Black Crappie

DE Black Crappie Fishing Guide

DEFreshwater
FishingDelaware2026

Black Crappie and White Crappie both have the same colors, ranging from dark olive to black on top, with silvery/white sides and dark blotches. The pattern of the dark blotches is often different between the two. Black Crappie have scattered, random spots and White Crappie usually can have 5 to10 vertical bars along their body.

Diet: insects, small crayfish, and small fishes

Habitat & Range

Black Crappie can be found around aquatic vegetation and submerged woody material such as tree tops and brush piles. In late winter/early spring, Black Crappie congregate in large schools, often in deeper water. They feed on insects, small crayfish, and small fishes.

Where to Fishing

Statewide

Frequently Asked Questions

Fishing Tips

Black Crappie can be caught with artificial flies, small spinners, and jigs. Small minnow's fished suspended under bobbers are a favored technique.

References