Crappie
Appearance: Texas is home to both Black and White Crappie. Both fish are predominately white-silver with a dark green-black back and markings. White Crappie (above) sport vertical bars, while Black Crappie are marked with many spots.
Size: Most Crappie caught in Texas are around a pound, although 2 pounders aren't uncommon in some areas
Where it's found: Crappie are found in may rivers and lakes, as well as major reservoirs. For the most part, Crappie spend their time suspended at depths of 12 feet or more, but are found in shallower water during the spring spawning season.
What it eats: Crappie's diet consists mainly of minnows and crawfish.
Top lures & baits: Live minnows are the top natural bait, followed by small crawfish. A variety of jigs and small crankbaits will produce plenty of fish as well.
How it tastes: Crappie are perhaps the best tasting 'perch' in Texas.
Texas Bag & Size Limits: 25 fish bag/10 inch minimum length (*NOTE: Many water bodies have tighter limits than the statewide limits. Be sure to check for any local limits before retaining fish.)
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