help on ice fishing crappies??

[slick2526]

Hello, Im looking for some suggestions on line, bobbers, jigs, sizes, and colors of jigs to use while ice fishing crappies. thanks

[Riceburner]

First item ,most important, I think is a FL8 or Zercom so you can SEE the fish--and know what depth they are at---rent one if you have to. Line 4# maximum-lighter the better-have a friend who outfishes us with 1#-but tough to tie knots...bobber--smallest possible-even use a spring bobber as often as possible...Lures--tiny-1/16 and smaller--glow works well after dark-daytime-try white, black, chartreusse. Toughest part is finding them-they'll let you know what they like--keep changing--tease em'.....

[Mattman]

Riceburner gave some good advice. Vexilar is a big thing. Especially since Crappies often ride high in the water column. I've had many fish come in well above my bait. Raise up to their level, tease 'em and WHANGO.
I use 2 and 4 pound line.
The slip bobbers vary with bait/lure size.
I always have one rod rigged with a plain hook and a slip bobber.
As far as jigs I use; Moon jigs, Blue Fox Big Crappie Jig, Northland Firefly, Northland Fireball, Cubbie jigs, Swedish Pimples, and various tube jigs with any old tubes and Berklely Power Tubes
Colors; Try 'em all. Crappies really jump around on that front. My go to combo is a 1/8th ounce Northland Firefly in black and yellow with a fathead or crappie minnow.
I don't use really small stuff. I don't have a problem using an 1/8th ounce jig with a Fathead. Keeps the little Crappies away. Yes, I adjust to the fish. If the big stuff isn't working I downsize. If a color isn't working change.