Truman Lake Fishing Report January 2026: Crappie Bite Still Hot Under the Ice

Winter has tightened its grip on Truman Lake, but that doesn’t mean the fishing has shut down. As of January 29, ice is forming across much of the lake, limiting access to certain areas and making launching difficult in many spots. However, when anglers can safely reach open water, the crappie bite remains strong.

According to guide Mark Huey, crappie are roaming in schools near the mouths of creeks and stacking on trees once located. One key pattern has been fish holding tight to the edge of the ice, using it as cover. Breaking through to open pockets has been the key to success.

Casting small paddle tails to roaming schools has produced aggressive bites, while moving in on timber-loaded areas has led to fast action once fish are found. Catfish activity has slowed in the upper end of the lake due to thicker ice, so most effort right now is focused on crappie.

Looking ahead, Mark still has limited availability in March and April, with spring dates filling quickly. As conditions improve, fishing opportunities should open up fast.