Crappies are great little fish to catch. In most places where they are found, they are plentiful and fishing regulations allow for a higher bag limit. However, having the correct fishing rig is important to catch a large number.

Crappie tend to feed early in the morning and then again in the evenings. Crappies like to eat worms, insects, insect larva, young shad, minnows and small sunfish.

In the early morning when the insects are landing on the water’s surface using a dry fly is one of the most exciting ways to catch crappie. Using two or three weight rod, a #20 dry fly, and a floating fly line will give a very successful fishing experience. Also crappies travel in schools so you may be able to limit out quickly.

If you are using crickets for bait, it is best to rig them up on a #8 hook at the end of the line and a bubble about 18” above it. When you cast it out the bubble provides the weight for a medium to short cast and then floats most of the line and the cricket on the surface.

If you use worms for bait a floating worm rig is popular. Tie the #8 hook on the bottom and a large bubble about 18” to 24” above the hook. A plastic worm hooked in the middle works well. Crappie’s like deep water to stay in. When they see some food at or near the surface they rise up and eat it.

If you are using a small shad crankbait the best way to rig it is just like you do for bass fishing. Put a swivel on the end of the line and attach the crankbait. When you retrieve it, use a jerky motion. The bass fishing techniques work well for crappie. Click on this link to see more. http://www.worldfishingnetwork.com/bass-fishing.aspx