How's everyone

So I've gone to the barge a handful of times within the last 2 years. And well after mostly failed attempts. I want to pursue creek crappie, now my understanding is tha Nov is when I can Target them. I'm curious as to how all this water will affect their usual habits. Any input is welcomed . Thanks

You might as well forget about the creeks for a least a month. I would try spillways if you don�t mind fishing shoulder to shoulder.

Shoulder to shoulder don't mind it but would have my 8 year old with me. Wouldnt want him being careless and whacking somebody over the head or crossing fishing lines

Very true. I don�t fish spillways but I know a lot of people do. Creeks will be high and muddy for the foreseeable future.

Thanks Joey

Go for the spillways. Some great fishing happening at many of them i'm sure. Or fish the lakes. Look on maps and find bank locations that are close to the mouth of creeks. Find some good fishing anywhere there is good inflow coming in from a creek to a lake.

If you are targeting crappie only, you may want to try Lavon Dam. When they are releasing, I have seen some really good crappie pulled by dropping a minnow or jig up against the wall where everyone fishes from or even on the backside where the water forms a whirlpool. Another option that I like to use tying on a heavy popping cork (ones I use for salt fishing or fishing the tailrace at Texoma) and tying on a small grub or sassy shad or any other white bass plastic lure about 2 feet below the cork. Chunk it out as far as you can and reel in. I have caught a lot of nice hybrids and white bass this way.

These types of areas are not the best options when fishing with kids. I have 7 year old twin boys that I take fishing with me. I wont take them to Lavon, but I will take them to the Red River. I also take them to the Ray Roberts Dam, but if they are releasing, it wont be too kid friendly.

Another nice option for fishing with kids is fishing at the LLELA. https://www.llela.org/
Kids and I love going here for the hiking, exploring and really good fishing. The release from Lewisville has been 5,000+ so it might not be best to go until next week after the rain stops. Kids and I normally hike a mile down river and set up a day camp. I have a wagon I take for my gear, chairs, snacks and drinks. I set up rod holders and fish for the carp and buffs with corn. Set bells on the rods and let the boys walk around and explore. They even take their metal detector. When they hear a bell, they come running.

Most importantly, have fun and be safe. Nothing better than fishing with kids!!

Once the creeks clear up they should be good to go. Can't wait!!

I've tried it a few times, but never been successful at crappie fishing creeks in the winter. Should be starting up about now though. Might have to get out and give it a try. Do y'all find it matters if it's sunny or cloudy?

I have been finding a few here and there in numerous creeks but no numbers yet with the water high and very limited access. I find that cloudy conditions are best when fishing a jig and bobber because the fish tend to not hold as close to the brush.

Thanks! Getting eager to go out and give it a try again.

Next strong cold front will trigger it, but the advance scouting parties are on the move. You go now and you can make it worth your while

Why wait? Go now, every creek is getting hot rightt now.

Yup! That cold snap brought them in! If you are still waiting, you are missing limits.