Crappie

Linn Creek's location on the Lake of the Ozarks makes it an excellent base for chasing Crappie. This sprawling reservoir provides extensive habitat for both black and white crappie, with numerous coves, submerged brush piles, and bridge pilings that hold concentrations of fish. Spring is the classic crappie season, as they move shallow to spawn. Target brush piles in 5-10 feet of water with jigs or minnows under a bobber. As the water warms in the summer, crappie tend to move deeper, suspending near submerged structure. Use your electronics to locate these schools and present your bait accordingly. Fall can also be a productive time as crappie feed heavily before winter. A local tip is to check the water clarity; if the water is clear, use lighter line and smaller baits. The Niangua Arm of the lake, close to Linn Creek, often offers excellent crappie fishing. Remember to consult the Missouri Department of Conservation regulations for creel limits and size restrictions.