Black Crappie

Description
Another introduced species in Idaho is the crappie. This member of the sunfish family is olive to silvery-green with lighter sides. Black or olive flecks on the sides are randomly arranged. They rarely get over two pounds.

Life History
Crappie spawn in May and June. Like other sunfish, crappie males clear a shallow depression or nest. The female will then lay eggs which the male guards until the fry leave. The young grow rapidly.

Feeding Habits
Crappie feed on aquatic insects, crustaceans, and other aquatic insects. As they get larger, crappie feed on small fishes, especially members of the minnow family.

Angling Techniques
When fish are biting, things can get "hot." Crappie feed in schools and will take a large variety of lures and baits. Jigs and flies work well during late May to early July. They don't fight much, but are fun to fish for. Try small jigs under docks or near lily pads.