Like many states in the US, Missouri offers plenty of crappie in the many lakes, streams, rivers, and reservoirs found in all parts of the Show-Me State.
Missouri Crappie Fishing Tips
Best Time of the Year
Missouri is a fairly large state which means that what may be the perfect time in the southern part of the state is not true for the northern part.
The best time to fish for crappie is when the water temperatures climb up to 55F. In the southern part of Missouri that can be as early as March while in the northern part it may not reach such temperatures until early May. This includes the many lakes, reservoirs, streams, and private bodies of water that are located in the state.
However, you can fish for crappie at any time of the year. In fact, winter offers some of the best opportunities. The crappie is often in deeper water during this time of the year, so just remember to slowly pull your jigs to mimic the slower movement typical of their prey in colder water.
Best Time of the Day
This depends on the season, but for the most part, the best times are the twilight hours of dawn and dusk. This is because the crappie normally feeds when the light is dim but still good enough to see. However, many who fish for crappie will say that midnight to 2 am is also an excellent time.
With all that said, it is possible to catch crappie at any time of the day, but you will probably experience more success if you focus on the dawn and dusk hours.
Best Locations
Just about every lake, reservoir, stream, and large private body of water that is connected to a river or stream is a good place to fish for crappie. But the following locations come highly recommended.
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- Osage & Missouri Rivers
- Lake of the Ozarks
- Stockton Lake
- Table Rock Lake
- Truman Lake
Tips
Just about everyone who fishes for crappie will have their own tips and secrets to catching more fish, even if they contradict each other. However, there are some basic techniques that you can use to reel in more crappie.
Shelter: Crappie tends to be in locations that offer some type of shelter. Usually logs, rocks, or tall grass that is near the shoreline. Depending on the clarity of the water, you may find the crappie near the surface or several feet under.
Clear Water: If you can see the crappie, then they can see you. If you are fishing in clear water, then you want to put some more distance between you and the crappie. Try stepping back from the bank a few feet or not leaning over the boat.
Jigging Vertically: This tried and true technique is best used on a boat or dock. Simply drop the jig straight down and reel it back up. Note the approximate location when you get the crappie to bite. That is where they are located.
There are plenty of great places for crappie fishing in Missouri. And the best part is that you can fish year-round. All you need is the right bait, the right location, and the right technique and you should find success.
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