Crappie

Crappie fishing near Clifton, Arizona, offers a different angling experience than the state's larger reservoirs. While not as well-known for crappie as some other locations, smaller ponds and backwaters connected to the San Francisco River can hold decent populations, especially after periods of rain that create new habitat. Spring is the best time to target crappie, as they move into shallower water to spawn. Small jigs and minnows fished under a bobber are effective presentations. A local tip is to focus on areas with submerged vegetation or brush, as crappie tend to congregate around cover. Access can be limited in some areas, so exploring smaller, less-traveled spots can pay off. The crappie here may not be as large as those found in larger impoundments, but the chance to discover a hidden honey hole makes it a worthwhile pursuit.