Adventure Outdoors Magazine Spring 2017 | Page 72

CRAPPIE FISHING Crappies are members of the sunfish family , and they are sometimes referred to as “ papermouths ,” because of their thin , wide lips . There are two species of crappie , the black crappie and the white crappie . White crappies are naturally lighter in color , sometimes almost gray , and they have vertical black stripes . Black crappies are darker in color , varying from dark brown and silver to black , with many spots along their sides . Crappies overall are much smaller in size compared to the sportfish walleye . The largest crappie ever caught weighed in at only 6 pounds . Crappies are also more social and will feed and live in schools .
During the spring time , the water temperatures in the north will still be chilly , causing the fish to slow down . By March , in the southern states , the crappies have begun to move , so now is the perfect time to find a southern fishing wonderland for a good day of catching crappies . Crappies spawn between May and June in some states , and as late as December in others , such as Florida . Spawning also depends on the water temperature . So , the spring season is a toss-up depending on which area you are in . When fishing for crappie , especially in the spring time , the best hours are at dawn and dusk . Crappies , even in peak season , are not known for being day fish , so your chances of reeling one in on a sunny afternoon are slim . Get out and hit the water early for your chance to catch a prized crappie .
Head south for spring crappie fishing . Some of the biggest , trophy-sized crappie can be found in Lake Talquin , Florida .
It is a smaller lake , but well worth the trip , as most crappies here are 2 pound mammoths . Thick bushes and trees line the lakeshore , and the weather is beautiful . Jumping into a boat and hitting the water may never be more appealing than it is here . Many sport fishermen enjoy this lake as well , as it is enclosed by miles of pure forest , which makes for a peaceful off-season day .
Looking for black crappie specifically ? Head to the Santee Cooper , South Carolina . Home to Lake Marion and Lake Moultrie , these are like the little sisters of the great lakes , and the population of black crappie here is unbeatable . Spring time is ever better here , as the surroundings are blooming with vegetation that the black crappies love .