Fishing Indian Point in March

Question

My buddies and I are on our way to Branson MO for spring break. Got a cabin in the Indian Point leg of the lake and want to do some fishing but have never fished the area. The internet seems pretty inconclusive for this time of year. We typically use live baits but are open to try anything. Any help or advice is much appreciated. Thanks in advance!

Answer

Fishing at Indian Point on Table Rock Lake in March can be a bit tricky since the weather and water temperatures can fluctuate, but with the right approach, it can still offer some great fishing opportunities. The lake has a variety of species to target, including bass, crappie, catfish, and walleye. Here's some advice for fishing in this area during early spring:

Water Temperature: In March, the water temperature is likely to be cold, typically in the low 40s to mid 50s °F. Fish are usually less active during these cooler months, so you’ll need to adjust your fishing techniques accordingly.
Bass Fishing: Largemouth and smallmouth bass can still be caught in early spring, but they tend to be deeper and more sluggish. Use slow-moving lures such as jigs, crankbaits, or spinnerbaits. Soft plastics like worms or craws can be effective when fished near the bottom. Try fishing in deeper coves and near submerged structure.
Crappie Fishing: March is a good time for crappie, especially as they start to move towards shallower waters as the weather warms up. Look for them around submerged brush, fallen trees, or near creek channels. Live minnows are excellent for crappie fishing, and you can also use jigs. Focus on areas with good cover and structure.
Catfish Fishing: Catfish can still be caught, particularly in deeper holes and channels. Use cut bait or stink baits, and fish near drop-offs or underwater humps. As the water warms up later in the month, catfish may become more active and move into shallower waters.
Walleye Fishing: Walleye are often found in deeper waters during March, but they start moving to shallower areas as the temperatures rise. Night fishing can be especially effective for walleye during the spring, and using minnows or nightcrawlers on a jig can be successful.

In terms of techniques:

Slow and Steady: Due to the colder temperatures, fish are less likely to chase fast-moving baits. Use slow, steady retrieval techniques, especially for bass and crappie.
Live Bait: Since you’re already familiar with live baits, this is a great option in early spring. Minnows are great for crappie and walleye, while nightcrawlers and shad can attract bass and catfish. Be sure to keep the bait near the bottom where fish tend to congregate during the cooler months.
Focus on Structure: Fish often gather around submerged structures such as rocks, fallen trees, and drop-offs, so focus on fishing near these areas. Early morning and evening are often the best times to fish, as fish tend to be more active during these hours.

Additionally, be sure to check with local bait shops for up-to-date information on what’s biting and which areas are producing the best catches. They often have insights on the current conditions and can offer tips specific to that time of year.

Enjoy your trip and good luck with your fishing!