Crappie are, in my opinion, one of the most fun fish to catch and certainly one of the best tasting fish. They swim in large schools and are found throughout most of the U.S. and into Canada. Crappie prefer fairly warm water and are normally found in nearly all types of cover. They average 6-11" fully grown, however with enough food and cover they can reach lengths up to 17". A large crappie is referred to as a "Slab". In most waters, crappie with a weight of 1/2 to 1 pound are considered good fish. In other waters, crappie are not considered large until they hit the 1 1/2 or 2 pound mark. They can, under ideal circumstances, reach weights of up to 6 pounds.

There are two sub-species to the common crappie. The black crappie, which gets its name from its slightly darker appearance, and the white crappie. The black crappie is usually white or gray with dark gray or black spots covering most of its sides. It has 7-8 dorsal spines on the top of its back. The white crappie tends to be lighter in color and often has distinct vertical bars of gray extending down its sides. It has 5-6 dorsal spines. Both of the sub-species have nearly the same feeding patterns and spawning time. I have heard the black crappie prefers clearer water, where the white crappie tolerates muddier water better. They are both terrific in the pan, I might add.