Guide To Crappie Fishing In Massachusetts

All about fishing for white and black crappie.

Massachusetts offers great opportunities for crappie fishing, with both black crappie and white crappie being popular targets for anglers. These panfish species provide exciting and rewarding fishing experiences, and can be found in various lakes, ponds, and reservoirs throughout the state.

Black crappie are known for their distinctive dark coloration and vertical stripes. They prefer clear waters with abundant vegetation, such as lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers. Anglers often target black crappie using light tackle and techniques such as jigging with small jigs or live minnows. Some popular crappie fishing spots in Massachusetts for targeting black crappie include Lake Quinsigamond, Lake Cochituate, and Wachusett Reservoir.

White crappie, on the other hand, have a lighter coloration with vertical bars that are less pronounced than those of black crappie. They can also be found in lakes, ponds, and slow-moving rivers with adequate cover and structure. Anglers use similar techniques as with black crappie, employing jigs, live bait, or small spinners to entice white crappie. Popular locations for white crappie fishing in Massachusetts include Long Pond, Lake Tispaquin, and Lake Singletary.

The best time to fish for crappie in Massachusetts is during the spring and fall seasons. In spring, crappie move towards shallower waters for spawning, making them more accessible to anglers. During fall, they feed actively to build up energy reserves for the winter. Early morning or late afternoon hours tend to be more productive, as crappie are more active during low-light conditions.

It's important for anglers to be familiar with fishing regulations and obtain the necessary licenses before heading out to fish for crappie in Massachusetts. Following catch and size limits, practicing selective harvest, and respecting the environment are essential for sustaining healthy crappie populations and ensuring the enjoyment of future fishing opportunities.

Whether you're targeting black crappie in a weedy pond or casting for white crappie in a scenic lake, crappie fishing in Massachusetts provides anglers with a thrilling angling experience and the opportunity to catch a tasty and prized panfish. So grab your ultralight gear, choose your favorite crappie jigs, and explore the diverse crappie fishing locations that the state has to offer.

Crappie Fishing Waters In MA

Many fishing waters in Mass contain crappie. Most ponds, small lakes and some rivers are likely to hold at least some crappie. The major lakes are more likely to hold healthy populations of crappie. These lakes include Assawompset Pond, Cheshire Reservoir, Congamond Lake, Hamilton Reservoir, Lake Chaubunagungamaug, Lake Cochituate, Lake Onota, Lake Rohunta, Lake Quinsigamond, Norton Reservoir, Quabbin Reservoir, South Watuppa Pond, Wachusett Reservoir, Watuppa Ponds and Webster Lake. Ice fishing and crappie make for a great way to spend a winter day.

Click the images and links above for species details.

Top 5 Crappie Fishing Lures For Massachusetts

Crappie jigs work well in water from 2' to 40' deep, and are the most popular artificial lure for crappie ever. When crappie are shallow, spinners, small crankbaits and underspins are the often very productive. As they move deeper, spoons are among the top producers if the crappie are active. Review details for the best crappie rig options. Understanding the seasonal movements of crappie can enhance your chances of using these lures in the ideal locations.

Massachusetts State Record Crappie

*The state record black crappie/white crappie was caught in Jakes Pond.

Crappie are actually a member of the sunfish family and can be found in many Massachusetts lakes. Crappie are known by many different local names. Paper mouth, goggleye, bridge perch, slabs and speckled perch, are just a few.

Small jigs, live minnows, small spinners and other small lures will catch crappie. Use light line (six pound or less) and work the baits slowly - especially in cold water.

Crappie Fishing Basics Video

Check out crappie information, by state.