Crappie

Crappie fishing near Ozark, Missouri, is excellent, thanks to the proximity of renowned crappie lakes like Table Rock Lake and Bull Shoals Lake. These large reservoirs offer abundant crappie habitat, including submerged timber, brush piles, and boat docks. Spring is the prime time, as crappie move into shallow coves and creek arms to spawn. Focus on depths of 5-15 feet near structure. Jigs and minnows are the go-to baits. Summer crappie tend to move deeper, suspending near thermoclines and submerged structure. Trolling jigs or minnows at these depths can be effective. Fall can also be productive as crappie move back into shallower water to feed. Table Rock Lake is known for its clear water, so use lighter line and natural-colored baits. A local tip: many anglers use spider-rigging techniques, employing multiple rods and baits to cover more water. Check local reports for current water levels and crappie locations, as conditions can change rapidly.