Crappie

Crappie fishing near Tatum, New Mexico can be a rewarding experience, especially if you know where to look. Focus your efforts on the freshwater lakes and reservoirs in the area, paying particular attention to submerged structure like brush piles, standing timber, and weed beds. These areas provide cover for crappie and attract the baitfish they feed on. Spring is the peak season as crappie move shallow to spawn, but fall can also be productive as they fatten up for winter. Small jigs, minnows, and crappie nibbles are all effective baits. A local tip: pay attention to water clarity. If the water is murky, use brighter colored lures. If it's clear, try more natural colors. Also, be aware of wind conditions, as they can quickly change in this part of the state. When the wind is blowing, focus on the windward side of the lake where baitfish tend to congregate. Public access may be limited in some areas, so scout out boat ramps and shoreline access points beforehand.