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White Crappie

White Crappie

White Crappie (Pomoxis annularis) are native to South Dakota, with their natural range extending west to Minnesota and South Dakota in the north.

Scientific Name: Pomoxis annularis

Physical Characteristics:
  • In South Dakota, they average 9-10 inches but can exceed 3 pounds.
  • These deep-bodied, silvery fish are distinguished from black crappie by having 5-6 dorsal fin spines (versus 7-8 for black crappie) and dark spots arranged into vertical stripes rather than random patterns.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • They inhabit waters with aquatic vegetation and underwater structure like logs, rocks, or dead trees, preferring shaded areas under overhanging trees.
  • During summer heat, they move to deeper water.

Specific Spots

  • Around aquatic vegetation, underwater structure, submerged logs, brush piles, submerged trees, boat docks, and underwater structures.

White Crappie FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for White Crappie in South Dakota?

Small jigs (1/64 to 1/16 ounce) with soft plastic bodies resembling minnows, live minnows under bobbers, small spinners, spoons, and plugs. For ice fishing: small jigs tipped with minnows or waxworms.

When is the best time to fish for White Crappie in South Dakota?

The best fishing for white crappie in South Dakota occurs during spring (before spawning when they're feeding heavily in shallow areas) and fall when they're aggressively feeding before winter. In summer, fish early morning, late afternoon, or at night when they move shallower from their deeper, cooler water haunts.

How do you catch White Crappie in South Dakota?

Use small jigs fishing them very slowly with light tackle. Live minnows under bobbers are highly effective. Small spinners, spoons, and plugs retrieved slowly in deep water can also produce fish. Ice fishing using small jigs tipped with minnows or waxworms.

What do White Crappie eat?

Adult white crappies primarily feed on small fish, aquatic insects, crayfish, and tadpoles, with white crappies being more predatory on fish than their black cousins.

Where do White Crappie live in South Dakota?

They inhabit waters with aquatic vegetation and underwater structure like logs, rocks, or dead trees, preferring shaded areas under overhanging trees. During summer heat, they move to deeper water.

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