With spring approaching and water temperatures beginning to rise, fish across southeast Missouri are becoming more active — increasing anglers’ chances of taking home a full daily limit.
One species that draws plenty of attention from anglers each spring is crappie. As water temperatures warm, these popular fish begin moving toward the banks to spawn.
Crappie gravitate toward the banks of lakes, ponds and streams during the spring spawning season. In southern Missouri, the spawn can begin as early as mid-March when water temperatures reach around 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
Water clarity plays a major role in determining how shallow crappie will spawn. In muddy or stained water, crappie may spawn in water as shallow as 1 to 2 feet deep. This can greatly increase anglers’ chances of success when fishing from the banks of lakes or ponds. Boaters also benefit from this shallow movement, as they can cast toward the shoreline and target woody debris or brush along the bank where crappie often gather.
After the spawn ends and summer temperatures set in, crappie typically move into deeper water. During these warmer months, they are often found in depths of 15 to 20 feet.
Fishing brush piles in lakes and ponds or standing timber in streams can lead to an exciting day on the water. Anglers fishing from the bank may find success casting from a pier or dock. A good strategy is to start fishing at a depth of about 10 feet and gradually work deeper until fish begin biting.
Places to fish and regulations near Perry County.
The statewide daily limit for crappie is 30 fish, and there is no statewide length limit. However, some lakes and rivers may have special regulations depending on management practices.
Perry County Community Lake Daily limit: 30 crappie, no length limit.
Legion Lake Daily limit: 30 crappie, no length limit.
Wappapello Lake Daily limit: 30 crappie, but no more than 15 fish may be longer than 9 inches in total length. Before heading out, anglers should review current regulations by calling, picking up a copy of the Missouri Fishing Regulations booklet, or visiting mdc.mo.gov.
