Spring is one of the most anticipated times for anglers across the country. Crappie fishing is a rewarding and accessible outdoor experience that can be enjoyed by all. These prized panfish are popular for their tasty meat, feisty bite, and challenging catch.

Things you need to know:

Season: Most active early to late spring (March-May). As the water temperature rises, crappie swim to shallow waters to spawn. Large group congregations make them easy targets.

• Spawning: Male crappie develop more aggressive feeding habits, focusing less on hiding and more on guarding their eggs.
• Population: Black and white Crappie are abundant in various bodies of water across

the US

• Catchability: Crappie are known for their unpredictable feeding patterns. Their heightened aggression toward food makes them a worthy challenge.
• Technique: Wide range of technique from jigging and trolling, to using live bait.

Gear

• Rod and Reel: A light to medium-light rod paired with a spinning reel is sensitive enough to feel the light bite but offers enough strength to land without breakage.

• Line: A 2 to 6-pound test monofilament or fluorocarbon line is typically recommended.

A lighter line will give you the sensitivity needed for a precise hookset.

• Bait: Based on water clarity and weather, Crappie are often caught using jigs, live minnows, or soft plastic baits (size and color vary)
• Hooks: A size 6 or 8 hook is small enough to handle the delicate bite without over hooking.

Location: Look for submerged structures like fallen trees, rocks, and weed beds and spots with a bit of current like points, coves, and creek mouths. As the season progresses, Crappie will move to slightly deeper waters but tend to stay close to these structures.

Tips

• Temperature: Crappie start moving closer to shore when the water is between 50- 60°F.
• Timing: Crappie feed heavily during dawn and dusk, when the light is low.
• Weather: Overcast, windy days tend to be best.
• Conservation: Practicing sustainable fishing techniques is important. Overfishing can deplete local populations. Adhere to local fishing regulations on bag limits and sizes.

• Color: Spawning Crappie are attracted to bright colors (chartreuse, pink, yellow, and white).

Crappie fishing offers an opportunity to enjoy the outdoors and reel in a tasty bite. Understanding timing, gear, and technique can make all the difference.

Keep following Templar Tactical and Outdoors to find out how this fish got its name.

Let us help make your experience memorable.