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Lake of the Woods Crappie Fishing

Crappie

Black Crappie, which were once considered an invasive species in Ontario, first started showing up in Ontario waters in the early 1980s and have spread like wildfire. It is now understood that the Crappie have not imposed any environmental damage and are accepted as a welcome addition to Ontario's sport fishing industry. They have become so important to the tourism industry that possession limits are now in place to help protect this vibrant population and to make sure great Crappie fishing will be available for our descendants.

The one big surprise about Crappie fishing near our lodge is how big they get in this part of Lake of the Woods. Perfect conditions with an abundant food supply has given our guests the opportunity to catch some of the biggest Crappie they have ever seen. Not only are Crappie available in high numbers in our region of Lake of the Woods; they grow to great sizes. Crappie are common in the 11.5" to 16.5" range. A 10" Crappie is eligible for an Ontario Angler's Award. If you target Crappie it is easy to catch your limit in a day.

Crappie Fishing Tips & Points to Ponder:

Crappie seem to like the same environment as Smallmouth Bass, but remember, they are usually suspended, not bottom feeders! You will find them close to weeds or right in thick weed cover. Thick Musky Cabbage, Bulrushes, Wild Rice, Weed Beds, and Lily Pads are a good place to start. You will also find them under docks and other cover like trees fallen into the water. In May to August (or sometimes later) you can catch them right off our Dock & in the Weed Beds in our Bay right in front of the Resort, or as close as Tommy's Rock & Snake Island.

Crappie tend to go after smaller baits. Tiny jigs tipped with a tiny minnow or sometimes a little piece of worm work best. They will also hit small spinners. There are companies that make specialized Crappie baits but we mainly use jigs & minnows.

Crappie have a protruding mouth that is large for their size. The membrane of their mouths is quite delicate and can be ripped easily. When you set the hook you need to be a bit more gentle than with other fish. Many times people lose Crappie when pulling them through thick weed cover. You need to be patient and try not to pull too hard.

If you are new to Crappie fishing you should know they are getting to be extremely popular in Ontario; primarily because they taste fantastic. We think they are second best to Walleye, with a sweeter taste. With the size of the Crappie you catch in Lake of the Woods it's a great addition to the total possession of fish limits you can bring home.