OPENING CAST SEPT 2026
Opening Cast: Crappie Fishing in the Heat of Summer
Crappie fishing in the heat of summer? Most avid anglers think this is a bad time to be fishing for these tasty treats. Think again!
In the Mid and Deep South, most fishermen and women pursue crappie in the early mornings, late evenings, some at night and most not at all. In the North, most fish crappie through the ice in the winter, and some just after ice-out.
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 […]
How To: Hot Summertime Tactics for catching crappie
Hot Summertime Tactics for Catching Crappie When summer water gets hot, crappie usually leave the shallow cover and seek cooler, more oxygenated water, shade, and baitfish. The key is finding where those conditions overlap. Fish deeper: Start around 15–30 feet, then adjust based on your lake’s depth and thermocline. Electronics are extremely helpful for locating suspended schools. Target […]