Are you tired of coming back empty-handed from your crappie fishing trips? It could be time to upgrade your tackle box with the best crappie jigs on the market. With so many options available, it can be overwhelming to choose the right one. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you find the best crappie jigs for your needs. From types of jigs to top brands and DIY options, we’ll cover it all. Plus, we’ll share expert tips for using crappie jigs to reel in more fish. Let’s dive in and get you on your way to successful crappie fishing!
Buyers Guide
When it comes to choosing the best crappie jigs, there are a few key factors to consider to make sure you’re selecting the right jig for your fishing needs. Here are some things to keep in mind:
- Size: The size of the jig is crucial, as it can affect the depth at which the jig will sink and how it will move in the water. Generally, smaller jigs work better for crappie, but the size you choose will depend on the depth and structure of the water you’re fishing in.
- Color: The color of the jig can make a big difference in its effectiveness, as different colors may be more attractive to crappie depending on the water conditions and lighting. Common colors for crappie jigs include white, chartreuse, yellow, and pink.
- Weight: The weight of the jig can impact how it sinks and how quickly it falls, which can affect its effectiveness. Lighter jigs are generally better for fishing in shallow water, while heavier jigs work better for deeper water.
- Shape: The shape of the jig can also impact its effectiveness. Some common shapes include tube jigs, curly tail jigs, marabou jigs, and feather jigs. Each type of jig may work better in different situations.
- Material: Crappie jigs can be made from a variety of materials, including plastic, rubber, and feathers. The material you choose can affect how the jig moves in the water and how durable it is.
- Brand: There are many different brands of crappie jigs on the market, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. Some popular brands include Strike King, Bobby Garland, Jenko Fishing, and Road Runner.
When choosing a crappie jig, it’s important to consider these factors and also take into account the specific fishing conditions you’ll be facing. By doing so, you’ll be able to select a jig that is tailored to your needs and will help you catch more crappie.
Types of Crappie Jigs
There are several types of crappie jigs available in the market, each with its unique features and advantages. Here are some of the most popular types of crappie jigs:
- Round Head Jigs: These jigs are versatile and can be used for different fishing conditions. They are typically made with a round head and come in various colors and sizes.
- Tube Jigs: Tube jigs are designed with a hollow body, which makes them highly effective for vertical jigging. They are available in different colors, sizes, and shapes, and can be rigged with different types of hooks.
- Hair Jigs: Hair jigs are designed with a body made from fur or synthetic materials, which gives them a natural look and feel. They are highly effective in clear water and can be used for fishing in shallow or deep water.
- Crappie Spinners: These jigs come with a spinner blade that adds flash and vibration to the lure, making it highly attractive to crappie. They are ideal for fishing in low-light conditions or stained water.
- Marabou Jigs: Marabou jigs are designed with a soft, fluffy body made from feathers, which gives them a lifelike motion in the water. They are highly effective for slow, finesse fishing and can be used for fishing in shallow or deep water.
These are just a few of the most popular types of crappie jigs available in the market. When choosing a jig, it’s essential to consider the fishing conditions and water clarity to select the most effective type of jig for your needs.
Top Picks for Best Crappie Jigs
Crappie Magnet 96 Body Kit
Crappie Magnet
This 96 split tail kit includes every color you need to produce good-sized crappie consistently. Coming in a small tackle tray, you will be able to have everything you need in your palm, while still being able to transport it easily. It features razor-sharp leaded jig heads, which fit the bodies perfectly. Another tactic that is often overlooked in crappie fishing is the bobber, but this kit comes with 4 when you decided you want to change it up. You can do this by allowing the jig head 2-3 feet below the float, letting the jig head float suspended, freely!
- Tons of popular colors to choose from
- Bodies are durable and sized perfectly for crappie
- Jig heads are only available in lighter sizes
- 96 plastic bodies
- 4 Floats, 15 various jig heads
- Comes in a small tackle tray
YZD Silverside Minnow Crappie Jig 12pcs
YZD
Looking extremely close to a real baitfish, this 1.5" minnow definitely wins the realistic contest. Great anglers agree that you should match the hatch, or in other terms- use what they're currently feeding on naturally. By using such a realistic-looking minnow, we here at Shaman Mountain feel that this puts you in the best possible position to land not only a lot of fish but quality crappie at that. On your quest for jigging slab crappie, always remember to keep moving. Crappie are schooling fish and move constantly. Try finding cover such as-sunken trees, logs, brush, tules, or docks. Finding structure is ideal for crappie as they tend to be near something to hide from predators.
- Lifelike presentation
- Multiple colors
- Weighted
- These jigs aren't soft, they're a bit on the stiffer side
- Paint on jig isn't consistent
- 1.5" Minnow
- 12 Piece kit
- 3 Different colors
Marabou Feather Crappie Jig 20pcs
Jshanmei
With 5 of the most popular colors, these jigs will put you on the crappie, on the cheap! This is an insane deal for how much you get. 20 pieces, and 5 colors all while at an affordable price point? Sign us up. These types of Marabou jigs provide irresistible action, and you can cast or vertically jig them as well. We feel Marabou jigs are extremely versatile, because you may find yourself hooking up to other species using them as well, such as trout, steelhead, or perch!
- Lifelike minnow appearance
- Multiple lead head weights
- Many color choices to try
- We wish the fly material these were made with were a little more durable as jigs as material wears down quickly
- 5 Different colors
- 20 Pieces
- 1/8, 1/16, 1/32
100pcs Soft Crappie Tube Kit
Go Sporting
If you're looking for the largest variety of colors, this is the kit for you. With 10 colors, you're bound to find one fish producing jig, And with 10 jig heads, you will be able to jig or cast without worrying about losing them as much. This is the perfect basic set for any fisherman, either beginner or experienced to have in their tackle collection. The one dislike is the size of the tackle box, but other than that, this kit checks every other box. If you don't want to collect individual colors of jigs, and just prefer to buy them as sets, then this is your best bet.
- Good quality
- Great variety of colors
- Perfect sized bait for crappie and blue gill
- Can get some dud plastic bodies that have "melted" together
- 100 Piece
- 10 Color
- 10 Jig heads
Crappie Magnet Fin Spin 16 Bladed Jig Heads
Crappie Magnet
By using these crappie magnet jig heads, you will add immense action to any plastic tubes or teasers you add. With quality hooks standard and a perfect sized willow blade, for mesmerizing flash and vibration, you're sure to hook up more. These are without a doubt better than regular plain lead heads, as the shape combined with the aforementioned willow blade, will up your crappie game 100%. These lead heads not only work fantastic for crappie but are also great for a variety of fish, such as trout and perch.
- Willow blades provided mesmerizing action
- Fits plastic crappie tube bodies perfectly
- Wish there was a larger sized jig head included for farther casting
- 16 Bladed jig heads
- 4 Colors
- 8- 1/8 Jig head
- 8- 1/16 Jig head
JOHNCOO Shad Crappie Lure 2 in
JOHNCOO
With the option to buy one color or a set, there is bound to be a winning color for every angler. This perfect kit pairs well with your favorite lead head,- including any recommended in this list. When you're searching for a soft plastic body to throw for crappie, turn to this kit to help you figure out the bite. All color choices are winners and the body action is perfect, and at this price point, makes it a no-brainer. Furthermore, this kit is perfect for throwing in your tackle box or backpack, as it serves multiple uses, as these can be trolled, jigged, and cast.
- High quality plastics
- Mixed colors look like little baitfish
- Swims nicely
- Wish the tackle tray it came in was higher quality
- 2"
- 5 Color kit
- 50 Pieces
- 10 of each color
- Glitter mixed colors
YAZHIDA Hand Tied Marabou Feather Jig Heads
YAZHIDA
These 34 piece crappie jigs will make easy work, catching trophy crappies. It's made of lead and comes in a variety of colors to match any type of water you’re fishing in. You can use it with or without a bobber depending on how deep you want your lure to be. It also works well when used as an alternative to live bait like minnows or worms because they attract fish just as much but don’t require you to keep them alive until it's time to cast out your line again.
- Great action
- Hand tied
- Can fish with floats efficiently
- No larger jig head sizes
- 34 Piece kit
- Hand tied Marabou jigs
- 1/32oz
- 10 Colors
Soft Plastic Split Tail Lure Set
Beoccudo
If you’re a crappie fisherman, then you know how important it is to have the right jig. This jig features a unique design with a slender body and long tail which gives it an incredible action in the water. Pair it up with a single hook and weighted bobber for a blast fishing simply! With this minnow, there are multiple ways to fish, but the best way is with a lead jig head. You can try modifying this lure further, cutting behind the gills flush and butting the lead head up close.
- Works in every fishing method
- Bright natural color
- Tail paddles like a frantic bait fish
- A little on the stiffer side
- 24 Piece
- 3"
- Lifelike minnow bait
Tips for Crappie Jig Fishing
Crappie jig fishing is a popular technique for catching crappie, and with the right approach and some practice, you can improve your chances of success. Here are some tips for crappie jig fishing:
- Experiment with different colors and sizes: Crappie can be selective about the color and size of the jig, so it’s essential to experiment with different options until you find what works best for your local fishing conditions.
- Vary the retrieval speed: Crappie may respond differently to different retrieval speeds, so it’s crucial to vary your retrieval speed until you find what works best for your situation.
- Use a slow, finesse approach: Crappie can be skittish and easily spooked, so it’s important to use a slow, finesse approach to avoid scaring them away.
- Fish in the right location: Crappie tend to congregate in areas with underwater structures, such as brush piles or submerged trees. It’s important to identify these areas and fish in the right location to increase your chances of success.
- Pay attention to the water temperature: Crappie tend to be more active when the water temperature is between 60-70 degrees Fahrenheit. Fishing during these conditions can improve your chances of catching crappie.
- Use the right jig head: The weight and shape of the jig head can affect the jig’s action and how it presents in the water. It’s important to choose the right jig head based on your fishing conditions and the jig you’re using.
By following these tips, you can improve your chances of catching crappie with jigs. Remember to be patient and persistent, and don’t be afraid to experiment with different techniques until you find what works best for you.
Top Brands
When it comes to crappie jigs, there are several reputable brands that anglers can trust to provide high-quality products. Here are some of the top brands for crappie jigs:
- Bobby Garland: Bobby Garland is a well-known brand in the crappie fishing world, and their jigs are known for their durability and effectiveness. They offer a wide range of jig types and colors, including the popular Baby Shad and Slab Slay’R jigs.
- Strike King: Strike King is another popular brand that produces high-quality crappie jigs. Their Mr. Crappie line of jigs includes a variety of styles and colors, and they are designed to be highly effective for catching crappie in different fishing conditions.
- Eagle Claw: Eagle Claw is a trusted name in the fishing industry, and their crappie jigs are no exception. They offer a range of jig types, including round head and tube jigs, and their jigs are known for their durability and effectiveness.
- Road Runner: Road Runner is a well-known brand that produces a unique style of crappie jigs that include a spinner blade. Their jigs are designed to provide additional flash and vibration, making them highly effective for catching crappie.
- Southern Pro: Southern Pro is a brand that offers a wide range of crappie jigs in various sizes and colors. Their jigs are known for their effectiveness, and they are designed to work well in different fishing conditions.
These are just a few of the top brands for crappie jigs, and each offers a unique set of features and advantages. When choosing a brand, it’s important to consider your fishing needs and preferences to select the best brand for your needs.
Alternatives to Crappie Jigs
While crappie jigs are a popular and effective way to catch crappie, they are not the only option available. Here are some alternatives to crappie jigs that anglers can consider:
- Crappie Plastics: Plastic baits can be an effective alternative to crappie jigs. They come in various shapes and sizes, including tubes, grubs, and worms, and can be rigged in different ways to create different actions.
- Crappie Spinners: Crappie spinners are another option that anglers can use to catch crappie. They consist of a spinner blade and a hook, and they can be effective at attracting crappie with their flash and vibration.
- Live Bait: Live bait, such as minnows or worms, can also be effective at catching crappie. They can be rigged on a hook with a bobber or used on a jighead for added attraction.
- Crappie Flies: Fly fishing for crappie can be a fun and effective way to catch them. Crappie flies can mimic different insects and baitfish, and they can be fished on a fly rod or on a spinning rod with a fly setup.
- Trolling: Trolling can be an effective way to cover more water and locate schools of crappie. Anglers can use a variety of lures, including crankbaits and spinnerbaits, to attract crappie while trolling.
These are just a few alternatives to crappie jigs that anglers can consider. Each option has its advantages and disadvantages, and it’s essential to choose the best option based on your fishing conditions and personal preferences.
DIY Crappie Jig Making
Making your own crappie jigs can be a fun and rewarding experience. Here are some steps to follow when making your own crappie jigs:
- Choose Your Materials: To make a crappie jig, you will need a jighead, a hook, and some material for the skirt. Jigheads and hooks can be purchased from most tackle stores, and skirt material can be made from various types of feathers, hair, or synthetic materials.
- Prepare Your Materials: If you are using feathers or hair for your skirt, you will need to trim them to the desired length and shape. Synthetic materials can be cut to size and tied onto the jighead.
- Attach the Skirt: To attach the skirt, tie it onto the jighead using thread or a fishing line. Make sure the skirt is evenly distributed around the jighead and is secured tightly.
- Add the Hook: Once the skirt is attached, add the hook to the jighead. The hook should be inserted through the bottom of the jighead and secured in place with thread or fishing line.
- Test Your Jig: Once your jig is complete, test it in the water to see how it performs. If it doesn’t swim properly, you may need to adjust the skirt or hook placement.
By following these steps, you can create your own custom crappie jigs that are tailored to your fishing conditions and preferences. Making your own jigs can also be a cost-effective way to build up your tackle box.
Pros and Cons of Crappie Jigs
Crappie jigs are a popular and effective way to catch crappie, but like any fishing technique, they have their pros and cons. Here are some of the pros and cons of using crappie jigs:
Pros:
- Versatile: Crappie jigs can be used in a variety of fishing conditions, including shallow and deep water, and can be fished at different depths and speeds.
- Effective: Crappie jigs can be very effective at catching crappie, especially when used in combination with live bait or scent attractants.
- Cost-effective: Crappie jigs are relatively inexpensive, and you can purchase them in a variety of colors, sizes, and styles to match your fishing conditions.
- Lightweight: Crappie jigs are lightweight, which makes them easy to cast and retrieve, especially for beginners.
Cons:
- Snagging: Crappie jigs can be prone to snagging on underwater structures, such as logs, rocks, or weeds, which can result in lost lures.
- Limited Action: Crappie jigs can have limited action in the water, especially compared to other lures, such as spinnerbaits or crankbaits.
- Sensitive: Crappie jigs can be very sensitive to water currents and wind, which can affect their action and presentation.
- Skill Required: Using crappie jigs effectively requires some skill and experience, such as choosing the right size and color, and knowing how to present the jig to the fish.
Overall, crappie jigs are a popular and effective way to catch crappie, but they may not be the best option for all fishing conditions. Anglers should consider the pros and cons of using crappie jigs and choose the best option based on their fishing conditions and personal preferences.
