Lake of the Ozarks Fishing Report: Bass, Crappie, and Catfish Heating Up This Spring

Fishing Report for Lake of the Ozarks - April 9, 2025

Spring is in full swing at Lake of the Ozarks, and the fishing scene is heating up nicely. Today, anglers have been enjoying a mix of cool morning temperatures and a sunny afternoon, ideal for targeting bass, crappie, and catfish. The sunrise was at 6:38 AM, with sunset at 7:40 PM, giving anglers plenty of daylight to work the waters. The lake's water temperature is ranging between 50-58°F, influenced by recent rainfall and cold nights dropping into the 30s. These temperatures are keeping fish in pre-spawn staging patterns.

**Bass Fishing:**
Largemouth and spotted bass are actively staging near shallow cover like brush piles, docks, and laydowns in 3-5 feet of water. Recent catches include bass weighing up to 7 pounds, with several heavy six-pounders reported. The best lures today have been Alabama rigs, jerkbaits, and spinnerbaits. Stick baits and crankbaits are also performing well, especially when worked slowly to mimic struggling baitfish. Secondary points and creek channels on the Niangua and Glaize Arms remain productive hotspots for bass. For targeting bigger fish, try glide baits or Carolina rigs near shallows.

**Crappie Fishing:**
While crappie numbers are not as strong as in prior years due to poor recruitment from past droughts, there are still good-sized black and white crappie being caught, especially near brush piles and rocky points. Approximately 75% of crappie are above the 9-inch minimum length limit, making for decent action. Small jigs (1/32 to 1/8 oz) and minnows are the go-to baits. Focus on the Glaize Arm for the best results.

**Catfish Fishing:**
Channel and blue catfish are starting to become more active as the waters warm. Drift-fishing with cut or live shad has been effective, particularly in the mouths of coves and along river channel breaks. For flathead catfish, live bait like bluegill remains the best option. Shoreline fishing close to large rocks or woody cover can yield good results for channel cats, while deeper flats are better for blue cats.

**Hotspots**
If you're looking for productive areas today, try:
1. The Niangua and Glaize Arms for bass and crappie.
2. The Truman Dam tailwater for hybrid striped bass and walleye.
3. Deep flats and river channels near coves for blue catfish.

**Best Bait and Lures**
- For bass: Alabama rigs, jerkbaits (e.g., Megabass 110), and crankbaits.
- For crappie: Small jigs and live minnows near brush piles.
- For catfish: Cut shad, live sunfish, or nightcrawlers.

Fishing should only improve as temperatures stabilize, so grab your gear and head to the lake for an action-packed day. Good luck, and tight lines!