The thrill of a disappearing float never gets old, no matter a fisherman’s age. Whether you call it a float, cork, bobber or strike indicator, a float is a great tool for catching crappies. The theory is the same today as it was five decades ago: A float sets the correct depth and is an indicator of anything going on with the bait.

Shallow flats

Crappies like to visit shallow waters during spring. Sometimes, it’s for feeding in warmer water. Another period is the spawn. Whatever the reason, fishermen shouldn’t ignore shallow flats and the associated features.

Forward-facing sonar has taught us that crappies are spookier than we once believed. Therefore, we know it’s critical to stay a distance away from the spot being fished. The safe distance will vary based upon conditions. For example, a light ripple on the water will allow a fisherman to get closer to the fish compared to no wind with flat water.

A contour change on a relatively flat area is a good place to start. A small ditch, drop or channel will likely attract fish. Electronic mapping along with sonar and/or side imaging will show potentially good spots. Also watch for baitfish because crappies will be feeding when up on a flat.

Position about 25 feet away and make long casts past the spot you are fishing. The splash of the bait and float often alerts fish to the fact something has invaded their area. Therefore, cast as far as possible past the spot to avoid spooking fish.

A 1/16- or 1/8-ounce jig under a weighted float is good for distance. Long casts can be important. A 1/16-ounce jig under a lighter-weight float is better for less splash but can be difficult to cast for distance—especially in the wind.

One tactic: Pinpoint a specific spot on a drop where you know fish are present. Make accurate casts and work the spot.

Another tactic is to cast along the drop to search for active, biting crappies. Unless fish are very active, the best presentation is s-l-o-w. Try letting the jig rest for several seconds after the cast. Lift the rod tip to move the float 12 to 18 inches. Stop. The jig will slowly pendulum down until it gets below the float. Give the jig about seven seconds or more before giving it another pull.

Steep, sloping banks

Barry Morrow, a guide on Truman Lake, Missouri, says, “A bank with a good slope is my favorite place to fish during the spawn. I like to fish by pitching to the bank instead of casting, when possible. Riprap, rock and rock/mud banks with a nearby channel are perfect areas.”

Morrow uses an 11-foot Huckabee pole, 1/8-ounce jig and a slip-float. The float rests against the jig during the pitch, so it adds distance and accuracy to the pitch. The pitch is nothing more than swinging the bait back with the long pole and swinging it forward to drop it into the spot.

“This works on any bank where crappies are holding relatively shallow. Stained lakes work best because the crappies don’t spook as often. It’s also a great tactic during high water when fish go shallow.”

Morrow says that young fishermen should cast instead of pitch. A short pole is much easier to handle. Also, a lively minnow under a float allows an inexperienced fisherman to see more bites and the minnow does the work.

Casting to wood on points

One structure on which to find different species, including crappies, is a point. Points have a variety of depths where crappies can move shallow or deep without traveling too far. A point becomes prime crappie property when it includes a few stumps or brush piles.

Morrow says, “In spring, crappies are migrating to shallower water, so along the way they stop at good spots where they can ambush food. A shallow brush pile on a point is a good place. The fish may position in 1 to 4 feet of water over the tops of the brush. A lightweight, 1/16-ounce jig gives a slow fall under a float. The key is to work it slowly over the tops and sides of the brush or stump.”

Morrow says it’s simple fishing. He recommends casting the jig-float combo past the brush, bring it back rapidly until it reaches the brush and then stop it. The jig swings down. If a fish is there, he’ll nail it. There will be some hang-ups, but that is part of the game.

For more insight and tips for fishing throughout the year, check out the articles in every issue of MidWest Outdoors, available by subscribing on our website.