Guide To Crappie Fishing In Nebraska

All about fishing for white and black crappie.

Nebraska is a great destination for crappie fishing, with both black crappie and white crappie species present in many of the state's lakes, reservoirs, and rivers. Crappie are popular among anglers for their excellent fighting ability and delicious taste, making them highly sought after.

Black crappie are the more prevalent of the two species in Nebraska. They can be found in a variety of freshwater habitats, including lakes, reservoirs, and ponds. Some popular locations for black crappie fishing in Nebraska include Harlan County Lake, Branched Oak Lake, and Lake McConaughy. Black crappie tend to favor submerged structures, such as brush piles, fallen trees, and weed beds. Anglers often target them using small jigs, minnows, or soft plastic baits.

White crappie are also present in Nebraska, although they are generally less abundant than black crappie. They are often found in larger rivers and reservoirs, such as the Missouri River and Lewis and Clark Lake. White crappie prefer slightly deeper water compared to black crappie and tend to gather around submerged structures, such as docks, bridges, and rock formations. Anglers typically use similar techniques and baits as with black crappie to target white crappie.

The best time to fish for crappie in Nebraska is typically during the spring and fall seasons when water temperatures are optimal for their feeding and spawning activities. During these seasons, crappie can be found in shallower areas near submerged structures, particularly during dawn and dusk when they are most active. However, crappie fishing can still be productive throughout the year, and anglers can adjust their techniques and locations based on the changing seasons and weather conditions.

Nebraska's abundant lakes, reservoirs, and rivers provide ample opportunities for crappie fishing. Whether targeting black crappie or white crappie, anglers can enjoy the challenge and excitement of reeling in these popular game fish. With their tasty fillets and cooperative nature, crappie offer a rewarding fishing experience for anglers of all skill levels.

Crappie Waters In NE

Crappie can be located in a high percentage of the fishing waters throughout NE. In addition to private ponds and some rivers and creeks, crappie can be found in most of the major Nebraska lakes including Bluestem Lake, Box Butte Reservoir, Branched Oak Lake, Conestoga Lake, Davis Creek Reservoir, Elwood Reservoir, Enders Reservoir, Glenn Cunningham Lake, Harlan County Reservoir, Harry Strunk Lake, Hugh Butler Lake, Jeffrey Lake, Johnson Lake, Kimball Reservoir, Lake Maloney, Lake Wanahoo, Lewis And Clark Lake, Medicine Creek Reservoir, Merritt Reservoir, Oliver Reservoir, Pawnee Lake, Red Willow Reservoir, Sherman Reservoir, Sutherland Reservoir, Swanson Reservoir, Wagon Train Lake, Wehrspann Lake, Whitney Lake and Willow Creek Lake. Crappie are a favorite species of many ice fishing enthusiasts. When you locate them you can catch them in bunches.

Click the images and links above for species details.

Top 5 Crappie Fishing Lures For Nebraska

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.

Nebraska Crappie Records

The state record black crappie was taken out of a farm pond.

The state record white crappie was caught from Red Willow Reservoir.

Crappie Fishing Basics Video

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

Check out crappie information, by state.