Crappie Ice Fishing Presentation on lakes in Ely MN

OK, you've found the Crappie, now let's look at some effective techniques to get them on the ice!

The most effective ice fishing presentation is jigging. Jigging is basically raising your rod tip about a foot, then dropping it back down to its starting position.

A very effective method is to raise and drop the tip, wait 5-10 seconds and repeat the raise/drop.

Another jigging technique made popular by the pro ice fisherman Dave Genz is pounding the jig. Pounding a jig is basically jiggling your rod tip up and down just an inch or two very quickly. This is one of my favorite techniques and seems to entice those sometimes finicky Crappie.

If you're not using a flasher and have no idea what depth the fish are at, start by jigging near the bottom. If you don't find fish, come up a foot or two. Continue the process until you either find fish or reach the ice with your lure.

Now that you've got the hang of jigging, let’s look at the lure/bait you're using. There are several jigs that have proved effective over time. Be willing to experiment with any of the jigs pictured below.

Vertical Jigs with a minnow are usually used more during changing light conditions and at night.

Northland Tackle Eye-Dropper

Northland Tackle Doodle Bug

Custom Jigs & Spins Demon

Horizontal Jigs with grubs are usually more effective during the day.

System Tackle Fat Boy

System Tackle Genz Worm

Custom Jigs & Spins Rat Finke

HT Enterprises Marmooska

Using live bait is important to trigger a bite. Tip your jig with a live minnow, minnow head, or a grub.

In most places while ice fishing you're allowed more than one rod. I usually set up a second rod with a float (bobber) and a lively minnow on a hook or a jig while ice fishing for Crappie.

Finally, Crappie are also called Paper Mouths for a reason. Their mouth rips pretty easily so when you get a bite don't set the hook too hard.

Hopefully you've found something new to try in these Crappie ice fishing tips and techniques that will help you ice more fish.

What most people consider luck is usually a combination of preparation and practice so get out there and enjoy the practice!