Crappie

Crappie fishing near Burnham, Illinois, can be surprisingly rewarding, especially in the backwaters and slower-moving sections of the Calumet River and Wolf Lake. These areas offer the sheltered habitat crappie prefer. Spring, during the pre-spawn and spawn, is prime time. Look for them near submerged timber, bridge pilings, and weed beds in relatively shallow water (4-8 feet). A simple minnow under a slip bobber is a classic and effective presentation. Small jigs can also be productive. Keep an eye on water clarity, as the Calumet River can be affected by runoff. Access is available at several parks along the river, but shore fishing can be limited in some areas. Wolf Lake offers more expansive access, including boat launches. The crappie population here consists of both black and white crappie, with some real slabs showing up from time to time.