thinking crappie....

[StCroixNewB]

Been thinking about trying for some crappies on the Croix... is the Hudson launch open? If so, any ideas as to where to try - Hudson Marina, Beanie's, Bayport???

[Fisherman For a Lifetime]

That makes two of us.......

Cats & Craps!

[Turk]

I believe the launches are open. The ice is gone. I'm not an April crappie fisherman. The walleyes are Hog sized down on the Mississippi, they've got my attention. Turk

[tunrevir]

Check some of the areas around the marinas as they tend to be shallower and warm faster then the river itself. Some of the riprap areas can hold fish as well but the current is going to somewhat dictate where the fish are staging. There is a large shallow flat just north of stillwater where browns creek comes in that can hold some active fish and don't overlook the bayport area near the King plant and downriver from the warmwater discharge. There is also some nice areas around hudson that are off the river and take on more of a backwater feel that can hold some nicer fish. Early, I have found fish from 18' and shallower. If you can find any areas that have reduced flow, shallower water and brush check it carefully and fish slowly. Light jig and crappie minnow or slip bobber and minnow can both be worked effectively. Don't overlook the bridge pilings towards shore eithe on the downriver sides as they can hold early fish as well. Hope this helps.

Tunrevir!

[StCroixNewB]

thanks for the info guys... Turk: I hit Pool 4 yesterday for a few hours - that north wind really sucked! The flow is quite high (all the rollers are open) - really seems to have moved the fish. I tried a half-dozen or so areas I did pretty well at a week or so ago and came up empty handed. I didn't see anyone else catching either... I may head down there once more before opener but then I'll be focused on the Croix and Wissota! Rivernut: I think I know the backwater-like areas you are referring to but I don't know if I can get my 18-footer in there - never tried before... I was thinking of trying that area up by the King plant. Thanks for the tips!

[canon]

I was thinking of crappie fishing around the Afton area this weekend, any advice around that area?

[BigWadeS]

StCroixNewB --

I know the bluffs is open so is Beanies....good luck out there, I heard water temp is in high 30's

[tunrevir]

I have been out three times already on the upriver side of things and haven't gotten any fish to speak of but things are going to pick up and I can't wait. The person you guys might want to pick some info is Walli1 as he has some early season crappie spots and is without a fishable craft right now. Knowing him(from the forum here) he may want to get out enough that you could get into some of these early season fish. Sorry Walli if I put you on the spot but these guys and gals might be able to get you out in the interim. Plus the fact, that they may also have a free seat for the opener if you don't get your boat up and running.

Tunrevir~