Crappie

Crappie fishing around Manlius, NY, can be surprisingly productive if you know where to look. While not a crappie mecca, the smaller lakes and ponds in the vicinity offer pockets of good crappie habitat. These smaller, often overlooked, waters can be less pressured than larger, more well-known fisheries. Look for areas with submerged timber, docks, or weed beds – these are all crappie magnets. Spring (late April through May) is the peak season as crappie move shallow to spawn. A simple jig tipped with a minnow or waxworm is a classic and effective presentation. Try fishing under a bobber to keep your bait at the right depth. Also, consider fishing near bridge pilings if accessible. A local tip: check the water temperatures, as crappie activity often increases as the water warms up. Be mindful of private property and always respect posted signs.