Truman Lake Missouri Fishing Report – March 12

Windy weather moved through the Truman Lake area this week, but according to guide Mark Huey, the fishing is still producing solid results.

Catfish Bite Strong on Flats

Mark spent part of the week targeting catfish and reported a very consistent bite.

The best action is happening on large flats located near the edges of channels. Mark positioned the boat in about four feet of water and fished areas ranging from four to twelve feet deep.

Fresh cut shad has been the bait of choice, and the results have been steady.

Most of the fish caught during the trip were keeper-sized catfish that went straight into the cooler, making for a productive day on the water.

Crappie Bite Still Producing

Crappie fishing has been very good overall, especially for anglers using spider rigging.

Most of the spider rig fish have been coming from eight to twelve feet down in the water column. A recent rain muddied some areas Mark was fishing, which forced him to move locations and launch out of Bucksaw.

Even with the change, anglers were still catching fish, although they were slightly more scattered.

Dipping Trees Also Producing Fish

Mark also spent some time dipping standing timber and reported good numbers of crappie holding tight to trees.

Fish were scattered throughout the water column on the trees, ranging from about a foot and a half deep down to twelve or thirteen feet.

The key challenge this week has been boat control due to the wind. Keeping the bait positioned correctly around the timber has been critical to getting bites.

Best Crappie Baits

Several baits have been producing fish, including:

• DNS jigs

• Living the Dream shad bodies

Anglers willing to work through multiple trees and adjust to wind conditions have been able to put together solid catches.

Guide Trip Availability

Mark still has limited openings coming up.

There are a couple afternoon trips available in April, along with one open day. May still has a few open days and some afternoon availability, but weekends through August are nearly booked.

Weekday trips are still available for anglers looking to get on the water this spring or summer.

Book a Trip

If you’d like to experience Truman Lake fishing with an experienced guide, contact Mark Huey’s Guide Service to reserve your date.

This weekly Truman Lake Fishing Report is brought to you by Sportsman’s Outfitter & Marine in Belton, Missouri, your local dealer for Lund fishing boats, Harris pontoons, and Bayliner boats.