Crappie

If you're looking for some of the best crappie fishing in southern Missouri, Koshkonong is a great place to start. The Spring River and its tributaries offer excellent habitat for crappie, especially during the spring spawn. Look for them near submerged timber, brush piles, and rocky outcroppings in the shallower backwaters and sloughs. Early spring (March-April) is prime time, as the fish move into these areas to spawn. A local tip: focus your efforts on areas with a bit of current, as this often concentrates the fish. Small jigs tipped with minnows or crappie nibbles are always effective. In the fall, as the water cools, crappie will school up in deeper water near the river channel. Koshkonong is a less-pressured area than some of the larger reservoirs, so you can often find good fishing without the crowds. Be sure to check the Missouri Department of Conservation website for current regulations and creel limits.