often hold on the down-current side of structure. The local crappie population is known for its good size, so be prepared for some quality catches.