Lakes and rivers vary greatly in characteristics but a percentage of them will have deep crappie in the winter. It’s a place they are comfortable and can survive.
Going deep is usually a progression starting at mid-depths, maybe 8 to 12 feet in early fall, and gradually working to 15 to 20 feet in late fall to early winter. As water continues to cool the fish go down to 25 to 30 feet. Depths and situations are different in each lake, the but theory is the same in most impoundments.
Structure and cover is critical in the winter. Finding a slope or drop-off with good brush, bed or laydown is the key to successful deep fishing. Seeing balls of shad around the cover makes it better. Nothing beats electronics and experience to help find and catch deep winter fish. –T.H.
