Colder water means it’s time to adjust tactics. This usually means going deeper. Here are some rigs to get any depth you need for crappie. 1/4-Ounce Single Jig – In lakes with a little stain to dingy water, try a heavy 1/4-ounce jig so you can maintain good contact with the bait. In the winter it’s common to be fishing 15 to 30 feet deep, or deeper. The heavy jig lets a fisherman maintain contact with the bottom and cover where these fish are often found. Since ‘feel’ is important, match it with braid or fluorocarbon for maximum sensitivity.
When fishing around brush, go the extra step of using a jig with a brushguard. The guard doesn’t bother hook-ups with bigger crappie and it allows penetration into the brush with fewer hang-ups.
1/8-Ounce Single Jig – This size jig is good when fishing as deep as 15 feet deep. Or, down to 25 feet in calm water with the boat not moving.
Many good jigheads are available in this size. Some crappie experts say that hook color isn’t critical while others say a blood red hook can make a difference. Do your own experimenting and make your own conclusions. Also, add more color with a painted jighead. Top picks include orange, chartreuse and black.
Match the head with a jig like a Tiny Ika. Cut the front of the jig to shorten it to 1.5 to 2 inches during the winter months. The fish will quickly let you know the length they prefer. If the bite is tough, use a scent or very small live minnow.
Line size should remain small but you can use high-visibility line except in ultra-clear water.
1/16-Ounce Single Jig – The most popular jighead size through the years has been the 1/16. A good place to fish these is a dock. A dock with water 15 to 30 feet deep is perfect for finding winter crappie. The crappie can be at any depth but the deeper water gives them options.
Using a 1/16-ounce jig with a small plastic bait is perfect when the fish are holding in the mid-depths. Something with a good profile and modified action, like a Yamaminnow, is a good choice. Continue reading….
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