Most jigs can be fished in several ways. Vertical Jigging is simply dropping a jig straight down to the correct depth, and moving it up and down a few inches, slowly, at intervals. This can even be done from shore with a cane pole. Sometimes, this is the only way to fish in thick brush, fallen timber or other dense structure.  It is THE method for pulling crappie out of heavy cover, and is extremely effective for placing a jig right in front of a moody, suspending slab-side. This method will produce when all others fail, if the right colors are used. Two jigs can be rigged in tandem with this method as well.
 
Next is the Bobber Rig. Either one, or two jigs in tandem, are rigged at the correct depth under a slip bobber. Then the rig is cast to likely spots and retrieved slowly in short, periodic jerks. Or, in a current such as below tail-races, it can be cast upstream and allowed to drift down. This is another effective method for suspended crappie. It is best to set the depth close to the thermo-cline.
 
Lastly, jigs can be cast and retrieved like a spinner-bait. This is the least effective method for controlling your depth. All these methods produce crappie at different times. The trick is to match your technique to the prevailing conditions.
 
One method I use when crappie get finicky may be a bit cheesy, but it works. I will cast a jig out under a bobber and let it sit. Then I will take another rod rigged with a crank-bait and cast it out beyond where the jig is. I rapidly reel the crank-bait up to and past the bobber with the jig. I repeat as necessary. To a nearby crappie, it appears as if a smaller fish is attacking the jig, in effect stealing the crappies potential meal. This is something no predator can ignore. The crappie will savagely hit the jig before the crank-bait can get it, thus putting the smaller fish in its proper place. Unorthodox? Absolutely, but it really works. Try it sometime.
 
A whole book can be written on crappie tricks, but this will give you a place to start.
 
Happy Fishing.

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