Tactics for Early Fall Crappies
Crappies are notorious sight feeders that often examine baits for long periods of time before reluctantly striking, but that’s not always the case. Under the right conditions, crappies can be surprisingly aggressive, despite their tentative nature. In early fall crappies start to school up over deep water and can be caught with aggressive style baits.
Baits that trigger strikes can turn nibblers in mashers in nothing flat. In this video, Al Lindner and James Lindner are targeting slab crappies in late summer / early fall as they begin setting up near their wintering areas.
In many reservoirs and natural lakes across the country, crappies make very predictable seasonal movements and early fall is as good of a time to target them as any.
The presentation of choice for both Al and James during this primetime bite is ripping Rapala Jigging Raps, which are traditionally known for their ice fishing prowess.
The Lindner boys have had a load of success with this bait in open water, primarily for crappies, walleyes and perch.
Al believes this bait is more effective in open water than it is through the ice, believe it or not.
It’s ability to be fished quickly and to trigger strikes is unmatched.
Crappies are notorious sight feeders that often examine baits for long periods of time before reluctantly striking. However, under the right conditions, crappies can be surprisingly aggressive despite their tentative nature. In this article, we will explore some tactics for targeting crappies during the late summer and early fall when they set up in their wintering areas. We will also discuss a specific bait that has proven to be effective in triggering strikes from crappies. So, let’s dive in and learn more about these beautiful fish and how to catch them!
Crappie Behavior in Late Summer and Early Fall
Crappies in reservoirs and natural lakes exhibit predictable seasonal movements. During the late summer and early fall, these fish set up in their wintering areas, making it a prime time to target them. The conditions are just right for a phenomenal bite.
Triggering Strikes with the Jigging Rap
One bait that has proven to be effective in triggering strikes from crappies is the Jigging Rap. Originally designed for ice fishing, the Jigging Rap has had tremendous success in open water as well. It is a fast and versatile bait that can be used to target not only crappies but also walleyes and perch.
The Jigging Rap is known for its unique darting action. When jigged, it darts off the bottom in different directions, mimicking the movements of a wounded baitfish. This erratic action is irresistible to crappies and can often elicit a reaction strike. It is truly a bait that you need to try if you haven’t already.
Using the Jigging Rap in Open Water
If you have only used the Jigging Rap during the ice fishing season, you may be missing out on its effectiveness in open water. When fishing for crappies, walleyes, or perch in open water, the Jigging Rap can be a game-changer. It is especially effective when fished tight to the bottom.
The Jigging Rap’s fast and aggressive action can trigger strikes from even the most tentative crappies. It is a bait that can quickly get you back on fish after each catch, as it often elicits an instant reaction strike. Don’t make the mistake of only using it during the ice fishing season. Give it a try in open water and see the results for yourself.
Conclusion
Crappies are notorious sight feeders, but they can be surprisingly aggressive under the right conditions. Late summer and early fall are prime times to target crappies as they set up in their wintering areas. Using baits that trigger strikes, such as the Jigging Rap, can turn nibblers into voracious feeders. So, next time you’re out on the water, give the Jigging Rap a try and see the amazing results it can produce.
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