Crappie

If you're after crappie near Valparaiso, Nebraska, focus your efforts on the smaller lakes and ponds in the surrounding area. Olive Creek State Recreation Area is a good starting point, offering decent crappie fishing in its sheltered coves and around submerged structure. Smaller private ponds, with permission of course, can also hold some surprisingly good crappie populations. Spring is undoubtedly the best time to target crappie, as they move into shallow water to spawn. Look for them near brush piles, fallen trees, and docks in relatively shallow water (4-8 feet). Small jigs and minnows are the go-to baits. A local tip: Try fishing under a bobber to control your depth and detect subtle bites. Also, remember that crappie tend to school, so if you catch one, there are likely more nearby. Fall can also be productive as crappie move back into shallower water before winter. The crappie in these smaller waters tend to average smaller in size, but the action can be steady.