Gear Up for Spring Crappie Fishing With This Comprehensive Guide

Author: Nicole Stone

Springtime brings warmer weather, longer days, and the much-anticipated crappie fishing frenzy. During these warmer days, crappies move into shallow waters seeking warmer water, food, and eventually spawning grounds, providing anglers with some of the most thrilling crappie fishing of the year. In fact, spring crappie fishing is one of the best times to introduce new anglers to the sport.

This comprehensive guide will arm you with the essential gear, locations, and proven tactics to make your spring crappie outings a resounding success.

The Victoria Snap-Up Shirt is Perfect for Layering This Spring

Weather patterns are notoriously fickle this time of year – think chilly mornings, blazing afternoons, and the ever-present chance of a downpour or even snow shower in the north country. These days are a whirlwind to fish through, but are some of the most productive fishing days of the season. That’s why it’s key to be prepared to endure the conditions.

1. Spring Outerwear

Pictured is the Journey Jacket and Pant, a lightweight versatile set that is perfect for any spring fishing endeavor

When heading out for spring crappie fishing, choosing the right outerwear makes all the difference in staying comfortable amidst unpredictable weather. Start with a versatile and waterproof rain suit for protection against those inevitable spring showers. Underneath, layer with a moisture-wicking performance shirt and a cozy performance fleece for any needed warmth. On those days you know there won’t be any rain, a quality softshell jacket like the Malea provides an extra layer of protection from the elements while being perfect for day-to-day activities. Remember, the beauty of spring fishing is its variability, so pack accordingly to ensure you enjoy your time chasing those spring crappie!

Outerwear Recommendations:

• Journey Jacket & Pant:The Journey is alightweight and versatile rain suit that’s easy to pack.
• Performance Fleece: The Performance Fleece is the perfect layering piece for added warmth on those cooler days and evenings.
• Victoria Snap-Up: The Victoria Snap-Up is the ultimate performance sun shirt when you want to layer.
• Malea Jacket: The Malea Jacket is a stylish jacket for when you are on the water or on the go this spring.

2. Rod and Reel Setup for Spring Crappie

A lightweight, fast action rod is perfect for spring crappie fishing. Pictured are the DSG High Waisted Boat Leggings and Razor Back Tank.

When it comes to choosing a rod, reel and line, the key is to match the setup with the bait you choose. The lighter the bait, the lighter the rod. This is especially true when casting and pitching jigs. Here are a few things to consider when choosing your setup this spring:

• Sensitivity is key: When it comes to spring crappie fishing, choose a light or ultralight power rod with a faster action end. This allows you to cast small lures and feel even the most subtle bites. Rods labeled a ULF and LXF are great options when throwing the smallest baits this time of year.
• Consider Length: While length is a matter of preference, a 6'6" to 7' rod offers versatility for various situations. Opt for a longer rod (8' or more) for reaching into thick cover or casting long distances and a shorter rod for better control with finesse baits.
• Reel: When it comes to reels, you can’t go wrong matching the reel poundage to the line. This often means having a smaller, lighter reel to keep the setup balanced in hand.
• Line: For line, be sure to pair the light lure with a lighter rod. Typically a light rod and reel will work well with 2 to 6 lb line. A great option is going with a braided mainline (4 to 6 lb test) which provides sensitivity and strength, while adding a fluorocarbon leader (4 to 6 lb test) to minimize line visibility. A light poundage monofilament will also do.

There are a few staples every crappie angler should have on hand. These include:

• Jigs: Start with a variety of 1/8 oz jigs and even some smaller 1/16 or even 1/24 oz during the coolest spring days. Underspin jigs are excellent search baits for covering water and should also be added to everyone’s spring crappie fishing arsenal.
• Plastics: Pair your jigs with small soft plastics. Don’t be afraid to throw a plain hook and plain plastic either.
• Hooks: Opt for light wire hooks, perfect for adding plastics or live bait if needed.
• Bobbers: Spring bobbers are ideal for shallow water due to their sensitivity and easy adjustability. Thill Spring Pencil bobbers are a favorite. Slip bobbers work well, too.
• Sinkers: Small split shot sinkers will complete your setup.
• Live Bait: Crappie minnows are always a reliable option during tough bite days.

Look for spring crappie in shallow, warm water.

Water temperature is the biggest determining factor when pinpointing spring crappie locations in the spring. The warmer water means fish start to transition to the shallows (even before the spawn). This makes them both a fun and an easy target. Here's a breakdown of where to find them throughout the season:

2.1 Pre-Spawn Period (Water Temps 45-55°F)

• Shallow and Warm: Crappies will be drawn to warmer, shallow waters near structure. Look for them around sunken trees, brush piles, docks, weed beds, and along shorelines.
• Cold Snaps: Don't be afraid to search slightly deeper water during cold fronts, as crappies may retreat for warmer temperatures when the air cools the surface temperature off.

2.2 Spawn Period (Water Temps 60-68°F)

• Nesting Grounds: Crappies move into very shallow water for spawning. Focus on protected bays, coves, and backwaters with firm bottoms (gravel or sand) and submerged vegetation.

2.3 Post-Spawn Period (Water Temps 65°F+)

• Transition Time: After spawning, crappies disperse to cooler water but remain relatively close to their spawning grounds. Look for them near drop-offs, ledges, and submerged structures along the shorelines. Trolling with spinners and floating snells in or near weed beds can be a productive tactic.

Soft plastics work great for targeting shoreline crappie.

• Classic and Effective: Bobbers are a staple for crappie fishing and are especially effective in the spring. During spring, crappies tend to move shallower and bobbers allow you to precisely set the depth at which your bait sits in the water column, keeping it right in the zone where crappie are actively feeding.

• Search Baits: Underspin jigs paired with minnows or small plastics are great for casting along shorelines or near cover and make it easy to cover ground. The key is to retrieve slowly with twitches and pauses.
• Plastics Prowess: Cast and retrieve soft plastics with a similar twitch and pause method. Plastics offer great durability, especially in heavy weeds.
• During the toughest bites, don’t be afraid to throw a live minnow under the bobber. Sometimes the most real and subtle presentations are needed for the toughest days.

Spring is the one time when I find electronics to be the least necessary. This is because fish are up against shorelines and near shallow bays. Sometimes, the most productive anglers are fishing from shore.

However, while not essential for shallow springtime crappie fishing, if you have access to electronics, use them, because they can give you an edge:

• Mapping: Using mapping is the key to find backwater bays and shallow water, making it easier to find spring crappie.
• Side-Imaging: When scanning through larger areas, side imaging is great for identifying pods of crappie stacked against a shoreline, while also helping to identify trees, stumps, or any sort of cover submerged beneath the surface.
• Live Sonar: When casting at fish from a distance, live sonar helps determine fish behavior and improve casting precision.

Conclusion

Springtime crappie fishing is both rewarding and exhilarating. With the right gear, knowledge of their seasonal locations, and these proven techniques, you'll fill your livewell with crappie in no time.