Page 9 - Crappie NOW - September 2018

Crappie Basics

Crappie Basics #170 Soft or Stiff Pole Tip?

There are times, especially in the springtime, when fish are aggressive
and smack a bait like they mean business. Late summer and early fall fish
are usually much less aggressive. Sometimes bites are so light they are
difficult to detect. There are a few things to do to improve your odds.
Except in the clearest of water, switch to a braided line. A 10/2 will give
the strength of 10-pound test line with the diameter of 2-pound monofilament.
The braid is no stretch so light bites are easier to feel.
The second thing is to use a stiffer rod or long pole. A limber pole shows
light bites best and they are good for fighting a fish. A soft rod isn’t as likely
to tear a hook out of a fish’s mouth. However, a stiffer pole, matched with
braided line, greatly increases feel. Anything that happens with the bait is
transferred directly through the line, up the pole to the fisherman’s hand. A
heavier jig helps, too. More sensitivity will allow more bites to be felt.

9 Crappie NOW September 2018