Opening Cast – March 2026

Opening Cast: Spring Crappie Fever Is On!

Spring is almost here, and it is time for a crappie “Game On.” Air and water temperatures are on the rise, and the crappie sense the time is near for spawning!

Here in the South, it comes a little earlier. But nature not only gives us humans signals of a rebeginning, but crappie also feel it in the water relating to longer days of sunlight and warmer temperatures. Migration from their winter haunts begins as surface temperatures rise into the 50s.

Matched to key water temperatures is the first full moon and subsequent ones thereafter. The next one that is very impactful starts on 3 March 2026. This should be the first real spawning time if water temperatures have reached the high 50s to low 60s.

It is important to note that not all crappie will spawn on this first key moon even with ideal conditions. Usually, the big slabs spawn on the first key full moon and then a progression of smaller fish on subsequent moons. This gives us the ability to have lots of fun and good food for a couple of very good fishing months.

I have also noted over the years that black crappie will sometimes spawn earlier than white crappie. Since each species likes different types of spawning grounds normally, be sure to check out clay and gravel bars for black crappie and timber or wood for white crappie. However, I must admit, I have found both in the same areas at times.

To close, remember to watch weather trends, water temperatures and moon phases for a great spring fishing trip for a great fish, the crappie.

God bless

Dan Dannenmueller – PUBLISHER