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Crappie

Crappie (Poxomis) 

Crappies are game fish and the largest members of the Centrarchidae family. They are present in nature as Black Crappie (Poxomis nigromaculatus) or and White Crappie (Poxomis annularus). Both the species are similar to each other, apart from few distinctions. White crappie will have vertical bars running the length of their body, and black crappie will have no discernible pattern and will just be speckled, hence their nickname, “specks". White crappie has 5-6 spines, and black crappie has 7-8 spines. Anglers often differentiate the two by body shapeGrenade Lake, Mississippi, and Reel foot Lake are considered among giant crappie lakes. 

Crappie Habitat and Distribution

Both the crappies have a similar habitat, though black crappie prefers clearer water than white crappie. These fishes can be found in rivers, lakes, and backwater pools swimming in shallow waters or hiding among bushes, vegetation, or other covers. 

Crappie is native to Canada and the eastern States. It is a much-enjoyed game fish in North America and inhabits the Great Lakes, Hudson Bay, and the Mississippi River Basins. 

Crappie Size and Weight 

Crappie can be 7-12 inches long and weigh about 0.5-1 pounds. 

Crappie Interesting Facts

Crappie is known for its tasty and white meat. 

• Both Poxomis nigromaculatus and Poxomis annularus are less active during the day.
• Both the fishes have a different number of dorsal fin spines. White Crappie has 6 while Black Crappie has 7 or 8.
• Mouth of Black Crappie is larger and reaches mid-eye and has a resemblance to largemouth bass.
• Crappie travels in schools.
• Female lays 5000-60000 eggs.
• Crappie can live for 7 to 10 years.

Is Crappie Good to Eat?

Despite its name, crappie is an excellent source of nutrition, containing high amounts of protein and essential omega-3 fatty acids. Although it's not as popular as salmon or tuna, crappie can be a delicious addition to any healthy diet. They are known for their delicate taste and ease of preparation. 

When cooked properly, crappie has a delicate flavor and flaky texture, making it perfect for grilling, frying, or baking. Moreover, because they are smaller fish than other common species, such as bass or catfish, the chances of mercury contamination in their flesh are much lower.

Crappie Spawning 

Crappie spawning season begins in early spring and summer when the water temperature is 62 F-68 F. Male builds the nest in soft or gravelly spots, the female lays the eggs, and the male guards the nest. Eggs take 2 to 5 days to hatch. 

Crappie Food 

Depending on the age, Crappie victims consist of zooplankton, crustaceans, small fish, minnows, insects, gizzard or threadfin shads, and larvae of other game fishes. 

Crappie Fishing 

Crappie is most active at dawn or dusk. Anglers recommend using live bait and properly sized hooks, not too small, not too large. 

Spin or Bait Fishing for Crappie:

Spin fishing for crappie is a popular angling technique used for years. The use of small lures, such as crappie spinners or jigs along the bottom with light tackle, makes it possible to catch these elusive fish with ease. Crappie spinner fishing involves using a spinning rod and reel setup to cast the lure out into the water and retrieve it in a steady fashion. 
When fishing for crappie with a spinner, it's essential to choose the right size and color of the lure. Smaller lures are more effective when targeting this species due to their smaller mouths. Additionally, selecting colors that mimic the natural prey of crappie can help increase your chances of catching them. It's also important to consider where you're casting your line when using spinners for crappie fishing.

Another popular technique is a bobber with a hook with live bait such as worms or small minnows. This is a proven method to catch crappie.

Fly Fishing for Crappie:

• Fly fishing for Crappie is exciting. Both dry and wet flies work well. Use dry flies on still and calm days, especially early and late. A great way to start a young angler on fly fishing, crappie is not as challenging as much other game fish.
• The best-wet flies for fly fishing are streamers and nymphs and soft large hackles. Streamers (small) are perfect when the fish is eating minnows.
• Anglers can fly fish for Crappie near fallen trees or bushes using a dry or wet fly. Be patient and let the fish properly take the hook. - Clouser Minnow is the ultimate fly bait that can catch even the sluggish crappie.

Crappie Baits and Lures: 

• Spinners
• Pan-fish jigs
• Small crankbaits
• Insects
• Worms
• Streamer flies
• Small minnows
• Nymphs

Walleye

Walleye are sneaky predators, growing up to 30 inches and 20 pounds. You'll find 'em in deep, cool waters during the day, moving shallow to feed at night. They love hanging around rocky or sandy bottoms. Fall is prime time when they're fattening up for winter. Anglers prize walleye for their tasty white meat and the challenge of catching 'em. They've got sensitive eyes, so low-light conditions are best. Try slow-trolling with a bottom bouncer and nightcrawler harness along drop-offs. My go-to trick is using a jig tipped with a minnow, working it slowly along the bottom. Feel for that telltale tap-tap before they commit. Patience is key with walleye - they're notorious for short strikes. But when you hook into a big one, you're in for a stubborn fight.

Northern Pike

Northern pike are mean, lean fishing machines. These ambush predators can top 40 inches and 30 pounds. Look for 'em in cool, weedy shallows of lakes and rivers. Spring and fall are prime pike seasons when they're most active. Anglers love 'em for their aggressive strikes and powerful fights. Be ready for acrobatic jumps and blistering runs. Pike aren't picky eaters - they'll hit just about any lure that moves. I like using big spoons or inline spinners, retrieved with a steady pace. One local trick: try "figure-eighting" your lure at the boat. Pike often follow lures and this can trigger a last-second strike. Just watch those teeth when unhooking - they're no joke. Bring long-nose pliers and a jaw spreader. Pike fishing is an adrenaline rush, but be prepared for some battle scars on your gear.

Bluegill

Bluegill are the perfect fish for a relaxed day on the water. These little pan-sized fighters usually run 6-8 inches, but can surprise you with some real slabs. You'll find 'em in shallow, weedy areas of ponds and lakes, often hanging around docks or fallen trees. They're active all summer, but spring is prime time when they're spawning in the shallows. Folks love bluegill fishing 'cause it's easy, fun, and they're great eating. They'll hit just about anything - worms, small jigs, even bits of hot dog. My favorite trick is using a tiny popper fly on a light fly rod. Cast it near cover and watch those bluegill smash it on the surface. It's a blast for all ages and skill levels. Just remember to bring plenty of bait - these little guys can clean you out fast when they're biting.