What tips do you have for crappie fishing this spring?

Crappie fishing in spring is definitely a worthwhile activity for the avid angler. The Crappie is certainly a species that is much easier to catch when it is in its spring pre spawn, spawning and post spawn phases than it is at other times during the year. They key is finding the right areas. I would fish in an area that has the following characteristics: 1) It should be some what close to shore. Spring Crappie patterns should concentrate on shoreline areas that offer warmer surface water. 2) It should be an area with a flat bottom, preferably of a surface that is somewhat soft. 3) If you can find an area that meets the above requirements but also has some wood in the area it is all the better. Standing trees, fallen timber or even some man made wooden fish attractants will all work well for this purpose. 4) The water depth should be in the five to eight foot range for the best results. 5) Bays and other areas of a lake or river that are protected from the harsh winds and turbid water are your best place to fish. 6) Look for areas in which the sun hits in the early morning when fishing in early spring. For bait nothing beats a pink jig head with an attached plastic white jig body. If you can tip this combo with a small lively Crappie Minnow and you have the best possible bait to entice strikes from spring Crappie.