Get ready for a killer day on the water with guide extraordinaire Hollis Crawford. We're talking prime fishing action on Truman and Mark Twain Lakes, where the big ones are always biting. Whether you're a seasoned pro or just getting your feet wet, Hollis knows these waters like the back of his hand and he's itching to put you on some trophy fish. So grab your gear and let's hit the lake for a day you won't soon forget!
Picture this: You and a buddy, out on some of Missouri's sweetest fishing grounds, with an expert guide who lives and breathes these waters. Hollis Crawford isn't just any guide – he's the real deal, with years of experience and a knack for finding where the fish are hiding. You'll be cruising Truman and Mark Twain Lakes in a top-notch boat, fully rigged for whatever the day throws at you. From hard-fighting bass to monster catfish, we're talking about the chance to land some serious bragging rights. And the best part? It's all tailored to you. New to fishing? Hollis will show you the ropes. Been around the block? He'll take you to spots that'll make your old fishing holes look like puddles.
Alright, let's talk shop. We're not messing around with beginner stuff here – we're going after the big boys. Depending on what's hot, we might be tossing crankbaits for bass, drifting live bait for catfish, or jigging for perch. Hollis has got all the gear you need, from state-of-the-art rods and reels to the latest in fish-finding tech. We're talking about using techniques that the pros swear by, like drop-shotting for those deepwater bass or slow-trolling for stripers. And let me tell you, when you feel that first thump on the line, you'll be glad you've got Hollis there to coach you through the fight. These lakes can be tricky, with underwater structure and varying depths, but that's where local knowledge comes in clutch. Hollis knows every bump and hole where the big ones like to hang out.
Listen, I've seen hardened anglers turn into kids on Christmas morning out here. There's something about these lakes that just keeps folks coming back. Maybe it's the thrill of battling a chunky smallmouth as it leaps clear out of the water. Or the satisfaction of outsmarting a wise old catfish that's been evading anglers for years. Whatever it is, Hollis has a way of making every trip feel like the fishing trip of a lifetime. And it's not just about the fish – it's about soaking in that Missouri scenery, swapping stories, and learning tricks that'll up your fishing game for good.
Let's break down what you might be reeling in on this trip. First up, striped bass – these bad boys are like freight trains with fins. They school up and when you find 'em, it's game on. Best time to target these bruisers is early morning or late evening when they're chasing bait near the surface. They'll test your drag and your arms, trust me.
Smallmouth bass are the athletes of the lake. Pound for pound, they fight harder than just about anything that swims. These bronze backs love rocky areas and will smash a well-presented jig or topwater lure. Fall is prime time when they're fattening up for winter and hitting like there's no tomorrow.
Channel catfish are the bread and butter of Missouri fishing. These whisker-fish can grow to impressive sizes in Truman and Mark Twain Lakes. They're bottom feeders, so we'll be using stink baits or cut bait to lure them in. Night fishing for cats is an experience you won't forget – when that rod doubles over in the dark, hold on tight!
American yellow perch might not be the biggest, but they're a blast to catch and even better to eat. These tasty little devils school up, so when you find one, you've found a bunch. Light tackle and small jigs are the ticket here. They're active year-round but really turn on in the cooler months.
Last but not least, bluegill – the ultimate pan fish. These guys are perfect if you want non-stop action or if you're bringing along kids who are just getting into fishing. They're aggressive, abundant, and put up a scrappy fight on light gear. Plus, they make for some mighty fine eating if you're looking to have a fish fry.
Look, I could go on all day about the fishing, but nothing beats experiencing it firsthand. Hollis Crawford and C&H Fishing Outfitters are offering you a chance to get in on some of the best fishing Missouri has to offer. Whether you're looking to tick some species off your list, learn new techniques, or just have a day of top-notch angling, this is your ticket. The lakes are calling, the fish are waiting, and Hollis is ready to make it happen. Don't let this opportunity slip through your fingers like a greased catfish. Book your spot now and get ready for a day on the water that'll have you reliving every cast long after you're back on dry land. Trust me, your future self will thank you for pulling the trigger on this one. Let's go fishing!
Yellow perch are fun-sized panfish, usually 7-10 inches long. You'll find them in schools near weed beds and fallen trees, especially in cooler water. Spring and fall are best, but ice fishing for perch is a blast too. They're not big, but they're feisty and great eating - perfect for a fish fry. Kids love catching these colorful little fighters. To get a mess of perch, try small jigs tipped with worms or minnows. Fish them slow near the bottom. Pro tip: If you find one perch, there's usually a whole school nearby, so keep working that spot.
Bluegill are the ultimate fish for introducing kids to fishing. They're abundant, easy to catch, and put up a nice fight for their size. Most run 6-8 inches, but we see some real slabs over a pound. Look for them around docks, weed edges, and fallen trees. They bite all day long, but early mornings and evenings are best. Bluegill are fun on ultralight gear and make tasty eating too. To catch a bunch, use small hooks with worms or crickets under a bobber. My secret weapon? Tiny hair jigs in chartreuse - bluegill can't resist 'em!
Channel cats are the bread and butter of catfishing here. Most average 2-5 pounds, but 10+ pounders show up regularly. They hang out near the bottom in deeper holes, especially around structure like logs or rocks. Summer nights are prime time, but you can catch them year-round. Cats put up a solid fight and make excellent table fare. Nothing beats fresh fried catfish! To get them biting, use stink bait or cut bait on the bottom. Here's a local trick: soak your bait in WD-40 before casting. Sounds crazy, but it really attracts the cats!
Smallmouth bass are scrappy fighters that punch above their weight. Most run 2-3 pounds here, but 5+ pounders aren't uncommon. Look for them around rocky areas, especially near deep water access. They love crawfish, so dragging a jig or tube bait along the bottom is deadly. Spring and fall are great, but summer mornings can be dynamite too when they're busting shad on the surface. Smallies are a blast on light tackle - you'll be amazed at how hard they pull for their size. For a fun challenge, try casting small topwater lures around shoreline boulders at dawn. The strikes are explosive!
Striped bass are monsters in these lakes, often hitting 20-40 pounds. They love to hang around deep structure and chase schools of shad. Spring and fall are prime seasons when they're actively feeding in shallower water. Stripers put up an incredible fight - get ready for some sore arms! They're also delicious eating if you want to keep a few. To land the big ones, try trolling large swimbaits or live bait near points and drop-offs. My top tip: watch for birds diving on baitfish. That's a dead giveaway stripers are feeding, so get your lures in there fast.
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