Scattered through CrappieNow this issue are great tips for fishing cold weather. Tips and articles both have several basic items that are similar whether fishing a dock, open water or under the ice. One factor is to find a ledge. The depth depends upon the water being fished, but 18 to 22 feet is mentioned often. Under the ice it’s often shallower. Another factor is baitfish. Winter crappie are sluggish due to cold water but they do have to eat. So finding baitfish near a drop and/or cover at the right depth will likely lead to active crappie. A special bait or action can be good, but getting the ledge-baitfish basic right will make other tweaks more productive. -TH
