Crappie is known as warm water fish, so catching crappie in February can be somewhat challenging, especially in states with colder winter temperatures. When water temperatures fall below 50 degrees Fahrenheit, crappies tend to become somewhat inactive saving all of their energy for finding food.
If you live in a state where the water remains at 50 degrees or above, you can fish for crappie just like you normally would. However, fishing for crappie in winter in colder waters means making some changes to the way you fish. The only way to be successful at catching crappie in February is to be able to find the fish and stay on them. There are a few other tips that can make your February fishing for crappie a little more successful.
Crappie Fishing In February
For starters, you may have more success by changing your fishing gear for February fishing. Try using a light spinning reel and lighter line. You will also need to pay much closer attention to your line as crappie tend to have a lighter bite during the winter months.
Come prepared with a variety of bait and lures as well, as there no telling what kind of bait will interest crappie at this time of year. It is likely that smaller minnows and lures will work better than larger ones at this time of year.
Try A Slower More Gentle Approach
Crappie simply doesn’t aggressively pursue bait or lures when the weather and water are cold so use a slow and very methodical approach to your presentation. And if possible try fishing at dusk when the Crappie is more likely to be feeding.
Wait For A Sunny Day
If you can find a sunny day or series of sunny days you may have luck fishing for crappie in shallower water where the temperature will be warmer and the fish maybe a little more active. In most cases, though crappie will be found at deeper depths during the winter months because the water is warmer in deeper areas.
Ice Fishing For Crappies
By February, the ice on the lake in northern areas is very thick and making it possible to ice fish for crappie. If you know the lake you are fishing on well, then go to a spot where there are shelf drop-offs or deep holes because these are some crappies favorite wintertime hangouts.
Since you won’t be casting when ice fishing you may want to look into a shorter rod, especially if you’ll be sitting in a confined space like an ice shanty. An in line reel also is helpful when ice fishing for crappie as is a spring bobber. However, keep in mind that a lot of patience is needed for ice fishing and just because you go home empty-handed one day, doesn’t mean that you won’t have better luck the next.
While fishing for Crappie in February can be difficult, catching these fish in depths of winter will be all the more rewarding.
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