Crappie

If you're chasing crappie near Oak Forest, Illinois, you'll want to focus your attention on the numerous forest preserve lakes and ponds dotting the landscape. These smaller bodies of water often hold surprisingly healthy populations of crappie, particularly around submerged structure and weed edges. Spring is prime time, as the crappie move into the shallows to spawn. Look for areas with brush piles or fallen trees – these are crappie magnets. Early morning and late evening are usually the most productive times. A small jig tipped with a minnow or waxworm fished under a bobber is a classic and effective presentation. Be aware that many of these lakes have specific regulations regarding boat types and horsepower, so check with the local forest preserve district before you head out. A tip for success: keep moving until you find the fish, as crappie tend to school up in certain areas. Don't be afraid to try different depths until you find where they're holding.