For those who own or have fishing rights access to large private ponds, arguably the most efficient way to catch crappie is to setup crappie trap. A proper crappie trap can catch more crappie in far less time and work compared to traditional fishing methods. Plus, a good trap once set up can be left in place so you can do other things before coming back and pulling in the crappie.
Crappie Trap
Before you begin, remember that a crappie trap is for the most part only allowed in privately-owned ponds. Because crappie are game fish, using a trap is illegal in lakes or bodies of water regulated by the state.
Right Type of Net
Traditional fishing nets will work if you set them up properly, but one of the more popular nets that can catch plenty of crappie are fyke nets. A fyke net can be used to catch crappie and many other types of fish depending on how it is set up. This is a cone-shaped or cylindrical net that are fixed to the bottom of the pond and has leaders or wings that pull the fish into the entrance of the net.
Once the crappie go inside, they tend to swim in the same direction towards the back of the net. Once there, they are trapped and cannot get out. Because they have some structure, Fyke nets are also easy to move around and anchor in place. The key to making this type of net work is how you set it up on the bottom of the pond.
Setting Up the Fyke Net
You will need to choose a Fyke Net that is 4 to 10 feet and can be set up in relatively shallow water. The water should be reasonably clear and set up at a depth of a few feet. This is because crappie hunt in the morning and twilight hours in waters from three to five feet deep. During this time, a Fyke net in the right place is perfect as the crappie will swim for their food and work their way inside the net.
Once set up, you will need to check the trap regularly such as mid-morning or mid-afternoon when the light is at its brightest. You can pull the net, retrieve the crappie inside, then set the net up again. Given that crappie tend to multiply quickly, even a modest pond should yield some substantial results.
You will want to try different locations around the river where the crappie tend to hunt for food. This may mean doing some fishing on your own to see where they gather around dawn and twilight. A little research can go a long way towards setting up your nets in the right place. Once you start to catch them, you should be able to gather a considerable amount.
To setup crappie trap or perch trap, which also works on the same principle, is straightforward and not as labor intensive as you might think. Plus, you can catch considerably more crappie with less time and effort.
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