Does wade fishing for crappie work? What is the method?
That depends on what you consider ‘wade’ fishing. True wade fishing, with waders and boots, or ‘wet’ wading with shorts and sandals, is really only possible during the spawn. The crappie will be too deep for wading for much of the year. You can, of course, wade out to get clear of shore obstructions and cast out to the crappie, but this would be difficult as well, because the crappie will most likely be in heavy cover. For most of the year, vertical jigging is the way to go. This is not really wading, but you can get a ‘Belly-Boat” or Float Tube, Boot Fins and waders and swim out to where the crappies are. This is a wonderful way to fish. You can go right over the fish and vertical jig without scaring them with a motor. It is very easy to follow moving schools this way, because you don’t even have to stop fishing to re-position yourself. As long as you observe a few common-sense precautions, it is a perfectly safe and efficient way to fish. There are two types of float tubes on the market. The ’round’ type, and the ‘U Boat’ type. The round type is just as the name implies. It is a round tube, much like a truck tire inner tube, usually with several compartments for safety, and a padded backrest. These are best for very heavy anglers because they support a lot of weight and are very difficult to capsize. They are slower than the other type, but more stable. The U Boat style is a horseshoe-shaped float that is open at the front, making entrances and exits easy. They are not quit as stable, since you are only supported by the float on three sides. It is possible to roll one forward and capsize it, but you almost have to do it on purpose. They are very safe. Both types have very comfortable seats and backrests, along with lots of pockets and compartments to stow your gear. All-day fishing is a pleasure with one of these. You can even use one of the portable models of Sonar Units in a float tube. Check out the various models at your favorite outdoor store and see which one suits you best. Or better yet, borrow one and try it out. It is one of my favorite ways to fish. Happy Fishing!
