Crappie

Crappie fishing near Cabery, Illinois, offers a chance to reel in some tasty panfish. Target the many small lakes, ponds, and backwaters associated with the Kankakee River in the region. These areas often provide the shallow, weedy habitat that crappie prefer. Spring, during the pre-spawn and spawn, is the peak time to target crappie, as they congregate in shallow water. However, they can also be caught throughout the summer and fall by targeting deeper structure. Small jigs tipped with minnows or waxworms are highly effective. Look for submerged brush piles, fallen trees, or weed edges. A local tip: many anglers fish from shore around the various access points to the Kankakee River State Park. The crappie around Cabery tend to be good-sized, with some reaching upwards of 12 inches. Remember to check local regulations regarding size and creel limits. Using a bobber can help you keep your bait at the desired depth, especially in windy conditions.