Yeah, I used to go to the bates field and stream to get minnows or jigs and have to drive back to the access. I used to put in on the Conway side of the bridge on the access road. There's a $2 boat launch fee, but be careful, the last time I was there the ramp had some unseen problems and people were busting their axles. Seen 2 boats have this happen there.

Yes there is a tree line on the opening of the cove. Not at the opening of the access to the cove. Once you pass the last dock on the left start fishing. Never did any spider rigging out there (didn't have one at the time), but I definately caught my fair share in that cove. Make sure to fish that tree if it is still there. It sits in shallow water just off the edge of the creek. Always fish on it. Fishing Conway is what got in to fishing for crappie so much. You guys don't know how lucky you are to have such a good crappie lake so close to home! I'm jealous!!