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Black Crappie

Black Crappie

Black Crappie are not native to Wyoming but have been introduced to select waters throughout the state as warm-water species.

Scientific Name: Pomoxis nigromaculatus

Physical Characteristics:
  • Distinguished from white crappie by having 7-8 dorsal spines versus 5-6, and their irregular dark blotches rather than vertical bars.

What to know

Habitat Distribution

  • Found in warm-water fisheries in select waters throughout Wyoming, particularly in southeastern Wyoming areas.

Key Locations

  • Sloan's Lake near Cheyenne, Keyhole Reservoir, Hawk Springs, Springer/Bump Sullivan reservoirs, and Wheatland Reservoir #1.
  • Other select reservoirs and ponds in southeastern Wyoming areas.

Specific Spots

  • Fish near cover including submerged timber, brush piles, vegetation, docks, and drop-offs in 6-20 feet of water.
  • Focus on protected bays and areas with structure.
  • Prefer waters with abundant aquatic vegetation, sandy to muddy bottoms, and cover such as submerged timber, brush piles, or vegetation.

Black Crappie FAQ

Answers from onWater's species guide.

What are the best lures and bait for Black Crappie in Wyoming?

1.5-2 inch soft plastics like Puddle Jumpers or tube jigs with 1/16 to 1/32-ounce jigheads. Small minnows, worms, or insects as live bait.

What flies work for Black Crappie in Wyoming?

Woolly buggers, seal fur leeches, marabou leeches, and soft plastics in sizes 2-12, with pink, white, and chartreuse being productive colors.

When is the best time to fish for Black Crappie in Wyoming?

Spring and early summer when water temperatures are in the optimal 68-72°F range, but avoid the actual spawning period when temperatures hit 62-65°F.

How do you catch Black Crappie in Wyoming?

Vertical jigging is highly effective - work lures up and down in the water column around structure. During cooler months, slow presentations work best, while warmer weather allows for faster retrieves.

What do Black Crappie eat?

Diet changes by life stage - juveniles under 6.3 inches feed primarily on planktonic crustaceans and insect larvae, while larger individuals become piscivorous, feeding on small fish like shad and minnows, though they consume fewer fish than white crappie. Adults also eat insects, crustaceans, and other invertebrates.

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