Crappie are a species of fish that are actually a member of the sunfish family. There are two basic kinds of crappie: black and white. The black crappie is dark in color and has seven to eight dorsal spines, while the white is a much lighter color, and is smaller. When crappie fishing, it is important to know which species likes what kind of environment. White crappie enjoy murkier, warmer waters and prefer no current, with brush or trees as cover. Black crappie also prefer brush for cover but tend to inhabit clearer waterways unlike their lighter colored counterparts. Most crappie travel in schools, so they can be caught by a number of different fishing methods that include trolling, casting, drifting, or still-fishing. They can be fished from the shoreline or from a small boat near the edge of the water where plants are growing. Crappie fishing is best in the spring, around early April through the month of May, when they are more apt to swim in schools closer to the shoreline. At dawn, the fish swim closest to the surface, so it's a good idea to go crappie fishing early in the morning. As the day goes on, the fish may go deeper into the water.

When crappie fishing, it is very important to choose the right bait. This type of fish enjoys minnows, worms, small crustaceans, and other insects like crickets. A small jig and a twister is a good lure for crappie, but feel free to experiment and determine which lure will work best for you and your favorite location. Crappie are a sought after fish because they have a great flavor and make excellent frying fish. They are generally easy to catch, which makes them a fun choice for new fisherman and those who enjoy a leisurely trip out at the lake. They are fairly small and weigh anywhere from one to seven pounds, but the average weight is about five pounds per fish. Since these fish travel in schools, the odds are very good that you'll catch several in one trip. In most cases it only takes a few minutes for the crappie to start biting from the time the line is cast and the lure hits the water. Typically, people choose crappie fishing in the southern part of the United States such as Alabama, Virginia, and Tennessee. These fish make a great catch and taste delicious.