Missouri is renowned for its fantastic crappie fishing, particularly in the summer months when the warm weather brings these fish into accessible waters. Whether you're a seasoned angler or a beginner looking to improve your crappie fishing game, using soft plastics from BrushPile Jigs can make all the difference. Here, we’ll explore the top three crappie fishing lakes in Missouri and how to use BrushPile Jigs to maximize your catch.
1. Truman Lake
Truman Lake, often referred to as the crappie capital of Missouri, is a hotspot for summer crappie fishing. With its vast size and abundant structure, it’s an ideal location for crappie enthusiasts.
Where to Fish: In the summer, crappie tend to move to deeper waters during the day but can be found in shallower areas during the early morning and late evening. Focus on fishing around submerged brush piles, standing timber, and creek channels.
BrushPile Jigs Tips: Use BrushPile Jigs in natural colors such as shad or minnow patterns. A 1/16 oz or 1/8 oz jig head with a soft plastic body works well. Cast near the structure and let the jig sink slowly, then use a slow, steady retrieve to mimic the movement of a baitfish.
2. Lake of the Ozarks
Lake of the Ozarks is another prime destination for crappie fishing. Its extensive shoreline and numerous coves provide excellent habitats for crappie.
Where to Fish: In summer, look for crappie around docks, particularly those with brush piles underneath, as well as along bluff walls and in deeper channels.
BrushPile Jigs Tips: Opt for brightly colored jigs like chartreuse or pink, which are highly visible in the lake's often murky water. Vertical jigging around dock pilings and brush piles can be particularly effective. A slow and methodical jigging motion will entice bites from crappie hiding in cover.
3. Stockton Lake
Stockton Lake is known for its clear waters and healthy crappie population. It offers a different type of challenge and excitement for summer crappie fishing.
Where to Fish: Target submerged structures such as tree stumps, rock piles, and ledges. During summer, crappie often suspend in the water column, so using your fish finder can help locate the right depth.
BrushPile Jigs Tips: Clear water calls for more natural and translucent soft plastics. Try using a pearl white or smoke-colored jig. Fishing with a vertical presentation in deeper water (10-20 feet) is often productive. Slowly bouncing the jig just above the submerged structure can trigger strikes from suspending crappie.
General Tips for Using BrushPile Jigs
Match the Hatch: Always consider the natural forage in the lake. BrushPile Jigs offer a variety of soft plastics that can imitate small baitfish or insects crappie feed on.
Light Line: Use a light line (4-6 lb test) to give your jig a more natural presentation and to feel subtle bites.
Temperature Considerations: During the hottest parts of the day, crappie will often be deeper. Fish early in the morning or late in the evening when crappie are more likely to be in shallower waters.
Conclusion
Catching crappie in Missouri’s top lakes during the summer months can be incredibly rewarding, especially when using high-quality soft plastics from BrushPile Jigs. By focusing on the right locations and using effective techniques tailored to each lake’s conditions, you can enjoy a successful and enjoyable fishing experience. Whether you’re at Truman Lake, Lake of the Ozarks, or Stockton Lake, BrushPile Jigs will help you land more crappie and make the most of your summer fishing trips.
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