Crappie

Milford, Missouri, offers anglers access to some fantastic crappie fishing, primarily in Truman Lake. This sprawling reservoir is teeming with crappie, offering year-round opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. Spring is prime time, with crappie moving into shallow coves and brush piles to spawn. A simple jig and bobber rig is incredibly effective during this period. As the water warms in the summer, crappie tend to move deeper, congregating around submerged timber and bridge pilings. Trolling with crankbaits or spider-rigging with multiple jigs can be productive. Fall sees crappie returning to shallower areas as they feed up for winter. A local tip: Truman Lake can be murky, so use brightly colored jigs or add scent to your lures. Numerous boat ramps provide access to the lake, but be prepared for heavy boat traffic, especially on weekends. Check the Missouri Department of Conservation regulations for creel and size limits.