Fishing can be a fun and relaxing activity if you know how to deal with crappies. You must have full knowledge regarding their inhabiting and breeding grounds throughout the day.
For example, when the sun is out, you are likely to find them in a bunch around weed beds and boulders.
Meanwhile, the surface around dusk is open water or near the shoreline.
At a Glance: Our Top Picks for Ice Fishing Lures For Crappie
- OUR TOP PICK: Bassdash Ice Fishing Lure
- RUNNER-UP: Rapala Ultra Light Rippin' Rap
- BEST BUDGET OPTION: Thkfish Fishing Spoons Lures
Comparison of the Best Ice Fishing Lures For Crappie
| IMAGE | PRODUCT | |
|---|---|---|
Our Top Pick  |
| View Latest Price → |
 |
| View Latest Price → |
Best Budget Option  |
| View Latest Price → |
 |
| View Latest Price → |
 |
| View Latest Price → |
 |
| View Latest Price → |
Are All Ice Fishing Lures The Same?
The only thing all ice fishing lures share in is that they are jigged. Apart from that, each has its own shape, size, and color, and is meant to be fished using different methods. Some basic lure types consist of:
Simple jigs are a basic hook connected to a small jig head, usually made of either lead or tungsten. Tungsten is pricey but sinks faster and feels better for anglers.
Ice spoons are larger and have an elongated, fish-shaped body.
Tube jigs are relatively inexpensive and have the most diverse range in sizes, shapes, and colors for all fish.
Swim jigs have various treble hooks and are made to create specific movements in the water.
What Makes a Lure Great For Crappie Ice Fishing?
Over the years, people have devised several methods to catch crappies. From traditional methods to bait and now lures, all have their own unique set of benefits. However, the success rate achieved by using lures has generally been the highest because of the factors mentioned below:
Catches More Fish
You can expect to save a lot of time by using lures. Catching bait in the earlier days took up an additional 10 to 20 minutes of fishing, if it’s a lucky day.
Moreover, by having control over the size of the lure, you won’t have to kill other fish unnecessarily to get to the one you want to fish.
No Mess
Using lures is a lot less messy than using live bait because they gut-hook fewer fish. Gut hooking occurs when the hook is taken in too deep by the fish, even being wholly swallowed sometimes. You also get to cover more water just by standing on the shore.
More Control
You have more control over your bait presentation and the time you invest, and you don’t need a hand to keep your bait alive. You control the movement of the lure inside the water and how it looks to your target.
Key Terms to Know
To help compare products in this review, we have included a few key specifications for each. Here is a quick summary of what they mean.
- Type of Lure: The lure type. Can include, jig, spoon, plug, etc.
- Materials: The materials the lure is made of.
- Lure Size: The size of the lure is measured in ounces (oz) and also by the length.
- Color(s): The main color(s) of the lure.
- Hook Size: The size of the hook attached to the lure.
Review of the Best Ice Fishing Lures For Crappie
Crappies are schooling pan-fish. They are super active and found in cold water, residing about 10 to 15 feet deep. They are attracted to anything that resembles a minnow. The best lures to catch them are ice spoons and swim jigs. If you are looking to get your hands on one, you should be prepared to move a lot and keep a flasher in hand to locate them more quickly.
To help you find a great one, here are the top picks:
Best Overall:
Bassdash Ice Fishing Lure
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers are reported to have said that they are quite satisfied with the product and have been very happy with the kit as it has various sizes and colors to choose from. They also like the fact that it is compact and makes it easy to organize your lures when fishing.
Why it Stands Out to Us
For us, this is one of the best lure kits out there due to the well-designed jigs that are made of lead bodies that allow for fast drop and high action. The hooks on the jigs are well placed and allow for proper penetration, which means a catch is confirmed.
Who Will Use This Most
These lure kits are great for everyday anglers who like fishing. The kit includes different sizes of jigs, which means it is well-suited for many types of fish, fresh and saltwater both. It is an excellent option for beginners and intermediate level fishers and helps increase and make the fishing experience great.
Bottom Line
Overall, this is a great kit that allows easy use and great catching ability. It is made out of high-quality carbon, which means that it is durable as well and can handle some rough conditions. For this price bracket, it just doesn’t get any better.
Product Specs
Type of Lure:
Jigs
Materials:
Lead
Lure Size:
1/20 oz and 1/16 oz
Color(s):
Variety
Hook Size:
0.2", 0.3", 0.24", 0.35"
Runner-up:
Rapala Ultra Light Rippin' Rap
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Anglers love using this bait, especially when they have to deal with muddy water because that’s when they need a lure with a realistic-looking body and eyes to attract more fish. Fishers also admire the impact on the overall sound it has underwater, through its vibrations around the gills.
Why it Stands Out to Us
This one has a unique, lipless, in-depth, belly profile, which allows it to swim down and do ripping. It can flutter as it drops, and along with the vibrating action accentuated by the rattle system, it is sure to catch crappies. It is also super textured with 3D holographic eyes.
Who Will Use This Most
Because it is super easy to fish with, it makes for an excellent choice for places with long grass or near boulders. It is mostly designed to be used by families who take their kids for fishing and don’t want to stray too far from the shoreline or from near the boulders because of its flexible running depth.
Bottom Line
This one is the best to use when you need the lure to look strikingly real and add depth because the water is too muddy or stained. It is also great for noisy places when having sound underwater in terms of vibration is just what you need. It also hooks on pretty fast, so it is time-efficient too.
Product Specs
Type of Lure:
Crankbait
Materials:
Blend
Lure Size:
1/16 oz
Color(s):
Chartreuse
Hook Size:
#12 and #14
Best for the Money:
Thkfish Fishing Spoons Lures
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Fishers are all about their reflective body. It has proven very useful to them in terms of attracting large quantities of crappies along with its movement underwater. They also like how it can be reeled back quickly out of the water before the fish can free itself from the hook.
Why it Stands Out to Us
With its flashy body, which would make a crappie strike in no time, it has a highly attractive design too. So under the water, not only would fish see it from all directions, but they would also witness a lot of movement in that direction thanks to its rapid diving action. It is suitable for long casts too.
Who Will Use This Most
It is most likely to be used by anglers who need to demonstrate a lot of action underwater and need to retrieve the fish faster. Fishermen could also use the texture present on the spoons, which makes the extra noise to bring out the stubborn fish from their intimate hiding spots.
Bottom Line
To conclude, this one is great for giving a lot of depth to movement underwater. If that is what you are going for, you will land yourself some extra benefits in terms of time efficiency because its chemically-sharpened barbed hook points will let no crappie escape. So you don’t have to worry about your fish swimming off at the last minute.
Product Specs
Type of Lure:
Spoons
Materials:
Metal
Lure Size:
1/4 oz
Color(s):
Chartreuse, Red, Chrome, Purple, Silver combination options
Editor's Pick:
Tailored Tackle Ice Fishing Jigs Lures
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Buyers love these hand-painted ice jig heads and how they are available in all different sizes. But what makes them unique is the scent they are infused with. Anise scent is proven to attract and catch crappies, and this is not something offered in other lures on the market.
Why it Stands Out to Us
What we love about this lure is the scent that it comes with. Anise attracts crappies to the hook like bees to honey. It is also available in various shapes and sizes so you can buy one pack and you are covered for the season. Its micro pan-fish sizes are sure to catch even the smallest of fish.
Who Will Use This Most
It makes the best choice for families who like going fishing on the weekends. It does not require any forehand technical knowledge to be used. Even a kid can hook it on, and without moving, catch some crappie because of the scent of anise present in the lure.
Bottom Line
To conclude, it wins over other lures on the market because of the scent that successfully attracts crappies. While it’s not the best for professionals, it makes for a great pick for beginners.
Product Specs
Type of Lure:
Assorted jigs, spoons and soft plastics
Materials:
Variety
Lure Size:
All size ranges
Color(s):
Variety
Hook Size:
#2, #4, #6, #7, and 1/0
5. Glow Ice Jigs by Haggerty Lures
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
People love how it glows underwater. It attracts the right amount of crappies that way. Many also enjoy how it imitates many species so it can be used anytime, on the ice. A lot of people often enjoy giving it away as a gift because it is not heavy on the pocket either.
Why it Stands Out to Us
When you make one purchase, you get 25 pieces in multiple colors, all glow in the dark. It can be an inspiring gift for someone who has just started fishing. It can catch fish in the coldest of conditions and at any time of the day.
Who Will Use This Most
This is mostly used by beginners only because it does not have the flexible features and the technicalities required by professional fishermen or anglers. It can only be used as a beginner tactic to get a grip on the fishing rod and the movement of the body.
Bottom Line
To conclude, this is an excellent choice for beginners and has enough features for someone who is not looking to catch fish in bulk. It has the ability to bounce, plus, with its ability to glow, it can prove to be a great lure.
Product Specs
Type of Lure:
Jigs
Materials:
Chenille
Lure Size:
1/8 oz
Color(s):
White Glow
Hook Size:
#2
Honorable Mention:
Rapala Slab Rap
PROS
CONS
What Recent Buyers Report
Recent buyers had a great time ice fishing with this kit of fishing lures. They liked how easy it is to sort the jigs and other lures in the small compartments in its box. Buyers like their colors and the softness of their texture as well since they do not harm the fish.
Why it Stands Out to Us
It has caught our eye with the flashy colors, which can make a huge difference when it comes to ice fishing. The jigs and lures have to be attractive and flashy so that they do not go unnoticed by fish.
In addition to the colors, the construction material is quite impressive, too. The soft plastic does not harm fish, and it does not slip out of their mouth either.
Moreover, the kit has 75 pieces assembled systematically in the storage box. This makes them easy to store and carry even when you are fishing with your buddies, and you need to share lures.
Bottom Line
To sum it all up, brightly-colored lures are the best option for ice fishing for crappies. They have to make enough noise to attract the fish too. And this kit works well in both of these dimensions. So, you should go for it if you do not have a strict budget to stick to.
Product Specs
Type of Lure:
Jigs
Materials:
Soft Plastic
Lure Size:
1/8 oz
Color(s):
Chrome Blue
Hook Size:
#12
Crappie Ice Fishing Basics
Crappie ice fishing is a favorite of many because of the abundance of the fish in winters. But, as ice fishing can be tricky, you need to know all of its basics. Keeping this in view, we have put together a guideline about crappie ice fishing here.
What Lures to Use For Crappie in Cold Weather?
As crappies are commonly found in deep waters during winters, it is better to use vertical lures for them. The lures should have bright colors so that they stand out from their surroundings. They also have to be slightly heavier than usual ones, so that they can sink easily.
What Color Lures Do Crappie Like?
Crappies are usually attracted to flashy bright colors. Colors in the range of green and lime work well. Orange and yellow lures are great as well. But, blue-white and purple-white can be nice for clear waters.
What Size Jig Head For Crappie?
Small jig heads are better suited for crappies as they have small mouths. Heads with a body of 1.5 to two inches are best for this kind of fishing. You can go for slightly larger heads too, but anything smaller than this will not work for you.
What Size Hook For Crappie?
Crappies are fish, so they do not have any strict requirements for the size of hooks. But, professionals prefer to use #2 or #4 hooks for this kind of fishing.
Types of Crappie Lures
There are several types of crappie lures that people use. You can use one that is easiest for you to use. Some common types include:
Jigging Baits
Jigging baits are primarily horizontal lures. They have a similar body structure to baitfish and forage that is usually present in waters where crappies are abundant. They usually have fins attached to create a jigging motion to attract crappies.
Small Spoons
Small spoons are similar to wounded minnow or shad. They have a concave body to produce jigging movements similar to these fish.
Small Jigs
Small jigs are the most commonly used type for crappie ice fishing. They come in multiple shapes and have both horizontal and vertical orientations. There are stationary jigs as well, so you can use them too.
Soft Plastics
There are different kinds of soft plastic lures that come in the form of appendages and cilia-like bodies. They have a wiggling motion as well that serves the purpose of attracting fish.
Crappie Lures vs Minnows- Comparison Overview
Crappie lures and minnows are both widely used for ice fishing. They have their own benefits and drawbacks. So, let’s have a look at their comparison to see which one you should go for.
Similarities
Here are the similarities that you will observe in minnows and crappie lures.
Small Size
Both minnows and crappie lures have a small size, which makes them suitable for crappie fishing. They are easy to fix on a hook due to their size.
Solid Body
Another similarity is that both of them have a solid body. Even if some of the lures are made from soft plastic, they still have a frame that crappies can hold on to.
Differences
Now, here are some points that differentiate crappie lures and minnows.
Depth of Water
Minnows usually work well in deep waters, but they are more suitable for moderate temperatures. They do not work well in deep waters during cold weather. So, artificial crappie lures are preferable for ice fishing.
Colors
Minnows usually have dull, muted colors, but lures are bright and attractive. This makes them stand out more to crappies when you are out there looking for some fish.
Orientation
Minnows are generally used in a horizontal orientation, and they do not produce any jigging motion. Lures, on the other hand, can be used both horizontally and vertically.
How to Fish With a Jig For Crappie
Jigging with a fish is quite easy if you know the right way of doing so. Considering this, we have summarized the simplest way of fishing with a jig for crappie.
- Choose shallow waters for crappie ice fishing. Crappies move near the surface, and even small jigs are effective for fishing.
- It is better to attach the jigs horizontally even if you want to drop the line vertically.
- Secure the jig on the hook near the eye to make sure it does not come off.
- And lastly, do not forget to create rippling movements to attract fish to the jig. This will help you catch fish faster.
How to Use Lures to Catch Crappie
In order to use your lure to catch the most crappies, you have to follow these simple steps.
- Begin by choosing a lure that has the right color and size for attracting crappies. It should make jigging movements as well.
- Fix the hook through the middle of the lure to create the right action.
- It is better to aim for shallow waters, so keep the line small while you go crappie ice fishing.
How to Ice Fish For Crappie
Now here are some further things to keep in mind while you are out for ice fishing.
- You will have to scrape the surface if there is a thin layer of ice to get the line into the water.
- It is better to use an artificial lure or jig instead of minnows or other forage. They produce a greater ripple to attract inactive fish as well.
Watch this video to better understand how you can make the most out of ice fishing for crappies.
Aspects to Consider Before Buying
Choosing a good lure for crappie ice fishing is not rocket science. It can get tricky because of the enormous variety on the market, but we have laid out a guide for you to follow so you can quickly skim through the ones that would serve no purpose:
Color
This is the biggest challenge you might face. There is still ongoing discussion about what the ideal color might be. For this, you need to observe what the color of the water is. Crappie is usually well suited for clear water so, you will need subdued tones such as chartreuse, black or white. If the water is muddy, you can catch them with brighter colors.
Reflective Properties
If you are fishing under the bright sun, using lures that have a metallic or any reflective surface make for great choices. The shimmer makes the bait look like it’s a small minnow, which attracts the target easily from a distance.
Hook Size
The bigger the crappie, the bigger its mouth will be. When it comes to catching crappies, number 2 and number 4 sizes work well. If you get a bigger size like number 6, crappies can easily escape it.
Conclusion
To conclude, you can easily catch this tricky fish if you keep all the above-mentioned factors in mind and if you know the correct method. Proper fishing gear and the appropriate weather conditions play a significant role in the success rate too. You must also know their breeding grounds well. Once you keep all that in mind, you’ll get a good catch!
People Also Ask
Crappie ice fishing is a fun and exciting activity, so people go for it quite a lot. Here are some of the frequently asked questions and their answers to help you enjoy it to the fullest.
What is a Crappie?
Crappie is a popular panfish, which most fishers are interested in because of the ease of fishing and its abundance. It is widely eaten in different parts of the world, so people prefer crappie fishing.
What Does a Crappie Look Like?
Crappie is a freshwater fish that has a speckled body. It has a flaky white appearance of flesh, which distinguishes it from other panfish. Crappies have spiked fins as well that help you identify them easily.
What is Dead Sticking?
Dead sticking is a fishing technique that pro fishermen use. It involves casting the bait in the water and then waiting for some time before taking it out. It is quite helpful for ice fishing as the bait remains motionless and inactive fish hold on to it too.
What is a Crappie Rig?
A crappie rig refers to a trap set up to catch crappies. It usually involves fishing lures or some other form of bait.
What Do Crappie Like to Eat?
Crappies like to eat small fish like Northern Pike and other similar forms of forage. They also like zooplankton and insects, so you have a wide variety of lures to choose from.
What Does Crappie Taste Like?
Crappies have soft white meat, which tastes amazing. It is not as salty as other fish, but it has an underlying taste of freshwater fish to it.
Share to Pinterest
