Spring is an essential time for those looking to fish at the Lake of the Ozarks. As the temperatures begin to rise, so does the need to grab a fishing pole and hit the water. Our Lake of the Ozarks boat lift company wants to discuss all the need-to-know tips and tricks that you can utilize this fishing season to ensure that your trip to the Lake of the Ozarks is one to remember.
Know What Fish to Catch
It probably goes without saying but knowing which fish you are after is going to greatly increase your odds of having a productive day at the Ozarks. Throughout the months of March and April, you will find an increase in bass, spoonbill, and crappie. You’ll need to plan the supplies to bring to ensure you are reeling in the right catches. Be sure to also keep in mind weather conditions that way your trip isn’t a bust.
Know Which Bait to Use
Before you can even think about catching anything, you need to make sure you are using the right bait for the right fish. Keep in mind that throughout the spring season, the main catches will be bass, spoonbill, and crappie, so you need to use the right bait for each fish.
Bass- Throughout this season, try using bait like jigs, finesse worms, or topwater lures to bait your fish to bite.
Crappie- These fish will migrate to the shallows, so you want to keep an eye out for areas such as brush piles, behind a dock, etc. Once you find a solid area, you will want to use bait such as minnows or various jigs.
Spoonbill- Due to the larger-than-life size of these fish, you’ll need to change up your traditional lures that you would use for your standard catches. You will also need to up the equipment you use given how heavy these fish can get up to! You’ll need to snag one by utilizing a braided line, weights, and large treble hooks.
Know Where to Find the Fish
Probably the most important aspect of getting a catch is knowing where to locate the fish you are targeting. In the spring, fish become more active, but the fish haven’t quite left the deeper portions of the lake, so you need to have some ideal spots in mind.
Bass- In the month of March, Bass are starting to move to shallower areas for pre-spawn season. But, come April is when you will find these fish more heavily in shallow areas, such as pea gravel banks.
Crappie- The season for Crappie really begins in April, as the temperatures become warm enough to move to shallower waters. Keep an eye out for protected areas near the bank, like a shallow walkway or a shallow brush pile.
Spoonbill- These huge fish typically begin to show up in March and can be found in grouped together in deep holes in the Lake of the Ozarks and in the Osage River.
Being prepared is an essential part of fishing at the Lake of the Ozarks. To ensure that you are getting the most out of your fishing trip, be sure to prioritize the three main areas we discussed above. Also, make sure your boat and equipment are up to for the challenge of catching some big ones! If you haven't had a boat lift inspection at the Lake of the Ozarks yet this year, it's time to schedule one with our team today! At Summerset Boat Lifts, we want you to be able to conveniently get out on the water and score some fine catches this spring season!
