White Crappie
Pomoxis annularis
White crappie (Pomoxis annularis) is a schooling freshwater panfish common in lakes, reservoirs, rivers, and slow backwaters across much of North America. It often suspends near cover and preys on small fish and insects, making it a popular target for light-tackle anglers.
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Identification points
- 7–8 dark vertical bars on the sides, more distinct than in black crappie
- Deep, compressed body with a relatively large mouth
- Dorsal fin usually has 6 spines, and the body is mottled silvery olive
Habitat
Warm, turbid to moderately clear freshwater lakes, reservoirs, oxbows, and slow river backwaters; commonly holds around submerged timber, brush piles, docks, bridge pilings, and aquatic vegetation, often in 5–20 ft but also deeper over open water.
Bait notes
Live minnows are the standard bait, especially small shiners or fathead minnows. Small jigs, tubes, grubs, and marabou or hair jigs in white, chartreuse, or black also work well; tiny crankbaits can take actively feeding fish.
Behavior
Schooling and highly structure-oriented, especially in spring and fall. Feeds on minnows, shad, and aquatic insects; often suspends over cover or open water and shifts shallower during spawning runs in spring.
Caution
No notable species-specific safety concerns; as with many freshwater panfish, check local advisories for contaminants in reservoirs or rivers before frequent consumption.
Fishing notes
Fish light line and small presentations around brush, docks, and standing timber; slow-troll or spider-rig in open water, or vertical-jig schooling fish. In spring, cast to shallow cover near spawning areas; in summer, target suspended schools with sonar.