Get ready for a crappie-catching adventure in the heart of Florida! Join Captain Corky for a half-day trip that'll have you hauling in slabs left and right. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just getting your feet wet, this tour is perfect for anyone looking to learn the ins and outs of crappie fishing. We'll hit up one of Sebring's top-notch lakes and put you on the fish faster than you can say "Fish on!"
Our four-hour trip is all about maximizing your time on the lake and filling the livewell. Captain Corky knows these waters like the back of his hand, and he'll choose the perfect spot based on where the crappie are biting. We might head to Lake Istokpoga, known for its monster specks, or cruise over to Lake Placid for some steady action. Lake June, Lake Jackson, and Lake Huntley are also on our radar - each one's got its own personality when it comes to crappie fishing. Don't worry about bringing gear; we've got quality rods ready for you to use. Just remember to pack some grub and drinks to keep your energy up, and make sure you've got that Florida fishing license in your pocket.
Forget everything you know about bass fishing - crappie are a whole different ball game. We'll school you on the finer points of crappie fishing, from reading your electronics to presenting your bait just right. Depending on the season, we might be vertical jigging over brush piles, spider rigging along drop-offs, or shooting docks. Captain Corky's got a tackle box full of tricks, and he's not shy about sharing his secrets. You'll learn how to use live minnows, soft plastics, and even some local favorite jigs that the crappie just can't resist. By the end of the trip, you'll be setting the hook like a pro and maybe even giving the captain a run for his money!
"We had such a wonderful time fishing with Tangie. She was incredibly patient with my mother who is living with dementia, showing her how to "dip" versus cast and reel which was a way of fishing we hadn't done before. We caught about 100 fish between the 3 of us and kept 66. Tangie did all the baiting and taking off of fish. We saw some alligators from afar which was so cool for us Minnesota natives. Cannot wait to do a crappie tour with Tangie." - Dawn
"We had a wonderful time with Tangie crappie fishing at Lake Istokpogo She has a lot of knowledge and experience fishing the lake. She can definitely find you the species you are targeting and what kind of poles to use. She taught us some great techniques and the best spots for fishing at the lake.
We're not very experienced at fishing but we feel like a pro after spending the morning with Tangie. She provided everything we need for a great fishing trip. She is a very sweet lady and goes out of her way to make sure we were happy. Definitely will book with her again. Thank you Tangie" - Deb
Black crappie, or "specks" as we call 'em down here, are the main attraction on this trip. These tasty panfish are a blast to catch and even better on the dinner table. In Sebring's lakes, crappie can grow up to 16 inches, but most keeper-sized fish are between 10-14 inches. They're known for their paper-thin mouths, which means you've got to finesse them just right to get a good hookset. Crappie are schooling fish, so when you find one, you've usually found a bunch. They love to hang out around structure like brush piles, fallen trees, and dock pilings.
Spring is prime time for crappie fishing when they move into shallow water to spawn. But don't count out the rest of the year - we catch these speckled beauties year-round in Sebring. In the summer and fall, you might have to work a bit harder and fish deeper, but the rewards are just as sweet. Winter can be red hot too, with big schools of crappie bunching up in predictable spots. No matter when you visit, Captain Corky knows how to put you on the fish.
What makes crappie fishing so addictive? It's the combination of challenge and reward. These fish can be finnicky, changing their preferences from day to day. But when you dial in the right technique, it's not uncommon to catch dozens in a single outing. Plus, there's nothing quite like the distinctive 'thump' of a crappie strike - it's enough to get any angler's heart racing!
Folks who fish with us once tend to make it a regular thing, and it's not hard to see why. For starters, our half-day trips are perfect for fitting into a busy schedule or vacation itinerary. You're not committing to a full day on the water, but you still get plenty of time to learn the ropes and catch a mess of fish. Plus, crappie fishing is just plain fun - it's active enough to keep you engaged but relaxed enough that you can chat and enjoy the scenery between bites.
Another big draw is the eat-ability factor. Crappie are some of the best-tasting freshwater fish out there. Their white, flaky meat is mild and sweet, perfect for a fish fry or a fancy restaurant-style dish. Many of our guests love the idea of catching their own dinner, and we're more than happy to share some favorite recipes.
Let's not forget the scenery, either. Sebring's lakes are gorgeous, with plenty of wildlife to spot while we're fishing. Ospreys diving for fish, alligators sunning on the banks (don't worry, we keep a safe distance!), and all sorts of wading birds make for a real Florida experience. It's not uncommon for folks to enjoy the boat ride and views almost as much as the fishing itself.
While we provide the rods and essential tackle, there are a few things you'll want to bring to make the most of your trip. First off, don't forget that Florida fishing license - you can grab a short-term one online or at most local bait shops if you're from out of state. Sunscreen is a must, even on cloudy days. A hat and polarized sunglasses will help you spot fish and cut down on glare. Comfortable, non-slip shoes are a good idea for moving around the boat safely.
As for clothing, layers are your friend. Early mornings can be cool, but it heats up quick once the sun's out. Quick-dry fabrics are ideal, and don't be afraid to bring a light rain jacket just in case. And while we mentioned food and drinks earlier, let me stress - stay hydrated out there! The Florida sun is no joke, and a cooler full of water and snacks will keep you in top fish-catching form all morning long.
If you're itching to get out on the water and fill a cooler with some of Sebring's finest crappie, now's the time to lock in your trip. Our half-day charters are perfect for anglers of all skill levels, whether you're looking to learn the ropes or hone your existing skills. Captain Corky's years of experience mean you're in for a day of non-stop action and insider tips that'll up your crappie game for good.
Remember, we're not just offering a fishing trip - we're providing a chance to make memories, learn new skills, and maybe even catch your personal best crappie. With only two spots available per trip, these charters fill up fast, especially during peak seasons. So don't wait until the big ones get away - grab your fishing buddy and book your Sebring crappie adventure today. The only thing you'll regret is not doing it sooner!
July 21, 2025
We had a wonderful time with Tangie crappie fishing at Lake Istokpogo She has a lot of knowledge and experience fishing the lake. She can definitely find you the species you are targeting and what kind of poles to use. She taught us some great techniques and the best spots for fishing at the lake. We’re not very experienced at fishing but we feel like a pro after spending the morning with Tangie. She provided everything we need for a great fishing trip. She is a very sweet lady and goes out of her way to make sure we were happy. Definitely will book with her again. Thank you Tangie
May 5, 2025
Crappies are game fish and the largest members of the Centrarchidae family. They are present in nature as Black Crappie (Poxomis nigromaculatus) or and White Crappie (Poxomis annularus). Both the species are similar to each other, apart from few distinctions. White crappie will have vertical bars running the length of their body, and black crappie will have no discernible pattern and will just be speckled, hence their nickname, “specks". White crappie has 5-6 spines, and black crappie has 7-8 spines. Anglers often differentiate the two by body shapeGrenade Lake, Mississippi, and Reel foot Lake are considered among giant crappie lakes.
Both the crappies have a similar habitat, though black crappie prefers clearer water than white crappie. These fishes can be found in rivers, lakes, and backwater pools swimming in shallow waters or hiding among bushes, vegetation, or other covers.
Crappie is native to Canada and the eastern States. It is a much-enjoyed game fish in North America and inhabits the Great Lakes, Hudson Bay, and the Mississippi River Basins.
Crappie can be 7-12 inches long and weigh about 0.5-1 pounds.
Crappie is known for its tasty and white meat.
Despite its name, crappie is an excellent source of nutrition, containing high amounts of protein and essential omega-3 fatty acids. Although it's not as popular as salmon or tuna, crappie can be a delicious addition to any healthy diet. They are known for their delicate taste and ease of preparation.
When cooked properly, crappie has a delicate flavor and flaky texture, making it perfect for grilling, frying, or baking. Moreover, because they are smaller fish than other common species, such as bass or catfish, the chances of mercury contamination in their flesh are much lower.
Crappie spawning season begins in early spring and summer when the water temperature is 62 F-68 F. Male builds the nest in soft or gravelly spots, the female lays the eggs, and the male guards the nest. Eggs take 2 to 5 days to hatch.
Depending on the age, Crappie victims consist of zooplankton, crustaceans, small fish, minnows, insects, gizzard or threadfin shads, and larvae of other game fishes.
Crappie is most active at dawn or dusk. Anglers recommend using live bait and properly sized hooks, not too small, not too large.
Spin fishing for crappie is a popular angling technique used for years. The use of small lures, such as crappie spinners or jigs along the bottom with light tackle, makes it possible to catch these elusive fish with ease. Crappie spinner fishing involves using a spinning rod and reel setup to cast the lure out into the water and retrieve it in a steady fashion.
When fishing for crappie with a spinner, it's essential to choose the right size and color of the lure. Smaller lures are more effective when targeting this species due to their smaller mouths. Additionally, selecting colors that mimic the natural prey of crappie can help increase your chances of catching them. It's also important to consider where you're casting your line when using spinners for crappie fishing.
Another popular technique is a bobber with a hook with live bait such as worms or small minnows. This is a proven method to catch crappie.
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We had such a wonderful time fishing with Tangie. She was incredibly patient with my mother who is living with dementia, showing her how to “dip” versus cast and reel which was a way of fishing we hadn’t done before. We caught about 100 fish between the 3 of us and kept 66. Tangie did all the baiting and taking off of fish. We saw some alligators from afar which was so cool for us Minnesota natives. Cannot wait to do a crappie tour with Tangie.