Crappie

Crappie fishing around Cissna Park, Illinois, can be quite productive in the various farm ponds, small lakes, and backwater areas scattered throughout the region. These smaller waters offer ideal habitat for crappie, especially around submerged timber, brush piles, and weed beds. Spring is undoubtedly the prime time for crappie, as they move into the shallows to spawn. Look for them in protected coves and near structure. Small jigs tipped with minnows or waxworms are highly effective. A local tip: Many of the ponds are on private property, so always secure permission beforehand. Also, pay attention to water clarity, as these smaller bodies of water can become turbid quickly after rain. Fishing early mornings or late evenings can be particularly productive. The crappie in these waters tend to be of good size, offering both quantity and quality for anglers.