I only find smaller crappie when ice fishing. Where do the larger ones hang out?

Finding large crappie in the middle of winter is possible, but it greatly depends on where you are fishing.  Many things play a role in this such as how clear the water is, and how deep it is.  You will find crappies in shallow water in both the early and the late ice, for example, if there is a good weed growth at the lake. 

Also, it helps you know your fish.  Crappies are going to be over the basin of the lake by the middle of the winter.  You will more than likely find them over soft bottom areas rather than hard bottoms.   Consider the layout of the land, under the water, that is.  If the lake offers humps which are piled up clay and mud, then crappie will likely be in the region since they are attracted to this feature. 

As for seeking out the larger crappie, that would have to do with many other factors.  You will find that in many cases, larger fish are found above or below a school of smaller ones.   Generally, they do not swim with a school of smaller size.  A tip for this situation is this.  Try jigging at various depths, below and above the school of smaller fish.  Look at your fish, too.  If you see a fish come through the hole from a depth other than what you are fishing, then make adjustments to catch those fish.  Find out if they are larger and if so, fish them!

Also, realize that not all lakes have big crappie to catch!

Tags: crappie fishing equipment, crappie fishing tn, crappie fishing in arkansas, crappie fishing forum, crappie fishing guide, crappie fishing rods