Crappie

Crappie fishing near Royalton can be quite rewarding, with several smaller lakes and backwaters of the Mississippi River holding healthy populations. These fish tend to congregate around submerged structure, such as brush piles, fallen trees, and docks. Spring and early summer, during the spawn, are peak times to target crappie, as they move into the shallows to nest. A simple minnow or jig suspended under a bobber is often all you need to entice a bite. As the water warms, the crappie will move into deeper water, so adjust your tactics accordingly. A local tip: explore the smaller, less-pressured lakes north of Royalton; they often hold larger crappie than the more popular spots. Many of these lakes have public access points, but some may require a short walk or portage. Be sure to check the ice conditions in the winter if you plan to ice fish for crappie, as they can be variable in this region.