How to Ice Fish for Crappie With PowerBait Spikes

Crappie are smaller game fish that are often referred to as pan fish, along with other species including bream, shell cracker and blue gill. Many people often think of crappie fishing in the spring when the fish are on spawning beds and begin to aggressively feed. However, good crappie fishing is also to be found during winter months when it is necessary to fish through the ice. Berkley PowerBait spikes work well to entice crappie to strike.

Things You'll Need

• Hammer, axe or auger
• Light spinning rod with matched reel
• 4- to 6-pound test fishing line
• Crimp-on weight
• Pliers
• Size 6 or smaller bait holder hook
• Berkley PowerBait spikes

Instructions

1. Choose a location where the ice is thick enough to safely support your weight. Consider the location also in respect to under water structure and vegetation in which crappie hold and feed.

2. Chop a hole in the ice with a hammer or axe. Use an auger to drill a hole in the ice if the ice is especially thick.

3. Rig the end of the fishing line with a size 6 or smaller bait holder hook. Tie the hook on with an Improved Clinch knot. Moisten the knot before pulling it tight against the eye of the hook.

4. Place a crimp-on weight on the line 12 to 15 inches above the hook. Choose a weight that is 1/8-ounce or heavier based on depth and personal preference. Use a pair of pliers to help crimp the weight in place.

5. Remove a spike from a Berkley PowerBait jar. Place the spike on the hook so it is held securely in place. Arrange the bait on the hook with the hook tip only barely exposed.

6. Lower the PowerBait spike into the water and allow it to settle to the desired depth. Let the spike sit motionless in the water and the scent to disperse with the current to attract crappie.

7. Watch the rod tip to determine when a crappie has taken the bait. Raise the rod tip to set the hook and turn the handle to reel the line and fish up through the ice.

References

• Berkley: PowerBait Spikes
• Red Rock Adventures: Ice Fishing Basics
• Animated Knots by Grog: Improved Clinch Knot