Crappie

Crappie fishing near Passaic, Missouri, can be rewarding if you know where to look. Focus on the smaller lakes and ponds in the area, as well as backwater areas of the Marais des Cygnes River. These areas provide the ideal habitat for crappie to thrive. Spring is undoubtedly the best time to target these panfish, as they move into shallow water to spawn. Look for them near submerged brush, fallen trees, and docks. A simple jig and bobber setup, tipped with a minnow or crappie nibble, is often all you need. Another productive time is the fall, as crappie school up before winter. A local tip is to fish around bridge pilings, as they often hold large concentrations of crappie. Also, be aware of the wind direction, as crappie will often congregate on the windward side of the lake. The crappie in this area are generally good-sized, offering a tasty reward for your efforts.