What’s the best hook size to use for catching crappie when using minnows?

When fishing crappie, there are many things to keep in mind, including which types of bait are appropriate choices.  This varies per region and per what size fish you are after.  Yet, one of the most commonly used choices is that of minnows.  You are correct that this type of bait is a good bet when after crappie. 

As for the hooks you will use, we suggestion going for smaller hooks.  These make for more efficient use.  The smaller hook you use for your crappie, the less likely he is to see it.  If you want your hook to be something to attract the fish to your bait, this can be effective as well.  A good route to take is to use gold hooks for this.  Keep gold hooks at a manageable size. 

You may also want to think about using gang hooks.  These hooks provide for two small hooks that are tied in tandem.  They often are the best way to present live bait to your crappie.  To use gang hooks with minnows, place the lip of the minnow on one of the hooks and use.  Or, if you want to, you can also use the tail of the minnow on the other hook.  The benefit is quite simple.  Instead of just one hook to catch the crappie, there are two, giving you a better opportunity.

If you want actual numbers, perhaps the best size hook would be nothing larger than a 4 for crappie.  Hooks that are 6 or 8 are good choices and are readily used by anglers after crappie.