Crappie

Crappie fishing near Meta, Missouri, is a popular pastime, and for good reason. The area's numerous lakes and reservoirs provide ample habitat for these tasty panfish. Spring is undoubtedly the peak season, as crappie move into shallow waters to spawn. Look for them around brush piles, submerged timber, and docks in coves and along shorelines. Small jigs and minnows are the go-to baits. During the summer months, crappie tend to move deeper, so you'll need to adjust your tactics accordingly. Try fishing around submerged structure in deeper water using depth finders to locate schools of fish. A local trick is to use a slip bobber rig to suspend your bait at the desired depth. The crappie in this region are known for their good size, so be prepared for some exciting action. Check local reports for water conditions and recent crappie activity before heading out, and always adhere to Missouri Department of Conservation regulations regarding size and creel limits.