John, I used to travel through Crystal Falls on my way to Ironwood. If you go there and choose the Michigan route versus going up through Illinois and Wisconsin ( I did this route and never saved any time so always chose Michigan) you can shave about 45 minutes off your time by taking 69 just before Bark River. 69 will be just a 2 lane paved road and not much to see along the way, but it brings you right in to Crystal Falls and right by Crystal Bait ( (906) 875-4434) I'd call Crystal Bait and ask them what they can tell you about crappie........I do know by talking to a couple of friends who fished Lake Michigamme that they had success with bluegill, walleye and pike.