Also referred to as “goldrings” or “silver perch,” white crappies are found in freshwater locations around North America. These fish can be caught using catch and retrieve, still fishing and drift fishing methods. Anglers can use both baits and lures to catch white crappies.
Habitat: Lake, River
How to identify White Crappie
White crappies are one of two species of crappies. Some refer to these fish as “goldrings” or “silver perch.” Unlike the black crappie, which has scattered markings, the white crappie has five to 10 vertical markings on its body. The white crappie has a deep silver body and dark green or silver-green back. Their abdomens are a silver-white color. When spawning, the males may develop a dark color along their throats.
Where to catch White Crappie
The white crappie can be found in freshwater areas throughout North America. As a stable, populated fish, they are found in Texas, the Mississippi River, South Dakota, New York, the Great Lakes, Ontario, and the Hudson Bay. Unlike black crappies, white crappies can tolerate dirty waters in rivers, lakes, and reservoirs.
The following are habitats where you can catch White Crappie:
- Freshwater Weed Beds
- Gradual Shores
- Lake and Pond Fishing Holes
- Inlets and Outlets
- Open Water
- Piers, Docks and Pilings
- Shoreline Shallows
- Springs Holes
- Sunken Objects
- Walkways and Bridges
How to catch White Crappie
Anglers use various fishing methods and tackle to catch white crappies, though they generally refrain from using fly fishing rods. Carbon fiber and bamboo rods can help to alleviate unnecessary weight. One effective method for catching these fish is to use baits while bottom fishing or under float fishing. Another option is to use small lures in various colors with hooks that range in size from 4 to 8. Other methods that can work for catching white crappie are cast and retrieve, drift fishing, and still fishing.
The following are effective fishing methods and techniques for catching White Crappie:
Best Lures, Bait & Tackle to catch White Crappie
White crappie respond to both baits and lures. For baits, try using minnows or grubs. For lures, try small spinners or twisters in colors such as white, black, green, yellow, or silver. Baits and lures can be presented using various crappie fishing rigs.
The following are fishing lures, bait and tackle that can be used to catch White Crappie:
