Secrets Of Spider Rigging For Crappie

If you have ever seen anyone spider rigging for crappie, you know it is a sight you are not likely to forget. In spider rigging, the fisherman uses a large number of long crappie poles or rods and reels, spread out around the front and sides of the boat. The term itself actually comes from the appearance of the boat, which, with all these poles extended out from the boat, gives it a spider-like appearance. Each one of the poles will normally be set at a different depths. This approach really makes a difference in locating the depths at which the crappie may be located. Once a fish bites at one of the depths, since crappie travel in schools, the various pole depths may be adjusted to the depth the bite occurred.

To spider rig for crappie, you will need several fishing rods or poles. The accepted length is usually about ten foot long. Each rod will need an accompanying rod holder to hold the rods in place. Rods come in lots of types and the prices really do reflect all ranges of the products available. Just try to do your homework, buy the best you can afford that is practical for your purposes, and buy reputable brands from reputable dealers, and you should be fine.

One set up that is designed specifically for spider fishing that can give you a great example of what you will need to do a good job, is the Black Widow Spider Rigging System. The price is really reasonable, and the product is good, but even should you decide on a different set up, it will give you an idea of what all is involved in the equipment needed for spider rigging for crappie.

Whatever set up you choose, you should rig your poles with a spinning reel. It is not necessary to spend a lot of money to do that. Inexpensive reels will do a good job as long as you choose one that is relatively good quality and brand. Use about a six pound test line on these reels. Figure out where you want to sit, and mount the poles spaced as far apart as you can while still keeping them relatively close. Make sure you can reach them fairly easily.

Now, it is important that you find a way of spider rigging and setting up your poles that works for you, and stick with it once you do. What we provide for you here is just an overview and a set of options. Definitely customize them for your needs, your strategies and your area.

Here are some suggestions that have worked well for others, and could work well for you. Just be sure not to hesitate to experiment a little bit to hit on the right combination that will work for you in the areas in which you like to catch crappie.

Try something like Hot head jig, on the end of your line, and use an ounce split shot about a foot and a half above your jig. Minnows also work very well. Try them on about a #2 hook tied onto your hook. Put a fourth ounce spit shot about 1 inch above your hook. You can paint the tips of your poles also to help you see when a fish gets on your line. Good colors for maximum visibility are chartreuse or orange.