Crappies can be caught throughout the summer months on a number of different presentations. One of the best presentations for catching numbers of big slabs is swim jigging. Al Lindner and Jeremy Smith offer up a few tips on how to swim jig for summer crappies.

Swim Jigging Summer Crappies

On our lakes up here in Northern Minnesota the summer time crappie bite revolves around the first weed line drop off. Depending on the lake that could be anywhere from around six to fifteen or sixteen feet of water.

A jig and plastic is one of the better presentations for swim jigging crappies, because you are able to change the depth and speed your presentation quickly. You can also fish fast and cover water, which can be very beneficial if the crappies are on the move, cruising the weed line.

One of our go-to combos is a 1/16 oz VMC Mooneye jig paired with a Big Bite Baits Kamikaze Swimon. The one 1/16oz jig gets down to the right depth and the Kamikaze Swimon gives off a ton of action and is a good size for crappies.

One big key when swim jigging is to follow the drop off.

What I mean by that is that you want to cast your bait right to the edge of the weed line and let it sink until it is a foot or two off the bottom. Then when you bring your jig back in you’ll want to make subtle pops, causing your bait to jump along right above the weeds.

In most situations you’ll want to keep your bait about a foot or two above the weeds, because these summer crappies tend to sit in or right next to the weeds.

Post spawn until the fall, these crappies send almost all of their time in and around the weeds and swim jigging for these summer crappies can produce numbers of big fish.

Swim jigging for crappie in the summertime can be an exciting and productive fishing technique. In this article, we will explore the key factors that contribute to a successful swim jigging experience, including the ideal fishing conditions, the importance of weed patches, the right equipment to use, and the technique itself.

Ideal Fishing Conditions

When it comes to swim jigging for crappie, the ideal fishing conditions include low light conditions and a moderate amount of wind. These conditions allow the crappie to come up in the weeds later in the evening and go down into the basin throughout the day. A little bit of wind is beneficial as it helps break up the surface of the water and makes the fish more comfortable.

The Importance of Weed Patches

Weed patches play a crucial role in the success of swim jigging for crappie. The ideal weed patches are somewhat sparse, allowing the fish to navigate and hunt through them easily. Fishing over, around, and through these weed patches opens up the strike zone for a multitude of fish. The density and depth of the weeds are also important factors to consider. Crappie tend to spend their time in the summer in and around the weeds, so finding the right weed patches is key to a successful fishing trip.

The Right Equipment

Having the right equipment is essential for swim jigging for crappie. Using rods that are specifically designed for panfish, such as the Saint Croix Panfish Series, can greatly enhance your fishing experience. These rods are designed with feeling sensitivity in mind, allowing you to pick up on even the slightest bites. The Saint Croix Panfish Series also features guides that are strategically placed away from the blank, reducing friction and allowing for longer casts.

In addition to the right rod, using the right reel is equally important. The Daiwa Rev Rose LT is a great option for swim jigging for crappie. It is a 1000 size reel that pairs well with the Saint Croix Panfish Series rod. The Rev Rose LT is known for its high-quality drag system and its versatility for both summer and winter fishing.

The Technique

Now that we have covered the ideal fishing conditions and the right equipment, let’s dive into the technique of swim jigging for crappie. One effective bait to use is the VMC Neon Moon Eye, paired with a 16th of an ounce jig. This combination is particularly effective for summertime crappie. Another popular bait is the Big Bite Kamikaze Swimming, which can be fished vertically or horizontally depending on the desired presentation.

When swim jigging for crappie, it’s important to pay attention to how the jig is moving through the water. Managing the jig’s movement is the key to success. The technique involves casting out the bait and using a slow, steady retrieve with occasional twitches to mimic the movement of a swimming baitfish. The crappie will often bite when they feel that little tick or tap on the line. It’s important to have good equipment, such as the Saint Croix Panfish Series rod, to be able to feel these subtle bites and quickly set the hook.

Conclusion

Swim jigging for crappie in the summertime can be a rewarding and exciting fishing technique. By understanding the ideal fishing conditions, the importance of weed patches, using the right equipment, and mastering the technique, you can increase your chances of success on your next fishing trip. Remember to pay attention to the wind, the density and depth of the weeds, and to use baits that mimic the movement of swimming baitfish. With the right approach, you can reel in some quality crappie and have a great time on the water.