Crappie fish is a type of freshwater fish which belongs to the sunfish family, Centrarchidae. Crappies are actually two species of North American freshwater fish of the genus Pomoxis in the family Centrarchidae. And both species of crappies are popular game fish among recreational anglers.
Common name of this fish derives from the Canadian French crapet, which refers to many different fishes of the sunfish family. These fish are also known by many other names. Some other names of these fish are crappie bass, calico bass, Oswego bass, white perch, speckled perch, specks, speckled bass, strawberry bass, papermouths etc.
Scientific name of the white species is Promoxis annularis. And this species is mainly found in Great Lakes, Hudson Bay, and the Mississippi River basins expanding from New York and Southern Ontario westward to South Dakota and Southward to Texas. And scientific name of the Black crappie is Promoxis nigromaculatus. And they are mainly found in the Eastern United States and Canada.
Characteristics
Like all other fish species, the Crappie fish also have some distinctive physical characteristics. Two species of this fish share several similarities in body shape and features, with some key differences.
They have a compressed, laterally flattened body. Their body is somewhat oval in shape, and their bodies are relatively deep and slender. Their tail is forked, and the tail fin’s shape is an important characteristics of Crappie fish. Their mouth are relatively small for their size. Their teeth are small and relatively less developed as compared to other predatory fish species.
Crappie fish have relatively large eyes compared to their body size. And the gill covers are smooth, with a slight ridge. The gill plates may have slightly darker color in some crappies, especially black crappies.
In terms of body coloration, the white crappie has light, silvery to pale greenish body with vertical dark bars or bands that run down the length of the fish. The belly is usually pale white or silvery color. While the black crappie has darker body with numerous black spots or speckles scattered across their body. The belly is usually lighter in color.
Size and weight
The white crappie typically grows to around 8-12 inches long, and weight between 1 and 2 pounds. Although, some fish can grow up to 20 inches or more and weight between 3 and 4 pounds. And the black Crappie fish are usually smaller than the white variety. Most of the fish are between 8 to 10 inches. Although, sometimes they can grow larger, with some fish reaching up to 15-17 inches, and occasionally reach 2 pounds body weight.
Habitat
The white Crappie fish are found in Great Lakes, Hudson Bay, and the Mississippi River basins expanding from New York and Southern Ontario westward to South Dakota and Southward to Texas. While the Black crappie are mainly found in the eastern United States and Canada.
Diet
The Crappies are predator fish, and their diet mainly consists of smaller aquatic creatures. They are opportunistic feeders. And they will eat whatever is available in their environment that fits in their mouths. Diet of the Crappie fish include small fish, invertebrates, larvae, aquatic worms, fry from other fish species etc.
Behavior
The Crappies are schooling fish. They often gather in large groups, especially during the spawning season. They are known for their light-biting behavior. They are predatory fish and mainly feed on smaller fish, insects, and zooplankton.
Fishing
Crappie fishing is very popular among the anglers, especially in the spring, during their spawning season when they come closer to shore. Most of the anglers typically use small jigs, live minnows, or even fly fishing techniques for catching these fish. Aggressive feeding patterns of these fish during this time make them favorite among recreational fisherman.
Uses
The Crappie fish are mainly used for food. They are highly regarded for their mild, sweet flavor, and firm, white meat. They are also popular among the recreational anglers.
Taste
The Crappie fish is known for its good and delicious taste. It has white, mild-flavored flesh and has a fine texture. You can enjoy this fish in many different ways including frying, baking, or grilling.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
People often ask several questions regarding this fish species. Here we are trying to list the most common and frequently asked questions about Crappie fish and trying to answer them. Don’t hesitate to ask if you have more questions.
What is a Crappie fish?
Crappie is a type of fish found in freshwater environment. It belongs to the sunfish family, Centrarchidae. There are two main species of crappie fish, the White and Black. Both species are very popular among the anglers due to their tasty, flaky white meat.
How to catch Crappie fish?
You can catch Crappie fish by using light spinning rod, 2-6 lbs test line, small hooks, and jigs or live minnows. Early morning and late evening are the best time to catch this fish.
Can you eat Crappie fish?
Yes, sure! Crappies are tasty and known for their good taste and flavor.
Where can I buy Crappie fish?
You can buy Crappie fish from your local fish markets, grocery stores and supermarkets, freshwater fish farms, and also from online retailers.
How to cook Crappie fish?
You can cook Crappie fish in many different ways. Some most common and popular cooking ways are grilling, baking, frying etc.
