“Fishing is much more than just fish. It is the great occasion when we may return to the fine simplicity of our forefathers.” – Herbert Hoover
Crappie fishing is a timeless activity that allows us to reconnect with nature and experience the thrill of the hunt. But to truly succeed on the water, you need the right tools in your arsenal. And when it comes to crappie fishing, choosing the best lures is crucial.
In this article, we will delve into the top picks for the best lures for crappie fishing. These lures have been carefully selected based on expert recommendations and reviews from seasoned anglers. Whether you’re a beginner eager to catch your first crappie or an experienced pro looking to improve your catch rate, these lures are guaranteed to enhance your fishing experience.
Key Takeaways:
- Choosing the right lure is essential for crappie fishing success.
- Expert recommendations and angler reviews can guide you in selecting the best lures.
- The top picks include versatile options that cater to different fishing techniques and conditions.
- Consider the bait’s profile, color, action, and durability when making your selection.
- Having a variety of lures in your tackle box will increase your chances of success on the water.
Best Overall: Southern Pro Lit’l Hustler Tube
The Southern Pro Lit’l Hustler Tube is hailed as the ultimate crappie fishing lure. Its exceptional performance and versatility have made it a favorite among anglers. Its extensive range of colors and sizes ensures that there is a perfect option for every fishing condition.
Features and Benefits
- Lifelike Presentation: The slender hollow tube profile combined with multiple tentacles creates a natural and enticing bait that crappie find irresistible.
- Size Options: The Southern Pro Lit’l Hustler Tube is available in sizes of 1.5, 2, and 2.5 inches, allowing anglers to match the hatch and target larger or smaller crappie.
- Customization: This lure can be easily trimmed to alter its bait profile and rate of fall, giving anglers full control over its presentation.
- Quality Construction: The Southern Pro Lit’l Hustler Tube is consistently well-made, ensuring durability and longevity, even in harsh fishing conditions.
Whether you’re a novice or experienced angler, the Southern Pro Lit’l Hustler Tube is a top choice for crappie fishing. Its lifelike design, versatility, and exceptional performance make it the go-to lure for reeling in those elusive crappie.
Most Versatile: Z-Man 2-Inch GrubZ
The Z-Man 2-Inch GrubZ is a highly versatile and effective lure for crappie fishing. Its unique construction using the patented ElaZtech material ensures both softness and durability. This grub/twister tail profile bait is designed to attract crappie with its lifelike action.
The Z-Man 2-Inch GrubZ boasts the highest fish-per-bait rating among all crappie grubs. Its soft, razor-thin tail pulsates and ripples at any retrieve speed, mimicking the movements of live bait. This realistic action entices crappie to strike, increasing your chances of a successful catch.
One of its standout features is the bait’s buoyancy, allowing it to hover and ripple when paused. This subtle movement can be irresistible to crappie, who are often enticed by the appearance of injured baitfish.
This versatile lure comes in a wide variety of colors and sizes, catering to different fishing conditions and preferences. Whether you’re fishing in clear or murky waters, you’ll find a Z-Man 2-Inch GrubZ that suits your needs.
In summary, the Z-Man 2-Inch GrubZ is an incredibly effective crappie fishing lure. Its versatility, lifelike action, and wide range of color options make it a top choice for anglers looking to maximize their chances of success.
Now, let’s take a look at a comparison table of the different features of the top crappie lures:
| Lure | Material | Size | Colors | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Southern Pro Lit’l Hustler Tube | Plastic | 1.5″, 2″, 2.5″ | Wide range | Slender tube profile, multiple tentacles |
| Z-Man 2-Inch GrubZ | ElaZtech | 2″ | Wide range | Razor-thin tail, buoyant |
| Rapala Ultra Light Shad | Plastic | 1.5″ | Must-have colors | Thin shad profile, tight shimmy |
| Jeff’s Jigs & Flies Panfish Leech | Squirrel strip, chenille | Varies | Black, brown | Natural underwater action, powder-coated head |
| Blakemore Road Runner | Plastic, metal | Varies | White, black, chartreuse | Spinner, versatile |
Best Crankbait: Rapala Ultra Light Shad
The Rapala Ultra Light Shad is a top-rated crappie jig that stands out as the best crankbait for crappie fishing. With its slender profile and realistic design, this crankbait is designed to entice crappie and trigger aggressive strikes.
Measuring 1.5 inches in length, the Rapala Ultra Light Shad is perfect for mimicking the natural prey of crappie. It is expertly crafted to dive to depths of 4 to 5 feet, ensuring that it reaches the desired fishing zone where crappie are most active.
This top-rated crappie jig features the renowned Rapala Shad Rap action, which delivers a tight, subtle shimmy with each body roll. This action creates a lifelike movement that attracts crappie and entices them to strike.
A Versatile Crankbait for Multiple Species
The Rapala Ultra Light Shad offers more than just its effectiveness in catching crappie. This versatile crankbait is also capable of tempting other species such as bass, trout, pike, and walleye. Its ability to attract a variety of game fish makes it a valuable addition to any angler’s tackle box.
Available in a variety of must-have colors, the Rapala Ultra Light Shad allows anglers to match the bait to the prevailing conditions and the preferences of the crappie. Color selection plays a vital role in enticing crappie, and having multiple options ensures optimal success on the water.
Customer Reviews
“The Rapala Ultra Light Shad is my go-to crankbait for crappie fishing. It consistently produces excellent results, and the lifelike action is irresistible to crappie. Highly recommended!” – Mark S.
“I’ve been using the Rapala Ultra Light Shad for years, and it never disappoints. It’s the perfect size and dives to the ideal depth for crappie. Don’t leave home without it!” – Sarah J.
Rapala Ultra Light Shad Specifications
| Length | Diving Depth | Species | Colors |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1.5 inches | 4-5 feet | Crappie, Bass, Trout, Pike, Walleye | Multiple options |
Best Hair Jig: Jeff’s Jigs & Flies Panfish Leech
When it comes to hair jigs for crappie fishing, Jeff’s Jigs & Flies Panfish Leech stands out as the best choice. This well-known brand offers a micro #10 VMC jig hook, available in weights of 1/32, 1/64, or 1/80 ounce.
The secret to the effectiveness of Jeff’s Jigs & Flies Panfish Leech lies in its realistic design. Tied with a natural squirrel strip tail and chenille body, this bait creates a lifelike underwater action that crappie find irresistible.
In addition to its lifelike appearance, this hair jig features a durable powder-coated jig head that can withstand the demands of fishing. The combination of quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship ensures that Jeff’s Jigs & Flies Panfish Leech is a popular choice among anglers.
For optimal results, anglers recommend using the black or brown color variations of Jeff’s Jigs & Flies Panfish Leech. These colors have a proven track record of attracting crappie and increasing your chances of a successful catch.
Next time you head out for a day of crappie fishing, make sure to have Jeff’s Jigs & Flies Panfish Leech in your tackle box. Its superb design and proven effectiveness will give you the competitive edge you need to reel in more fish.
| Jig Features | Recommended Colors |
|---|---|
| Micro #10 VMC jig hook | Black |
| Weight options: 1/32, 1/64, or 1/80 ounce | Brown |
| Tied with squirrel strip tail and chenille body | |
| Powder-coated jig head for durability |
Best Jig: Blakemore Road Runner
The Blakemore Road Runner is considered the best jig for crappie fishing. Its pony-shaped jighead with a chin spinner, available in various weights and blade shapes, makes it a versatile choice for anglers. The Blakemore Road Runner is known for its productivity and is widely recognized as a top-performing crappie jig.
Features of the Blakemore Road Runner:
- Pony-shaped jighead with a chin spinner
- Available in different weights and blade shapes
- Must-have colors: white, black, and chartreuse
- Runs perfectly out of the box
- Versatile and suitable for various fishing conditions
Why the Blakemore Road Runner is Recommended:
The Blakemore Road Runner is highly recommended for crappie fishing due to its effectiveness in enticing strikes. Its unique design and vibrant colors attract the attention of crappie, making it an irresistible bait. Whether you prefer a slow retrieve or a fast pace, the Blakemore Road Runner adapts well to different fishing techniques.
“The Blakemore Road Runner is my go-to jig for crappie fishing. Its spinner adds a flash that immediately grabs the attention of crappie, and the different weight options allow me to adjust to different depths. It’s a reliable and versatile lure that has consistently produced great results for me.” – Experienced angler
Best Spinner/Blade Lure: Strike King Mr. Crappie Spin Baby Spinnerbait
The Strike King Mr. Crappie Spin Baby Spinnerbait is the perfect lure for crappie fishing enthusiasts. With its spinnerbait design and small profile, it is highly attractive to crappie and increases your chances of success on each fishing trip. The high-quality components used in its construction ensure that it is reliable and durable, withstanding the test of time and the challenges of the water.
This spinnerbait is specifically designed to trigger bites from crappie, making it a top choice for anglers. Whether you prefer casting it or trolling it, the Strike King Mr. Crappie Spin Baby Spinnerbait delivers exceptional results. Its versatility allows you to use various fishing techniques and adapt to different conditions, maximizing your chances of landing that prized crappie.
Featuring high-quality materials and craftsmanship, this spinnerbait can withstand the rigors of crappie fishing. Its small size and lifelike action make it a tempting target for crappie, ensuring that you don’t go home empty-handed. The Strike King Mr. Crappie Spin Baby Spinnerbait is the ultimate tool for anglers looking to catch crappie consistently and effectively.
When it comes to top crappie fishing tackle, the Strike King Mr. Crappie Spin Baby Spinnerbait is a must-have in every angler’s arsenal. Its proven effectiveness, versatility, and durability make it a standout choice among other spinner/blade lures on the market. Give yourself the edge and increase your chances of crappie fishing success with this exceptional spinnerbait.
Best Dock-Shooting Bait: Bobby Garland Mo’ Glo Slab Slay’R
The Bobby Garland Mo’ Glo Slab Slay’R is a highly effective dock-shooting bait for crappie fishing. specifically designed to target crappie in tight spaces like docks and other structures. With its vibrant glow colors, the Slab Slay’R ensures high visibility even in low-light conditions, increasing its appeal to crappie. This bait has a proven track record of success and is a favorite among anglers seeking a reliable and productive option for catching crappie.
When it comes to dock-shooting, the Bobby Garland Mo’ Glo Slab Slay’R is unrivaled in its performance. Its enticing design and attractive colors make it a standout choice for anglers looking to optimize their crappie fishing experience. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced angler, this bait is a must-have in your tackle box.
Enhance your dock-shooting technique and increase your chances of success with the Bobby Garland Mo’ Glo Slab Slay’R. Its superior construction, combined with its vibrant glow colors, ensures that it stands out among other bait options. Add this top-notch bait to your arsenal, and get ready for an unforgettable crappie fishing adventure.
Best Pre-Rigged: VMC Tungsten Probe Jig
The VMC Tungsten Probe Jig is the top-rated pre-rigged jig for crappie fishing. Crafted with high-quality tungsten material, this jig offers superior sensitivity and impact resistance, ensuring that you can feel even the subtlest bites. Its pre-rigged design includes a hook for convenience, saving you time and effort on the water.
The VMC Tungsten Probe Jig features a streamlined shape that mimics the natural movement of prey underwater, making it highly enticing to crappie. Whether you’re fishing in shallow water or deep pockets, this jig is exceptionally effective in attracting crappie and triggering strikes.
This versatile jig comes in a range of sizes, allowing you to match the hatch and target crappie of any size. With its high-quality construction and proven performance, the VMC Tungsten Probe Jig is highly recommended by anglers as one of the best-rated crappie jigs on the market.
Key Features of the VMC Tungsten Probe Jig:
- Premium tungsten construction for increased sensitivity and durability
- Pre-rigged with a hook for convenience
- Streamlined design for realistic underwater action
- Available in various sizes to suit different fishing conditions
Anglers praise the VMC Tungsten Probe Jig for its exceptional performance in attracting crappie. Its tungsten construction provides superior sensitivity, while the pre-rigged design saves time on the water. This jig offers the perfect combination of durability, convenience, and effectiveness, making it a favorite among crappie fishing enthusiasts.
Best Kit: Bobby Garland 158-piece Deluxe Crappie Kit
The Bobby Garland 158-piece Deluxe Crappie Kit is the ultimate solution for anglers looking to enhance their crappie fishing game. This comprehensive kit offers a wide range of lures in various colors and sizes, ensuring you have the perfect bait for every fishing condition. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced angler, this kit has got you covered.
With its diverse selection of lures, the Bobby Garland 158-piece Deluxe Crappie Kit provides versatility and convenience. Instead of purchasing individual lures, this kit allows you to try out different baits to find the ones that work best for you. It’s like having a complete arsenal of crappie-catching weapons at your disposal.
The Bobby Garland 158-piece Deluxe Crappie Kit is the go-to choice for anglers who want to maximize their chances of success. With its high-quality lures and attention to detail, this kit has received rave reviews from fishing enthusiasts worldwide. It has everything you need to entice crappie and reel in a great catch.
Whether you’re targeting crappie in open water or ice fishing on a frozen lake, the Bobby Garland 158-piece Deluxe Crappie Kit has the right lures for the job. From jigs to grubs to spinners, this kit covers all the bases. It’s a must-have for any serious crappie angler.
Don’t miss out on the opportunity to take your crappie fishing to the next level. Invest in the Bobby Garland 158-piece Deluxe Crappie Kit and experience the difference it can make in your fishing success. Your tackle box will thank you.
| Lure Type | Quantity |
|---|---|
| Tube Baits | 30 |
| Curly Tail Grubs | 25 |
| Minnow Baits | 20 |
| Shad Baits | 20 |
| Panfish Baits | 15 |
| Spinners | 15 |
| Jig Heads | 10 |
| Floats | 10 |
| Crappie Jigs | 10 |
| Split Shot Weights | 3 |
| Swivels | 5 |
| Bobbers | 5 |
| Soft Plastic Jerkbaits | 5 |
| Soft Plastic Minnows | 5 |
| Soft Plastic Craws | 5 |
| Soft Plastic Creature Baits | 5 |
Best for Ice Fishing: Akara Midge
The Akara Midge is the go-to bait for ice fishing crappie. Its outstanding performance has proven it to be highly effective in catching crappie during cold winter months. Specifically designed for ice fishing, the Akara Midge features a realistic design and action that mimics the natural movement of prey, enticing crappie even in frigid waters. One of the key advantages of this bait is its compact size, which makes it perfect for targeting crappie under the ice.
Ice fishing enthusiasts consider the Akara Midge a top choice for its ability to consistently attract crappie and deliver successful catches. Its small profile, combined with its lifelike presentation, make it irresistible to crappie seeking food sources beneath the ice. Whether you are an experienced ice angler or a beginner, the Akara Midge is a reliable and effective option for reeling in crappie during your ice fishing adventures.
Conclusion
When it comes to crappie fishing, having the right lures can make a significant difference in your success. After careful research and analysis of expert recommendations and angler reviews, we have identified the top picks for the best lures for crappie. These lures have proven to be highly effective in attracting and catching crappie, and they come highly recommended by experienced anglers.
The Southern Pro Lit’l Hustler Tube, Z-Man 2-Inch GrubZ, Rapala Ultra Light Shad, Jeff’s Jigs & Flies Panfish Leech, Blakemore Road Runner, Strike King Mr. Crappie Spin Baby Spinnerbait, Bobby Garland Mo’ Glo Slab Slay’R, VMC Tungsten Probe Jig, Bobby Garland 158-piece Deluxe Crappie Kit, and Akara Midge are all outstanding options for crappie fishing. These lures offer a variety of profiles, colors, and sizes to cater to different fishing conditions.
Whether you’re fishing in open water or braving the cold for ice fishing, these lures will help elevate your crappie fishing trips and increase your chances of success. Each of these lures has its unique features and characteristics that make them stand out in the world of crappie fishing tackle. By incorporating these top-rated lures into your arsenal, you can take your crappie fishing game to the next level and enjoy more thrilling and rewarding adventures on the water.