Crappie fishing is a popular pastime for many anglers. The fish are relatively easy to catch and are great to eat. But if you’ve never crappie fished before, where do you start? In this blog post, we will give you 101 tips on everything you need to know about crappie fishing, from the best time of year to go fishing to what kind of bait to use. We’ll also teach you how to fillet a crappie so you can enjoy your catch for dinner. So whether you’re a seasoned fisherman or a complete novice, read on for everything you need to know about crappie fishing.
Understanding the Crappie Species
Although there are several different species of crappie, the two most commonly caught are the black crappie and the white crappie. These fish are relatively easy to identify from one another, as the black crappie has dark mottling on its sides with a darker belly, while the white crappie is generally pale with very faint markings.
Both species grow to be around 12-14 inches in length on average, although larger specimens are not unheard of. White and black crappies are also known to hybridize in some areas, so you may see fish that show characteristics of both species.
Crappies are generally found in large groups or schools, often near submerged structures such as logs or brush piles where they can find cover and ambush their prey. They are opportunistic feeders and will eat a variety of small fish, insects, and other aquatic creatures.
Knowing what kind of crappie you’re after can be helpful in terms of choosing the right bait and fishing technique. Black crappies tend to prefer live bait such as minnows or worms, while white crappies will go for just about anything including crickets, jigs, and spinners.
Now that you know a little bit more about these popular freshwater fish, it’s time to start planning your next fishing trip!
Where to Find Crappie?
Crappie can be found in most freshwater lakes and rivers across North America. They typically inhabit areas with access to deep water and plenty of hiding spots, such as near submerged logs or brush piles.
In the springtime, crappie will often move into shallower water to spawn. This makes them easier to catch, but be sure to check your local regulations before targeting them during this time period.
During the summer months, crappie will often feed on small baitfish in open water. They can be difficult to locate during this time, but casting a line out into likely-looking areas can lead to success.
In the fall, crappie will once again move into deeper waters as the temperatures cool off. This is a great time of year to target them, as they will be congregating in smaller areas and are less likely to spook easily.
What Equipment You Need?
To have a successful crappie fishing trip, you need to make sure you have the proper equipment. This includes a crappie pole, line, bait, hooks, and sinkers.
A crappie pole is a must if you want to catch this type of fish. They are specifically designed for catching smaller fish like crappie. Look for a pole that is light and easy to handle.
Line is another important piece of equipment. You’ll want to use lighter line so it doesn’t scare the fish away. In terms of weight, 4-6 pound test line is ideal.
As for bait, live minnows are the best choice. You can also use artificial lures that mimic the appearance and movement of minnows.
Hooks should be small in size so they don’t weigh the bait down too much. Sinkers are used to help keep the bait in place and can be made from lead or other materials.
The Best Bait for Crappie
The best bait for catching crappie is live minnows. Minnows are small fish that crappie feed on. You can either use a minnow trap or cast your line with a minnow on it. Minnows are attracted to baitfish, so using an artificial lure that resembles a baitfish is also effective.
Crappie Fishing 101 Tips
If you’re new to crappie fishing, or just looking to brush up on your skills, check out these 101 tips. From the best time of day to fish, to what kind of bait to use, we’ve got you covered.
- The best time to fish for crappie is early in the morning or late in the evening, when the sun isn’t as strong.
- Crappie like still waters, so avoid areas with a lot of boat traffic or currents.
- Use live bait such as minnows or worms for the best results.
- Try different depths until you find where the crappie are biting. They can often be found near submerged logs or vegetation.
- Keep your line tight while reeling in, so you can feel when a crappie bites. They often strike quickly and then let go just as fast, so be prepared!
Fishing setups for Crappie Fishing
Before you can start catching crappie, you need to have the proper fishing gear. The type of setup you use will depend on the type of fishing you plan on doing. If you are bank fishing, then you will need a different setup than if you are boat fishing.
For bank fishing, you will need a basic rod and reel combo, some weights, hooks, and bait. You can either use live bait or artificial lures. Live bait is always the best option when Crappie fishing. Some good live bait options include: minnows, worms, leeches, and crayfish.
If you are boat fishing, then you will need all of the above plus a few additional items. A boat gives you much more mobility whenCrappie fishing and allows you to fish in areas that are inaccessible from the bank. You will also need a trolling motor and some form of anchoring system.
No matter what type of fishing setup you use, be sure to pay attention to your line. Crappie are notorious for being line shy, so using a lighter line is often necessary. Fluorocarbon lines are always a good option when Crappie fishing because they are very invisible in the water.
Crappie fishing lures you always need
There are a few Crappie fishing lures that you should always have on hand in order to be successful when targeting these fish. One of the most effective lures for Crappie is a minnow bait, which imitates the small baitfish that these fish feed on. Another lure that always produces results is a jigging spoon, which can be used to create a fluttering action in the water that Crappie can’t resist. Finally, Crappie are also attracted to bright colors, so using lures with flashy finishes can also be productive.
Crappie Fishing Tips to Try This Year
If you’re looking to up your crappie fishing game this year, try out some of these tips. For starters, make sure you’re using the right bait. minnows are a go-to for most crappie anglers, but don’t be afraid to experiment with different types of baitfish or even artificial lures. Another important tip is to fish where the crappie are hiding. Look for areas with heavy cover like logs, brush piles, or overhanging vegetation. And finally, once you’ve got a bite, set the hook immediately! Crappie are notorious for being light biters, so if you wait too long you’ll likely miss your chance at a big one.
3 Crappie Fishing Tips
To have success when fishing for crappie, there are a few key tips to keep in mind.
- First, use smaller baits and lures when targeting these fish. They are not as aggressive as other fish species, so you won’t need to use something as large to get their attention.
- Second, look for crappie near underwater structure, like logs or brush piles. They tend to congregate in these areas.
- And finally, be patient when fishing for crappie. They aren’t known for being the quickest fish, so it may take some time before you get a bite. But if you follow these tips, you’ll be sure to have a successful day out on the water catching crappie!
The Different Types of Crappie
There are two types of crappies- the white crappie and the black crappie. They are both members of the sunfish family and are very similar in appearance. The main difference between the two is that white crappies have 7-8 dorsal spines while black crappies have 5-6. White crappies also have a silvery hue and black crappies are more olive in color.
Both species of crappie can be found in most major lakes and rivers across North America. They are typically found in shallow, weed-choked waters where there is plenty of cover for them to hide.
Crappies are opportunistic feeders and will eat just about anything they can find. Their diet consists mostly of minnows, insects, and small crustaceans.
The White Crappie is one of America’s favorite fish. It’s a popular game fish because it’s not only good to eat, but it’s fun to catch as well. It has a slender body with a large mouth, which allows it to vacuum up its prey with ease. The White Crappie is usually silver or pale green in color with dark spots on its body and fins. It can grow to be up to 18 inches long and weigh up to 2 pounds, but the average size is usually around 12 inches long and 1 pound in weight.
Crappie in Black and White
Crappie are one of the most popular freshwater fish in North America. They are relatively easy to catch and make great table fair. But what many anglers don’t know is that there are actually two different species of crappie, the black crappie (Pomoxis nigromaculatus) and the white crappie (Pomoxis annularis).
Although they may look similar at first glance, there are actually some pretty big differences between these two types of crappie. For one, black crappie tend to be a bit larger than white crappie. They also have differently shaped bodies, with black crappie being more elongated and white crappie being more rounded. And perhaps most noticeably, as their names suggest, black and white crappie also have different coloration patterns.
Despite these differences, black and white crappie do share some similarities. Both species are found in similar habitats and often school together. They are also both popular with fishermen! So whether you’re targeting one specific type of crappie or simply going after whatever bites, it’s helpful to know a little bit about both species before heading out on your next fishing trip.
Colored Crappie
Crappie come in two colors- white and black. Black crappie have dark vertical bands on their sides, while white crappie have a network of faint, horizontal bars. Both varieties are easily distinguished from sunfish by the 6-8 spines on their dorsal fins. White and black crappies are members of the sunfish family and are very similar in appearance and habits. They are found in most types of freshwater habitats including ponds, lakes, reservoirs, rivers, and streams.
While they can be caught using a variety of methods, minnows or small jigs fished under docks or other cover are the most popular. Spring is the best time to fish for crappie as they congregate in shallow water to spawn. In late spring and summer, they move out to deeper water where they can be caught using deep-water tactics such as trolling crankbaits or vertically jigging.
Hybrid Crappie
A hybrid crappie is a cross between a black crappie and a white crappie. They are sterile and cannot reproduce. Hybridization can occur when the two species are in close proximity to each other and there is no barrier to prevent them from interbreeding.
Hybrid crappies are usually larger than either of their parent species and can have the best traits of both. They are typically more aggressive than black crappies and have a higher tolerance for warmer water temperatures.
Hybridization can have negative consequences for both species involved. It can reduce genetic diversity and lead to the decline of purebred populations. For this reason, it is important to be careful when introducing new fish into an ecosystem.
If you’re looking for a bigger, tougher crappie, then a hybrid might be the way to go. But be aware of the potential risks before you release any new fish into the wild.
Crappie Fishing Guide for Different Season
Crappie fishing is best in the spring
The best time to go crappie fishing is in the spring, when the water temperatures are just right and the fish are biting. Here are some tips to help you catch more crappies this spring:
- Look for crappies near submerged vegetation, as they often congregate there to feed.
- Use small jigs or minnows as bait, as crappies are attracted to these.
- Fish during the early morning or late evening hours when the fish are most active.
- Be patient and keep your line in the water, as crappies can be finicky eaters and may not bite right away.
- With these tips in mind, you’re sure to have a successful crappie fishing trip this spring!
Spring
The best time to fish for crappie is in the spring, when they are spawning. Look for them near banks and docks, where they will be hiding in the shade. Use small minnows or jigs as bait, and cast your line into the water near likely hiding spots. Be patient and wait for a bite – when you feel one, reel in slowly and steadily to avoid breaking the line.
Summer
Summer is one of the best times to go crappie fishing. The weather is warm and the fish are biting. Here are some tips to help you catch more crappie this summer:
- Fish early in the morning or late in the evening when the sun is not as bright. The cooler temperatures will make the fish more active.
- Use live bait such as minnows or crickets. Crappie love to eat these small creatures.
- Cast your line into areas where there are plenty of trees or logs in the water. Crappie like to hide in these shady spots during the day.
- Be patient when waiting for a bite. Crappie can be very finicky eaters, so it might take awhile before you get a nibble.
- When you do get a bite, set the hook immediately. Crappie have soft mouths, so they can easily escape if you wait too long to reel them in.
Autumn
The cool weather of autumn is a great time to go crappie fishing. The fish are biting and the scenery is beautiful. Here are some tips to help you make the most of your autumn fishing trip:
- Dress in layers so that you can adjust to the changing temperatures throughout the day.
- Use lighter tackle than you would in summer, as the fish are more active and easier to catch now.
- Look for areas where the water is shallow and there is plenty of vegetation for cover. Crappie like to hide in these areas.
- Use live bait such as minnows or worms for best results.
- Be patient and wait for a bite; don’t try to force the issue by moving around too much or making too much noise.
With these tips, you’re sure to have a successful crappie fishing trip this autumn!
Winter
Crappie fishing is a popular pastime for many anglers, and winter is no exception. Here are a few tips to help you catch more crappie this winter:
- Look for areas of deep water near drop-offs or submerged structures. Crappie tend to congregate in these areas during the winter months.
- Use smaller jigs and minnows as bait. Crappie are less active in the cold weather and won’t be interested in large baits.
- Slow down your presentation. Again, because crappie are less active in the winter, you’ll need to fish slower than you would in other seasons. Experiment with different retrieval speeds until you find one that works.
- Stay patient and keep at it. Winter crappie fishing can be tough, but it’s also very rewarding when you finally hook into a big one!
How to Catch Crappie?
There are a few different ways that you can go about catching crappie, but one of the most popular methods is by using minnows. You’ll want to use live bait if possible, as this will increase your chances of success. Another method is by using jigs, which can be effective in both deep and shallow water.
If you’re fishing in deeper water, then you’ll want to use a heavier jig so that it can sink down to where the fish are hiding. In shallower water, on the other hand, a lighter jig will do the trick. Experiment with different weights and colors until you find something that works for you.
Crappie are often found near structures such as docks, piers, and brush piles. They like to hide in these areas, so it’s important to fish around them if you’re hoping to catch some. Pay attention to the movements of the fish and cast your line accordingly.
patience and a little bit of luck, you should be able to catch yourself a crappie in no time!
Find out where to fish
There are a few different ways that you can find out where to fish for crappie. One way is to talk to other fishermen and see where they have had the most success. Another way is to look for areas with deep water and submerged vegetation. Crappie tend to congregate in these areas because they offer both food and shelter.
Another good way to find fish is to look for structure. This could be anything from submerged logs to docks and piers. Any type of structure will attract baitfish, which in turn will attract crappie. Once you’ve found a likely looking spot, it’s time to start fishing!
Patience
Patience is one of the most important virtues when it comes to fishing, and this is especially true when trying to catch crappie. More often than not, you will have to wait for long periods of time before you even get a bite, let alone a chance to reel one in. It can be frustrating at times, but it is important to maintain your composure and keep your eye on the prize. The best way to do this is by focusing on your breathing and taking in the scenery around you. If you allow yourself to get too worked up, you will only end up scaring the fish away.
Orientation
If you’re new to crappie fishing, the first thing you need to do is orient yourself to the type of fish you’re after. Crappie are a freshwater fish that can be found in lakes and rivers across North America. They’re relatively easy to catch, but there are a few things you need to know before you go out and try your luck.
In this section, we’ll cover the basics of crappie fishing, including what tackle you’ll need, where to find them, and how to identify them. With this information in hand, you’ll be ready to hit the water and start catching crappie in no time!
Line
If you’re new to crappie fishing, or if you’re looking to brush up on your skills, start with the basics: line. In this section, we’ll cover everything you need to know about choosing and using the right line for crappie fishing.
There are a few things to keep in mind when selecting a line for crappie fishing:
- Line weight: The weight of your line should be matched to the size of your rod and reel. A heavier line is better for larger fish, while a lighter line is better for smaller fish.
- Line type: There are two main types of fishing line: monofilament and braided. Monofilament lines are made from a single strand of material, while braided lines are made from multiple strands of material woven together. Braided lines are generally stronger than monofilament lines, but they can be more difficult to handle.
- Line length: The length of your line will depend on the size of your reel and the type of fishing you plan on doing. If you’re just starting out, it’s a good idea to choose a shorter line so you can get used to handling it. As you become more experienced, you can try longer lines for longer casts and more challenging fish.
- Line color: Believe it or not, the color of your line can make a difference in your success as a fisherman.
Check the Temperature
As with all fish, water temperature plays a crucial role in determining where crappie will be and how active they’ll be. By checking the water temperature before you go out, you can have a better idea of where to find the fish and what presentation will work best. Look for temperatures in the 60-degree range for peak crappie fishing.
Bonus: Spider Rigging
Spider rigging is a great way to fish for crappie. It involves using multiple poles and lines to fish with, and can be very effective. Here are some tips for spider rigging:
- Use good quality poles and lines. This will help you avoid tangles and broken lines.
- Set your poles up so that they are all pointing in different directions. This will help you cover more water and increase your chances of catching fish.
- Use live bait such as minnows or worms. Crappie are attracted to these baits and they can be very effective in catching fish.
- Be patient when fishing with spider rigs. It can take some time to get bites, but if you keep at it you will eventually start catching fish.
Which month is best to catch crappie?
When it comes to catching crappie, the month of May is considered the best time to do so. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t catch them during other months as well. June and September are also good months to target these fish.
As for the best time of day to catch crappie, early morning and late evening are generally when they bite the most. But again, this isn’t always the case and you may have luck catching them at different times throughout the day.
To increase your chances of success, try fishing in areas with lots of cover such as brush piles, logs, or docks. Crappie tend to congregate in these areas, making them ideal spots to fish.
If you’re using live bait, minnows are usually the best choice. But jigs can also be effective, especially if tipped with a minnow or piece of plastic bait.
Whatever method you choose, remember to have patience and enjoy yourself. Fishing is supposed to be fun after all!
What size hook is best for crappie fishing?
There is no definitive answer to this question as different anglers have different preferences. However, most crappie fishermen agree that smaller hooks are better for catching these delicate fish. The smaller the hook, the less damage it will do to the fish’s mouth and the easier it will be to release them unharmed.
How deep can you fish for crappie in the ocean?
Crappie are a freshwater fish, so they can’t be found in the ocean. However, they can be found in brackish water near the coast. They typically prefer shallow waters and can be found in depths up to 20 feet.
Which time of the day is best to crappie fish?
The best time of day to go crappie fishing is in the early morning or late evening, when the sun is not as high in the sky. during these times, the fish will be less active and more likely to bite.
The Perfect Crappie Rig: Rod and Reel Selection
There are several factors to consider when selecting the perfect rod and reel for crappie fishing. The most important factor is the Crappie’s size. The average size of a Crappie is 10-12 inches, so you’ll want to choose a rod and reel that can accommodate that size.
Another important factor to consider is the type of water you’ll be fishing in. If you’re planning on fishing in deep water, you’ll need a heavier rod and reel. But if you’re only fishing in shallow water, a lighter rod and reel will suffice.
Finally, consider the type of bait you’ll be using. If you’re planning on using live bait, like minnows, you’ll need a different setup than if you’re using artificial lures.
No matter what setup you choose, make sure it’s comfortable for you to use and that it can handle the size and weight of the Crappie. With the right setup, you’ll be well on your way to landing some big ones!
Fishing rod
If you’re serious about catching crappie, you’ll need a good fishing rod. But with so many different types and brands on the market, it can be hard to know which one to choose. Here are a few things to keep in mind when shopping for a fishing rod:
- Action: The action of a rod is the amount of bend it has when pressure is applied to the tip. Fast action rods have less bend, while slower action rods have more. Crappie typically prefer bait that is moving slowly, so a slower action rod is usually better for this type of fishing.
- Length: The length of the rod also affects how much bend it has. Longer rods have more flexibility and are better for casting long distances or in windy conditions. Shorter rods are more rigid and easier to control, making them better for close quarters fishing.
- Material: Fishing rods are usually made from either graphite or fiberglass. Graphite rods are lighter and more sensitive, while fiberglass rods are heavier and more durable. Ultimately, the best material for a fishing rod is the one that suits your personal preferences.
Fishing Reel
When it comes to choosing a fishing reel for crappie, there are a few things you need to take into account. The most important factor is the size of the reel. You’ll want to choose a reel that’s large enough to accommodate the line you’ll be using. For example, if you’re using 10-pound test line, you’ll want a reel with a line capacity of at least 125 yards. Another important factor to consider is the drag system. A good drag system is essential for preventing your line from being snapped by a big fish. Finally, you’ll want to choose a reel with a good gear ratio. A higher gear ratio will give you more control over your line and help you fight big fish.
The Best Baits, Lures and Jigs
If you’re looking to up your crappie game, then you’ll need to know what bait, lures and jigs work best. Here’s a quick guide to help you get started.
Live bait is always a good option when fishing for crappie. Minnows are a popular choice, but worms and crayfish also work well. If you’re using live bait, make sure to keep it fresh and lively by keeping it in a aerated livewell.
As for lures, small spinners and jigs are usually the best bet. Again, minnows are a good choice, but try different colors and sizes until you find what works best in your particular situation.
And finally, don’t forget the importance of having the right tackle. A Crappie specific rod and reel combo is a good investment if you’re serious about catching these fish.
Now that you know what baits, lures and jigs to use, get out there and start fishing!
Live Bait
One of the best ways to catch crappie is by using live bait. Minnows are a great choice as they are small and easily caught, but other live bait options include crayfish, worms, and leeches. When using live bait, be sure to keep your bait alive and fresh by keeping it in a coolers with aerated water. You’ll also want to use a light line and small hooks so as not to scare the fish away.
Jigs
Jigs are a versatile and effective lure for crappie fishing, and can be used in both deep and shallow water. When choosing a jig, consider the water depth, current, and wind conditions. In general, lighter jigs work well in calm conditions and deeper water, while heavier jigs are better suited for windy conditions and shallower water.
Jigging is an effective technique for catching crappie, and can be done using a variety of methods. One popular method is to let the jig fall to the bottom on a slack line, then lift the rod tip sharply to make the jig swim up off the bottom. Another method is to use a slow steady retrieved, pausing occasionally to let the jig sink down. Experiment with different techniques to see what works best in each situation.
In addition to traditional leadhead jigs, there are now many types of plastic bodied jigs available that are very effective for crappie fishing. These include hair jigs, tube jigs, and grub style jigs. Be sure to try a few different styles and colors to see what the fish are biting on that day.
Spinning Lures
If you’re serious about catching crappie, you need to have a good selection of spinning lures in your tackle box. Here are some of the best crappie spinning lures:
- Minnows: Minnows are one of the best baits for crappie, and they can be fished using a variety of techniques. Cast them out and let them sink to the bottom, then reel in slowly or jig them up and down. You can also use minnows under a slip bobber.
- Jigs: Jigs are another versatile lure that can be used in a number of ways. Vertical jigging is always a good option, but you can also cast them out and let them sink to the bottom before reeling in slowly or swimming them back to the boat.
- Spoons: Spoons are great for fishing around structure or in open water. They’re also good for vertical jigging or trolling. Just make sure to use a light action rod when fishing with spoons so you don’t miss any strikes!
- In-Line Spinners: In-line spinners are another great lure for fishing around structure or in open water. They’re easy to use and effective, making them a great choice for beginner anglers. Just cast them out and reel them back in at a steady pace – it’s that simple!
Grubs
Grubs are one of the most popular baits for crappie fishing. They are small, easy to find, and relatively inexpensive. Grubs come in a variety of colors, but the most popular seem to be white and chartreuse.
When selecting a grub for crappie fishing, it is important to choose one that is the right size. A good rule of thumb is to use a grub that is about half the size of the fish you are targeting. For example, if you are targeting Crappie that are 10 inches long, you would want to use a 5-inch grub.
Grubs can be fished a variety of ways, but the most popular seems to be on a small jig head. The weight of the jig head will determine how deep you are fishing. For example, a 1/8 ounce jig head will fish shallower than a 1/2 ounce jig head.
When fishing with grubs, it is important to pay attention to your line. You want to make sure you have enough line out so that the grub can swim freely, but not so much that it gets tangled easily. It is also important to watch for subtle strikes. Crappie will often just pick up a grub and swim off with it without much movement at the surface.
Colors
There are a few different schools of thought when it comes to what color crappie fishing lures are most effective. Some anglers believe that brighter colors like chartreuse and yellow are best, while others contend that more natural colors like brown and black are better. Still, others swear by using two-toned lures that combine both bright and dark colors. Ultimately, it probably doesn’t matter all that much which color you use as long as the lure is properly sized and has the right action. That said, here are a few general tips for choosing crappie fishing lure colors:
- In clear water conditions, brighter colors tend to be more effective as they are easier for fish to see.
- In stained or muddy water, darker colors usually work better as they are less likely to be obscured by the murkiness of the water.
- Two-toned lures can be a good choice in either clear or dirty water as they provide a contrast that can be visible even in murky conditions.
- If you’re not sure which color to choose, it’s always a good idea to have a selection of both bright and dark lures on hand so you can experiment until you find what works best in each individual situation.
5 Tips To Improve Your Crappie Catch Rates
If you’re hoping to up your crappie catch rates, there are a few things you can do. First, make sure you’re using the right bait. Minnows are typically the best choice, but jigs can also be effective. Second, fish near cover such as submerged brush piles or docks. Crappies like to hide in these areas, so they’re more likely to bite if you cast your line nearby. Finally, pay attention to the time of day and weather conditions. Early morning and late evening are often the best times to fish, and crappies tend to bite more when it’s cloudy or overcast outside. By following these tips, you’ll have a better chance of landing a crappie (or two) next time you go fishing!
#1. Head for the thermocline
The thermocline is a layer of water where the temperature changes rapidly with depth. It is usually found in lakes and reservoirs during the summer months. The thermocline can be a great place to fish for crappie because the fish tend to congregate there.
To find the thermocline, you will need to use a depth finder. Once you have located the thermocline, you can start fishing. Some of the best baits for fishing the thermocline are minnows, jigs, and crankbaits.
#2. Attract Minnows to Attract Crappie
One of the best ways to attract crappie is to first attract minnows. Minnows are a favorite food source of crappie, so by attracting them to your fishing area, you’re more likely to attract crappie as well. There are a few different ways to attract minnows, which include using live bait, chumming, and using artificial lures.
Live bait is often the most effective way to attract minnows. If you’re using live bait, make sure to use a small hook so the minnow can easily swallow it. You can also add a little bit of weight to the line so the minnow swims down in the water column where the crappie are likely to be feeding.
Chumming is another great way to attract minnows (and subsequently crappie). Chum is simply any type of fish food that you can throw into the water to attract fish. Minnows are attracted to the smell of chum in the water, so they’ll swim over to check it out. Once they find the chum, they’ll stick around and hopefully bring some crappie along with them.
Last but not least, artificial lures can also be effective at attracting both minnows and crappie. Small crankbaits and spinnerbaits are good choices for lure types, and you can experiment with different colors and patterns until you find something that works well in
#3. Storm fishing
Storm fishing can be a great way to catch crappie. The key is to find the right spot. Look for areas where the water is moving quickly and has a lot of structure. These areas will be full of baitfish and Crappie will be waiting to ambush them.
Once you have found a good spot, it’s time to start fishing. The best baits for storm fishing are lures that mimic baitfish. Jigs, spoons, and minnows are all good choices. Cast your bait into the water and let it sink to the bottom. Then, start reeling it in slowly. The bait should swim erratically to mimic a injured fish. This will trigger a Crappie’s predatory instincts and they will strike!
Keep your rod tip up and be prepared for a strike at any moment. When you feel a bite, set the hook immediately. Storm fishing can be a lot of fun and is an excellent way to catch Crappie. So get out there and give it a try!
#4. Get a fish-finder
There are a few things that you need to take into account when trying to get a fish-finder. The first is the price. You don’t want to spend too much money on something that you’re not going to use often. The second is the features. You want to make sure that the fish-finder you choose has the features that you need. The third is the brand. You want to make sure that you’re getting a good quality product from a reputable company.
Once you’ve considered all of these factors, it’s time to start shopping around. There are a few different places that you can look for fish-finders. The first is your local sporting goods store. They should have a good selection of different brands and models. The second place to look is online. There are a lot of different websites that sell fish-finders, and you can usually find better deals online than you can in stores.
When you’re looking at different fish-finders, pay attention to the reviews. See what other people have had to say about them. This can be a great way to narrow down your choices and find the perfect fish-finder for you.
#5. Find a great lake
There are many great lakes for crappie fishing, but some of the best include Reelfoot Lake in Tennessee, Pickwick Lake in Alabama, and Santee Cooper in South Carolina. All of these lakes offer great opportunities to catch crappie, but each has its own unique characteristics.
Reelfoot Lake is a shallow, natural lake that is renowned for its big crappie. The average depth of the lake is only about 5 feet, so it warms up quickly in the spring and fish are active early in the season. Pickwick Lake is a man-made reservoir on the Tennessee River that is known for its large population of trophy-sized crappie. The lake is also home to a number of other game fish, so it can be a great place to spend a day fishing even if you don’t catch any crappie. Santee Cooper is actually two connected lakes – Marion and Moultrie – that offer some of the best Crappie fishing in the country. The lakes are large and full of structure, which provides cover for the fish and habitat for baitfish.
Cooking and Cleaning Crappie
When it comes to cooking and cleaning crappie, there are a few things you need to keep in mind. First, crappie are a delicate fish and can easily be overcooked. Second, the bones in crappie are small and delicate, so be careful when removing them. Here are some tips for cooking and cleaning crappie:
To cook crappie, start by filleting the fish. You can either remove the whole fillet or cut it into smaller pieces. Next, season the fillets with your favorite spices or marinade. Then, heat up some oil in a skillet over medium heat and cook the fillets for 2-3 minutes per side, or until they are golden brown and cooked through.
To clean crappie, start by removing the head and guts. Then, use a sharp knife to carefully remove the skin from the fillets. Finally, use a pair of tweezers or your fingers to remove any remaining bones from the fillets.
Crappie Fishing: Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best time of day to go crappie fishing?
A: The best time of day to go crappie fishing is early in the morning or late in the evening. The water is cooler and the fish are more active during these times.
Q: What is the best bait to use for crappie?
A: Minnows are the best bait to use for crappie. You can also use jigs, crankbaits, and live worms.
Q: Where is the best place to fish for crappie?
A: The best place to fish for crappie is around submerged brush piles, docks, and logs. They like to hide in these areas during the day.
Q: How do I know if I’ve caught a Crappie?
A: Crappies have a dark olive green body with light brown spots. They have a long, narrow body and large mouth. They usually weigh between 1/2 a pound and 1 pound.
Conclusion
Crappie fishing is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and have a delicious meal. With these 101 tips, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a crappie fishing expert. Do you have any other tips that you would add to the list? Let us know in the comments below!
