Crappie

Crappie anglers looking for a less-crowded experience should consider the waters around Ainsworth, Nebraska. Several small to medium-sized lakes and reservoirs in the vicinity hold decent populations of crappie. Spring is the prime time, as crappie move into the shallows to spawn. Look for submerged timber, brush piles, and weed beds, which are typical crappie hangouts. A local's secret is to use small jigs under a bobber near these structures. Minnows are also effective, especially when the bite is tough. These crappie tend to run on the smaller side, but what they lack in size, they make up for in numbers. Access to some of these lakes can be limited, so scout out public access points and boat ramps ahead of time. Check local fishing reports for water levels and clarity, as these can impact crappie activity. Don't be afraid to experiment with different depths and lure presentations to find what the crappie are biting on each day.