Crappie Fishing In Vermont
Guide to fishing for white and black crappie.
Vermont offers fantastic crappie fishing opportunities, with both black crappie and white crappie available in various lakes and ponds across the state. These panfish are highly sought after by anglers for their delicious meat and their willingness to bite, making them a favorite target for both novice and experienced fishermen.
Crappie fishing in Vermont is most productive during the spring and fall months when the water temperatures are cooler. During these seasons, crappie are more active and tend to gather in shallow waters near submerged structures like fallen trees, brush piles, and docks. Anglers can increase their chances of success by casting their lines around these areas.
For those who prefer to fish from a boat, slow trolling or drifting with small jigs or live minnows can be an effective technique for catching crappie. Light tackle is recommended, as crappie have a sensitive bite, and using a sensitive rod and line can help anglers detect even the most subtle nibbles.
Lake Champlain, Lake Bomoseen, Lake St. Catherine, and many other smaller ponds and reservoirs are popular crappie fishing destinations in Vermont. With its picturesque landscapes and peaceful fishing spots, Vermont provides a serene and enjoyable setting for anglers looking to reel in some quality crappie during their visit.
Crappie Fishing Waters In VT

Lake Bomoseen, Lake Carmi, Lake Champlain, Lake Dunmore, Lake Memphremagog, Lake St Catherine and Seymour Lake are some of the major lakes in VT with significant crappie populations. Crappie can also be found in ponds, rivers and small lakes.
Black crappie
World record: 6 lbs 0 oz
State Record: 3 lbs 8.5 oz*
White crappie
World record: 5 lbs 3 oz
State Record: 3 lbs 8.5 oz*
Click the images and links above for species details.
Top 5 Crappie Fishing Lures For Vermont
Crappie jigs work well in water from 2' to 40' deep, and are the most popular artificial lure for crappie ever. When crappie are shallow, spinners, small crankbaits and underspins are the often very productive. As they move deeper, spoons are among the top producers if the crappie are active. Review details for the best crappie rig options. Understanding the seasonal movements of crappie can enhance your chances of using these lures in the ideal locations.
The state record black/white crappie was caught from Lake Hortonia.
Crappie are actually a member of the sunfish family and can be found in many Vermont lakes. Crappie are known by many different local names. Paper mouth, goggleye, bridge perch, slabs and speckled perch, are just a few.

Small jigs, live minnows, small spinners and other small lures will catch crappie. Use light line (six pound or less) and work the baits slowly - especially in cold water.
Crappie Fishing Basics Video
Check out crappie information, by state.
The life cycle of crappie.
The more you know about crappie, the easier it will be to locate and catch them in Vermont lakes and rivers. Visit the crappie fishing page for details about their seasonal migrations.
VERMONT

