Crappie

Crappie fishing around Ladd, Illinois, revolves primarily around small lakes, ponds, and backwaters connected to the Illinois River. Spring is prime time, as crappie move into the shallows to spawn. Look for areas with submerged timber, brush piles, or docks – these provide excellent cover for spawning and ambush points. As the water warms into summer, crappie tend to move deeper, often suspending near structure. Minnows and jigs are your go-to baits. A local tip: try fishing around the edges of lily pads or weed beds in the early morning or late evening for some quality slabs. Remember to check local regulations regarding size and creel limits, as these can vary from lake to lake. The crappie in this region tend to be good-sized, and you can often find a mixed bag of black and white crappie.