Here are a few observations from a novice crappie fisherman.

1.) Reading up on new techniques on the internet will give you only a general idea of how that particular technique actually works. Plan on a fairly sharp learning curve when you implement it.

2.) If you read articles in magazines or the internet you will notice that spider rigging is all the rage right now. These same articles will misinform you by telling you that this technique got it's name by the rods resembling a spider's legs. This is untrue!!! It actually got it's name because if you do this in the wind the resulting tangle of lines will resemble a spider's web NOT IT'S LEGS

3.) Unless you have some sort of wierd attraction to attending church on Sunday morning for the sole purpose of repenting, DON'T TRY SPIDER RIGGING in any wind above 10 MPH.

4.) If you spider rig in winds above 10 MPH, take note of the boats around you to make sure their are no women or children around before you let the sailor in you come out.

5.) If you enjoy tying weights, jigs, swivels, etc... allow your bait to bounce off the bottom when spider rigging.

These are just some things I have learned over the last couple of weeks that some poor soul like myself might find helpful. Other than that - take an anchor and find a brushpile.