OPENING CAST JULY 2026
Crappie Tactics for Summertime
All of us look for new ways to catch some crappie for the dinner table or just for fun. I have a couple of techniques that have worked for Sue and me during the hot days and nights of summer.
Pulling crankbaits and plastics behind Off Shore Tackle planer boards is an excellent way to catch a bunch of good crappie. Almost everywhere we fish using this technique, we catch them on various colors of crankbaits and plastics. One hot color combo is black/chartreuse.
Chasing Offshore Crappie with Planer Boards
Keep a good selection of Off Shore planer boards handy for setting from six to a dozen rods in various water conditions. Chasing Offshore Crappie with Planer Boards Story and photos by Richard Hines I met Kentucky Lake guide Doug Wynn at last year’s Cornfield Fishing Gear’s Demo Day when he was giving […]
Mastering Fall Fronts: Crappie Strategies When the Weather Swings
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 […]
Destination: East Tennessee’s Hidden Treasures
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, […]
Special Report Provides Fishing Insights
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, […]
Paddlin’ with Madalyn: Finding the Right Setup
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 [...]
Product Buzz, by Scott Mackenthun
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 [...]
Crappie Basics: September Fishing Tips From Kyle Schoenherr
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 […]