Crappie are a popular species of fish among anglers, known for their plentifulness and delicious meat. One of the most reliable places for catching crappie is the Mississippi River. Every year thousands of anglers have their sights set on the fish inhabiting this majestic river, so if you’re looking to catch some crappie, follow these tips and you’ll be hooking them up in no time.
The most important part of crappie fishing on the Mississippi is to choose the right spots. Water clarity is an important factor in your decision, since crappie generally prefer clearer water over murky and muddier water. So it’s best to fish in locations that have more open space and greater water clarity. Another important factor to consider is the variety of cover and structure you’re fishing. Crappie generally live in shallow cover, like lily pads and vegetation, so if you’re looking to net some of these tasty fish, make sure to look for these kind of places to start.
Once you have selected an ideal spot it is time to employ one of the best methods for catching crappie on the Mississippi; jigging. Jigging is most effective when the crappie are schooling, which is when the fish are bunched up into a tight group. The best time for jigging is during the spawning season, which typically occurs during the warm weather months. During this time the fish will come to the surface in search of food, and the jig can be used to imitate the small baitfish they are looking for. Move the jig slowly and make sure that it stays within the school of fish. If you’re lucky enough to land a bite, you’ll know it right away by the pull on your line.
If you’re looking to hook up with a big lunker, then your best bet is to fish along the deep channels in the Mississippi River. There are a wide variety of techniques that can be used to catch these bigger crappie. One popular technique is to fish with live bait, like sculpins and crayfish. The process is relatively simple, first use a hook and sinker to keep your bait on the bottom of the channel. Then, use a rod and reel to slowly pull the bait along the bottom, simulating the movements of a live fish. Generally, the larger crappie will get attracted to the bigger bait, so be sure to keep it moving to maintain the crappie’s interest.
Other Top Fishing Techniques
In addition to jigging and live bait fishing, there are a few other methods that can be used to catch crappie on the Mississippi. One effective technique is trolling. When trolling, use the current of the river to your advantage to move your lures along the current. This allows you to cover a greater area in less time, and it can sometimes draw out more active fish. For trolling, use lures that imitate the baitfish that the crappie commonly feed on.
Another popular method of fishing on the Mississippi is drifting. For this technique, you’ll need to set up a bobber rig with a light line, weight, and hook. The weight of the line combined with the current will pull your bait along the bottom. The bobber will help you keep track of the bait and when a crappie takes the bait, you’ll see the bobber go under. This is a great method for impulsive strikes and you can quickly re-bait and cast again after catching one.
Finally, one of the most reliable techniques for catching crappie on the Mississippi is drift fishing. For drift fishing, you’ll need to choose the right weight for your jig. In deep water, it is best to use a heavier jig, so that it can reach the deeper depths where the fish are often found. As your jig drifts along, be sure to keep your line a bit loose so that the jig can move freely. If a crappie takes the bite, you’ll easily be able to feel the strike.
Conclusion
Fishing for crappie on the Mississippi River is a great way to spend an afternoon. There are plenty of techniques that you can use to catch one of these delicious fish, so be sure to keep these tips in mind the next time you’re on the river. Additionally, If you’re looking for a bigger challenge, you could always try your luck at a big tournament. Anglers from all over the country come to the Mississippi in search of these magnificent fish, so if you’re looking to test your skills against the best of the best, then be sure to attend one of these great events.
Bait Selection
If you’re serious about catching crappie on the Mississippi River, the correct bait selection is crucial. Live bait is not always necessary, so you can often get away with using artificial lures. A general rule of thumb is to use bait that is either bright or flashy, as these tend to draw in the most strikes from the crappie. Fly fishing is another great option for those looking for a little more of a challenge, because it involves more technique and careful casting.
In addition to using the right bait selection, it is also important to choose the right lure size for the situation. Generally, lighter lures are preferred in clear water, while heavier lures are best suited for murky water. Also, consider the depth at which you’re fishing; light lures can be used when fishing shallow, but they may be too light at greater depths and heavier lures may be necessary.
For those who are looking for a real challenge, night fishing is another great way to catch crappie on the Mississippi River. This technique requires an experienced eye, as the lack of light often requires the use of electronics, like sonar or underwater cameras, to be able to identify where the fish are. However, once you’ve mastered this technique, you’ll be able to bring home more fish than ever before!
Weather
When it comes to fishing for crappie on the Mississippi River, you’ll also want to take the weather into consideration. Generally, the crappie tend to move inland during the colder months, so be sure to adjust your fishing for this dynamic. Additionally, pay attention to the weather forecasts, as inclement weather can often make fishing difficult. Heavy storms or extreme winds can cause the Mississippi to become choppy, which can stir up the river beds and make it harder to find and catch the crappie.
Ultimately, the more prepared you are, the more likely you are to have a successful fishing trip on the Mississippi River. Make sure to take into account the various factors that can affect your success, like water clarity and weather. Additionally, you’ll want to use the right tackle, bait, and technique to ensure success. By following these tips, you’ll be well on your way to catching some delicious crappie on the Mississippi!
Using Charts & Maps To Find Crappie
Navigating the waters of the Mississippi is no easy feat and anglers must equip themselves with the proper charts and maps to help them find their way around without getting lost or drifting away from where the crappie bite can be found. Fortunately, there are numerous charting tools available online and some of them are even free to use. Use your favorite charting resources, like Google Earth and Navionics, to locate popular fishing holes and find areas in the river where the crappie are likely to be.
Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential spots, you can start planning your next fishing trip. Before you set off, make sure to check the regulations in your area and check the latest reports on the river. If the crappie run has been slow, you may want to wait a few weeks before you try your luck. Always make sure to stay safe and be respectful of the environment while on the river, so that you can keep on fishing this great area for years to come.
Proper Tackle For Crappie Fishing
Having the right tackle on board is an essential part of successful crappie fishing on the Mississippi River. Although there is no one-size-fits-all approach, there are certain pieces of tackle that are essential for catching crappie. For instance, light line is necessary for using lures or presenting live bait, while heavier line is better suited for trolling or drift fishing.
In addition to the proper line, it is also important to use the right rod and reel. Both spinning rods and baitcasting rods can be used when fishing for crappie, depending on the technique you’re employing. Additionally, spinning reels can be used with both styles of rods, although baitcasting setups may be more efficient for trolling or drift fishing.
Finally, the last piece of tackle you’ll need to get started is the proper lures. In-line spinners, crankbaits, jigs and spinnerbaits are all good choices for crappie fishing on the Mississippi. Color, size and shape of the lure all make a difference, so make sure to experiment with different setups until you find the combination that works best for you.
Gear Up For Fishing
Before even thinking about setting off in search of crappie on the Mississippi River, it is essential to make sure that you are properly outfitted with the right gear. To start off, get a good pair of polarized sunglasses. Not only will these protect your eyes, they will also help you better spot the crappie in the water. Additionally, be sure to dress in breathable fabrics, such as cotton, to help keep you cool in the hot summer months.
In terms of equipment, most anglers only need a basic setup to get started. A rod, reel, net and tackle box are the most common items, although some anglers may also want to get a boat and a cooler as well. While it can be tempting to overspend when equipping yourself with fishing gear, the most important thing is to make sure that you have good quality items that will last. Spending a bit more upfront for quality gear can save you money in the long run because you won’t need to keep replacing or repairing your gear as often.
Finally, don’t forget to bring along a few miscellaneous items, like a hat, sunscreen, bug spray, and plenty of snacks and drinks. By making sure you have everything you need, you can rest assured that you’ll have a great time out on the Mississippi River fishing for crappie!
