Crappie

Crappie fishing near Chatsworth, Illinois, revolves around finding the right smaller bodies of water. Forget the big reservoirs; think smaller lakes and ponds. Spring is undoubtedly the best time, as crappie congregate in shallow water to spawn. Look for brush piles, submerged timber, and any kind of structure near the banks. Minnows under a slip bobber are classic and effective, but small jigs can also produce. A key piece of local knowledge is to scout out potential spots in advance. Many of the best crappie ponds are on private land, so secure permission beforehand. Another tip is to fish early and late in the day, especially during the warmer months. Crappie tend to be more active during these low-light periods. While the crappie around Chatsworth might not be giants, they are usually plentiful, offering a great opportunity for a relaxing day of fishing.