You might check with the local bait and tackle shops, there might be a crappie club in your area. I belong to the one here in Jefferson City, its cheap and its a fun time. We dont travel very far away, we fish Truman, Ozarks and Twain. We have a tournament once a month the date and location is set according to a pole taken at the monthly meeting. Tournaments are cheap, only 20 bucks per person. The club makes a little money to help pay for events that go on during the year and other items. Do some checkin you might find ya one. I know Sedalia & Versallies also have clubs.
Ted
Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night will keep me from crappie fishing!
2010 Lake of the Ozarks Super Slab Champion