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Berkley Powerbait Drip Minnow 3"   Realism of plastic minnows just took a giant leap forward. The Berkley Powerbait Drip Minnow features high-definition true colors, molded scale patterns, glitter flecks that mimic real fish, realistic eyes and even internal guts that are visible on translucent color patterns. If these minnows looked any more real, they’d [...]

Paddlin’ with Madalyn: Back to the Basics By Madalyn Roberts   As my knowledge of different fishing techniques continues to grow, I feel more prepared to set myself up for success when I get out on the water. However much to my chagrin, not all the techniques I’ve picked up are easily replicated when fishing […]

November is prime time for catching slab crappie. Knowing where fish move as water temperatures fall can help beginners find more of them.   Crappie Basics: Finding and Catching Crappie in Cold Weather Story and photo by Keith Sutton   November can be one of the most productive months for crappie fishing. As summer’s heat […]

The author’s tackle box has several plastic boxes with dividers to create multiple compartments for keeping a variety of jigs in different colors, sizes and styles. Crappie Basics: The Well-Stocked Tackle Box By Keith Sutton   There are innumerable styles of tackle boxes on today’s market. The one you select will depend largely on how […]

Fall crappie are popular targets for many Kansas anglers at locations like beautiful Fall River Lake. (Photo courtesy of TravelKS.com)   Six Fall Crappie Lakes You May Not Know About By Keith Sutton   Ask a dozen serious crappie anglers where they would go for a fall fishing trip, and chances are you’ll hear many […]

Paddlin’ with Madalyn: Stay Safe, Be Seen by Madalyn Roberts Before taking a kayak out on the water, be sure to familiarize yourself with the light requirements for your setup. From sunset to sunrise—and during other times of restricted visibility such as rain or heavy fog—kayaks that are paddled by hand or pedal-powered require some [...]

Matching your jig to the size and shape of the main crappie forage can greatly increase your number of hookups.   Crappie Basics: Match the Hatch for More Crappie By Keith Sutton   One of the simplest ways to improve your crappie fishing is to give the fish what they’re already looking for. That means […]

Long-pole jigging works great for catching crappie in brush and timber. Crappie Basics: Four Simple Tips for Better Long-Pole Jigging With Tim Huffman, MonsterCrappie.com   Fishing a jig with a long pole is one of the most effective ways to catch crappie around brush, timber and other cover. But a few simple refinements can make […]

Future Fisherman Foundation Gets New Home With Fishing’s Future Courtesy of The Fishing Wire   In September, Fishing’s Future, a national leader in family‑centered angling education, announced the acquisition of the Future Fisherman Foundation (F3), an organization whose programs have supported national angler recruitment, educator training and youth fishing initiatives for four decades. This historic […]

Oklahoma crappie pro Todd Huckabee used a detailed game plan to help him find Lake Ouachita’s clear-water slabs the first time he fished this huge impoundment.   Arkansas’ Lake Ouachita: Where Smart Crappie Fishing Pays Off Story and photos by Keith Sutton   Some crappie lakes give up their secrets easily. Lake Ouachita isn’t one [...]

When the crappie bite gets tough, changing the direction of your presentation can sometimes make all the difference.   Tips for Slow Days By Bernard Williams Photos by Keith Sutton   Every crappie fisherman has experienced one of those days. You know exactly what I’m talking about—the days when nothing you try seems to work. [...]

Kyle Schoenherr says September crappie success starts with understanding the lake you’re fishing. Crappie Basics: September Fishing Tips From Kyle Schoenherr Kyle Schoenherr of Oakdale, Illinois is one of America’s top crappie anglers. With tournament partner Rodney Neuhaus, he’s won three National Crappie Championships. He’s also has had more than 25 “Top 3” finishes to […]

Northland Tackle Deep Vee Spin Jig Northland’s underspin jig, the Deep Vee Spin, is a catcher. Cast it or troll it and you’ll catch fish. This jig shines in crystal clear waters where its flashy willow blade makes all the difference in getting fish’s attention and getting bit. The jig has a keeled body shape [...]

Paddlin’ with Madalyn: Finding the Right Setup Story and photos by Madalyn Roberts One of my favorite aspects about kayak fishing is that it is for everyone of all skill levels. One can invest as little or as much money as budget allows to take part in the activity. Below is a photo of my [...]

Fishing remains one of America’s favorite outdoor pastimes, but a new report reveals some surprising trends that could shape the future of the sport.   Special Report Provides Fishing Insights Source: American Sportfishing Association/FTR Industry News   The American Sportfishing Association (ASA) recently announced the results of the 2026 Special Report on Fishing. In total, […]

Capt. Richard Simms and his grandson, Charlie, were both obviously pleased with this 2.5-pound crappie pulled from Chickamauga Lake on the Tennessee River last spring while long-line trolling. (Photo: Priscilla Simms-Roberson)   Destination: East Tennessee’s Hidden Treasures By Capt. Richard Simms   For generations, anglers have been drawn to the Tennessee River for its beauty, […]

Falling barometric pressure and cloudy skies ahead of a cold front often trigger aggressive feeding activity from crappie. Photo by Keith Sutton   Mastering Fall Fronts: Crappie Strategies When the Weather Swings By Keith Sutton Early fall is a season of transition on crappie waters. Summer’s heat begins loosening its grip, cool nights arrive more […]

Paddling With Madalyn: Life Beyond the Tug By Madalyn Roberts If you hang around crappie anglers long enough and pay attention, you’ll eventually hear folks say catching fish is just a bonus. Then you’ll hear someone say, “The tug is the drug.” For newcomers, that can be a little confusing, so let’s unpack it. The […]

A well-stocked crappie library is as valuable as a full tackle box—timeless lessons that still put fish in the boat.   Crappie Basics: Start a Crappie Library By Keith Sutton Spend enough time chasing crappie, and you’ll learn plenty on the water. But some of the best lessons don’t come from a rod and reel. […]

A careful release starts with keeping fish in the water as much as possible. During hot summer weather, minimizing air exposure can significantly improve a fish’s chances of survival. Photo by Keith Sutton 8 Tips for Warm-Season Fish Care Source: TheWaterWire.com Fishing during the heat of summer means going the extra mile to make sure […]

The exterior of Wonderbird Spirits welcomes visitors to one of America’s only grain-to-glass gin distilleries, where Mississippi Delta rice is transformed into award-winning handcrafted gin. photo by Kyleigh Touro One of a Kind: Discovering the Hidden Gems of Oxford, Mississippi By Kyleigh Touro When people think of Oxford, Mississippi, they often picture the historic Square, […]

Berkley Drip Swimmer Berkley has your trailer of choice with their Drip Swimmer. The 3-inch version is perfect for crappie anglers who go drop shotting, swim shotting, strolling, casting on jig heads or who use them as a trailer on other baits. Leave the minnows behind and grab these ultra-realistic plastic minnows in 14 fish-catching [...]

Paddlin’ with Madalyn—Step One: Kayak Launch Photos and Story By Madalyn Roberts Kayak launch and loading is an aspect of kayak fishing that doesn’t seem to get the attention it deserves. Advances in technology and equipment in recent years mean each angler’s rig is unique. The one commonality, however, is that most kayaks are made […]

Right in the strike zone—this crappie couldn’t resist a weedless slider slipped through heavy cover. Crappie Basics: Slider Time By Keith Sutton Catching crappie in the latter weeks of spring isn’t always easy. When the water warms, they slide into the thickest cover they can find—brushpiles, laydowns, stump fields and shoreline weeds. That’s great for […]

Using lively minnows can mean the difference between catching lots of nice slabs or none. Keeping Minnows Alive and Lively Story and photos by Keith Sutton Minnows are the best natural baits for crappie. No other offering can tempt slabs more consistently than a lively baitfish struggling on the hook. But there’s a catch: dead […]

Paddlin’ with Madalyn—The Importance of Using a Kayak Safety Checklist Photos and Story By Madalyn Roberts I’ve been crappie fishing out of my NuCanoe Frontier 12 kayak for several seasons now, and while I wish I could proclaim every trip out on the water goes off without a hitch, that would be a far cry […]

A quick trip before work turned unforgettable when Jesse Miller landed this massive 4.27-pound hybrid crappie from Ohio’s Great Miami River. (courtesy of Jesse Miller) Ohio Angler Lands Record Hybrid Crappie By Keith Sutton What started as a quick fishing trip before work turned into a catch that has rewritten Ohio’s record books. On April […]

Right where it belongs—proof that a Road Runner, fished slow or worked just right, is hard for any crappie to resist. (Photo by Keith Sutton) Crappie Basics: Fishing a Road Runner By Keith Sutton Bert Hall, the Missouri Ozarks stream fisherman who invented the Blakemore Road Runner spinner, also crafted the wise slogan, “You can’t […]

Dale Hollow guide Corey Thomas finds crappie in submerged trees and brushpiles. He stays back from the cover, uses a lightweight hair jig and lets the jig fall to just above the cover before starting his slow retrieve. He says it can be a year-round tactic by concentrating on cover at the right depth for […]

Captain Jake Futia said crappie are available all year, but anglers must follow their seasonal movements. Summertime Slabs Story and photos by Terry Madewell Hot summer weather often leaves crappie anglers reflecting on productive spring fishing when the annual crappie migration to the shallows to spawn was underway. Warming water had crappie active and usually […]

The floor of Ronnie Capps’ boat is littered with some of his most-used B’n’M fishing rods. He advises, however, that targeting fish using the Ambush rod is his favorite method of fishing these days. The diamond pattern on the rod reduces the chance of water causing the rod pieces to stick together, making the Ambush […]

Action Glow Cups  Action Glow Cups were created by a Utah angler with a mind for figuratively building a better mouse trap. Anyone who fishes after dark or in low light conditions with glowing jigs knows how important it is to have a jig charger. Most chargers require you to turn them on, or drop [...]

Paddlin’ with Madalyn: Targeting Postspawn Crappie from a Kayak Photos and Story By Madalyn Roberts As crappie head to deeper water after the spring spawn, that’s the most opportune time for a new kayak angler to determine their preferred technique of fishing. During this postspawn period, anglers can fish just about any way they prefer […]

Senior writer Tim Huffman knows that small structural changes often attract slab crappie. That one-foot drop, that hidden ditch, that barely noticeable edge—that’s where big spring crappie like this stack up. Learn how to find them and you’ll catch more fish, plain and simple. Crappie Basics: Tips for Shallow Spring Fishing Photo and Story by […]

Brad Chappel is a pulling expert who focuses on Mississippi lakes. His setup for pulling jigs is an efficient and effective way to pull. Three Tactics for Non-Forward-Facing Sonar Crappie Photos and Story by Tim Huffman Forward-facing sonar is efficient and a great tool for catching crappie. However, not everybody wants to spend all day […]

Dropping a 1/8-ounce jig in front of a desert reservoir slab crappie has been a specialty of Randy Howton. His love for crappie fishing and taking others out started after the passing of his father and many hours dedicated to perfecting his skills with live imaging sonar. Arizona Crappie at a Distance By Scott Mackenthun […]

Black crappie (top) and white crappie (bottom) may look similar, but their spring behavior isn’t the same. Water clarity and habitat often determine which species is most catchable. When to Target Black Crappie Instead of White Story and photos by Keith Sutton Across much of the South and Midwest, anglers are blessed—and sometimes confused—by lakes […]

Tournament angler Dennis Outlaw said confidence in the ability to work out a pattern keeps anglers focused until they find and catch fish. Muddy Water Crappie Story and photos by Terry Madewell Tournament crappie anglers are a hardy lot and have learned to cope with adverse conditions to consistently catch crappie. But not all challenges […]

Oak River Media captures the essence of what it means to be a “good student” in a Brushpile Fishing classroom as Penny Cox, Sarah Baker, Lisa Weakley and Kristen Anderson prove to be diligent notetakers. With the volume of information being tossed around daily, jotting it down is the only hope for retaining as much […]

Paddlin’ with Madalyn: Setup for Successful Springtime Slab-Hunting Story and photo by Madalyn Roberts If you’re a fisherman finding yourself on the fence about that kayak purchase, take this as your sign. For several years now, I’ve truly enjoyed every minute of crappie fishing out of my Nucanoe in all seasons, but most especially the […]

Crappie have excellent camouflage, making them difficult to see even when in clear water. But astute anglers can learn to spy these calico panfish on their shallow spawning beds and catch them by sight fishing.   Crappie Basics: Sight Fishing for Spring Slabs Photos and Story by Keith Sutton Many anglers rely on sight fishing […]

Several years ago, on a trip to Truman Lake in Missouri, high water had scattered crappie. Crappie found protection and food in thick, flooded, green vegetation. Seen here are crappie pros Travis and Charles Bunting probing the thick limbs of willow trees and surrounding submerged brush.   Battling High Water Story and photos by Tim […]

Berkley Powerbait Minnotator Tie on, cast out, catch fish. Simple as that. The Berkley Powerbait Minnotator comes prerigged on a jighead with sticky-sharp Berkley Fusion 19 hooks. The 2- and 2.5-inch versions are great crappie catchers. These baits feature incredible realism with baitfish designs printed right on the plastic bodies. The club tail helps the [...]

A late-winter fishing trip on Arkansas’ DeGray Lake often produces big stringers of good-eating crappie for anglers like Keith Sutton and Alex Hinson.   Spring in the Ouachitas: DeGray and Greeson on Fire Story and photos By Keith Sutton Late February and early March in the Ouachita Mountains can fool you. The air may still […]

With its segmented body and slim profile that includes a scent channel in the belly, the Itty Bit Swim’R Lights Out lived up to its name when paired with an ultralight-action rod like Leland Lure’s TCB rod by B’n’M Fishing. Photo by Madalyn Roberts   Bobby Garland Crappie Baits: Winning with Plastics Suited for Any […]

Paddlin’ with Madalyn: Artificial vs. Live Bait & Storage Options on a Kayak Story and photos by Madalyn Roberts The YakAttack BlackPak Pro and ShortStak combo is the ultimate win when it comes to kayak storage. I store four large tackle boxes, rain gear, first aid kit, anchors, etc. in the Pak, while the ShortStak [...]

The Great Outdoors: Old and Cold By Larry Whiteley February has always been cold where I live in Missouri. I have lived there all my life. But, to me, it seems the older I get, the colder I get. That is a problem when you love crappie fishing as much as I do. When I [...]

That unmistakable stripe is the calling card of a blacknose crappie.   Crappie Basics: What Crappie Is That? Story and photo by Keith Sutton In many waters, anglers catch crappie that have a dark brown or black stripe running under the chin, over the nose and across part of the back. These beautifully marked fish, […]

You catch ’em. Science studies ’em. Anglers are needed for Florida’s black crappie project at Tenoroc.   Anglers Needed for Florida Crappie Project Source: Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission The Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission (FWC) is inviting local anglers to take part in a new community science project designed to improve black [...]

The grin tells the story. Spring is the perfect time to get the family out to enjoy time on the water. Khloe Moe displays an Alabama crappie.   Prespawn to Post-Spawn Transitions Story and photos by Tim Huffman Fun awaits fishermen who solve the puzzle of finding crappie from before the spawn to after. The […]

Capt. Rodney Donald relies on FFS to find big schools of crappie quickly on Lake Hartwell, an overlooked crappie-fishing treasure.   Lake Hartwell: An Overlooked Crappie Destination Story and photos by Terry Madewell Lake Hartwell, a deep, clear lake in the upstate portion of South Carolina, has earned a reputation as a premier striped bass [...]

Prespawn travel routes often produce some of the heaviest slabs of the season as big females move toward the bedding grounds.   Finding and Fishing Prespawn Travel Routes Story and photos by Keith Sutton Every spring, as the lengthening days begin nudging water temperatures upward, crappie shift into a pattern that savvy anglers anticipate all […]

Joyce is a single parent, and she has a problem. Divorced for 12 years, she recently moved to Missouri with her 17-year-old son, Sam, and he wanted to go fishing. Friends from his new school told him winter crappie fishing was good on area lakes. They also said that crappie caught in the winter tasted […]

Veteran angler and outdoor journalist Jason Sealock says he loves the winter crappie bite. He insists that fishing a double jig rig helps increase his crappie success rate in the cold weather months. (Photo courtesy Jason Sealock)   Crappie Basics: Double Jig Rigs Can Increase Your Winter Catch by Richard Simms The spring months see […]

Altera Alpaca Socks Everyone has heard how cotton kills, since cotton stops insulating when it is wet. Most outdoor enthusiasts turn to wool as their choice for fabrics, particularly socks. Alpaca wool takes things to the next level. It’s warm, soft, breathable, and moisture-wicking. Altera Alpaca sells socks of all lengths and weights. Try some [...]

Will Hinson said size and profile matter when trying to make a finicky crappie eat an artificial lure. Cracking the Crappie Code: Lure Size and Profile Matter Story and photos by Terry Madewell When tempting a finicky crappie to eat an artificial lure, anglers must meet the needs of the fish – not make the […]

Paddlin’ with Madalyn – An Introduction to Kayak Fishing Adventures Story and photos by Madalyn Roberts (Editor’s Note: We want to welcome Madalyn Roberts as a regular monthly columnist for CrappieNOW.com. Her subject – fishing from kayaks. If you spend any time on the water at all, you’ve seen it happen. In a 2024 “Special […]

January or February are typically the coldest months in the South, but anglers willing to dress warmly and bear the low temperatures can find plenty of slab crappie biting in the region’s top lakes.   Chasing Winter Slabs: A Southeastern Crappie Road Trip Story and photos by Keith Sutton When most of the country is [...]

One of the author’s favorite tournament photos was taken years ago during a cold, winter tournament on Tennessee’s Reelfoot Lake. National champs Ronnie Capps and Steve Coleman slow troll their home waters, demonstrating that using a stealth technique and being quiet pays dividends in more bites.    Top 10 Crappie Fishing Tips for 2026 Story […]

A Special Christmas Gift   Kris, a friend of mine who is also a fishing guide on local lakes, called me the other day and invited me to go crappie fishing with him. That was not unusual. We usually go together a couple of times every winter when his guiding business is slow. He told […]

A confirmed minnow-man, Capt. Travis Bradshaw relies on live minnows to put slab crappie in his boat during cold weather.   A Crappie Guide’s Tactics for Winter Live Bait Fishing Photos and Story by Terry Madewell One of the appealing attributes of crappie fishing is that anglers have a variety of options that enable them […]

  Lure of the Month: Power Vibe by Terry Madewell Lipless soft baits are an excellent choice for many species of fish, and crappie are no exception. The smaller, crappie-size lures often have weight built into the bait’s head, eliminating the need to attach a soft plastic profile body to a jighead. It’s a slight […]

Jackson Lake and Jackson Lake Island provided the perfect locale for a fishing day with local youngsters during CrappieNOW’s 2025 media camp.   Alabama’s Jackson Lake Island: A Hidden Gem for Anglers and Families Photos and Story by Keith Sutton CrappieNOW editor Richard Simms shoots photos while walking through the Town of Spectre, part of [...]

Utilizing electronics for ice fishing can be incredibly productive. And a good portable shelter combined with a small propane heater can make ice fishing downright warm and toasty.   Frozen Lakes, Fiery Bites: The Ice Belt’s Best Crappie Fishing Secrets Photos and Story by Rob McDonald The time is here when fishing in North America’s […]

Mississippi’s Ross Barnett Reservoir may not have the same reputation for trophy slabs as Grenada, but as outdoor writer Mike Giles shows, it’s got its fair share fine fish. ((Photo courtesy Mike Giles)   Crappie Basics: A Winter Hotspot in Mississippi by Tim Huffman   Mississippi is a well-known big crappie hotspot. But we don’t […]

Dan Dannenmueller is working trees along an old fence row. Factors for picking the best side to fish might include light penetration, side with deepest water, current, wind direction, and sun direction. Choosing correctly determines success or failure. (Photo: Tim Huffman) Choosing Sides Photos and Story by Tim Huffman In two separate instances recorded in […]

Thank God for Our Veterans   Many veterans attend our church. We always take time to honor them for their service on Veterans’ Day and any other opportunity we might have throughout the year. We have a wall dedicated to our veterans. There is one very special 100-year-old World War II veteran named Marvin. If […]

Jordan Lake in North Carolina is loaded with crappie, and veteran guide Travis Bradshaw said slab-catching potential is great during fall and winter. (Photo: Terry Madewell) Jordan Lake – The Tarheel State’s Crappie Mecca by Terry Madewell Tucked away in the middle of North Carolina is one of the top crappie fisheries in the state. […]

Huk Airweight KC Printed Hoodie Polyester and spandex are two stretchable fabrics. Their stretch and breathability helped Huk build a sun hoodie that is perfect for fishing and allows you to move in all sorts of angles and direction without any bunching or restriction. The Huk Airweight Hoodie is super lightweight and comfortable. It’s built [...]

While others pack up for the season, dedicated crappie anglers stay on the water, chasing winter slabs in serene, frost-kissed waters. (Photo: Keith Sutton)   Winter Crappie Hotspots: Lakes That Stay Active by Keith Sutton When winter sets in and temperatures drop, many anglers stash their gear away, waiting for spring’s warmer days to arrive. […]

Magical October Days During the recent long, hot summer, most of my crappie fishing was at night under lights so I could escape the heat of the day.  I had some successful hot and sweaty trips. The crappie were delicious as always. I am tired of the heat and humidity, though.  I am ready for […]

Professional crappie angler Gerald Overstreet says when October rolls around, one of his go-to methods for locating crappie is using a dropshot rig. (CrappieNOW Photo) Crappie Basics: Drop Shottin’ Fall Crappie by Tim Huffman October is a transition month for crappie. That means some fish are still hanging on deep structure while others might be […]

Kentucky Afield host Chad Miles shares an October crappie fishing sweet spot you can walk to. There’s a good chance there’s a similar spot where you live, and Chad says in October there’s a good chance you’ll have it all to yourself. (Kentucky Afield Video Screen Grab) Crappie Basics: Kentucky Afield Reveals an October Crappie [...]

As good with a fishing rod as he was with a camera, Ron Wong spent his final years sharing the joys of angling with everyone who would listen. His contributions to the world of angling will live on through the Ron Wong Legacy Foundation (RWLF). (Photo courtesy RWLF)   Ron Wong’s Legacy Lives On by […]

Kyle Homra is a 4th generation guide on Tennessee’s Reelfoot Lake, a place known for its exceptional crappie fishing, duck hunting and a unique outdoor legacy. (Photo: Rob Somerville) Outdoor Writers Gather at Southeast Crappie Mecca by Rob Somerville Whenever I visit Reelfoot Lake I am in awe of the landscape, a perfect blend of […]

Nice fall weather, biting crappie and beautiful changing of the seasons make for outstanding trips to the lake. Jeanne Huffman shows of a crappie caught in central Arkansas during a fall trip. (Photo: Tim Huffman)   October Magic: Cool Air, Fall Colors and Crappie by Tim Huffman October is an awesome month for fishing, hunting, […]

Kids learning how to fish in the Alabama Nature Center’s catfish pond during a school field trip. (Photo: Anietra Hamper)   Fishing and Hunting Heritage Preserved Through the Alabama Wildlife Federation by Anietra Hamper The heritage of Elmore County in central Alabama is deeply rooted in fishing and hunting, traditions that remain as vital today […]

Making Up for Lost Time A friend of mine and his 12-year-old son went crappie fishing the other day.  They were up before daylight and headed out to Dad’s favorite place to go crappie fishing. It was the first time he had taken his son fishing. Dad was always too busy, or he took his […]

The Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency produces a regular YouTube program hosted by Don King (center) and Jason Harmon (right). The program often features Agency biologists like Asst. Chief of Fisheries Travis Scott (left) who give viewers a behind-the-scenes glimpse at their management efforts. (Screen Grab Tennessee Wildcast)   Crappie Basics: How Tennessee is Boosting Crappie [...]

A new report shows there are record numbers of Americans going fishing. However, the trend may not last as the research also indicates kids are giving up fishing faster than before, especially young girls. (Photo: Richard Simms, CrappieNOW Editor)   Fishing Participation Hits Record High—But Can it Last? by Richard Simms, CrappieNOW Editor The post-pandemic […]

  Snag Less, Catch More: Lure of the Month is the Brushoff Jig by Terry Madewell I heard it first as a youngster from my crappie fishing mentor: “If you aren’t hanging up occasionally, you’re not fishing in the right places for crappie.” While his sage advice rang true based on our experiences, I didn’t […]

It’s every angler’s worst nightmare, hooking yourself, or worse yet, hooking a friend. But depending upon where you’re hooked, it’s possible the accident doesn’t have to end your fishing day. (Photo: Richard Hines)   When Fishing Gets You Hooked, Literally! by Richard Hines If you’ve fished for any length of time, chances are you know [...]

Lake Guntersville is much more than just a bass lake. The crappie population thrives on the lake and can be caught in a variety of ways year-round. (Photo: Greg McCain)     Beyond Bass: Discover Guntersville’s Underrated Crappie Fishing by Greg McCain Many fishermen think of Lake Guntersville as synonymous with that other fish. The […]

Memories of August Nights August is a month of hot, humid and uncomfortable weather. For an outdoors guy like me, staying inside in the air conditioning is hard to do. I spend a lot of time in the house writing stories like this one. On August mornings, as the sunrise comes, I go outdoors. It […]

If you’re like the author, you will likely be shocked by the amount of bait that can be attracted by your underwater lights while night fishing. And in most cases, game fish, including crappie, will quickly be attracted to that bait.   Crappie Basics: Beat the Heat and Bring the Bite by Richard Simms, CrappieNOW […]

Besides patience, one of the very first things CrappieNOW Editor Richard Simms taught his grandson was to never reel in a fish in too far. It’s a common error by novice anglers, but reeling fish up close to the rod tip can potentially break the rod tip. Or, if you’re trying to net the fish, […]

Driftmaster’s new neon yellow Pro Series rod holders light up under black light, but look good day or night. Engineered with a lifetime guarantee and a no-slip positive lock system, they’re ready to handle whatever you can throw at them and look good doing it. (Photo courtesy Driftmaster)   Crappie Basics: Driftmaster Debuts Bold New […]

Blue Bank Resort Head Guide Billy Blakley shows Vernon Lovejoy how he uses forward-facing sonar to help track down Reelfoot Lake crappie any time of year.     Brotherhood, Battlefields, and Reelfoot Crappie Story and Photos by Richard Hines I was intrigued when I got the call from Vernon Lovejoy, one of my college roommates […]

Independence Day It was Independence Day several years ago. Yes, I still call it Independence Day, not the 4th of July. The news media and all the businesses trying to sell you something can call it the 4th of July if they want, but to me, it will always be Independence Day. A man and […]

Jerry Porter shows off the new West Virginia State Record Black Crappie he caught from East Lynn Lake. (Photo courtesy Jerry Porter)   West Virginia Black Crappie Record Broken by Bob McNally, Outdoor Life Jerry Porter and pals, Ron and Rodney Shelton, were having a banner morning of spring-spawning crappie action on West Virginia’s 1,000-acre […]

Virginia’s Tim White caught what clearly would have been a new IGFA World Record Black Crappie (in the catch-and-release category), however an IGFA technicality wouldn’t allow him to lay claim to it. (Photo courtesy Tim White)   Virginia Angler Misses IGFA Record Crappie Due to Technicality by Bob McNally, Outdoor Life Tim White, from Virginia, […]

Bella had a fun afternoon catching little fish and big fish! But as you can see in the video below, there is much more to learn on the water than just how to catch fish. (Photos: Emma Madan, CrappieNOW Social Media Team Leader)   Hooked on Happiness: The Magic of Taking Kids Fishing by Richard [...]

Crappie Dreams It is a beautiful late Spring morning. The rising sun reflects on the water. Birds are singing. An eagle watches me from his perch on an old dead tree. Deer are at the edge of the lake for a morning drink. I see no other fishermen. I have the water all to myself. […]

Visiting anglers look forward to the St. Croix Customer Appreciate Day. “We have anglers who make the trip to Park Falls (Wisconsin) every year, plus hundreds of new visitors each year,” said St. Croix Vice President of Sales, Steve Self. “They come from all over the country and from overseas, too.” Crappie Basics: St. Croix […]

Kendall Frederick, otherwise known as KFRED, has developed fishing rods, reels and crappie jigs. But the newest products in his merchandising arsenal are Cajun-style seasonings and fish fry batter.   Crappie Basics: KFRED Seasoning & Fish Batter by Richard Simms, CrappieNOW Editor Like so many entrepreneurs these days, Kendall Frederick’s business venture was born on […]

Imagine a sweet spot totally hidden away and inaccessible to skiers or cruisers, yet teeming with crappie. You may not know it, but there might be such a place just a cast away from your front door.   Unknown Lakes That You Should Know by Richard Hines Several years ago, I was visiting my son […]

Every crappie angler knows that brushpiles and fallen treetops are prime places to find lots of crappie. However, not all brushpiles are created equal – meaning they shouldn’t always be fished the same way. (Image courtesy Nexus Outdoors)   Dissecting Brushpiles by Tim Huffman It is really no secret to any crappie angler that the […]

The view of the crystal-clear Dale Hollow Lake from one of the rooms at Cedar Hill Marina. Known best for its smallmouth bass fishing, many people don’t know that Dale Hollow is also a crappie hotspot. (Photo: Richard Simms, CrappieNOW Editor)   Destination: Dale Hollow – Slaying Slabs by Rob Somerville Would you like to […]

In a candid interview, Blake Phillips, the creator of the Eye Hole Jig, shares how the idea for his unique jig began with a frustrated wife and a drill press. (Photo: Richard Simms, CrappieNOW Editor)     Eye Hole Jig Creator (Almost) Tells All by Richard Simms, CrappieNOW Editor The CrappieNOW and CatfishNOW teams recently [...]

BUFORD AND BO Buford and Bo live up the road from me. They are inseparable. You don’t see one without the other. Buford is Bo’s best friend and an old farmer. Bo is Buford’s best friend – a cross between a cocker spaniel and a beagle. Buford’s wife passed away a few years ago. They […]

Chasing crappie, catching sunrises. The Rez is a sight to behold at dawn, and there’s no better way to start the day. (Photo: Explore Ridgeland) Destination: Get Hooked on Ridgeland, MS by Explore Ridgeland That’s the pull you wait for. Rod bent, reel turning, and another crappie coming home. (Photo: Explore Ridgeland) If you're looking [...]

  Author Madalyn Roberts is understandably all smiles during her first-ever experience at the Brushpile Fishing Academy. (Photo: Madalyn Roberts)   Brushpile Fever by Madalyn Roberts When we talk about “crappie school,” one would usually assume we are talking about a bunch of fish hanging out around their favorite brushpile. But today we’re talking about […]

The Tough Life of an Outdoor Communicator More than 40 years ago I was selling advertising at a local radio station to support my family. The station manager knew I liked to hunt and fish. He asked me if I would like to start doing a weekly outdoor show. He even offered to pay me […]

Lure of the Month: G-Daddy Baits Hybrid by Terry Madewell I rarely encounter a unique crappie fishing bait with such a competitive, creative, and flourishing crappie lure market. The need for a particular bait to fill a niche between two options created a need for a new crappie fishing lure to develop: a hybrid lure. […]

  Crappie Basics: Z-Man Crappie Cheat Codes When is the last time you caught oodles of crappies all day on a single softbait without reaching for a replacement? In recent seasons, the rise of superplastics—those extra soft, long-lasting, buoyant and energetic baits made from ElaZtech® – have lured anglers and panfish alike with their almost […]

CrappieNOW Editor Richard Simms said chasing crappie in knee-deep water was an awesome “up-close-and-personal” experience. (Photo by Aaron Barton)   Get Your Feet Wet for Slabs by Capt. Richard Simms CrappieNOW Editor   I live in East Tennessee and primarily fish Tennessee River reservoirs. In our part of the country a crappie is considered “shallow” […]

Author Madalyn Roberts proudly displays one of her first crappie caught on her Nucanoe Frontier 12 utilizing forward-facing sonar. (Photo: Madalyn Roberts)     A Kayak Angler’s Journey Outdoors by Madalyn Roberts When I think back on my childhood, some of my best memories include my dad rounding up my sister and I and hauling [...]

Handfuls of crappie, plus lots more in the livewell, are the reason Capt. Richard Simms loves to long-line troll during the March pre-spawn period. (l-r) Bill Swan, former Tennessee wildlife commissioner, Bill Swan III and Ed Carter, former Executive Director of the Tennessee Wildlife Resources Agency. (Photo: Capt. Richard Simms) Crappie Basics: Long-line Time in [...]

Organic Food Shopping The other day, I was grocery shopping with my wife. I was amazed at all the organic foods with their green and white labels. The prices were also amazing. They were not cheap. Some of those labels were in my wife’s grocery cart. I could have bought a lot of crappie lures […]

Panfish Plastics Chigger Fry Hand poured for fishermen by fishermen, these baits come in 41 different color combinations that catch crappies. Chigger fry lures are one-inch long, have a whip tail that never stops moving, and the segmentation and four legs drives the fish crazy. Check out Wild Willy, Monkey Milk, and Hot Pink for [...]

These are some of the 2025 Weiss Lake Crappie Rodeo winners so far. Clockwise beginning on the upper left – Danny Wright of Sand Rock caught a $100 tagged fish, Brad Coley of Fort Payne caught a $100 fish, Shannon Read of Centre caught a $50 fish, Lei Winters of Cedartown caught a $100 tagged […]

Fishing with a view – Ridgeland’s rugged beauty makes every cast feel like an adventure. With wide-open waters and big skies, it’s the kind of place that reminds you why you love being out here. (Photo courtesy Explore Ridgeland) Barnett Reservoir – an Angler’s Paradise by Explore Ridgeland   If you’re looking for a fishing […]

Are Cold Crappie Worth It? A young friend of mine has a crappie fishing guide business. During Spring, Summer, Fall, and early Winter, he is busy guiding his paying clients out to catch fish. I hardly ever see or hear from him unless he sends me pictures of his clients holding stringers full of crappie. […]

Crappie anglers, including author Keith Sutton, love fishing during the spring spawning season when dozens of fish can be caught in shallow water along the shores of lakes throughout the country. (Photo: Matthew Sutton)   Crappie Spawn Preview: What to Expect and How to Prepare by Keith Sutton While the dates will vary some, depending […]

Crappie Magnet Hammer by Terry Madewell Crappies are targeted year-round, but when the calendar flips to February, hardcore crappie anglers get slab-excited. The papermouths may still be in deep water, and may not always be wildly active, but ‘the southern pre-spawn journey is coming. The pre-spawn migration from deep water to the spawning areas triggers […]

Axel Angelow’s 3-pound, 13-ounce black crappie has been certified as the new Minnesota state record black crappie. And Teresa Croy of Ottawa, Ohio is understandably all smiles as she shows off the new Ohio state record white crappie that she caught on a worm. (Photo courtesy Ohio Division of Wildlife)   New State Records Set […]

DON’T LET THE OLD MAN IN It was a sad day when country music star Toby Keith passed away from stomach cancer not quite a year ago. I have always enjoyed listening to Toby’s songs. He was a country boy from Oklahoma who made it big, but he didn’t act like it. He was always [...]

Crappie Basics: Future Angler Foundation Renamed Wildlife Forever’s newly acquired program, “Getting Families Fishing & Boating Initiative”, formerly the Future Angler Foundation, has a new home and will continue its mission to “Create New Anglers and Boaters”. Through a recently awarded U.S. Coast Guard grant, Wildlife Forever will partner with “Into the Outdoors” television program […]

“Don’t continue doing what isn’t working,” says CrappieNOW Senior Writer Tim Huffman. “Change your bait, present it slower or faster, move to deeper or shallower water, or to a different area. If you’re not catching fish, do something different.” (Photo courtesy Tim Huffman)     12 “New Year” Fishing Tips by Tim Huffman GET READY […]

CHRISTMAS LIKE IT USED TO BE  Every year, I dress for the cold and go crappie fishing before Christmas. My goal is to catch enough crappie for Christmas dinner. To me, crappie caught in cold water tastes better. It is my Christmas gift to me. I went crappie fishing with a young man from our […]

Crappie Basics: Something Shady About Crappie Fishing Video by Richard Simms On bright, sunny days – summer or winter – crappie often like shade. Anglers who shoot docks or any other cover know that. But sometimes huge schools of crappie seek out grander expanses of shade. And that is often more likely to occur in […]

Richard Simms, CrappieNOW Editor, has spent 50 years sharing the message of conservation and the beauty of nature. During this holiday season, he simply wishes all the words he’s written have not been in vain. (Photo: Richard Simms)   A Christmas Wish from the Editor by Richard Simms There you sit, surfing around on the […]

THANKSGIVING CRAPPIE by Larry Whiteley I look forward to Thanksgiving this year and all our family coming over. All but one of our kids and grandkids live in other states and are busy with their lives. So, Thanksgiving and Christmas are the only times we get to enjoy being together with all of them. I […]

Lure of the Month: Berkley Power Switch by Terry Madewell   Forward-facing sonar (FFS) has changed the game for crappie fishermen. This impressive tool provides instant feedback that shows anglers a crappie’s reaction to a specific lure or presentation. Like it or not, FFS eliminates a lot of the guesswork to determine whether the fish [...]

CrappieNOW Editor Richard Simms won a 1st Place Award for this B&W photo of two anglers using forward-facing sonar to seek out trophy-sized crappie on Sardis Lake in North Mississippi. (Photo: Richard Simms, CrappieNOW Editor) CrappieNOW/Simms Garner Outdoor Writing Awards by CrappieNOW Staff CrappieNOW Editor Richard Simms, and CrappieNOW Magazine, garnered an impressive array of […]

The Reef Runner Cicada bladebait, like similar lures, creates a vibration in the water that is irresistible to jumbo slabs like this. (Photo: Keith Sutton)   Big Bad Bladebaits by Keith Sutton For crappie anglers who typically use jigs or minnows to entice their quarry, bladebaits might seem like the misfits of the fishing-lure world. […]

I LOVE AUTUMN by Larry Whiteley Autumn is a time that lingers in your heart and mind. After a hot summer, cooler temperatures refresh our bodies and souls. The landscape is awash with colors. Sunsets are coppery. Something within you yearns to be outdoors soaking in the many wonders of the autumn season. Some of […]

Barry Morrow is famous for jigging. He uses a stiff Todd Huckabee rod and heavy line to feel more bites and to quickly swing fish into the boat. (Photo by Tim Huffman) Technique-Specific Rods for Crappie by Tim Huffman Choosing the right screwdriver, wrench or other tool is important for doing a job right. It’s […]

Too Much Screen Time by Larry Whiteley In today’s world, we spend too much time watching or using screens of smartphones, tablets, gaming consoles, TVs, and computers – and yes, with forward-facing sonar, even fish finders. Most children aged 8-12 in the United States spend 4-6 hours a day looking at screens. Teenagers spend up […]

Matt Xenos has been producing crappie fishing videos for many years. In this segment he explains why the Fall transition might actually start happening in September, even if daytime temperatures haven’t cooled off much.   Crappie Basics: Summer/Fall Transition by Richard Simms, CrappieNOW Editor If you’re a few decades old, like me, you remember a […]

Product Buzz, by Scott Mackenthun Trika Rods 6X: Medium Light, Extra Fast   An independent company with engineering expertise in hunting has made the crossover to fishing. Trika builds high performance specialty rods with incredible sensitivity on light, carbon fiber frames with Fuji guides. These lightweight rods are designed to transmit everything to the angler’s [...]

A new book soon to hit the shelves strives to teach youngsters that every species of fish is special, whether it is like crappie and highly-sought after by anglers or whether it’s a trash fish” that anglers despise. All Fish are Awesome by Richard Simms, CrappieNOW Editor There is a new book about to hit […]

A White Crappie was caught and painted with Sumi ink, then delicately pressed onto Kozo paper to transfer the ink. Following the drying process, Sumi ink was applied to enhance the fish’s lifelike appearance. The artwork is securely affixed to a heavy deckled edge watercolor paper through dry mounting. Gyotaku, for Fun or for Profit by [...]

FISHING BUDDY Six-year-old Hudson is excited. He is going crappie fishing with Papa Larry for the first time today. His fishing partner is not his real Grandpa. He lives next door. Hudson has called him Papa Larry since he was little. They loaded the coolers, snacks, and fishing equipment in the truck and were away […]

CrappieNOW Editor Richard Simms is also a professional fishing guide. He knows all the tricks of the trade. But when taking his 3-year-old grandson fishing, he knows it is critical to keep it simple. (Photo: Priscilla Simms-Roberson)   Simple Steps to Better Fishing by Tim Huffman These days many anglers are learning that a kayak [...]

Tight-lipped summer crappie can usually be coaxed to bite if you try some special tricks. (Photo: Keith Sutton)   The Ultimate Guide to Dog Days Crappie by Keith Sutton   Unlike many people believe, Dog Days have nothing to do with lazy dogs lying in the shade. The ancient Greeks actually coined the phrase after […]

INDEPENDENCE DAY  Despite what you see and hear from online and big box retailers trying to get your hard-earned money, it is not the 4th of July holiday. Everything you hear and see on television and social media is the 4th of July. We are celebrating Independence Day on the 4th of July. Like most […]

Lure of the Month: Berkley Gulp! Alive! Minnow by Terry Madewell Crappie-catching lures are evaluated in multiple ways, and for me the first is to gauge results on the day I’m fishing it as a simple proof-of-performance criteria. Another factor is longevity of that performance over multiple trips. When fishing with a lure I’ve used […]

Product Buzz by Scott Mackenthun Macula Tackle Easy Tie Eyelet Jigs Independently owned and operated in Minnesota, Macula Tackle jigs all feature easy tie eyelets in a variety of fish-catching color patterns and sizes. If you’ve struggled with being able to see eyelets without a set of cheater glasses, these jigs are a perfect solution. [...]

A FATHER’S DAY FISHING TRIP He awoke from a good night’s sleep and lay in his tent listening to owls hooting and crickets chirping. It was Father’s Day and his thoughts were about his Dad. “Haven’t done that in a long time,” he said to himself. He left his sleeping bag, put on some clothes, […]

  Lure of the Month: Game Changer Bait Crappie Fry by Terry Madewell Competition in the crappie fishing lure market is high and the result for crappie fishermen is an ever-growing opportunity to upgrade equipment and tackle. Lure designers competing in this high-energy market must blend a combination of factors to produce lures that compete […]

Visible stumps are hotspots that should never be ignored by a crappie angler any time of year. But not all stumps are created equal. You may have to fish a bunch of different stumps to find the one that for some reason, holds fish. (Photo: Keith Sutton)   Tracking Down Nomad Crappie by Keith Sutton […]

Crappie guide Brad Chappell shows of a Barnett Reservoir slab. Overall, he says “The Rez” might produce smaller crappie than the trophies found in Grenada and Sardis to the north, but it makes up for it in numbers. (Photo: Richard Simms)   Ridgeland, MS - Barnett Reservoir Host CrappieNOW Media Camp by Richard Simms, CrappieNOW [...]

Product Buzz by Tim Huffman   High-Performance Gloves from Fish Monkey Fish Monkey is a leading brand glove for fishermen. They are high performance gloves that will help you safely handle fishing this summer. The Stubby Guide Glove is a great choice offering UFP 50+ sun protection, with a short cut and construction for second-skin […]

Sometimes small water can pay big dividends, especially in Kentucky. (Photo: Richard Simms)   Big Crappie from Small Kentucky Lakes Every spring, anglers pursuing crappie during the spring spawn flock to large reservoirs such as Kentucky Lake, Lake Barkley, Barren River Lake or even Green River Lake. However, crappie fishing in the big lakes is […]

FISH’S LAST FISHING TRIP You met Fish last year in this column. He is now 90 years old and still fishing as much as possible. It is early on a Memorial Day morning. Like last year, Fish is alone in his old 1960 aluminum boat. He still misses his wife and son. Both are in […]

Lowrance released their new line of Eagle electronics, starting as low as $120, designed with features commonly found in high-end marine electronics. (Photo by Brad Wiegmann) Electronics: Affordable Fish-finders by Brad Wiegmann We all know that these days it is easy to spend literally thousands of dollars on fish-finding electronics if you want. But let’s […]

WHAT WILL YOU LEAVE BEHIND YOU WHEN YOU GO? I was driving to the lake to meet a friend to go crappie fishing. A song called Three Wooden Crosses came on the radio. It describes four passengers riding on a bus in the dark of night on the way to their destination. There was a […]

Crappie actually cannot see any better than you can in muddy water. However, they have highly developed sensory organs you don’t have. And those organs lead them to food, or to your lures or bait. (Photo: Ron Wong)   Muddy Water Won’t Stop Your Crappie-Catching by Ron Wong   It is true – April showers […]

Kris Mann says it’s important to match your jig tail to the technique you’re using. The right action will lead to good success as displayed here.   Choosing the Right Jig Tail & Blade by Tim Huffman No one jig is perfect for every situation. A tail with good action today may be terrible tomorrow. […]

  Live Roamer’R, by Bobby Garland The Live Roam’R was designed to target roaming crappie while using forward-facing sonar, although it will work with other techniques, too. Its 1.75-inch size is a perfect size for scoping. A realistic minnow imitation look makes it good for muddy, stained and clear waters. A good action is important, […]

LISTEN TO THE SOUNDS OF NATURE Nature sounds surround us while we are out on the water. If we pause long enough from reeling in fish and listen, some of those sounds will stir us and touch our souls. The sound of a majestic eagle as it flies over the lake, searching for fish like […]

Austin Dabdoub tosses a slab into the ice chest as Jim Bates (a.k.a. Paw Paw) reels in another one. (Photo: Keith Lusher)   Teaching Old Dogs New Tricks by Keith Lusher   I’m sure you’ve heard the saying, “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.” It insinuates that as humans, we tend to get […]

Tim Huffman’s has released his latest book to help anglers catch more crappie. This newest book includes techniques specifically for folks who use forward-facing sonar along with great information for those who don’t.   Crappie Basics: Huffman Releases New Crappie Fishing Book by Richard Simms, CrappieNOW Editor Tim Huffman, CrappieNOW Co-founder and Senior Writer, is […]

This fish was originally declared a new state record by the Kansas Department of Wildlife & Parks (KDWP). However, the record has been revoked. Officials said upon further investigation, including confiscation of the fish and an x-ray, biologists say ball bearings had been stuff into the fish’s stomach. (Image courtesy Kansas Department of Wildlife & […]

It was a February day. I was planning to go out crappie fishing with my son. We live in the Midwest, so winters usually are not too bad. When I looked out the window, the wind was blowing so hard the snow was falling horizontally, not vertically, and the roads were icy. We would wait […]

When snow starts to fall most of us have a tendency to curl up inside beside the fireplace, or a heater as the case may be. But our friends at Bobby Garland say, once it is safe to travel, don’t ignore some great cold weather crappie opportunities. (Photo: Richard Simms)   Crappie Basics: Cold Weather […]

The key to a good setup includes holders that keep rods in the boat, rods are easy to reach, and holders allowing easy rod removal when there is a bite or a fish is on. (Photo: Tim Huffman)   Rod Holder Basics, A Critical Detail by Tim Huffman   Just like everything else in the [...]

Aaron Wavra, a Senior Product Manager for Berkley Fishing, admits that, while fairly well-known in the northern states, Berkley is likely being outpaced in marketing to crappie anglers in the South. Berkley Beefing Up on the Crappie Market by Richard Simms, CrappieNOW Editor I recently ran a quick, totally unscientific survey on my Facebook page. […]

TriPolymer by KastKing An advanced monofilament uses a triple cross head process to form KastKing’s next generation line. The three nylon layers create low light refraction very similar to Fluorocarbon. The company reports line is supple and smooth, resulting in little friction and longer casts. It’s abrasion resistance exceeds traditional monofilament and Fluoro, along with […]

THE WINTER WARRIORS Several years ago, some friends and I started a New Year’s Day tradition. We do not sit in the warmth of our homes watching football. We go crappie fishing. Our wives and people who know us call us crazy and a few other things. That doesn’t stop us. Nothing stops us. We […]

CrappieNOW Editor Richard Simms uses a drone to capture some awesome crappie-catching action, and share with you some tips on finding crappie in the current.   Crappie Basics: Read the Current by Richard Simms, CrappieNOW Editor CrappieNOW Editor Richard Simms was out fishing solo last winter on his home water – Chickamauga Lake on the [...]

CrappieNOW Editor Richard Simms (left) and his friend, Dickey Porter, each show off a black and white crappie. Each holds a white crappie in their right hand and a black crappie in their left hand.   Crappie Basics: Black vs White by Richard Simms, CrappieNOW Editor This little morsel is for the very beginning crappie […]

Crappie often school in cold weather and related closely to the deep sides of ledges where structure is located. Here you can see where author Steve McCadams has dropped a marker on a particular piece of structure.   Cold Crappie Warm Your Heart by Steve McCadams   Nothing chases away the chill like a hot […]

Tons of crappie anglers use only artificial lures. However, most crappie anglers – amateur or professional – won’t get in the boat unless they have a bucket full of live bait. (Photo: Richard Simms)     From Hatchery to Hook by Keith Lusher   Shiners – they are the number one choice for baitfish across […]

Scott MacKenthun is a CrappieNOW contributor and a Minnesota fisheries biologist. He understands better than most the lure of catching Minnesota crappie under ice. (Photo: Richard Simms)   Destination: Bemidji, MN by Tim Huffman   If you’re looking for an adventure to the far north – the land of wolves, northern lights, national forests and […]

The eyes of a baitfish are a key component of any lure’s profile. But when those eyes double as a scent attractor, you’ve got “winner-winner, crappie-dinner” formula. The Crappie Magnet Eye Hole jig is the “Lure of the Month” for December, 2023 for multiple reasons. As a stand-alone jighead and hook, the Eye-Hole Jig is […]

A CHRISTMAS STORY It was Christmas Eve morning. I decided to escape the hustle and bustle of Christmas and go crappie fishing. On this cold day, I know I will find my quarry congregated around brush piles and standing timber. When caught in winter’s cold water, they always taste better to me. I put on […]

It’s always fun to find, and catch, fish on your own. But sometimes, especially when fishing “new water,” hiring a guide can be the difference between a tough day and a full stringer. (Photo: Richard Simms, CrappieNOW Editor)     16 States Represented on CrappieNOW Find-a-Guide Page by Richard Simms, CrappieNOW Editor   Earlier this […]

Alabama crappie guide Lee Pitts demonstrates how he casts a float & fly – one of his favorite December crappie-catching techniques.   Crappie Basics: Winter Float & Fly by Richard Simms, CrappieNOW Editor It may not be true everywhere, but in many southern reservoirs, crappie don’t always retreat to deep water in early winter. Especially [...]

Bundled up against winter’s cold, the author’s fishing party enjoys the season’s peace while waiting for a bite on Arkansas’ Lake Greeson. (Photo: Keith Sutton)   Cold Days on Quiet Waters by Keith Sutton   It’s cold today on 7,000-acre Lake Greeson west of Hot Springs, Arkansas. Think Antarctica. In winter. At night. My fishing […]

Veteran guide Steve Blake, the author, and his granddaughter, Caty Franklin, were all smiles after a successful trip on Truman Lake in Missouri.     A Guide to Hiring a Guide by Brent Frazee Some of you have put your rods and reels away and closed the books on the 2023 fishing season. But it […]

TAKE A VETERAN CRAPPIE FISHING  The month of November has two special days. Veterans Day and Thanksgiving Day. I personally feel the thanks we give on Thanksgiving Day should be something we do every day or every time we get a chance. That is especially important when it comes to our veterans. We all have […]

Lure of the Month: Baby BallerZ by Terry Madewell   Competition inspires lure creators to be innovative when generating new lure concepts as they’re developed, tested, refined, and implemented. The latest entry into the crappie-fishing world from Z-Man baits is a unique grub sculpted with a pyramidal cross section, with the goal being to develop […]

Product Buzz by Tim Huffman Eye Hole Jig, by Crappie Magnet No bait scent is needed when crappie are aggressively feeding. However, crappie are often neutral or negative so it’s important to have every advantage possible. Fishermen have frequently proven that a scent can increase the number of bites. Crappie Magnet has teamed up with [...]

The Wonderful Days Of October The bright, brisk days of October bring new energy and vigor for doing yard work, finishing painting tasks from summer, or moving lawn furniture inside. Crappie fishermen, like I am, are drawn to fishing waters. Most any crappie lake will do. An overnight at a nearby campground makes an October […]

Steve Jeffers (right) fishing with Allen Reed in Kentucky. The fall colors indicate one of the prime times to pinpoint crappie in shallow water. Fish can be caught year-round, but fall and spring are the best times for the approach.   Unique SpiderScoping Approach Targets Shallow Crappie by Greg McCain     For years, Steve […]

Lure of the Month: Live Roam’R by Terry Madewell A highly realistic minnow imitation that’s adaptable to fall and winter crappie fishing scenarios.   The reality for crappies is that minnows are a prime food source, the obvious reason many crappie lure profiles mimic minnows. Certainly, other forage contributes to their lifestyle, but minnows have [...]

Obviously fishing is the major drawing card to Grenada Lake among the CrappieNOW crowd, including CrappieNOW Publisher Dan Dannenmueller (left) and partner, Nick Deshano with Off Shore Tackle. But many people don’t realize what an incredible array of other attractions are in the area, whether you fish or not. (Photo: Ryan Rodriquez)   Grenada, MS: […]

Northland says that their new Tungsten Crappie King Fly will be outfitted with an ultra-sharp, perfectly-proportioned hook designed for the delicate mouths of panfish. (Photo courtesy Northland Fishing Tackle)   Crappie Basics: Northland Introduces Tungsten Crappie King Fly by Richard Simms, CrappieNOW Editor   Northland Fishing Tackle is a well-known name in providing great products [...]

Lindsey loves to fish for crappie in the month of September – especially alongside her father, Kody. She highly recommends everyone try September crappie fishing.     The Reel Deal: Hooked on September Crappie by Lindsey Lucas   September has always been one of my favorite months for crappie fishing. The days are still warm, […]

AUTUMN IS FOR LOVERS OF THE OUTDOORS Summer is nearing its end. I will be glad to see it go. My calendar says that autumn arrives on September 23rd. The bright, brisk days of autumn stir us to get into the great outdoors. The other three seasons are good, and we enjoy them, but autumn […]

Jim Bates bought over $1,000 worth of lures when he got into crappie fishing. Now he just has to decide which one to use on his next crappie trip. (Photo: Keith Lusher)     Inside the Mind of a Crappieholic by Keith Lusher   As fisherman, we all have our own little idiosyncrasies. Even the […]

Lure of the Month: Fin Spin by Terry Madewell   The Fin Spin series of lures provides crappie fishermen with a highly adaptable, and effective, crappie-catching tool. (Photo courtesy Jeff Smith) Fishermen need an edge when seeking a crappie’s attention and the eye-catching magnetism of a small spinner in late-summer and fall can provide that advantage. A great [...]

A meal of crappie or other panfish fried with potatoes and onions on the side makes a treat your fishing companions will love. (Photo: Keith Sutton)     Shore Lunches Make Fishing Trips Unforgettable by Keith Sutton Fresh fish never tastes better than when it’s cooked on the shore of the lake or river where […]

The Reel Deal: Baiting the Beasts by Lindsey Lucas   Here in Missouri, our favorite fish to catch is crappie, also known as papermouths. From time to time, however, we all tend to want to branch out and fish for something different. Trust me, there are LOTS of different things to catch in Biloxi, Mississippi. […]

HOW ARE YOU LIVING YOUR DASH?  When you die, there will be two dates on your tombstone, the date you were born and the date you died. What matters the most is not the dates. What matters most is the dash between those two dates. You see, that dash represents your life. It is all […]

Birmingham, Alabama is known for lots of things. But after September, the city will add another major event to its resume as Crappie Expo 2023 makes its way to the heart of Dixie.   Crappie Basics: Mark Your Calendar for Crappie Expo 2023 by Richard Simms, CrappieNOW Editor   After a record-breaking year in Branson, […]

Crappie Basics: New Hand Tied Hair Jig Joins the Mr. Crappie Lineup by Richard Simms, CrappieNOW Editor   The new Mr. Crappie Shoo Shiner is a hand-tied feather jig that is designed for the all-around angler with panfish as their target. The Shoo Shiner is available in 1/16 oz., 1/32 oz., and 1/64 oz. options. […]

Lure of the Month: Crappie Tamer by Terry Madewell   Crappie fishing is a year-round sport, but it takes a dedicated angler to put slabs in the boat during August. Pair that angler with a crappie lure specifically designed to tame a crappie in any weather and we’ve got a winning combo. Crappie can be [...]

The Great Outdoors by Larry Whiteley   ALONE ON THE LAKE It was a Monday morning in July. He was alone on the lake. He had seen many sunrises in his life but none this beautiful. He dropped his jig near some bushes where his Garmin LiveScope showed him there were crappies. He saw the […]

Lindsey says that many times storytellers don’t always tell the WHOLE story, leaving out some of the things that didn’t go quite right. On this particular day, crappie were caught but there were some not-so-fun trials and tribulations getting there.   The Reel Deal: That Day That Got Away by Lindsey Lucas   It was […]

Crappie Products Buzz by Tim Huffman   Outdoor Edge RazorSafe EDC Lite 250 This knife has become my newest best friend. It’s light, easy to carry and tougher than I expected. The handle is non-slip and easy to hold. The blade is razor sharp and thin, so it cuts through most things like butter, including […]

Brad Chappell says teaching is a major part of guiding. It may be simple casting, rigging a jig or teaching basic to complex electronics. (Photo: Tim Huffman)   Crappie Guide Do’s and Don’ts by Tim Huffman   You pay good money to hire a guide. So, what are some things you can do to insure […]

Side imaging sonar allows crappie anglers to search and find schools of crappie fast before dropping the trolling motor to fish. Whereas baitfish often appear as a “cloud,” crappie will also often be in tight bunches, but individual fish are still easily discerned. (Photo courtesy of Greg Robinson)     Is that a crappie? by [...]

Lure of the Month: Boogie Shad 5 by Terry Madewell   The first crappie I caught on a crankbait, so many years ago, was a ‘happy accident.’  I was targeting largemouth bass, but the diminutive size and realistic forage profile of that lure tempted a big crappie to eat it. My next cast was to […]

Lindsey Lucas and her Dad, Kody, with a few crappie they put in the boat with some proven techniques.               Unlocking the Secrets of June by Lindsey Lucas Crappie fishing in June must be one of my favorite times to fish. The warm weather combined with family time and […]

Lure of the Month: Micro Shad FryZ by Terry Madewell An appealing and highly durable soft-plastic lure that will catch multiple fish without having to be replaced. Soft plastic lures designed for crappie fishing are by nature, considered delicate morsels replicating a profile of something crappie love to eat. When Z-Man Fishing products angler David [...]

The Great Outdoors by Larry Whiteley   A SPECIAL FATHERS DAY As he sleeps there’s a smile on his face. He must be dreaming about going fishing. He feels someone kissing him on the cheek. Through sleepy eyes he sees Mom. In his grogginess he hears her say, “You better get up, it’s Father’s Day […]

A Road Runner tipped with a minnow is a deadly bait for slow trolling, dipping and other techniques. Give crappie a choice of spinner or no-spinner and let them show you which one they like. (Photo: Tim Huffman)   Minnow Basics, Tips & Tricks by Tim Huffman   No one can deny that live minnows […]

The complete line of deep diving PICO crankbaits covers every fishing color you would ever need to troll with, wherever you fish. (Photo: Brad Wiegmann)     Choosing Crankbait Colors by Brad Wiegmann   What comes in more colors than a bag of Skittles? The answer is crankbaits designed for trolling for crappie. The huge […]

Longtime crappie guide and outdoor writer Steve McCadams says on Tennessee’s Kentucky Lake, fishermen can usually find great crappie fishing at the end of the rainbow. (Photo: Richard Simms)     Destination: Paris Landing State Park, Tennessee by Keith Sutton A trip to this Kentucky Lake hideaway may be just what the doctor ordered for […]

Lindsey shares her experience at one of her favorite tournaments to fish. She also shares some exciting news that not many 16-year-old kids get to experience.               Big Mama Memories I saw my rod tip dip and as I went to grab it, my Dad also yelled, “Fish on.” […]

Crappie Products Buzz by Tim Huffman   Bait-Pop: Live Imaging Sonar Intensifier Like all products in this company’s long history, Bait-Pop provides a scent to help attract and entice crappie. Any fisherman can use this paste to get more hits. While Bait-Pop has great scent, it was primarily developed for live-imaging sonar (LIS) users. The […]

Lure of the Month: Mayfly by Terry Madewell A highly realistic profile of a favored crappie forage gives anglers an edge. Being a mayfly is tough because that critter is at the top of every crappie’s hitlist as a preferred food source. Fame begins with a name in terms of marketing and fishing with a […]

The Great Outdoors by Larry Whiteley   A MAN CALLED FISH His name is Joe. Those that know him call him Fish. He is 89 years old. It is an early May morning. The sun is rising over the forested hills surrounding the lake. Birds are beginning to sing. Crows are cawing at each other. […]

Tommy Akin (top left) and Ryan Fisher have been hired to oversee public relations and marketing for Bait-Pop, an attractant designed specifically for live-imaging sonar (LIS) users. The paste “intensifies” the visibility of a bait on any forward-facing sonar.     Bait-Pop Hires Two New Professionals by Richard Simms   Bait-Pop, Inc. announces two important […]

The new Kansas state record white crappie was 18 inches long with a 14-inch girth.     Crappie Basics: New State Record White Crappie in Kansas by Richard Simms   CrappieNOW sends a big congratulatory shout-out to Bobby Parkhurst from Topeka, Kansas. Parkhurst caught a 4.07-pound white crappie that has recently been officially recognized as […]

CRAPPIE AND MOREL MUSHROOMS When out crappie fishing this month, there is a delicious treat waiting for you besides the crappie you catch. Motor back in a wooded cove, tie your boat up to a tree, and get out and go hunting for morel mushrooms. Start searching near certain trees favored by morels like ash, […]

We might be in the midst of prime Spring fishing, but Reel Deal columnist Lindsey Lucas keeps having flashbacks to cold weather slabs.    The Reel Deal: Flashback to Cold Weather Slabs by Lindsey Lucas   As most crappie fishermen are looking forward to, or already enjoying the prime spring crappie fishing, I keep having […]

Life-sized replicas of yellowfin tuna and dolphins swim in a massive artificial seascape at the Wonders of Wildlife Aquarium and Museum in Springfield, Missouri. (Photo: Richard Simms)   Wonders of Wildlife: A Treat for the Entire Family by Richard Simms There is a good chance that you are one of the 200 million people who […]

IGFA, the organization responsible for keeping official world record fishing listings, has established a special world record category for kids only. (IGFA Photo)   IGFA Establishes World Records for Kids Only by Richard Simms   The International Game Fish Association (IGFA), the global conservation nonprofit that manages world records for all game fish species worldwide, […]

Lure of the Month: Guppy Gobbler by Terry Madewell   April typically produces wide-open crappie fishing, but even during prime-time, slabs can be finicky in their menu choices, so fishing a lure with profile versatility is always a good idea. But it can be especially important in April. Changing weather patterns and crappie morphing in-and-out […]

Dan Dannenmueller uses slip corks when fish want a slow or stopped presentation. He says the beauty of slip corks is that you can use them whether you’re fishing shallow, mid-depth or deep water. (Photo: Tim Huffman) Slip Corks Produce Fun and Action by Tim Huffman Feeling a crappie “thump” a jig is awesome, but [...]

Lindsey goes ice fishing for the first time ever. Accompanied by her mother, Rachel, and father, Kody, the Lucas family was hosted by Hank Kohler on a 3-day adventure on the ice.     The Reel Deal: Snow Dogging for Minnesota Slabs by Lindsey Lucas   Minnesota is known as the North Star State because [...]

Product Buzz by Tim Huffman   Charlie Brewer Slider – Midsize Grub Slider Grubs have a long history of catching crappie. The 2.5-inch Midsize Grub is their newest addition to their quality lineup of baits. A Midsize Grub is a great choice for an all-in-one body because it has any length a fisherman might need. […]

The top team on the professional crappie circuit these days, Hayden and Dan Jeffries – fishing under the ACT circuit’s new “Catch, Weigh and Release” format – seem to be unbeatable so far. (ACT Photo)   American Crappie Trail Goes to “Catch, Weigh and Release” Format   Seemingly following in the footsteps of the Major […]

Anglers can change chart speed to faster, slower or factory setting. (Photo by Brad Wiegmann). Changing Chart Speed for Better Sonar Imaging by Brad Wiegmann Fishfinders collect data and display it on a screen and with the exception of live imaging sonar, the imaging scrolls from right to left. Everything you are seeing is the [...]

Niblets in an Eye Hole Jig plus Crappie Magnet plastics equals the perfect slab-catching combo.   Crappie Basics: Major Merger of Lure Companies Crappie Magnet has teamed up with Eye Hole Jig to bring revolutionary products to the crappie fishing world. Through this merger, Blake Phillips, the inventor of the Eye Hole Jig, and his […]

Mississippi power troller Les Smith holds a summer crappie taken on a large Pro Series Crappie Magnet, a spinner head jig. His choices for best lakes include Arkabutla, Grenada and Sardis (in that order), all in our top 12 list. (Photo: Tim Huffman)   An Even Dozen Best Crappie Lakes for 2023 by Tim Huffman […]

This nice crappie fell for a 1/16th ounce Pro Series Road Runner jig with a gold willow leaf blade, longline trolled on the Tennessee River in March. (Photo: Richard Simms)     Lure of the Month: Road Runner by Terry Madewell A tried and true crappie-catcher   (Editor’s Note: Please welcome outdoor writing veteran, Terry […]

Perhaps in honor of Valentine’s Day, Reel Deal columnist Lindsey Lucas could resist giving her crappie a little kiss. Fishing with her Dad, Kody (left), and CrappieNOW publisher Dan Dannenmueller, they found some cold winter crappie.                 Quick and Easy Winter Crappie by Lindsey Lucas   It’s that […]

Hot Pot Crappie Chowder by Vernon Summerlin   (Editor’s Note: With great sadness, we share that CrappieNOW’s resident chef, Vernon Summerlin, is retiring. Vernon has been bringing us top-notch crappie recipes for more than a decade but he’s decided it’s time to write less and hopefully fish more. For his final CrappieNOW recipe, Vernon brings […]

The new Lowrance Pro is capable of doing two simultaneous views at the same time on the same unit. Next Generation Marine Electronics Unveiled by Brad Wiegmann Like many things in the electronics arena, marine electronics continue to advance by leaps and bounds every year. The next surge of new products was released by Lowrance [...]

Fishing guides are, or at least should be, highly experienced anglers with lots of great answers to the hardest fishing questions. But sometimes potential clients seem to think guides might have a crystal ball and actually be able to see into the future.   Crappie Basics: Questions to NOT Ask a Fishing Guide by Richard […]

Most anglers equate bobber fishing with shallow water. But Kyle Lasater demonstrates how he uses slip bobbers to pull crappie from 20 feet deep.   Crappie Basics: Slip Bobbers on the Bluffs If like to catch crappie in February but aren’t sure where to start, odds are one of the best places to begin is [...]

The ideal tackle box or bag includes storage space for all the lures, hooks, bobbers, sinkers and other fishing paraphernalia an angler might need during a day on the water. (Photo: Keith Sutton)   How to Stuff a Crappie Tackle Box By Keith Sutton “A coffee can will suffice, although you may want something even […]

The day after homecoming Lindsey was sporting very pretty nails. But that didn’t stop her from spending a cold day on the water with her dad, hoping to win a nice paycheck.     The Reel Deal: Pretty Nails and Flipping Bails by Lindsey Lucas   “Dress warm, it’s only going to be 32-degrees,” my [...]

New Year’s Crappie Tacos by Vernon Summerlin   The taco predates the arrival of the Spanish in Mexico. There is anthropological evidence that indigenous people traditionally ate tacos filled with small fish. The term taco has been translated as “light lunch,” however, you can load them up with whatever fulfills your gastric fantasy. Lime is […]

The Great Outdoors by Larry Whiteley   NEW YEAR’S MORNING  At my age, I am not into New Year’s Eve parties or staying up late to watch the ball drop in Times Square. On the first day of the new year, I get up early. I go outside and build a campfire in the fire […]

John Godwin gained his initial fame on the TV Show, Duck Dynasty. But now he is perhaps better known as an expert crappie angler. (Photo: Richard Simms, CrappieNOW Editor)   Crappie Basics: Which Line Should I Use? Whether you're a duck hunter or not, there is a good chance you are familiar with Duck Dynasty [...]

On this particular day Capt. Brannon Kirby felt sure that switching from a basic jig head to Fin Spin jig from Crappie Magnet triggered the crappie to bite.     Crappie Basics: Sometimes a Tiny Spinner Works Magic by Richard Simms, CrappieNOW Editor   We had been spider-rigging Mississippi’s Enid Lake for far too long […]

Lindsey Lucas shows off a respectable white crappie. While not extremely distinct, one way to distinguish white crappie from black crappie is the pattern of vertical bars or stripes on the side.     The Reel Deal: Different Kinds of Crappie by Lindsey Lucas   “Set the hook,” shouted Jordan Isaacs with Freedom Guide Service. [...]

The Great Outdoors by Larry Whiteley   CHRISTMAS LIKE IT USED TO BE The magical day of Christmas is almost here. Time with family and friends is special to me. I love the smiles, the laughter, the good food and watching kids open their presents. Christmas day is also my birthday. I was born in […]

Ed McCoy shows off two good reasons it might never be too early to start longline trolling for pre-spawn crappie – at least anywhere the water isn’t frozen. (Photo: Richard Simms, CrappieNOW Editor)     Crappie Basics: Time to Think Longlines by Richard Simms, CrappieNOW Editor   Longlining for crappie is one of the best [...]

Matt Xenos has been producing crappie fishing videos for more than three years. But now he’s compiled a special series he says will help every crappie fisherman catch more fish from “Start to Finish.”     East Tennessee crappie fishing expert Matt Xenos has been producing videos specifically for crappie anglers for more than three [...]

Capt. Lee Pitts says the white crappie and black crappie get big on both Neely Henry and Weiss. (Photo: David Rainer)   Pitts Hooked on Winter Crappie Fishing on Coosa Reservoirs by David Rainer, Alabama Dept. of Conservation and Natural Resources   If you love to head to the woods this time of year to […]

Striker Predator series bibs and the Otter XT Pro X-Over Lodge flip-over-style thermal shelter won’t come cheap, but they’ll keep you warm and toasty on the ice far longer, allowing you to catch more fish. (Photo: Ken Perrotte)     Staying warm while ice fishing for crappie by Ken Perrotte   Whether you’re sitting on […]

The Great Outdoors by Larry Whiteley   SAYING GRACE When our family gathers for Thanksgiving, one of us says grace as we all hold hands and bow our heads. Saying grace before meals is a way to remember God, not our credit card, provided the meal. Even if you are not a believer, saying grace […]

Lindsey Lucas, her Dad, Kody Lucas and Guide Jordan Issacs show off some of the crappie caught on Bull Shoals Lake recently. Unfortunately, not pictured is “The one that got away.”     The Reel Deal: The One That Got Away by Lindsey Lucas   Every fisherman, or woman, has a story about “The one [...]

Product Buzz by Tim Huffman   Slab Bites Crappie fishermen catch fish without using scent, so why use it? A hungry crappie will hit anything, but neutral and negative crappie may need some coaxing. Scent increases the odds a crappie will hit a bait and hold on longer, giving you more time to detect the […]

Father-son “Team Jeffries” won the richest crappie tournament ever held last month at the Wally Marshall Crappie Expo held in Branson, Missouri. (Video Screen Grab courtesy Billy Kinder)   Crappie Basics: Team Jeffries Takes Biggest Crappie Win in History BRANSON, MO – With a total purse of $300,000, and a first-place prize of $100,000, the [...]

The Great Outdoors by Larry Whiteley   THE MAGICAL DAYS OF AUTUMN Autumn is a much-needed relief from a long, hot summer. Autumn is cool nights and mornings. A jacket or sweater hanging by the door. Wood smoke from chimneys and campfires drifts through the air. Geese honk their way south in a V- formation. […]

The Reel Deal: Balancing School and Work by Lindsey Lucas   I started to feel the fish bite, the tell-tale “thump” at the end of the line that anglers live for. I went to set the hook only to realize, embarrassingly, the “thump” I felt was my teacher tapping on my shoulder to wake up […]

Ryan Kennedy and Scott Sipe, Pro Staffers with Brushpile Fishing, show off a Green River Lake crappie. This Kentucky destination is best known for producing great numbers of fish.   Hot Lakes for Kentucky Crappie by Greg McCain   Crappie fishing possibilities are seemingly endless in Kentucky. From the mountain lakes in the eastern part […]

Whether your fishing goals include the need to catch assembly line numbers of crappies or panfish or you're attempting to trick a crazy-selective bass, Z-Man says Micro Finesse offers an answer. (Photo courtesy Z-Man)     Crappie Basics: Z-Man Introduces Micro Finesse Lures by Richard Simms   Z-Man has introduced a new line of “Micro [...]

Crappie Basics: 4th Annual Crappie Expo Expected to Break Records by Richard Simms The Greatest Crappie Show on Earth   If you haven’t already done so, mark your calendars right now for October 20th – October 22 and prepare to beat feet for Branson, Missouri at the Branson Convention Center. It’s the fourth annual Crappie […]

A backcountry cypress lake provides a beautiful setting for a fishing trip where one can ponder the mysteries of the natural world. (Photo: Keith Sutton)     Talking to the Trees: The Magic of Fishing Cypress Lakes by Keith Sutton   More than 500 years before Christopher Columbus came to America, a tiny bald cypress […]

FISHING FOR ORGANIC CRAPPIE I went grocery shopping with my wife the other day. I am usually not a good shopper unless I am in an outdoor store. As I followed her around, I was amazed at all the organic foods with green and white labels. The prices amazed me too. They weren’t cheap. Some […]

The Reel Deal: Summertime Crappie by Lindsey Lucas   We’re all anxious for Fall, but if you’ve ever roasted under the sun out in a September dove hunting field, you know summer is still with us. But don’t worry – the hotter it gets the more feverishly crappie will seek out crankbaits. Since we started […]

The Great Outdoors by Larry Whiteley   WHAT A GREAT IDEA I went grocery shopping with my wife the other day and was shocked. Usually, I don’t pay much attention to what she spends on groceries. I always figured since it was just the two of us it couldn’t cost too much. The grocery cart […]

No matter what species they’re fishing for, nothing beats the joy of introducing a youngster to fishing. As often as not, the teacher gets as much joy as the student. (Photo: Richard Simms)   TTI Blakemore – Working for Crappie Anglers by Terry Madewell    For decades the legendary fishing tackle company, TTI Blakemore, has […]

Planer boards are a good way to separate baits for a wide area of coverage. Getting them away from the boat will get bites from fish that may be spooked from under the boat, too. Crankbaits, jigs or a combination can be trolled to trigger bites. (Photo: Tim Huffman)   Alabama Oxbow Bonanza by Tim […]

The Reel Deal: Trout or Crappie by Lindsey Lucas   When I am writing and watching videos of fishing, there are always things that are missing – in my mind anyway. For example, you rarely see anyone getting a hook embedded in their shoulder. Let me tell you a story about a time my dad, [...]

Mississippi-Style Summer Tactics Can Work Anywhere by Tim Huffman   Summertime can be brutally hot but if you can stand the heat, the crappie fishing can be hot as well. Two Mississippi guides shared their favorite tactics and tips for summertime crappie – but they’ll work almost anywhere you find crappie. Pulling Cranks & Jigs […]

The Great Outdoors by Larry Whiteley   THE LARGEST ARMY IN THE WORLD  Not all, but most fishermen also hunt. So, here is something to think about. There were more than 600,000 hunters last year in Wisconsin. That number pales in comparison to the 750,000 who hunted the woods of Pennsylvania and Michigan’s 700,000 hunters. […]

The Great Outdoors by Larry Whiteley   THE BONUS Those of you that love crappie fishing may find it hard to believe there is anything more important when you go fishing than catching crappie. That is important, but it is really the bonus. When you get to the lake on an early June morning you […]

Pulling crankbaits for crappie in the summer remains a popular tradition on the central Mississippi lakes.     Crankbait Presentation slays Mississippi Slabs by Greg McCain In many ways, pulling crankbaits looms as an intimidating technique for catching summer crappie. With the conglomeration of rods, lures, electronics, and other boat accessories - plus the need-to-know [...]

An in-depth knowledge of the lakes you get to fish most can lead to nice stringers of crappie like this year-round. 11 Ways to Up Your Crappie Game by Keith Sutton A review of basic crappie fishing techniques could improve your catch rate this season.     If you are a beginning crappie angler, it’s […]

Product Buzz by Tim Huffman     75 Series Combo – BnM Pole Company  Expect comfort and great balance when using the 75 Series, 7.5-foot spinning rod by BnM Pole Company, the leader in crappie fishing poles. The one-piece construction provides true action and strength not found in a two-piece rod. It’s high-modulus graphite (a […]

The Great Outdoors by Larry Whiteley   CRAPPIE CAMPING I’ve got a great idea for you. Why not combine a crappie fishing trip with a camping trip? Both are a great escape from this crazy world we live in today.  Coming back to your campsite instead of driving back home allows you the opportunity to […]

When water levels rise into the grass and woody cover, the crappie often move there with the rising water. (Photo: Ron Wong)   Tracking Crappie Down in Rising Water by Ron Wong April showers brings May flowers.  April showers also causes all lakes, rivers and ponds to rise.  In many Corp of Engineers or Tennessee […]

The Great Outdoors by Larry Whiteley   TIME FOR TAXES   As you fill out your tax returns this month or pay to have them done, I thought you might like to know where some of your hard-earned dollars go when the government gets them from you. $384,989 of our tax dollars was spent on […]

Joel Nelson says northern lakes are plentiful, so they are usually less crowded. Crappie are in most waters, usually predictable and can be caught. (Photo: Tim Huffman)     Gaylord, Michigan for Fishing and Fun by Tim Huffman Michigan has good crappie fishing, but you don’t hear much about it. Walleye and smallmouth are king, […]

Sometimes we overlook the obvious or take certain things for granted, especially around novice anglers or boaters. We may use terms about or on our boats that sound like a foreign language to beginners. Our friends at Yamaha put together this basic primer about words, phrases and terms helpful to boaters. Boat Parts The main […]

Tim Huffman’s ninth crappie-fishing book is on the bookshelves (or web page). Professional crappie anglers and experts provide a variety of techniques, tactics and tips to help you learn ways to catch more crappie. Plus, a product guide provides a quick reference to some of the best jigs, poles and equipment available. Offering hours of […]

Someone gave me a calendar for my birthday and it has national holidays listed on it for every day on the calendar. Looking at just March there was a National Pig Day on March 1st, National Dentist’s Day on March 6th, National Biodiesel Day on March 18th and National Weed Appreciation Day on March 28th. […]

CrappieNOW Editor Richard Simms and wife, Barbara, from Tennessee, are proud to show off one of their first-ever crappie caught ice fishing. (Photo: Scott MacKenthun)   Newbie on Ice NEW PRAGUE, Minnesota - Three years ago, I met Scott MacKenthun, a Minnesota fisheries biologist and fellow outdoor writer who had come to Tennessee to catch [...]

Dan Dannenmueller says getting away from others means less-pressured fish and a quiet, peaceful day.   Fish Where Others Don‘t by Tim Huffman   Finding a unique spot, or a prime area away from the crowd, can lead to a good day of fishing. The following are a few tips from seasoned experts with examples […]

Crappie Basics: Convince Fish to Bite Under Ice by Richard Simms Crappie guide Adam Griffith lives and fishes just south of Minneapolis, Minnesota. He is also a host of the YouTube Series, The Crappie Chronicles. Griffith has lived his life on the ice and personally prefers chasing trophy crappie on hard water. However, he customizes [...]

CrappieNOW writer Scott MacKenthun shows off a healthy crappie taken under the Minnesota ice with “spikes” rigged for what he calls, “the Medusa effect.” (Photo: Richard Simms) Crappie Basics: Rig Spikes for the “Medusa Effect” by Richard Simms, CrappieNOW Editor Scott MacKenthun is a Minnesota fisheries biologist AND a CrappieNOW contributor. A fish person can’t [...]

The Great Outdoors by Larry Whiteley   TACKLE BOX MEMORIES It was a cold, nasty day so I got my old tackle box out and started cleaning it up and organizing it. There’s a lot of memories in an old tackle box. Like the Rapala that had no rear treble hooks – I had to […]

On cold frosty mornings, if you’d rather be crappie fishing than sitting by a warm fire drinking hot chocolate, call your local fisheries biologist to learn the least-fished yet productive waters in your area. (Photo: John E. Phillips)     Biologists Know Crappie by John E. Phillips Fisheries Biologist Shares Alabama Crappie Secrets   “Ask […]

Yamaha Rightwaters™ Program Recycles 10,000 Pounds of Plastic, courtesy Yamaha Communications   KENNESAW, Ga. – The Yamaha Rightwaters plastics recycling program returned more than 10,000 pounds of Polyethylene and Polypropylene sheet plastics back to base materials during 2021, proving a pilot concept the sustainability initiative hopes to expand in 2022. Yamaha Rightwaters announced the program […]

B’n’M Poles has introduced some new rods for their 75th Anniversary. One of which targets the crappie fisherman that likes to pitch and vertical jig for crappie. The new 14.2 length rod allows for all these techniques. Don’t let the length fool you, it is not heavy but yet strong. It is a beautiful rod […]

Crappie tackle storage comes in many forms, soft packs, plastic boxes, water tight boxes, leader packs and treys. Sorting through all the options can be overwhelming. Crappie Dan gives some of his choices in this video.

Sportsman’s Warehouse – Bass Pro Merger Cancelled by Richard Simms, CrappieNOW Editor   Many area outdoorsmen and women were shocked when the news broke a year ago of a potential merger between Bass Pro and Sportsman’s Warehouse. However, that deal has now been cancelled. Sportsman’s Warehouse and Great Outdoors Group LLC (Bass Pro owners) opted […]

In some areas this year, the ice was slow to thicken up. But by now most hard water anglers are exploring. Nick Linder shares some of his favorite lures when fishing early ice.   Crappie Basics – Best Baits Fishing Early Ice   Born into the legendary Linder family, Nick Lindner grew up with a […]

Don’t ever walk on ice unless you know it is at least four inches thick. Crappie Basics – Stay Safe on the Ice You will find some great ice fishing tips in this edition of CrappieNOW!. However, every year we hear tragic stories of accidents on the ice. YouTube is filled with video of sad, […]

The Great Outdoors by Larry Whiteley   A CHANGING WORLD  The past two years the world has changed dramatically. A pandemic had a lot to do with that. So did politics and many other things I don’t want to go into. I am sure we will see even more changes in 2022. Some will be […]

It’s no secret that being quiet is very important. The longer the pole, the better the chance of not spooking a crappie before the bait gets to him. A 14-foot pole is a good all-around slow-trolling pole.     Great Tips for the New Year by Tim Huffman     Where many used to avoid […]

CHRISTMAS LIKE IT USED TO BE  Every year, I dress for the cold and go crappie fishing before Christmas. My goal is to catch enough crappie for Christmas dinner. To me, crappie caught in cold water tastes better. It is my Christmas gift to me. I went crappie fishing with a young man from our […]

The author, Ken Perrotte, is understandably pleased with this Lake Washington slab. Much of what Perrotte learned on Lake Washington will translate to other shallow-water lakes in the wintertime.   Destination: Lake Washington and Greenville, Mississippi by Ken Perrotte A fun year-round crappie hotspot for the whole family   The Mississippi Delta is a magical […]

The Great Outdoors by Larry Whiteley   WE NEED THE STORY OF CHRISTMAS  Our world is divided. Vaccines or no vaccines. Mandates or no mandates. Masks or no masks. Social issues, race, gender, political parties, the economy. The list of divisions that divide us go on and on. It should be one nation under God, […]

The Great Outdoors by Larry Whiteley   BLESSINGS I am not sure I deserve it but God has sure blessed me. He has blessed me with a wonderful family and great friends. He has blessed me to be able to live in America. I know it seems kind of broken right now but it has […]

(l-r) Professional crappie angler Steve Coleman and Ronnie Capps show of one reason Lake Grenada is one of the six Mississippi reservoirs featured on Mississippi Crappie Trail. (Photo: Richard Simms)   Mississippi Crappie Trail by Larry Rea/Memphis Commercial Appeal   CrappieNOW Publisher Dan Dannenmueller and Mike Jones believe they have hit a home run in […]

Christina Young lost her 25-year-old son in a tragic cold-water drowning. She has since become an advocate, creating an organization called “Not One More,” in hopes of preventing other families from suffering the kind of loss she experienced.   "Not One More" Releases Compelling Video Following Drowning by Richard Simms In October 2020, news media [...]

The Great Outdoors by Larry Whiteley   STUMP SITTING The fall air is crisp as I start my journey up the trail. The sun starts peeking over the hills behind me. The curtain is rising and I’m not in my seat. Finally, I see it. To some people it’s just an old tree stump where […]

As often as not, when fishing for crappie using floats, the float won’t actually go under water. Frequently anglers will simply see the float wiggle or even roll over on its side. It takes a very sensitive float to allow an angler to detect those subtle strikes.   Crappie Basics – New Lite-Bite Float Signals [...]

Karlie DeMarco, 17, was understandably extremely proud to join the “3-Pound Crappie Club” while fishing on Missouri’s Lake Ozark. (Contributed Photo)   Crappie Basics – Show Us Your Fish Karli DeMarco, 17, was very happy and understandably proud when she joined the “3-Pound Crappie Club” in August. Many crappie anglers fish a lifetime and never […]

The Great Outdoors by Larry Whiteley   GET READY FOR FALL September is usually the month to say goodbye to summer and get ready for fall. The lakes become quieter after Labor Day as many boaters, skiers, tubers and jet skiers call it a season. The fish are still there. Early September they usually stay […]

Berkley is releasing several new products this month included an expanded line of Berkley PowerBait Panfish Nibbles and expanded size and color options of their pre-rigged Atomic Tubes.   Crappie Basics – New Crappie Products from Berkley Berkley is releasing several new products, expected to hit the shelves in September. The company is expanding its […]

Crappie Basics – September Crappie Behavior Where do crappie go in September? It seems climate change means that cooler Fall temperatures don’t happen as early as they once did. September can often remain quite warm, if not hot! Most folks think that means crappie remain in their same summer habits. That may be partially true, […]

Visitors and locals enjoy a leisurely stroll in Downtown Wetumpka. Photo by Erin Shockey   Wetumpka, Alabama & The Coosa River Nestled along the Coosa River is a charming, southern town that is making national headlines. To the world, Wetumpka, AL is HGTV’s largest renovation project to date, but to the residents of the small […]

No matter how calm and beautiful Mother Nature can be, we all need to remember that her power is greater than ours.   Waypoints: Reality Check Learning to fish and live life by Geremy Olson WayPoint: Fair is a concept created by humans that nature does not recognize.   You don’t have to go very […]

Product Buzz by Tim Huffman   Fin Spin Jig Head Leland Lures Jeff Smith, Owner/CEO of Leland Lures, says “We went back to the drawing board with the goal to have our Fin Spin work with spider rigging. We wanted it to spin at a very slow speed. When we got a certain angle with […]

John Godwin's face and name were very well known at the peak of Duck Dynasty TV show. The show might be over, but Godwin is using his fame to promote crappie fishing across the country. (Photo: Richard Simms)   Duck Dynasty Star has lots of Crappie Days by Richard Simms   WETUMPKA, AL. - Whether [...]

The Great Outdoors by Larry Whiteley   THE FASCINATING WORLD OF INSECTS Insects! We don’t pay much attention to them unless they are biting us, stinging us, crawling on us, bugging us or interfering in some way with whatever we are doing. Insects though are really fascinating once you get to know them. Sure grasshoppers […]

Greg Robinson reads the water and his electronics to figure out tactics.   Changing Patterns for August Crappie by Ken Perrotte   A rut can manifest itself in a myriad of ways: relationships, careers, lifestyles, depression. Then there is the fishing rut, that seemingly prolonged drought between the expenditure of your efforts and your expectations. […]

This is a common sight when fishing under the lights on most reservoirs. It is a pretty sure bet there are, or soon will be, crappie lurking beneath such massive schools of bait fish.   Leave the Light on for Crappie by Richard Simms   This might be the most over-used summer “tip” ever published […]

Fishing guide Lee Pitts swings a bragging-sized crappie aboard fishing the Alabama River recently during a CrappieNOW Writer’s Camp. Pitts says there has been an almost overwhelming demand for his services since the COVID pandemic hit last year. (Photo: Richard Simms)   COVID: There is a Silver Lining by Richard Simms It has been a […]

Well-known outdoor writer Keith “Catfish” Sutton says the next time you are cleaning crappie, save and store some fish scales. He says those scales may help “fire up” the crappie on your favorite brushpile.   Crappie Basics – An off-the-wall technique   It is definitely not a technique you hear about often, but well-known outdoor […]

John Godwin of Duck Dynasty fame says his love for crappie fishing has overtaken, and maybe passed, his love for duck hunting. (Photo: Richard Simms)   Crappie Basics – John Godwin has a request   John Godwin, former star of the popular Duck Dynasty TV show, has become an avid professional crappie angler – and […]

The Great Outdoors by Larry Whiteley   THREE GENERATIONS It was the afternoon of July 4th as the pontoon boat pulled away from the dock. An American flag hung from the bow blowing gently in the breeze. A family of three generations of soldiers were celebrating Independence Day by going out crappie fishing. The father […]

  Eastern Mediterranean countries grew thyme, an aromatic herb in the mint family Lamiaceae, for centuries before modern times. Now, dozens of varieties are available but those interested in the best culinary thymes have only a fistful of choices. The most commonly cultivated for culinary purposes is Thymus vulgaris. Those best for flavor, as well […]

There are written rules and regulations for anglers in many situations. However there are also unwritten rules that can be more difficult to follow.   Waypoints: Be Kind Learning to fish and live life. by Geremy Olson WayPoint: When you take the time to be kind instead of right, you help people grow.   As […]

Larry Whiteley shares touching and compelling stories about God, Family, God and The Great Outdoors   Many of you have been reading Larry Whiteley’s wonderful columns in CrappieNOW for years. Now Whiteley has compiled his favorite stories into a new book titled “Seasons.” We consider it a “must read.”   Generally, this will be a […]

2021 CrappieNOW Crappie Camp Writers and pros gather on the Alabama River WETUMPKA, Ala. – In late May CrappieNOW Publisher Dan Dannemueller partnered up with the Elmore County Economic Development Authority to host a collection of the some of the best fishing guides, tournament anglers and outdoor writers in Wetumpka, Alabama. The mission was to […]

No matter how much you love to fish, mornings can be incredibly painful.   Waypoints: Feelings Aren’t Truth Learning to fish and live life. by Geremy Olson WayPoint: Feelings are vital emotions that can reinforce but not replace the truth.   Do you remember your first fish? Do you remember your first limit of fish? […]

The Great Outdoors by Larry Whiteley WELCOME TO JUNE I don’t know about you but I really enjoy the month of June. It’s usually not too hot, not too cool, not too much bad weather to spoil our outdoor adventures. Flowers are blooming both planted and wild, the garden’s growing, birds are singing, hummingbirds and […]

Eric Cagle is a fan of fishing technology and says his H&H rods reflect that.   Eric Cagle on H&H Rods by Richard Simms and Tim Huffman   Alabama guide, Eric Cagle, has fished national tournaments for four years, was half of the 2018 Crappie Masters Rookie Team of the Year, 2020 Grenada Lake tournament […]

  When the weather turns hot it’s the time to think of cool foods. Coleslaw, known simply as slaw, is among those. Cabbage salad is from the Dutch term “koolsa.” This side dish consists primarily of finely shredded raw cabbage with a salad dressing, usually vinaigrette or mayonnaise. But what we’re going to do is […]

Reelfoot Lake Guide Billy Blakely shows off the kind of crappie the right technique can produce on the Northeast Tennessee Lake. (Photo: Richard Simms)   Crappie Basics – Summer Tips from the Tournament Trail CrappieNOW Senior Writer Tim Huffman talks to some crappie pros about their summer techniques: Ron Griffin “Reelfoot’s my home lake so […]

Some crappie anglers consider live bait “cheating.” But look in EVERY professional crappie angler’s boat and you are likely to see a cooler full of minnows. Sometimes they catch crappie when nothing else will. (Photo: Richard Simms)   Crappie Basics – May Flowers Mean Something   May is a tough month to write about for […]

When our outboard failed us, we had a lot of fun that fall fishing in the canoes.   Waypoints: Success Learning to fish and live life. by Geremy Olson WayPoints: Hope is a seed that sprouts and grows character in difficult times.   A couple years back we hit the water to take advantage of […]

Vermont crappie guide Capt. James Vladyka swears by Hydroglow lights to attract crappie.   Light it Up to Create Your Own Food Chain by Scott MacKenthun One crappie guide shares his nighttime crappie secret   All crappie are stimulated by changing light levels, particularly at dawn and dusk, a phenomenon known as crepuscular activity. These […]

WHAT’S SO GREAT ABOUT FISHING? Fishing is the one sport in the world where someone who takes the time to learn small things, and practices them can compete equally with anyone else. Someone in an aluminum boat with a tiller motor wearing cut-off blue jeans, a Bass Pro cap and a dirty t-shirt can sometimes […]

Spider-rigging multiple rods of the front of the boat is a tried-and-true crappie technique all across the country. In a the post-spawn period, it’s a great way to cover lots of water. (Photo: Richard Simms)   Crappie Basics – May Flowers Mean Something   What to do in May? A while back CrappieNOW.com asked some […]

Plano tackle boxes are pretty much the industry standard for fishing tackle storage. (Contributed Photo) Pure Fishing Buys Plano New owner for popular tackleboxes   Pure Fishing Inc., the world’s largest fishing tackle company, has entered into a definitive agreement to purchase Plano Synergy Holdings Inc. The purchase will include Plano Synergy’s 15 brands, which […]

Kids, like adults, naturally talk more when they are on the water…catching fish is the bonus to a good conversation.   Waypoints: How are you doing? by Geremy Olson Learning to fish and live life   WayPoint: Learning to accept a gift is harder than giving a gift. Learn to accept gifts is the starting […]

SPRING IS COMING ISN’T IT? Circle Saturday, March 20th on your calendar in red. Put that date in your phone calendar with a special alert. Or, tell Alexa to remind you that this date is the official first day of Spring. Wouldn’t it be wonderful if, on that exact date, you got up that morning […]

David Baynard’s kayak that he likes to use fishing small water is rigged for casting or slow trolling. His setup includes Driftmaster rod holders and a sonar unit. He says a kayak is great for fishing smaller waters and sloughs.   Crappie from Small Waters by Tim Huffman Small waters can provide great fishing trips. […]

        Crappie Enhanced with Lemon Plus an Exotic Twist by Vernon Summerlin A great recipe plus an additional option for some exotic flavor     Go back and pull up last month’s recipe in CrappieNOW using lemons to refresh your memory about lemons. We’re going to use them again. This time we’re […]

Fishing on foot can produce some fine strings of delicious crappie, especially in early Spring.   Walkin’ the Shore Over You by Ed Mashburn Crappie anglers fishing from the shore can have great success with big crappie   If you’re of a certain age, you may remember an old country song called “I’m Walkin’ the […]

Jon Whitlock (left) and Carroll Waddle (right) show off a good stringer from the Tennessee River caught while fishing with a guide. Waddle believes the best guides have great personality and work ethic. Sure, they should be able to catch fish, but anglers should understand that even the best guides have tough days on the […]

When we meet people where they’re at it allows growth and positive outdoor experiences.   Waypoints: Taking Time to Learn Learning to fish and live life. by Geremy Olson WayPoint: When you start with good intentions you have no need to follow through and people are left waiting for you to keep your word. When […]

Recipes: Wok-Steamed Crappie with “Instant” Preserved Lemons, by Vernon Summerlin A wok is a round-bottomed cooking pot, originating in China. But they work great for preparing delicious crappie in the USA.   The lemon, Citrus limon, is a species of small evergreen tree in the flowering plant family Rutaceae, native to South Asia, primarily Northeastern […]

Senior Writer Tim Huffman shares his take on some products for fishermen and outdoorsmen.   Product Buzz by Tim Huffman Senior Writer Tim Huffman reviews the latest buzz in products for fishermen.   Knife and Tool Sharpener – Work Sharp Ken Onion Edition Every handyman and fisherman needs sharp tools and knives. I’ve field tested […]

OPENING CAST  Hello everyone, spring has arrived for almost everyone and fishing is in full swing.  It’s time to go out and have fun fishing and learn something new every day to expand your knowledge and skills. Expanding our knowledge involves obtaining info by reading, web research, digital content, videos as well as trying out […]

Simple technique to prevent line twist when you’re respooling One of the most aggravating things a fisherman can experience is twisted monofilament. Sometimes a minor amount of line twist is unavoidable, but there is a simply technique when you are respooling new line to be sure you’re not causing that twisted line. CrappieNOW Editor Richard […]

A very basic tip today about a simple piece of equipment. Stripping off old fishing line can be cumbersome, unless you have an inexpensive Berkley Line Stripper. It’s only $13 on Amazon. Easy to use, durable and it will strip 300 yards of line per minute. CrappieNOW Editor Richard Simms demonstrates. Always be SURE to […]

Here’s a tackle box full of the rigs that we are incapable of giving away on the water.   Waypoints: Laughing Heals the Soul by Geremy Olson Learning to fish and live life   WayPoint: Learning to accept a gift is harder than giving a gift. Learn to accept gifts is the starting point of […]

    Recipes: Tips-n-Tricks to Cooking Crappie by Vernon Summerlin Lots of great crappie options   It’s a New Year at CrappieNOW and we’ve got a boat-load of articles from experts in this issue to inspire you to bundle up for a trip into the cold to catch a platter full for supper. I’ll offer […]

Working as a team will increase your ice fishing odds. Initially everyone should spread out to locate areas holding fish. Then, once found, everyone can home in on the productive area. (Photo: Ken Perrotte)   Crappie Basics Work as a Team on the Ice   Our friends at Bass Pro provide some key tips for […]

In the winter crappie often find one good spot they like and hold there for days, or even weeks. Find those spots and Tim Huffman says winter can be the best time to consistently catch limits. (Photo: Richard Simms)   Crappie Basics – Cold-blooded Crappie by Tim Huffman Everyone gets excited about springtime crappie fishing, […]

Every day on the water you have the opportunity to make memories. Laughter just helps you make good memories.   Waypoints: Laughing heals the soul Laughing is like breathing; they both keep you alive. by Geremy Olson WayPoint: Laughing heals the soul and builds friendships. Failure to laugh hardens people and leads to heartache. Laughing […]

Industrious fishermen can usually gather up lots of old Christmas trees after the holiday season. They make excellent brush piles that are likely to attract plenty of crappie or other game fish come spring. (Photo: Richard Simms)   Here’s a project to put on your calendar beginning December 26. Start gathering Christmas trees. Maybe your […]

DECEMBER DAYS  I like to take a few of my December days and get back out in the deer woods while other hunters are home by the fireplace. I’ve usually had a successful season by then so I’m out there because I want to be. Harvesting another deer is not important but if I do […]

Even on a blustery day with a little snow falling, crappie still have to eat. (Photo: Richard Simms)   Our friends at B’n’M’ poles wisely say with the onset of winter, crappie anglers need to adjust their thinking in order to find large concentrations of crappie. Crappie do feed heavily throughout the winter, though they […]

Weiss Lake guide Carlton Teague says taking crappie on a spinning rod and reel, whether casting or pulling, is a fun way to feel a tug on the line and get to fight the fish to the boat.   Catching Weiss Crappie from December to March by Tim Huffman   Weiss Lake, the Crappie Capital […]

Advances in technology continue to aid fishermen in finding structure and fish. Some wonder if we can have too much technology. (Photo: Jim Mize)   Can We Have Too Much Technology? by Jim Mize   Steve English is a third-generation fishing guide and spends most days taking crappie and bass fishermen out on the Santee […]

Spicy First Course: Crappie Soup Thinking of a way to kick off your Thanksgiving feast? Think spicy crappie soup. This hardy dish will take the edge off the hunger that’s been growing in your guests’ tummies ever since they arrived and began circling your kitchen like starving vultures. 1/2 pound crappie fillets 1/2 onion, chopped […]

Sometimes it can be difficult finding crappie in the fall turnover period but when you find them, you can often find lots of them. (Photo: Richard Simms)   Crappie Basics – Fall Turnover by Tim Huffman “You’re a hero or a zero in my part of the country in the fall,” said Oklahoma guide Todd […]

Travis Bunting (center) and his brother Charlie are regulars on the crappie circuit. While Travis enjoys using jerkbaits for crappie occasionally, Charlie isn’t so crazy about it.   Crappie Basics – Don’t Rule Out Jerkbaits by Tim Huffman   It isn’t a common technique and most hardcore crappie anglers never consider it. But the fact […]

Good crappie are part of the fun of November-December fishing. Lee Pitts shows off two good Alabama crappie!   Weiss Lake Fall Crappie Action by Tim Huffman Crappie Capital of the World No lake has a better claim to being “Crappie Capital of the World,” than Weiss Lake in Alabama. This northeastern Alabama lake offers […]

MAKE SURE YOU VOTE  It has always been surprising to me that many people choose not to vote. Voting is an important part of our democracy. It was even more surprising to me, or maybe a better word is shocked, when I recently read in an outdoors magazine that 30 to 50 percent of licensed […]

Professional crappie anglers Charles and Travis Bunting say one key in the Fall is to keep moving until you find a concentration of fish.   Crappie Basics – Keep Moving in the Fall, by Tim Huffman Charles Bunting and his son, Travis, have garnered three national crappie championships along with numerous other titles. The duo […]

Robert Carlile was born in 1969, is married with one daughter and owns a machine shop in Oklahoma. He calls Hudson and Ft. Gibson Lakes his home waters, but fishes all over the country competing in tournaments. He is in his second full year of competitive fishing, but has more top ten finishes than many […]

Chasten Whitfield is a young lady going above and beyond to help other youngsters and fishing is her greatest tool.   Chasten Whitfield works to help disadvantaged kids forget their troubles for one day, usually by sharing the joys of fishing. “Fishing is the tool I use to reach out to kids and get them […]

Three-Bowl Breaded Crappie Pan versus Skillet?   by Vernon Summerlin 1 1/2 to 2 pounds crappie fillets Salt and pepper fillets 1 /2 cup all-purpose unbleached flour 2 large eggs 2 tablespoons cold water, a splash 2 cups plain bread crumbs 1/2 teaspoon dried mustard powder 1/4 teaspoon cayenne pepper Season fillets with salt and […]

On a day when the shade of the pontoon is welcoming, crappie guide Steve English believes crappie take refuge in the brush. (Photo: Jim Mize)   Coaxing Crappie on Santee Cooper Brushpile bonanza with guide Steve English   by Jim Mize The morning sun crawled over the horizon, sluggish as I was at this time […]

No matter what kind of fish you are catching, never reel in too much line when landing the fish. In general, you want to stop reeling when your line is about two-thirds of the length of your rod. (Photo: Richard Simms)   Crappie Tips: Don’t Reel So Far When it comes to reeling in fish […]

SPECIAL MOMENTS ON AN AUGUST NIGHT  August weather has a way of making us all become slug-like, tired, sweaty and irritable. During the day I sit in the air conditioning pounding my thoughts out on my computer for another outdoor article. Sometimes I pause and look out the window at the hot sun. It won’t […]

This image from a depth finder shows a massive cloud of baitfish between 5 and 10 feet deep gathered beneath the lights under the boat. (Photo: Richard Simms)   Crappie Tips: Step-by-Step August Crappie-Catching Tired of baking in the sun? Crappie fish after the sun sets. by Richard Simms   It’s so simple it hurts. […]

Jack Smith sets lines at the start of an evening of fishing. (Photo: Ken Perrotte)   Hot Slabs in the Summertime Lighting Up the Crappie in the Sweltering Florida Summer   by Ken Perrotte Late afternoon thunderstorms in central Florida sometimes pop up with such regularity that you can, as the saying goes, “Set your […]

LILLY’S FATHERS DAY GIFT by Larry Whiteley Lilly Nelson had a great idea for a Father’s Day gift. She told her mom Amanda she wanted to take dad crappie fishing. Mom smiled and said, “He would love that but don’t you want to take your brother Timothy along?”  Lilly rolled her eyes and said, “Nooo, […]

A TIME FOR FISHERMEN May is a time for fishermen to over indulge themselves. It’s a time to sample all the great fishing that May has to offer. Mornings are made for fan casting rocky points for walleyes before jigging for slab crappie until sundown. The next day might be roll casting wooly worms under […]

Crappie Kids – Crappie Prepared to Chow Down by Scott Mackenthun   Quinn and Cora MacKenthun join their Dad, Scott, to explain how crappie are specially adapted to feed on bait fish… and hopefully your lures or minnows.

Kung Pao Crappie Tried and true delicious dish       by Vernon Summerlin     China has been known for a number of killer viruses—this ain’t one of them. This is an old tried-n-true delicious dish. You’ll find a version of this on most Asian food menus served spicy hot or not. Although Kung […]

When we teach kids how to fuse hard work and passion great things happen like raising $12,500 for a good cause. Photo by: Geremy Olson   Waypoints: Passion & Hard Work Learning to fish and live life. by Geremy Olson WayPoint: You can have all the passion in the world and achieve nothing. Passion fused […]