For three months, beginning in December through February 2021, an angler can keep every crappie he or she catches out of Lake Fork; normally there is a 10-inch minimum size requirement.

Crappie form large schools in the deepest part of the lake during the winter months following shad that go deep as the surface temperatures fall. Depths of 25-30 feet are common, and some fish are found deeper. Anglers finding these deep schools could load the boat in short order.

Quickly reeling up a fish from these depths does not give the fish time to decompress. Anglers catching a crappie under 10 inches would have no choice but to release a short fish. It probably wouldn’t survive and many of the deep fish caught were not legal keepers.

Catching ‘em deep

Electronics will improve your chances greatly but are not necessary. Main lake points and submerged creek channels are a great place to start your search. If you go on a weekend the search will be relatively easy. Simply look for the boats. Show courtesy and don’t crowd anyone,

Crappie tackle

Tie a couple of jigs 12-18 inches apart. Try using braid in the 15-pound range which is the same diameter as 4-6 pounds test monofilament. A subtle crappie bite in 28 feet of water with braid is transmitted much better.

Minnows work well. Some anglers bring jigs and minnows, focusing on the better producer for that day. The daily bag limit is still 25.

Photo courtesy Daily Sentnel