Crappie fishing can be a lot of fun, but it can also be frustrating when you don’t know when the fish are going to start biting. Knowing when to go out and fish based on patterns that you see in the water can be tricky, but there’s an app for that! In this article, we’ll talk about how you can use an app to predict when crappie will spawn and start feeding.
What is a Crappie?
A crappie is a freshwater fish that is found in many different habitats across the United States. Crappies are considered to be a warm water fish and are usually found in lakes, reservoirs, and rivers. They spawn during the months of March through May.
What are some early signs that crappie will spawn?
Spawning crappie usually occurs in late spring or early summer and there are some early signs that can let anglers know that spawning is imminent. One sign is that the water temperature will start to rise, which will cause the baitfish to begin feeding more extensively. Another indication of spawning is when the crappie start to congregate in specific areas near the water’s edge.
How to clean and prepare the fish you catch?
When you’re ready to cook your crappie, the first thing you need to do is clean them. This is especially important if you’ve caught them in a place where they’ve been swimming in feces or other water contaminants. Here’s how to do it:
- Fill a large basin with cold water and add some soap. Gently rinse the fish in the water until they’re clean. Try not to squish them.
- Once they’re clean, use a pair of pliers or your fingers to remove their heads and tails. Be careful not to damage their scales.
- Place the fish in a baking dish or pan large enough to hold them comfortably, and cover them with cold water. Change the water every few hours so it remains fresh and clean. This process can take up to 24 hours, so don’t stress if it takes a little longer than anticipated.
How to catch a Crappie spawning in your area
Catching a crappie spawning can be as easy or as difficult as you make it. Crappie spawn is usually in shallow, fast-moving water with plenty of cover. The best way to find out if crappie are spawning is to take a walk around your property and check for reddish-brown circles on the ground or in the weeds near the water. If you see any, start by fishing around these spots during the early morning or evening when they are most active. You may have to experiment a little to find the right spot, but once you do, expect good results!
Seasonal Changes are Critical
Crappie spawning activity peaks in the fall, when temperatures are cooler and water clarity is at its best. Spawning usually concludes by early winter, though activity can continue through early spring as water temperatures warm up.
The key to finding crappie during spawning season is to know when to look for them. Crappie will usually be found near cover, such as logs or rocks in a river or stream. Look for darker patches on the riverbed where fish are hiding and swim slowly along the banks looking for telltale signs of crappie activity, such as flash-forward movements or disturbed sediment. Though spawning can occur at any time of year, it’s typically most active from late September through early November.
Pay attention to the water temperature
Spawning Crappie typically occurs when the water temperature reaches about 68 degrees. However, there are some places in the state where spawning can occur at slightly higher or lower temperatures. Pay close attention to the water temperature and if it seems too warm or cold, adjust your fishing tactics accordingly.
When Crappie spawn, they release a cloud of eggs into the water column. As these eggs hatch, they consume small crustaceans that provide their sustenance. Spawning usually peaks within a week or two after the water temperature reaches 68 degrees Fahrenheit. If you are fishing during spawning season, be sure to check the water temperature frequently and adjust your tactics accordingly.
Spawning Behavior
Crappie spawn when the water temperature reaches about 68 degrees Fahrenheit. Spawning can also occur when the mercury drops below 55 degrees. The spawn begins when the female deposits her eggs in deep pools, usually in early to mid-March. The fish will live in these pools for a few weeks before hatching and then dispersing into smaller bodies of water.
How to cook the fish you catch?
If you’re lucky enough to catch a crappie on your fishing trip, there are a few things you need to know in order to cook it properly. First and foremost, the fish must be fresh. If it’s been caught days or even weeks ago, the flavor will be dulled and the texture will be tough. Secondly, crappies are best cooked over a medium-high heat so that they retain their juices. Thirdly, avoid overcooking or the fish will become dry and rubbery. Finally, make sure you season the fish with salt and pepper before grilling or frying it.
