White Crappie Vs Black Crappie

Details Black Crappie from www.iowadnr.gov

What is Crappie?

Crappie is a type of freshwater fish that belongs to the Centrarchidae family, which is widely distributed across the United States. They are popular with anglers due to their size, abundance, and taste. Crappie are very versatile and can be cooked in many ways, making them an excellent choice for any angler.

White Crappie

White crappie are the most commonly found species of crappie and are native to the eastern half of the United States. They have a silvery-white color and are generally larger than black crappie, though they can reach up to 20 inches in length. White crappie are also known for their longevity and can live up to 14 years in the wild. They can be found in a variety of habitats, from small ponds to large reservoirs.

Black Crappie

Black crappie are native to the western half of the United States and are the second most common species of crappie. They have a dark, mottled appearance and typically grow to a smaller size than white crappie, usually reaching only up to 16 inches in length. Black crappie are more aggressive than white crappie and tend to be more active in the open water. They prefer shallow, weedy areas and are usually found in ponds, lakes, and rivers.

How to Identify White Crappie vs Black Crappie

White and black crappie can be easily distinguished from one another. White crappie have a silvery-white body with a dark spot on their dorsal fin, while black crappie have a darker, mottled body and no spots on their dorsal fin. Additionally, white crappie have six or seven spines on their dorsal fin, while black crappie have eight or nine.

Where to Find White Crappie vs Black Crappie

White crappie are most commonly found in the eastern half of the United States, while black crappie are most commonly found in the western half of the United States. Both species prefer shallow, weedy areas and can be found in ponds, lakes, and rivers. White crappie tend to stay closer to cover, while black crappie are more active in the open water.

The Best Bait for White Crappie vs Black Crappie

White and black crappie both prefer live bait, such as worms, minnows, and crickets. Artificial lures such as jigs, spinners, and crankbaits can also be effective for both species. When fishing for white crappie, it is best to use a smaller bait or lure, as they tend to be more wary of larger baits. When fishing for black crappie, it is best to use a larger bait or lure, as they are more aggressive and can often be caught with larger baits.

How to Cook White Crappie vs Black Crappie

White and black crappie are both excellent tasting fish and can be cooked in a variety of ways. The most popular methods are frying and baking, though they can also be grilled, steamed, poached, or smoked. When frying, both species should be lightly breaded and cooked in a shallow pan at medium-high heat for 3-4 minutes per side. When baking, both species should be seasoned with your favorite herbs and spices and cooked in a covered dish at 375 degrees for 15-20 minutes.

Conclusion

White crappie and black crappie are both popular species of freshwater fish with anglers across the United States. While the two species have many similarities, they can be easily identified by their appearance, preferred habitat, and bait preferences. White crappie are usually larger and prefer cover, while black crappie are smaller and more active in the open water. Both species are excellent tasting and can be cooked in a variety of ways. Whether you’re a novice or a seasoned angler, white and black crappie are sure to provide some great fishing opportunities.