Crappie

Crappie fishing near Jefferson City shines in the spring and fall, as these fish congregate in predictable locations. Lake of the Ozarks is a prime location, offering abundant brush piles and submerged timber that crappie favor. Focus on areas near creek channels and coves. Minnows and jigs are the go-to baits, but experiment with different colors and sizes to find what the fish are keying on. During the spawn, target shallow areas with submerged vegetation. As the water warms, crappie will move deeper, suspending near structure. A helpful tip is to use your electronics to locate schools of crappie before dropping your bait. The crappie in Lake of the Ozarks are known to be relatively abundant, providing ample opportunities for a successful fishing trip. Remember to check the daily limits before heading out.