Crappie in the Dark
There are certain times of the year when the late bite really is great; summer being one of them. But, spawning times can be another great time. Although its never set in stone that there is a better time to fish on into the dark, or for that matter, early in the dark. But catching crappie with no visible light is possible, if not one of the best ways to net more fish. Most folks hang out lights to catch crappie at night but that's not necessarily necessary. Crappie have a keen sense of sight and smell. This is noticeable in the muddiest of waters and the darkest of night. Catching crappie in black of night may be more difficult for the fisher than the fish itself. Perhaps the best way is to tight line, single pole or two pole method. You don't need to see the bite when you can feel it. It is possible to spider rig in the dark by putting out lights to see the end of your rods. Reflective tape or fluorescent paint added to the tips can help. Bait selection can vary. Glow in the dark jigs, spinners like roadrunners and live minnows work well in the dark. Adding a scent to the bait may also be beneficial. Both before daylight or well into the night, the bite can be good. There are benefits to fishing at these times. For one, you may be the only boat on the water. The spectacular view of the night sky and possibly starting the day with fish even before the sun rises. So the next time you wake up way before the alarm goes off, get up and head to the fishing hole before the rest of the world wakes up or stay late when everyone else has headed home. You may just catch those crappie who refuse to bite when the sun is shining. Good luck fishing. Hope to see you on the water.
