Guide To Crappie Fishing In Maryland

All about fishing for white and black crappie.

Maryland offers fantastic opportunities for crappie fishing, with both black crappie and white crappie being abundant in the state's waterways. These popular panfish species can be found in lakes, reservoirs, rivers, and ponds throughout Maryland, providing anglers with ample chances to reel in some exciting catches.

Black crappie, also known as calico bass, are known for their distinctive dark speckled pattern and deep-bodied structure. They tend to thrive in clear, cooler waters and are commonly found in lakes such as Deep Creek Lake and Liberty Reservoir. Anglers often target black crappie using jigs, live minnows, or small spinners, focusing on submerged structures, brush piles, and drop-offs. Spring and fall are particularly productive seasons for black crappie fishing, as they move closer to the shallows to spawn and feed.

White crappie, characterized by their silver coloration and vertical striping, are another prized crappie species found in Maryland. They prefer slightly warmer waters and can be found in lakes such as the Choptank River, Wye Mills Lake, and Triadelphia Reservoir. Similar to black crappie, white crappie also gather near submerged structures and brush piles. Anglers often use jigs, small minnows, or crappie-specific lures to entice these fish. White crappie fishing can be productive throughout the year, but spring and early summer are particularly fruitful when they spawn and move into shallower waters.

Both black crappie and white crappie provide exciting angling opportunities for anglers of all skill levels. Their scrappy fights and delicious flesh make them highly sought after. Whether you prefer targeting black crappie or white crappie, Maryland's diverse waterways offer a multitude of locations and seasons to indulge in crappie fishing adventures.

Crappie Waters In MD

For the largest schools of crappie try lakes like Liberty Reservoir, Little Seneca Lake, Loch Raven Reservoir, Prettyboy Reservoir, Rocky Gorge Reservoir, St. Mary's Lake and Triadelphia Reservoir. You'll find crappie in ponds, rivers, state parks and just about any water fit for them.

Click the images and links above for species details.

Top 5 Crappie Fishing Lures For Maryland

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.

Maryland State Record Crappie

The state record* black crappie or white crappie came from a farm pond.

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

Crappie Fishing Basics Video

Check out crappie information, by state.