Page 7 - Crappie NOW | August 2016

Deep Summer Structure

activity. It can be a game-changer especially hook on top, a sinker in between and a Road
for spider rig fishermen. Runner head with a Bobby Garland Swim’R
Another key element in late summer can body on bottom, tipped with a minnow. The
be schools of shad. When all the elements bottom bait adds flash, color and natural
of a good ledge are in place, the addition of action. Once a trend is found, baits will be
ample baitfish can turn a good spot into a geared to the best color and size bait.
great spot. “One last thing is the thermocline. It
“The schools of shad are important trumps all other conditions because fish will
because crappie will be around them. They be above the thermocline no matter what.
go after the bait. Some fish will follow the So if the thermocline is at 12 feet all the fish
schools while others will stay in place, like will be above that depth. Also note that some
on the ledge, and then ramp up their feeding moving waters won’t have a thermocline to
when the bait comes in.” worry about.”
Dannemueller says he is spider rigging
this time of year because of bait control Mentioned in Article:
and multiple baits in the water. 8 to 15 feet Road Runner www.ttiblakemore.com
is normal on the ledges to find the crappie, Swim’R www.bobbygarlandcrappie.com
but they may move deeper or shallower Garmin www.garmin.com
depending upon conditions. Dannenmueller/Steele facebook Crappie
His rigs consist of minnows, jigs and Country
combinations. Often, it’s a straight minnow
- Tim Huffman

7 Crappie NOW August 2016