When buying new tackle to pursue a new species of fish, our minds tend to take off full speed ahead with no signs of stopping anytime soon. We begin to think of all the various combinations we’ve seen on TV, read in magazines or on different forums. It can become frustrating, and worse, expensive. I was one of those guys that thought you needed everything in the fishing section for a successful day on the water. Boy was I wrong with that mentality! Going out with $300+ worth of gear and not having a single nibble or bite… (CENSORED) (CENSORED) & (CENSORED).

This is where the “K.I.S.S. Method” comes into play. Keep It Simple Slabber’s! The majority of the tackle out there is designed to catch more fisherman than fish. There are members here that sell outstanding products. Send them a private message or simply post in your state’s message board to see what produces the majority of the slabs in your area. Do not forget about site sponsors. You can scroll down to the bottom of the website and locate them. Find out what fish are feeding on before making a single purchase. Go out and observe the lake/pond that you’re wanting to fish. Don’t be afraid to ask questions. I know some people hold information like a baby holding candy, but Crappie.com will help ensure a great day on the waters. Stay encouraged!

Listed below are a few simple baits that I use and are highly favored amongst many anglers.

Live Bait: Minnows aka “Minners” and crickets is a good way to start out. This is an inexpensive route to get your feet wet before diving in head first and buying more tackle.

Spinners: Fish love to see a little “bling” from time to time like we do. You cannot go wrong with Blakemore’s RoadRunner, Worden’s Rooster Tail, and Johnson’s Beetle Spin. I caught my first crappie with a Rooster Tail. I will never forget watching the lure come back to the bank and seeing that crappie attack. Always pack spinners in your tackle box and you will not be disappointed.

Jigs/Soft Plastics: A panfish kit (Southern Pro or Bass Pro Shops) will give you a nice variety of tubes or grubs without the stress. If you’re not comfortable with a kit, ask members what they’re having luck with and buy those products mentioned. Be sure to take a peak in the “Jig Tying/Lure Making” section. Also, tipping your jig with live minnows or Berkley’s Crappie Nibbles will help when the action slow. When it comes to soft plastics, Berkley’s Gulp! Minnows are a favorite of mine. You cannot mention soft plastics without mentioning Bobby Garland’s Baby Shad. Pick up a few packs and enjoy the memories.

Crankbaits: I’ve had much success with Rebel’s Wee-R and Crickhopper Crankbaits in the past. I have not experimented with any other crankbaits. I’m sure members will chime in with other great products in this category that will give satisfying results.

I know I left some things out, but I’m just trying to cover the basics to get started. There are a lot of threads here filled with great information and will keep you entertained. Remember, fishing is about having a great time and relieving stress- Not cause stress. Enjoy!