Thread: Newbie winter crappie fisherman.

Originally Posted by Okie Bob

Seriously, we need you to come on down. We obviously need new blood in this group that has intelligence higher than a crappie!

I resemble that remark!

Originally Posted by crappiepappa

I resemble that remark!

Sorry Bobby, you don't qualify, you've been hanging with me too long and neither of us are as smart as a crappie! Want proof? See how many we bring home today!

Originally Posted by jbradfishn

Hi everyone, I'm new to the site and to wintertime crappie fishing. I was hoping for someone to give me a few pointers on how/when/where/why to go. I've crappie fished my whole life in the spring and summertime, just never done it in the winter. I sure would love to be able to throw a few filets in the freezer and have a few fresh dinners this winter. Thanks in advance.....

Jbrad, don't let the winter intimidate you. I catch more fish in the winter than any other time. My opinion is that they easier to pattern , and I struggle more in the summer. Suspended winter crappie are aggressive! Look for fish 10 ft. deep in 20 ft. of water and 10-15 deep in 30 ft. of water in a creek channel or the break line just off the channel. Go up a creek that runs into a lake that you fish, and just look. I have had good luck where the channel bends, and also the last deep water (20 ft.) before the creek shallows up. Shad will often gather in these spots and so will the crappie. Don't be afraid to use big baits on creek crappie. If you are unable to find fish in the open (which has been the case for me this winter,) start looking for brush. I would rather fish a pile that's 3-4 off the bottom, than one that comes way up high in the water column. Look for fish hovering on top and just on the outside of the pile. These usually are the thumpers, and sometimes I don't even try a pile if all the fish are packed tightly in the middle. If your lake has rip rap, don't be afraid to try up shallower, say 7-12 ft., especially later in the day. Also, I think one of the biggest mistakes people make when vertical jig fishing, is MOVING YOUR JIG TOO MUCH! I tell new people I take to "see how still you can hold your bait." Most of the time, there is enough wave action to give your jig movement. I do periodically slightly snap my jig, but definitely try to hold my bait still most of the time. There are exceptions like finicky fish, when a slow fall reaction bite is needed, or maybe fish holding tight to rocks. Don't be afraid to ask questions. We are all still learning. Good Luck!

Originally Posted by davebrown42

jbradfishn...did you get the information you needed on the Winter Crappie Camp at Lake Hugo?

I did get the info, thanks. Trying to see If I can work it into the schedule, probably wouldn't be able to come down until Friday evening at the earliest if I could make it.

So true crappiepappa .............

Great information! What about an area where warm water is being dumped into the lake? Will this area hold Crappie? The are some fallen trees around.