"Springtime Fishing Frenzy at Lake of the Ozarks: Largemouth, Crappie, and Catfish Abound"

Fishing at Lake of the Ozarks today, April 12, 2025, promises an exciting experience as weather patterns and water conditions shape up for great spring action. The water temperature currently ranges from 50 to 58 degrees, with some clearer areas and others muddied due to recent rains. A warming trend following colder weather has fish actively moving and feeding, particularly in pre-spawn stages.

Recent fishing reports highlight excellent activity across multiple species. Bass fishing is in full swing, with largemouth and spotted bass staging along secondary points, bluff banks, and channel swings near spawning areas. Anglers have been successful using jerkbaits, Alabama rigs, and crankbaits, particularly in natural shad or bright colors. The square-bill crankbait and finesse jig are also proving effective in shallower waters near rocks and brush piles.

Crappie fishing is equally strong, with schools concentrated around brush piles and docks. Small jigs (1/32 to 1/8 ounce) and live minnows have been the most reliable baits. For catfish, drifting with cut shad and focusing on mouths of coves and river channel breaks has yielded consistent action. Blue catfish and channel catfish are especially active this time of year.

Key hotspots to explore include:
- Gravois Arm: Known for clear water and excellent bass fishing using jerkbaits and spinnerbaits.
- Niangua Arm: Offers productive areas for largemouth bass, spotted bass, and crappie around brush piles and docks.
- Back of Proctor Creek and Ballinger Creek: These pockets are clearing up after rains and hold good numbers of feeding fish.

Weather-wise, sunrise is at 6:37 AM, and sunset at 7:47 PM. The day began with chilly conditions, but moderate warming throughout the day will keep fish active, particularly in nearshore or sunny locations. Winds are moderate, which could assist in drawing fish to windy points. Total clarity varies across the lake, with muddy water favoring reaction baits like spinnerbaits or bright-colored crankbaits.

Recent catches have been impressive, with anglers reporting several largemouth bass in the 5-6 pound range and plenty of legal-sized crappie and catfish. For best results, keep a variety of lures ready. Alabama rigs, jerkbaits, and crankbaits for bass, as well as jigs with minnows for crappie, are top choices for the day.

All in all, conditions at Lake of the Ozarks make today an ideal opportunity to bag some impressive catches. Whether you’re chasing bass, crappie, or catfish, stay flexible, work those pre-spawn structures, and enjoy the action this vibrant lake has to offer.