Crappie

If you're chasing crappie in Missouri, Bagnell offers fantastic opportunities centered around the massive Lake of the Ozarks. This sprawling reservoir is a crappie haven, featuring abundant standing timber, brush piles, and submerged structures that provide ideal habitat. Spring is prime time, as crappie move into the shallows to spawn. Focus on the backs of coves and creek arms in 5-10 feet of water. A simple jig and bobber setup baited with minnows or crappie nibbles is deadly. Fall is another excellent period, as crappie school up around deeper structure. Look for submerged brush piles and bridge pilings. Bagnell Dam Access is a popular boat launch, but expect company, especially on weekends. A local tip: Many anglers have luck trolling crankbaits along channel edges in the summer months when crappie suspend in deeper water. The crappie in the Lake of the Ozarks are known for their good size, so be prepared for some hefty slabs!