Fly Fishing for Crappie
Fly-fishing is one of the most exciting forms of angling, and fly fishing for a crappie is no exception.
Both wet and dry flies are effective and fun ways to catch crappie. Dry flies are best on still, calm days with sunny, cloud-free cover. After hatching, smaller fish who are feeding at the surface for insects are perfect candidates for the dry fly -- just make sure your fly color corresponds to whatever the fish are feeding on [source: Fly Fisherman]. The most successful fly fishing will most likely be done with nymphs and streamers, which are fished underwater (this is also the best plan of attack on days with more adverse conditions).
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The light bite of crappie can be difficult to feel when using underwater lures. This provides another advantage for fly-fishing. When using flies, it is easier to notice motion and movement on the other end of the line.
In the spring, the crappies navigating towards the shallower waters are skittish and frighten easily. In this scenario, the fly is ideal because of its lightweight form -- they won't cause a commotion -- and life-like movement [source: Hartmann].
In the heat of the summer months, try fly-fishing while wading, or hop in a small boat or inner tube. Navigate your way toward the dense brush, fallen trees or underwater stumps where crappies like to lounge and hide away from the sun.
Tip: Don't be too eager to hook your fish. A crappie may brush or nudge the fly before actually taking the hook. Wait until the fish has returned to the water before setting your hook.
If you want to stay out of the sun but still get your fishing in, read on to find out how to fish for crappie at night.
