Spawning can range from mid-May to early July, depending on how far
north the individual lake is. Here in Southern Ontario it usually occurs in May, however,
the temperature is the ultimate deciding factor.
During the spawning period, it is best to concentrate on the shallow
areas around cover. Again, any section that has a concentration of stumps, fallen timber,
boat docks or reeds can be sensational. Individual crappie can spawn at different times of
the month, even on the same lake, so usually you will be catching pre-spawn, spawning or
post-spawn fish. Outside weed edges or drop-offs away from the shallows will hold many of
the post-spawn fish that search for food here once the spawn is complete.
The Right Tools for the Job
 Crappie fishing equipment is quite straightforward and simple. Any light action
rod between five and seven-feet is adequate. I, however, opt for an ultra light rod, which
provides much greater sensitivity and relays an astounding fight from these scrappy fish.
Many people also use long, sensitive steelheading rods that give tremendous reach for
placement of your bait. Match your rod with a good quality ultra- light reel, filled with
four-to-six-pound-test monofiliment, and you're set to go.
Baits for crappie are quite basic as well. During the "fake
spawn," when the water temperature is still cold, and the crappie's metabolism is
slow, live bait is your best bet. A one-to-two-inch minnow suspended under a small float
will be all that is needed. Once the water starts to warm, a switch to small tube jigs and
twistertail grubs gets the nod. I prefer brightly coloured plastics with white, pink and
yellow getting the most action. It is best to suspend these small jigs about six to twelve
inches under a float, depending on water depth.
It should be noted that crappies eyes are located on the top of their
heads, which enables them to look up to feed, so all baits should be fished in this zone
to ensure that the fish can see your offering.
 I always apply some sort of scent product to my baits as I feel it
gives the jig a more tempting quality. Jigs can also be tipped with a small minnow or
piece of worm if the fish become really finicky.
If the fish are in an aggressive mood, then the use of small spinners
or mini crankbaits can pay big dividends. On an outing last spring at Rice Lake, in
Southern Ontario, the crappie became so feisty that they where trying to eat my float
every time I cast to them! A quick switch to a mini floating crankbait twitched on the
surface provided a fast-paced and delightful afternoon.
Crappie fishing in the spring is a relaxing and very fulfilling prelude
to the summer fishing season. It's a wonderful way to spend the day with children and
family, and once tried, will always have you returning for more. By following the specific
breeding and migration patterns, and coupling this with the right equipment and baits, the
winter will become just a distant memory, and will leave you wondering why spring doesn't
last all year long.
Editors note : For crappie
monofiliment, you want 4 to 6 lb. test of a very limp and manageable line like Trilene XL.
It helps you get better bait action and feel out of small jigs, etc. Some anglers might
prefer the super sensitivity of FireLine, my favourite! |
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