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, with the Live Roamer’s swimming action being tight and natural, just like a minnow. The symmetrical design allows upright realistic-live look, or when rigged flat, a dying minnow look. It’s excellent for casting, vertical jigging, dock shooting, slow trolling and more. The new look, size and action makes it a great new bait for crappie fishing. Available in 14 of Bobby Garland’s best colors. 15-pack, MSRP $3.99.
Panfish Magnet Kit, by Crappie Magnet
A fancy designed jig has a place and time, but the simple design of the Crappie Magnet has proven itself over the years as a great fish-catching bait. Its subtle design draws strikes whether using forward-facing sonar to drop down on a crappie, or casting with a float working it over cover or beside a tree. The bait is a simple, straight body with a split tail. It’s durable, made of high-grade plastic that resists tears. The kit makes it easy, coming with 70 bodies in seven colors and with 15 black extra-long 1/64-ounce Panfish jig heads. The Panfish Magnet Kit with 85 pieces, MSRP $13.99.
Mississippi Style Crappie Jig, by Grizzly Jig Company
Jigs come in every shape and style, but this jig was made with big crappie in mind. This jig was designed to handle the big slabs in the Mississippi lakes; however, it can be used anywhere a fisherman is catching quality fish. It has a larger profile that’s easier to see and it creates a good meal for a big fish. The 1/16-ounce weight is good for shallow to mid-depth fishing. It has a strong, sharp hook that won’t let you down. The jig has colorful feathers with Mylar streamers. There are 16 colors, unique double-color eyes. 3-pack $2.99.
Dock Shooter/Spinning Rod, by ACC Crappie Stix
Consumer requests led to ACC’s new red hot 1-piece shooting and casting rod. It’s a high-quality rod developed and designed for consistency. It has a soft tip and strong backbone. All-day easy use weighing only 3.5 ounces. It has a split-grip handle, medium action, microwave spinning guide and is recommended for casting or shooting 1/32- to 1/8-ounce baits. Available in 6- or 6.5-foot models. 6-foot MSRP $99.
Tim Huffman is senior writer for CrappieNow Magazine. His books, including a new one for 2024, Papermouth, Modern Crappie Techniques, is available in paperback and eBook from Amazon.