Truman Lake Fishing Report – December 17

Winter fishing at Truman Lake is far from slowing down. This week, Mark Huey of Mark Huey’s Guide Service reports excellent crappie action and a steady catfish bite.

Crappie are piled up on trees along channel edges, holding anywhere from 3 to 10 feet deep. Once you find the right tree, the bite can be fast. Slip bobbers, dipping trees, and soft plastics are all producing, with golden pink being the standout color. In some cases, limits are coming together in minutes when fish are active.

The catfish bite is also in good shape. Fish are grouped up in large numbers, and when they’re feeding, the action can be steady. Smaller pieces of cut shad—around 2½ to 3 inches—are outperforming larger chunks right now.

White bass haven’t been a main focus this week, but some fish are likely mixed in with brush piles and creek areas where crappie are being caught.

Mark is fully booked for the remainder of the year but has limited availability starting in January, with spring trips already filling fast. If you’re looking to get on the spring crappie bite, now is the time to plan ahead.

This fishing report is brought to you by Sportsman’s Outfitter & Marine in Belton, Missouri—your Kansas City Lund dealer.