By midwinter, basin oxygen levels diminish near bottom, causing crappies to suspend higher in the water column. Good electronics zoom in on the level of the fish to enhance fishing success.
In this article, we will discuss a technique that can greatly increase your success in catching suspended crappies during the midwinter season. As the winter progresses and the days get shorter, crappies tend to move higher up in the water column, making it crucial to fish at the right level. With the help of good electronics and the ability to zoom in on suspended fish, you can significantly improve your chances of landing big crappies in the basin.
Understanding Crappie Behavior in Winter
After the turnover in the fall, when oxygen returns to deep water, crappies can be found in various locations. They may be close to the bottom even in deep water. However, as winter progresses and the oxygen levels start to decrease in the deeper parts of the water, crappies begin to lift up off the bottom and move higher in the water column. This change in behavior is influenced by factors such as shorter days and the lack of photosynthesis due to snow cover on the ice .
The Importance of Zoom Mode
When targeting suspended crappies, having a good set of electronics with zoom mode is crucial. Zoom mode allows you to focus on a specific depth range, rather than just the bottom. This is important because most of the fish tend to be higher up in the water column during the midwinter season. By zooming in on the area where the fish are located, you can closely monitor their movements and increase your chances of enticing them to bite.
Using Zoom Mode Effectively
To effectively use zoom mode, it is important to be able to choose where you want to zoom. Instead of zooming in on the bottom, you should zoom in about 5 feet above the bottom, where the suspended crappies are likely to be. This allows you to observe the fish as they come up to investigate your bait, giving you a better opportunity to make a successful catch.
To set up zoom mode, follow these steps:
- Activate the zoom mode feature on your electronics.
- Select the desired depth range to zoom in on. In this case, we recommend zooming in on a 10-foot range, approximately 20 to 24 feet down.
- Adjust the zoom level using the select dial. Make sure the zoomed area is between the two ticks on the dial.
- Once you have set up the zoomed area, hit the zoom button to activate it.
By zooming in on the suspended crappies, you can see how they react to your bait and adjust your presentation accordingly. This level of precision can greatly increase your chances of success when targeting these elusive fish.
