Crappie

Crappie fishing near Oakfield, NY, offers a chance to tangle with some tasty panfish. While Oakfield itself doesn't have a major crappie fishery, nearby smaller lakes, ponds, and even sections of the Erie Canal hold crappie populations. Spring is prime time, as crappie move into shallow, weedy areas to spawn. Look for them around submerged timber, docks, and lily pads. Small jigs tipped with minnows or crappie nibbles are highly effective. Early morning and late afternoon are typically the best times. Local tip: Check out some of the smaller, less-publicized ponds on public land in the surrounding area. These often hold surprisingly good crappie populations that don't see as much fishing pressure. Also, be aware that crappie can be sensitive to water temperature changes, so pay attention to the weather and adjust your tactics accordingly. The crappie in these smaller waters are generally good eating size, making for a rewarding trip.