Scientific Name
Pomoxis nigromaculatus
Other Names
White perch, Calico bass, Speck, Strawberry bass, Papermouth, Speckled perch and Slab.
Body
Black crappie are deeper bodied than the white crappie, and bluish green or gray in color on top with white or silver underneath. Irregular black spots are scattered on the body. A small percentage of black crappie in some lakes has a distinctive dark stripe running from the top (dorsal) fin to under the mouth. These “blackstripe” or “blacknose” crappie are a genetic color variation and are not a hybrid or subspecies. Black crappie have seven or eight spines on the dorsal fin, whereas white crappie have five to six spines. The black crappie is most easily confused with the white crappie, especially the white crappie males in breeding season. Black crappie weigh 1 to 3 pounds, grow to 12 inches or more, and can live up to 10 years.
Habits and Habitat
Black crappie are most active at night or in the early morning. Adults feed on insects, insect larvae, and fish, such as sunfish and minnows. Black crappie prefer shallow water lakes and sloughs and are more abundant
where there is clear water and aquatic vegetation. They spawn in early spring when water temperatures are
between 58ºF and 65ºF.
where there is clear water and aquatic vegetation. They spawn in early spring when water temperatures are
between 58ºF and 65ºF.
State Record
Mississippi’s Rod and Reel record is 4 pounds 4 ounces, caught in 1991 at Arkabutla Lake by Gerald Conlee.
Fishing Fact
Baits used for white crappie are also used for black crappie.