Crappie

Crappie fishing around Holden, Missouri, can be quite productive, particularly in the numerous small lakes and ponds that dot the landscape. These smaller bodies of water often hold surprisingly large populations of crappie, and because they're less pressured than larger reservoirs, the fish tend to be more willing to bite. Spring, during the pre-spawn and spawn, is the absolute best time to target crappie here. They'll be concentrated in shallow water near brush piles, submerged timber, and docks. Local tip: Look for crappie beds in the backs of coves or near any visible structure. Minnows fished under a bobber are a classic and effective technique, but small jigs can also be deadly. Many of the smaller lakes have public access points or boat ramps, making them easily accessible. The crappie in this region are known for their good size, with many fish exceeding 10 inches and some reaching 14 inches or more.