Crappie_Bass Fishing

Question
Marc,
I have recently moved to louisiana and want to pick up bass and crappie fishing. are there any tips on lure color, for both bass and crappie. Also what key places to target them in a lake. Like weeds, lily pads, Docks. any info on this would be greatly appreciated. also, with crappie is it better with live or artificial baits.

Answer
Hi Arthur,

Lure color isn't really a specie specific issue.  It has more to do with water color.  In clear water less color is needed.  In darker or green water you will need brighter or fluorescent colors.  In general, whites, chartreuse, and pinks are good for crappies no matter what the water color is.  It's hard to beat June-bug or purple for bass when choosing soft plastics.  Start there and see what works best.  One of my favorites for senko-type worms is watermelon candy.  That works everywhere.

Live vs artificial is a personal preference.  I hardly use any live bait, but in cold front conditions it can become necessary.  Small minnows are the best choice for crappies.  I'd start out with small tube jigs and see if that works first.  

Both species like structure like you mentioned.  Crappies like sunken timber, fall downs, and docks.  Not so much the lily pads.

Louisiana has some great fishing.  Hope you enjoy it.

Good fishing.

Marc