Finding a unique spot or using a unique tactic can lead to a good day of fishing. We usually think of out-of-the-way places, but it can also be places that are easily fished in a different way. The key is to keep an open mind and not pass up potential spots.

A spot others don’t fish

The number of crappie fishermen has dramatically increased since Covid. There is more pressure on the fish, causing them to be spookier and, in some cases, fewer in numbers and smaller in size. So, having a spot where others don’t fish is a gold mine for a crappie fisherman.

For example, I fished on an Oklahoma lake with a resident who knows the location of a submerged tree that others don’t fish. He says it’s odd because nothing hides from electronics, yet the log is his go-to spot when fishing is tough.

His tactic involves a good spinning rod and reel spooled with 4- or 6-pound-test line. A 1/16-ounce Bobby Garland Baby Shad is a great jig, but he also uses an Itty Bit with a 1/48-ounce head. He says there is nothing else better than the tiny jig when crappies are finicky.

He recommends that when a fisherman finds a spot, don’t fish it when others are nearby. Don’t let others see you catching fish.

Away from the crowd

Two-time Crappie Masters Angler of the Year Dan Dannenmueller says that he likes to get away from the crowd. He recognizes that a group of fishermen usually represent a good school of crappies, but it’s not the ideal situation for an all-around great day on the water.

“I personally like to be away from the crowd for a variety of reasons,” says Dannenmueller. “First, fish are less pressured. Pressured fish not only means there are likely fewer of them, but more importantly, it means the fish are spooky. Multiple boats mean more noises and disturbances, so fish become spooky and less likely to bite.

“Second is concentration. Other noises and watching for other boats make it easy to become distracted instead of watching rods, electronics and other important things.

“The third is enjoyment of being in a quiet place to enjoy a day outdoors.

“Finding a place to fish where others don’t may take time, but it’s worth the effort. Finding an untouched spot can be awesome.

“One example,” says Dannenmueller, “was a spot right off the river channel that gets cut off from the river during low water. We had a rise in water just before a tournament, making it accessible, but not without a lot of work. Others wouldn’t go in. We found some big crappies that were untouched by others.”

Dannenmueller says this applies to any technique. For the example above, he slow trolled, or spider rigged, with 16-foot B‘n’M long poles, Road Runners and Bobby Garland plastics.

“A recreational fisherman can look for a spot along a shoreline, ledge or laydown. Also look for spots where others don’t want to work to get to, like the spot off the river I mentioned. A place away from the crowd.”

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