by Dan Saknini
Lanier Crappie Angler’s Club
www.laniercrappieanglers.net
This time of year we often hear the comment “if the dogwoods are blooming, the crappie are biting”. There is truth in that, but fish need to eat all year, so we target them all year using various methods. Current water temps are in the mid-sixties.
Fishing is good to excellent. We are still fishing both the pre-spawn as well as the post-spawn, with some fish having already spawned and some fish waiting to spawn. Both have one thing in common: crappie ALWAYS relate to structure. They may leave their habitat in pursuit of bait, but they always return. That is why you can target fish using several different methods right now.
If you prefer using crappie minnows under a cork, the blowdowns and brush piles close to docks in shallower water along with areas nearby are still going to be your best bet. Blowdowns are beginning to produce quality fish, especially if you see a few surrounding weeds. Do not overrule using a jig. In my opinion, it may work better. Some of these blowdowns are in 10 feet of water, but some are in 20 feet, depending on the size of the tree. Look at the size of the trunk, compare to nearby trees and estimate the height of the similar trees. Also look at the slope of the bank. All these factors will help you determine the location and depth of the tree below the surface. Make sure you fish the blowdown at every possible angle before moving on.
Hair jigs and soft body jigs are working well as is long line trolling. The fish chasing bait are the targets of this method. If you are a dock shooter, game on! We are catching them inside docks at various depths with structure (both deep and shallow) and getting photos of impressive catches from our members. Warmer days together with good fishing is a great recipe for an awesome time on the lake.
Wear your life jacket it can save your life!