Quote Originally Posted by CrappieGodzilla View Post
I understand that if I am correct Pushing/pulling cranks, long lining jigs, and even spider rigging (for the most part) they are open water techniques. So If I can't fish any of these techniques what are my options and what fishing equipment do I need?
CG ... here's a technique you might like to try -- Crappie Pappy Article and it doesn't require any specific equipment. Most any rod, from a 5' UL to a 10' jigging rod, will work. This is my go to technique for finishing off fishing (casting) around docks/dock posts, bridge pillars, standing timber, and deep brush piles. Sometimes it will add a few more fish to the catch, while other times it's the technique that produces the majority of the catch.

Casting jigs would be my first option, if I wasn't able to use any of those open water techniques you mentioned. A 6-7ft rod & spinning reel with 4-6lb line will put you in the game.

Second to that would likely be vertical jigging. A 8-12ft rod would work for that technique. And since you are putting the jig down to a certain depth & leaving it there, the reel isn't as big a factor as it is in casting.

Thirdly ... a simple hook/sinker/minnow rig, fished straight down over the side of the boat (commonly called "still fishing" or "tightline fishing") wouldn't require much in the way of specific equipment. You just wouldn't want your rods to be more than medium to medium light in action. Rod length & reel type is whatever is comfortable to you. Rod holders are nice, but not really necessary unless your boat layout is such that you cannot lay the rods nearly horizontal to the water. This style of fishing is usually done while boat is tied off to something, or anchored, so that the boat doesn't drift & need to be repositioned by trolling motor ... allowing you to concentrate on the rod tips & not boat positioning. The addition of a bobber or slip float is personal preference.

... cp