How to Fish Harry S Truman Reservoir: Best Patterns & Techniques

Harry S Truman Reservoir

Published: Nov 1, 2018Updated: May 22, 2025

Table of Contents

Spring Fishing Patterns on Harry S Truman Reservoir

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	56-61	Bass are actively staging on pre-spawn areas, relating heavily to transition zones between shallow and deep water, particularly around hard bottom areas and wood cover Fish are showing distinct depth preferences between 6-15 feet for larger fish, with smaller males moving shallower (2-6 feet) during warming trends	Rock ledges with adjacent wood cover (stumps, standing timber) in 6-15 foot depth range Secondary points with stumps in 8-foot depth range Rock walls with timber combination in 2-6 foot depths	Finesse Jigs worked slowly along ledges and around wood cover Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') worked around stumps and timber Texas Rigs (Worming) bounced along rocky shorelines and ledges Spinnerbaits worked around timber in 2-6 foot depth range	Crawfish - actively feeding on these around rock and wood cover Shad - particularly around points and timber areas	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	52-62	Pre-spawn crappie are transitioning from winter deep water patterns to shallower staging areas, becoming more active as water temperatures rise Fish are schooling near channel swings and staging areas adjacent to spawning flats, typically moving up in the water column during warmer afternoons	Brush piles and standing timber along creek channels in 15-25 foot depths Secondary points with access to spawning bays Riprap areas near deeper water that warm quickly	Crappie Spider Rigging Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling)	Shad concentrating in pre-spawn staging areas Small minnows in shallow warming areas	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	52-62	Spotted bass are transitioning from winter patterns to pre-spawn staging areas, actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning Fish are moving from deeper winter haunts to shallower staging areas, particularly utilizing main lake points and timber as transition zones	Main lake points with transition access to spawning pockets Standing timber in 8-12 foot depth range near spawning flats Bluff walls adjacent to spawning coves	Lipless Crankbaits worked through timber and along points Bladed Jigs slow-rolled near structure Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') along bluff transitions	Shad schools congregating near points and timber Crawfish becoming more active in warming waters	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	42-52	Pre-spawn walleye are staging near spawning areas and beginning to move shallow, particularly active during low light periods due to the stained water conditions (1.1m secchi) Fish are transitioning from winter patterns, making feeding movements from deeper winter ledges to shallower staging areas, especially around structure in 8-15 foot range	Standing timber and stumps in 8-15 foot depth range adjacent to potential spawning areas Transitional ledges between winter holding areas and shallow spawning zones Complex shoreline points and arms that provide access to both deep and shallow water	Blade Baits worked slowly along transitional ledges and through timber Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with controlled lifts near structure Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) retrieved steadily through staging areas	Shad schools transitioning from deep winter areas to warmer shallow water Small fish species utilizing shallow timber and stumps for cover	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	55-68	Pre-spawn catfish are becoming more active and moving from winter deep-water areas to shallower feeding zones, especially around creek arms and bridge areas with current Fish are actively feeding to build energy reserves for spawning, using their lateral line sense to locate prey in the turbid conditions Most active during dawn and dusk periods, but will feed throughout the day in the stained water conditions	Bridge pilings and adjacent channel drops where current concentrates bait Creek arm transitions where deeper water meets shallow feeding flats Shallow wood cover (stumps and laydowns) in 5-15 foot depths Complex shoreline areas with multiple points and coves that collect bait	Live Bait Rigs with cut bait or live shad positioned near structure Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around bridge pilings and wood cover Carolina Rigs worked slowly through transition areas	Shad schools moving into shallower water Crappie concentrating around structure Various bottom-dwelling prey (crawfish, small sunfish) becoming more active	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	White Bass	52-62	White bass staging near tributary mouths and moving into creeks as water temperatures rise, preparing for spawning run Aggressive feeding behavior increases as fish prepare for spawning, with schools actively pursuing shad in relatively shallow water Fish relating strongly to current breaks and wind-blown areas where baitfish concentrate	Main lake points and creek mouths near spawning tributaries Wind-blown shorelines with timber edges Secondary points inside creek arms with current breaks	Blade Baits worked vertically along channel edges near spawning tributaries Lipless Crankbaits retrieved through suspended bait schools Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked along timber edges	Shad schools congregating near creek mouths Small baitfish pushed against wind-blown banks	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	58-70	Bass are in various spawning phases with males preparing and guarding nests in shallow water while females stage nearby, as evidenced by reports mentioning males waiting for females to move in Fish are actively feeding during stable weather, but become more selective during frontal passages with high winds pushing them tight to cover	Shallow timber and laydowns in 2-8 foot depth range, particularly prevalent in fishing reports Rock piles and ledges near spawning flats, mentioned in multiple successful reports Wind-blown points, especially productive during pre-spawn movement	Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) targeting shallow cover, consistently mentioned in recent success Spinnerbaits worked around timber and wind-blown areas Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') along rocky banks and ledges Wacky Rigs for more finesse approach during tough conditions	Crawfish, primary forage during spring as evidenced by multiple report mentions Bluegill, particularly around shallow cover areas Shad, present but less prominent in spring reports	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	58-68	Crappie are moving into shallow spawning areas, typically 2-8 feet deep, staging near brush piles and woody cover Males are aggressively guarding nests while females move in and out of spawning areas in waves Fish are highly concentrated in protected spawning bays and coves with abundant cover	Protected shallow coves with brush piles and stumps in 2-8 foot depth Secondary points leading into spawning bays Riprap banks in spawning areas providing warmer water	Crappie Dock Shooting Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling) Bobbers	Small minnows in spawning areas Young-of-year shad beginning to emerge Small invertebrates near shallow cover	Pink Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Spotted Bass	58-68	Spotted bass transitioning to spawning areas in protected coves and pockets, staging on nearby points Males actively guarding nests in 2-8 foot depths, particularly around timber and stumps Females moving between staging areas and spawning flats, becoming more aggressive near bedding sites	Protected shallow coves with hard bottom and timber Secondary points leading into spawning pockets Bluff walls adjacent to spawning areas	Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around visible cover and beds Spinnerbaits worked parallel to shoreline structure Shakey Heads for finesse presentation on harder bottom	Shad schools moving into spawning pockets Crawfish becoming more active in warming shallows	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	42-52	Walleye moving into shallow areas (4-12 feet) near spawning grounds, particularly active during dawn and dusk periods Males arrive first and stay longer on spawning areas, with females moving in briefly to deposit eggs Post-spawn fish gradually transitioning to deeper structure, especially near timber and ledges	Rocky points and gravel areas in 4-8 foot depth range for active spawning Timber-lined ledges in 8-15 foot range for staging areas Protected coves with firm bottom composition for spawning activity	Live Bait Rigs worked slowly along bottom in spawning areas Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') with slow, deliberate presentations Blade Baits worked methodically through staging areas	Shad concentrations in staging areas Small panfish near shallow structure Crawfish becoming active in rocky areas	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	58-75	Catfish are actively moving into shallow spawning areas near woody cover and transitional zones, with increased feeding activity during pre-spawn Fish are utilizing their lateral line sense to locate prey in turbid conditions, showing aggressive feeding behavior around structure	Shallow stumps and woody cover in spawning pockets Bridge areas and creek arm transitions with current Complex shoreline areas with multiple cover types	Live Bait Rigs near structure Bladed Jigs worked around cover Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around shallow wood	Crappie Shad	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	White Bass	58-68	Aggressive spawning movement into tributaries and shallow areas, following traditional spawning runs with groups of fish staging in pre-spawn areas Active feeding periods during dawn and dusk, with fish moving between staging areas and spawning grounds	Tributary mouths and incoming creek channels where spawning runs begin Secondary points near spawning areas where pre-spawn fish stage Wind-blown shorelines with gravel or rock substrate for spawning	Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') Blade Baits Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium)	Shad schools congregating near spawning areas Small baitfish in tributary areas	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	62-72	Post-spawn bass are actively feeding in shallow water (2-8 feet) around wood cover, particularly during low-light conditions Fish are holding tight to cover (stumps, laydowns, flooded brush) and ambushing prey from these positions	Standing timber and stumps 4-5 feet off the bank in 8 foot of water 45-degree banks with boulder rock near channel swings Flooded brush and laydowns in cleaner water pockets	Soft Jerkbaits worked around wood cover Texas Rigs (Worming) flipped to flooded brush and timber Buzzbaits during low light periods around wood cover	Bluegill moving shallow and relating to cover Shad in cleaner water pockets and around wood cover	Green Pumpkin White Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	62-72	Post-spawn crappie are transitioning from shallow spawning areas to early summer patterns, actively feeding to recover energy Fish are forming loose schools around structure, making frequent movements between different depth zones throughout the day	Brush piles and standing timber in 8-15 foot depth range near spawning flats Riprap banks and man-made structure providing shade and ambush points Secondary points with access to deeper water	Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling) to cover water and locate active schools Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around brush piles and timber Crappie Dock Shooting for fish holding tight to shaded structure	Small shad in the 1-2 inch range Young-of-year minnows	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	62-72	Post-spawn spotted bass actively feeding but recovering, moving between shallow and mid-depth areas (8-12 feet) around timber and points Fish showing increased activity during morning and evening, focusing on shad schools near structure	Main lake points with standing timber in 8-12 foot range Bluff walls adjacent to spawning pockets Timber-lined transitional areas between spawning coves and main lake	Spinnerbaits worked through timber and along bluff walls Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') around points and timber edges Shakey Heads worked slowly along bottom structure	Shad schools moving along points and timber edges Smaller baitfish recovering in post-spawn areas	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	52-65	Post-spawn walleye transitioning from spawning areas to early summer patterns, actively feeding to recover energy Feeding activity increases during low light periods due to stained water conditions (1.1m secchi) Fish relating to vertical structure like standing timber and ledges in 8-15 foot range	Standing timber and stumps in 8-15 foot depth range Ledges and drop-offs adjacent to spawning areas Points and arms with access to deeper water	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked slowly along structure Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') near timber and ledges Live Bait Rigs targeting transitional areas	Shad schools recovering from winter patterns Small baitfish gathering around timber and structure	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	65-75	Post-spawn catfish are actively feeding to recover energy, primarily during dawn and dusk periods, with increased activity around current areas and woody structure Fish are transitioning from spawning areas to feeding zones, following baitfish movements and concentrating near channel edges and wood cover	Bridge areas and creek arm junctions where current creates feeding zones Shallow wood cover (stumps and laydowns) near channel edges Complex shoreline areas with multiple points and coves	Live Bait Rigs with cut bait or live shad positioned near structure Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) around woody cover and bridge pilings Carolina Rigs worked slowly along channel edges	Shad schools moving along channel edges Crappie concentrations around wood cover	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	White Bass	58-72	White bass are actively feeding post-spawn, recovering energy and following shad schools in the stained water conditions Fish are utilizing wind-blown points and timber edges as ambush points, particularly during morning and evening feeding periods	Main lake points with wind-generated current, especially those adjacent to spawning tributaries Timber edges in 10-15 feet of water where shad schools are present Secondary points and shallow flats near creek channels where post-spawn fish stage	Spinnerbaits worked along timber edges and points with a steady retrieve Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) fan cast around points and timber in 8-15 feet Lipless Crankbaits burned through schools when fish are actively feeding on the surface	Shad schools congregating around points and timber edges Small baitfish transitioning from spawning areas to main lake	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals

Summer Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Summer	Largemouth Bass	77-83	Bass showing early morning activity with bite window closing around 10:30 AM as temperatures rise. Fish become lethargic during midday heat. Fish relating heavily to vertical cover (standing timber, laydowns) and following shad movements into creek arms and pockets.	Standing timber and laydowns in 8-10 feet of water, especially on points and channel swings Bluff walls within first 1/3 of creek pockets containing baitfish Ledges with timber or boulders adjacent to deeper channels	Structure Jigs flipped to standing timber and stumps Lipless crankbaits slow-rolled along bluff walls Bladed jigs worked through timber and around boulders	Shad schooling in creek pockets and along bluff walls Bluegill around shallow cover and flooded brush	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Crappie	72-85	Actively feeding on shad in 10-20 foot depth range, schooling near man-made structure and suspended around cover Seeking shade and cooler water during summer heat, utilizing riprap and brush pile areas as primary feeding zones	Dam riprap areas in 10-20 foot depth, particularly in eddy zones Brush piles and standing timber in 15-20 foot of stained water Areas with suspended baitfish schools in mid-depth ranges	Swim Jigs worked along structure edges with 1/8 oz heads Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') around brush piles Deep Diving Crankbaits (13'+) near standing timber	Shad - primary forage based on multiple reports Small Crappie - secondary forage mentioned in reports	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Pink Colors
Summer	Spotted Bass	72-82	Spotted bass are actively feeding on shad around standing timber and main lake points, particularly during early morning and evening hours Fish are suspending near timber in 8-12 foot depth range during midday, moving shallower during low light periods	Main lake points with standing timber in 8-12 foot range Bluff walls adjacent to deeper water Timber-filled coves with access to deeper water	Spinnerbaits worked around timber edges and point transitions Texas Rigs (Pitch/Flip) targeting specific pieces of timber Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') along bluff walls	Shad schools around timber and points Smaller sunfish near shallow timber	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Summer	Walleye	82-86	Walleye are suspending near baitfish schools in deeper water due to high summer temperatures (86°F), with most active feeding during low light periods due to the stained water conditions Fish are relating to vertical structure (standing timber, stumps, ledges) in 15-20 foot range, moving between structure and open water to follow shad schools	Deep structure in 15-20 foot range near baitfish schools Standing timber and stumps in 8-15 foot depth range Ledges and drop-offs adjacent to open water feeding areas	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked along depth changes and through suspended fish Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') near structure and suspended bait Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') targeting suspended fish in open water	Shad schools suspended in open water and around structure White bass and crappie fry in similar areas as shad	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Assorted Colors
Summer	Catfish	72-85	Catfish are actively feeding in low-light periods (dawn/dusk) around structure, using their sensory abilities to locate prey in turbid conditions During peak summer heat, fish move between shallow feeding zones and deeper resting areas, following baitfish movements	Bridge areas and creek arm intersections where current creates feeding zones Shallow wood cover (stumps and laydowns) during feeding periods Deep channel edges adjacent to flats for resting periods	Live Bait Rigs with cut bait or live shad positioned near structure Vertical Jigging Shallow (0-9') around wood cover during active feeding periods Carolina Rigs worked slowly through deeper channels and transition areas	Shad schools concentrated around structure and current areas Crappie in and around woody cover and bridge pilings	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Summer	White Bass	78-84	White bass actively pursuing shad schools in mid-depth water column (10-19'), particularly during low light periods and weather changes Fish responding positively to wind-generated current and congregating around points and timber edges for ambush opportunities	Main lake points with access to deeper water, especially those with wind-blown current Timber edges adjacent to deeper water where baitfish are schooling Open water areas where shad schools are present, particularly in 10-19 foot depth range	Trolling Mid Depth (10-19') with crankbaits or swimbaits to cover water and locate active schools Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') once schools are located Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) cast toward surfacing fish or visible bait schools	Shad - primary forage base confirmed by multiple reports Small baitfish schools suspended in the water column	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals

Fall Fishing Guide for Harry S Truman Reservoir

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Fall	Largemouth Bass	62-79	Bass are actively chasing shad and bluegill in shallow water (2-8 feet) around main lake points and steep banks, especially during wind events Fish are transitioning between main lake areas and creek arms, using channel swings and points as staging areas	Wind-blown steep banks with laydowns Main lake points, especially where channel swings meet the bank Secondary points leading into creek arms	Spinnerbaits slow-rolled along points and steep banks Shallow diving crankbaits (0-6') worked around laydowns and stumps Finesse jigs worked through woody cover	Shad schooling in shallow water around points and banks Bluegill relating to shallow cover and laydowns	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Fall	Crappie	52-68	Transitioning from summer to winter patterns, crappie are actively feeding to build up reserves for winter while following baitfish schools Fish are starting to school more tightly and gradually moving from shallow cover to deeper winter holding areas	Deeper brush piles and standing timber in 15-25 foot range Creek channel bends with wood cover Deep riprap areas near channel swings	Crappie Spider Rigging Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Crappie Long Lining (Pulling/Trolling)	Shad schools congregating in creek channels Smaller minnows around brush piles	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Spotted Bass	58-72	Spotted bass actively chasing shad in the 8-12 foot range, especially around hard cover and bluff walls Fish are transitioning between summer and winter patterns, making frequent moves between shallow and mid-depth zones Showing aggressive feeding behavior during baitfish migrations, particularly on choppy days	Stumps and standing timber near bluff walls Main lake points with baitfish presence Shallow timber in 8-12 foot zones	Medium Diving Crankbaits (7'-12') worked along bluff walls and timber Shallow Diving Crankbaits (0-6') in wind-blown areas Ned Rigs worked slowly around stumps and timber	Shad schools in transition areas Baitfish concentrated around timber	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Fall	Walleye	52-68	Walleye are actively feeding on shad schools, following baitfish movements into shallower zones during low light periods Fish are transitioning between summer and winter patterns, utilizing mid-depth structure as staging areas	Standing timber and stumps in 8-15 foot range near primary points Deep ledges adjacent to shallow feeding flats Main lake points with access to deep water	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked along edges of timber Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') near active bait schools Blade Baits worked through suspended fish	Shad schools moving into creek arms and coves White bass schools pushing bait to surface Juvenile crappie around brush piles	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Catfish	58-72	Catfish are actively feeding on shad in slack water areas behind current breaks, particularly around bridges and wood structure Fish are utilizing the turbid water conditions to feed aggressively in shallow zones, especially during shad migration periods	Bridge areas with wood structure and slack water pockets Channel transitions with laydowns and woody cover Creek arm intersections with main lake	Bladed Jigs worked from shallow to deep around structure Live Bait Rigs near current breaks Carolina Rigs along channel edges with wood cover	Shad schools in migration patterns Crappie around structure	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Fall	White Bass	58-72	Actively schooling and chasing shad schools into creek arms and tributaries during fall migration Feeding aggressively in low-light conditions near windblown points and along timber edges Moving between depths following bait schools, typically staying in the upper water column due to stained water conditions	Creek mouths and tributary entrances where shad are migrating Wind-blown main lake points with nearby timber Shallow flats adjacent to deeper water where shad schools are present	Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium) worked at varying depths to match shad schools Lipless Crankbaits burned through schools of suspended fish Spinnerbaits worked along timber edges and points in windy conditions	Shad schools migrating into creeks Suspended baitfish schools in main lake areas	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals

Winter & Ice Fishing Patterns

Season	Species	Water Temp	Behavioral Patterns	Key Locations	Best Techniques	Forage Types	Bait Colors
Winter	Largemouth Bass	47-52	Suspending near channel swing ledges in 15-foot depth range, responding to slow-moving baits with long pauses Most active during slightly warmer periods of the day, targeting shad schools in the upper water column	Channel swing ledges in 12-18 foot range Standing timber near deep water access Wind-blown main lake points with vertical structure	Hard Jerkbaits with long pauses (8-10 seconds) and slow sink rate Blade Baits worked vertically along ledges Football Jigs dragged slowly along bottom structure	Suspending winter shad schools Lethargic bluegill near cover	Natural Shad Colors Light Neutral Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Winter	Crappie	34-38	Crappie are schooling tightly in deep water near vertical structure during winter, exhibiting lethargic feeding patterns Fish are making minimal movements and requiring finesse presentations to trigger bites	Deep ledges with tight schools of suspended fish Deep brush piles near vertical structure Deep water adjacent to channel breaks	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) with slow, subtle presentations Crappie Sniping (Casting/Single Poling) with spoons Ice Fishing Spoons worked very slowly	Minnows in deeper water Small shad in suspended schools	Pink Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Winter	Spotted Bass	45-55	Spotted bass will concentrate in deeper water around vertical structure, particularly bluff walls and standing timber, due to winter temperatures Fish are typically less aggressive but will feed actively during warming trends, especially during mid-afternoon hours	Deep bluff walls with nearby timber in 15-25 foot range Main lake points with access to deep water Standing timber areas near channel swings	Blade Baits worked vertically along bluff walls and timber Shakey Heads worked slowly around timber and points Drop Shot with finesse presentation in deeper water	Suspended shad schools in deeper water Small crawfish near rocky structure	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Walleye	36-45	Walleye are concentrated on deep ledges and timber edges, making predictable feeding movements to adjacent shallow flats during low light periods Fish are schooling near large baitfish concentrations, particularly around deep structure transitions where shad gather in winter	Deep ledges adjacent to timber in 15-20 foot range where shad congregate Standing timber edges in 8-15 foot range, especially near depth changes Deep brush piles near channel swings or primary points	Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Blade Baits Soft Body Swimbaits (Small/Medium)	Shad schools concentrated in deeper water White bass sharing similar winter patterns Crappie in deep brush piles providing additional forage	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Assorted Colors
Winter	Catfish	38-48	Catfish typically congregate in deeper, stable temperature zones during winter, particularly around channel edges and deep structure where the water remains relatively constant Feeding activity is reduced but still occurs, with fish more likely to feed during warmer periods of the day and in areas where current concentrates prey	Deep channel breaks near bridge pilings where current creates food-concentrating eddies Deep woody cover areas, especially standing timber in 20-30 foot depths Creek channel intersections with the main lake body where deeper water provides winter sanctuary	Vertical Jigging Deep (20'+) Live Bait Rigs Blade Baits	Winter-stressed shad schools in deeper water Bottom-dwelling crustaceans and small fish near structure Suspended crappie in timber	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Winter	White Bass	36-45	White bass will typically suspend in deeper water (15-30 feet) near primary points and timber edges, moving shallower during feeding periods Schools remain relatively concentrated in winter, following shad schools and becoming more active during stable weather patterns	Main lake points adjacent to deep water, especially those with standing timber Deep timber edges near channel swings or creek mouths Wind-blown areas where current concentrates baitfish	Blade Baits worked vertically through suspended fish Vertical Jigging Mid Depth (10-19') Spoons worked through suspended schools	Schooling Shad concentrated in deeper water Small baitfish suspended near structure	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals

Key Seasonal Structures in Harry S Truman Reservoir

Season	Species	Primary Structure	Secondary Structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Rock ledges with adjacent wood cover (stumps, standing timber) in 6-15 foot depth range	Secondary points with stumps in 8-foot depth range
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Brush piles and standing timber along creek channels in 15-25 foot depths	Secondary points with access to spawning bays
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Main lake points with transition access to spawning pockets	Standing timber in 8-12 foot depth range near spawning flats
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Standing timber and stumps in 8-15 foot depth range adjacent to potential spawning areas	Transitional ledges between winter holding areas and shallow spawning zones
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Bridge pilings and adjacent channel drops where current concentrates bait	Creek arm transitions where deeper water meets shallow feeding flats
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	White Bass	Main lake points and creek mouths near spawning tributaries	Wind-blown shorelines with timber edges
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Shallow timber and laydowns in 2-8 foot depth range, particularly prevalent in fishing reports	Rock piles and ledges near spawning flats, mentioned in multiple successful reports
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Protected shallow coves with brush piles and stumps in 2-8 foot depth	Secondary points leading into spawning bays
Spring (Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Protected shallow coves with hard bottom and timber	Secondary points leading into spawning pockets
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Rocky points and gravel areas in 4-8 foot depth range for active spawning	Timber-lined ledges in 8-15 foot range for staging areas
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Shallow stumps and woody cover in spawning pockets	Bridge areas and creek arm transitions with current
Spring (Spawn)	White Bass	Tributary mouths and incoming creek channels where spawning runs begin	Secondary points near spawning areas where pre-spawn fish stage
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Standing timber and stumps 4-5 feet off the bank in 8 foot of water	45-degree banks with boulder rock near channel swings
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Brush piles and standing timber in 8-15 foot depth range near spawning flats	Riprap banks and man-made structure providing shade and ambush points
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Main lake points with standing timber in 8-12 foot range	Bluff walls adjacent to spawning pockets
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Standing timber and stumps in 8-15 foot depth range	Ledges and drop-offs adjacent to spawning areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Bridge areas and creek arm junctions where current creates feeding zones	Shallow wood cover (stumps and laydowns) near channel edges
Spring (Post-Spawn)	White Bass	Main lake points with wind-generated current, especially those adjacent to spawning tributaries	Timber edges in 10-15 feet of water where shad schools are present
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Standing timber and laydowns in 8-10 feet of water, especially on points and channel swings	Bluff walls within first 1/3 of creek pockets containing baitfish
Summer	Crappie	Dam riprap areas in 10-20 foot depth, particularly in eddy zones	Brush piles and standing timber in 15-20 foot of stained water
Summer	Spotted Bass	Main lake points with standing timber in 8-12 foot range	Bluff walls adjacent to deeper water
Summer	Walleye	Deep structure in 15-20 foot range near baitfish schools	Standing timber and stumps in 8-15 foot depth range
Summer	Catfish	Bridge areas and creek arm intersections where current creates feeding zones	Shallow wood cover (stumps and laydowns) during feeding periods
Summer	White Bass	Main lake points with access to deeper water, especially those with wind-blown current	Timber edges adjacent to deeper water where baitfish are schooling
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Wind-blown steep banks with laydowns	Main lake points, especially where channel swings meet the bank
Fall	Crappie	Deeper brush piles and standing timber in 15-25 foot range	Creek channel bends with wood cover
Fall	Spotted Bass	Stumps and standing timber near bluff walls	Main lake points with baitfish presence
Fall	Walleye	Standing timber and stumps in 8-15 foot range near primary points	Deep ledges adjacent to shallow feeding flats
Fall	Catfish	Bridge areas with wood structure and slack water pockets	Channel transitions with laydowns and woody cover
Fall	White Bass	Creek mouths and tributary entrances where shad are migrating	Wind-blown main lake points with nearby timber
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Channel swing ledges in 12-18 foot range	Standing timber near deep water access
Winter	Crappie	Deep ledges with tight schools of suspended fish	Deep brush piles near vertical structure
Winter	Spotted Bass	Deep bluff walls with nearby timber in 15-25 foot range	Main lake points with access to deep water
Winter	Walleye	Deep ledges adjacent to timber in 15-20 foot range where shad congregate	Standing timber edges in 8-15 foot range, especially near depth changes
Winter	Catfish	Deep channel breaks near bridge pilings where current creates food-concentrating eddies	Deep woody cover areas, especially standing timber in 20-30 foot depths
Winter	White Bass	Main lake points adjacent to deep water, especially those with standing timber	Deep timber edges near channel swings or creek mouths

Primary Forage by Season

Season	Species	Primary Forage	Secondary Forage
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Crawfish - actively feeding on these around rock and wood cover	Shad - particularly around points and timber areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Shad concentrating in pre-spawn staging areas	Small minnows in shallow warming areas
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Shad schools congregating near points and timber	Crawfish becoming more active in warming waters
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Shad schools transitioning from deep winter areas to warmer shallow water	Small fish species utilizing shallow timber and stumps for cover
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Shad schools moving into shallower water	Crappie concentrating around structure
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	White Bass	Shad schools congregating near creek mouths	Small baitfish pushed against wind-blown banks
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Crawfish, primary forage during spring as evidenced by multiple report mentions	Bluegill, particularly around shallow cover areas
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Small minnows in spawning areas	Young-of-year shad beginning to emerge
Spring (Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Shad schools moving into spawning pockets	Crawfish becoming more active in warming shallows
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Shad concentrations in staging areas	Small panfish near shallow structure
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Crappie	Shad
Spring (Spawn)	White Bass	Shad schools congregating near spawning areas	Small baitfish in tributary areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Bluegill moving shallow and relating to cover	Shad in cleaner water pockets and around wood cover
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Small shad in the 1-2 inch range	Young-of-year minnows
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Shad schools moving along points and timber edges	Smaller baitfish recovering in post-spawn areas
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Shad schools recovering from winter patterns	Small baitfish gathering around timber and structure
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Shad schools moving along channel edges	Crappie concentrations around wood cover
Spring (Post-Spawn)	White Bass	Shad schools congregating around points and timber edges	Small baitfish transitioning from spawning areas to main lake
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Shad schooling in creek pockets and along bluff walls	Bluegill around shallow cover and flooded brush
Summer	Crappie	Shad - primary forage based on multiple reports	Small Crappie - secondary forage mentioned in reports
Summer	Spotted Bass	Shad schools around timber and points	Smaller sunfish near shallow timber
Summer	Walleye	Shad schools suspended in open water and around structure	White bass and crappie fry in similar areas as shad
Summer	Catfish	Shad schools concentrated around structure and current areas	Crappie in and around woody cover and bridge pilings
Summer	White Bass	Shad - primary forage base confirmed by multiple reports	Small baitfish schools suspended in the water column
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Shad schooling in shallow water around points and banks	Bluegill relating to shallow cover and laydowns
Fall	Crappie	Shad schools congregating in creek channels	Smaller minnows around brush piles
Fall	Spotted Bass	Shad schools in transition areas	Baitfish concentrated around timber
Fall	Walleye	Shad schools moving into creek arms and coves	White bass schools pushing bait to surface
Fall	Catfish	Shad schools in migration patterns	Crappie around structure
Fall	White Bass	Shad schools migrating into creeks	Suspended baitfish schools in main lake areas
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Suspending winter shad schools	Lethargic bluegill near cover
Winter	Crappie	Minnows in deeper water	Small shad in suspended schools
Winter	Spotted Bass	Suspended shad schools in deeper water	Small crawfish near rocky structure
Winter	Walleye	Shad schools concentrated in deeper water	White bass sharing similar winter patterns
Winter	Catfish	Winter-stressed shad schools in deeper water	Bottom-dwelling crustaceans and small fish near structure
Winter	White Bass	Schooling Shad concentrated in deeper water	Small baitfish suspended near structure

Bait Colors by Season for Harry S Truman Reservoir

Season	Species	Bait Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	Catfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Pre-Spawn)	White Bass	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Crappie	Pink Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Spring (Spawn)	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	Catfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Spawn)	White Bass	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Largemouth Bass	Green Pumpkin White Chartreuse Colors
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Spotted Bass	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Spring (Post-Spawn)	Catfish	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Spring (Post-Spawn)	White Bass	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Summer	Largemouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Summer	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Pink Colors
Summer	Spotted Bass	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Summer	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Assorted Colors
Summer	Catfish	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Summer	White Bass	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Largemouth Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals
Fall	Crappie	Chartreuse Colors Pink Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Spotted Bass	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Craw Colors
Fall	Walleye	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Fall	Catfish	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Fall	White Bass	Bold Striped Patterns Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Largemouth Bass	Natural Shad Colors Light Neutral Colors Vibrant Craw Colors
Winter	Crappie	Pink Colors Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Winter	Spotted Bass	Vibrant Craw Colors Chartreuse Colors Dark Neutrals
Winter	Walleye	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Vibrant Assorted Colors
Winter	Catfish	Chartreuse Colors Vibrant Craw Colors Bold Striped Patterns
Winter	White Bass	Chartreuse Colors Bold Striped Patterns Dark Neutrals