The Best Ice Jigs for Night Crappie

The Best Ice Jigs for Night Crappie

fishing image by Tammy Mobley from Fotolia.com

Night fishing for crappie requires jigs that are highly visible in the dark. Motion is important, but visibility is the key to success. Jigs with glow-in-the-dark colors are a top choice, but natural colors also can be used. Besides color choice, you must scout the waters before the winter season to locate high potential fishing spots.

Marabou

Marabou jigs in black and white are a top choice for catching crappie through the ice and in the dark. Black and white are two of the most visible colors in dark waters and have the ability to increase catch rates. The motion of marabou tails combined with the visible colors will attract crappie. Although the combination is effective, the presentation must be slow. The water temperature is extremely cold, and the fish are sluggish. The less motion imparted on the jig the more effective. Many anglers will place the rod in a holder to minimize motion.

Glow Jigs

Glow-in-the-dark jigs are one of the most popular choices for crappie fishing at night and through the ice. Many anglers will also use the jigs during the day for ice fishing in deep, dark waters. Glow-in-the-dark jigs are available in numerous different colors and require a charge of light before being used. It is important to carry a bright flash light and charge the jigs for 1-2 minutes every hour. If the fishing is hot and begins to slow, it might be time for a charge of light. The color of the jig is not incredibly important because it will be visible. Black, white and chartreuse are all good color choices.

Glitter Plastics

Plastic worms with curly tails are effective on jig hooks during the day and night. Plastics in black and white are top choices, and the addition of glitter in the mold makes it more effective for night fishing. The glitter will reflect small bits of light, and the black and white worms will be highly visible for crappie. It is important that the jigs are fished with little movement and at depths ranging from 8-20 feet. The plastic jigs also are durable and inexpensive. Jigs with contrasting black and white, black and red and white and chartreuse are good choices for general crappie fishing at night.

Article Written By Zach Lazzari

Zach Lazzari is an outdoor writing specialist. He has experience in website writing as well as standard newspaper writing. He wrote an outdoor column for the Silver World in Lake City, Colo., and articles for Colorado-mountain-adventure.com. Lazzari is currently completing his bachelor's degree online through Arizona State University and lives in southwest Montana.

Write for Trails.com
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