Are Crappie Line Shy?

Are crappie line shy? They are a very smart species of fish. If they can see the fishing line, they avoid your presentation because they know the end result of latching onto that lure. That is why, when you are fishing for crappie, you need a strong yet almost transparent fishing line. If you do this and reset a lure that is similar to the baitfish they are feeding on then you are sure to catch a bucket full of crappie.

Let’s explore some theories and opinions on this question. We will also discuss some of the best fishing line for use when fishing for crappie. So buckle up and let us venture into the vast world of fishing line. 

You have to remember one important thing; what fishing line you choose will depend on the time of day, water conditions, where you are fishing, and in what season. As discussed in previous articles, (Like This One) there are 3 main types of fishing line.

“The angling fever is a very real disease and 
can only be cured by the application of cold water 
and fresh, untainted air,” Theodore Gordon

Fluorocarbon is said to be one of the most invisible lines on the market today. This line works great no matter what the water clarity is, but works outstanding in ultra-clear water. There are some companies that manufacture pin fluorocarbon line, which is also virtually invisible. It is said to lose its color,In the water the deeper that it goes. Anglers and crappie will both have problems spotting this line when it is underwater. 

Monofilament is the most popular and most used by anglers of all walks of life and experience. Monofilament is available in a wide variety of colors making it easier to see on top of the water.

Compared to fluorocarbon it is more visible to the fish down below but easier to see the bites on your bait. Monofilament is better in murky/muddy water. The yellow line has the benefit of being able to detect bites but has its own time and place for use in catching crappie.

Red monofilament is similar to pink fluorocarbon as far as becoming invisible in deeper water. But some anglers and divers say that it turns black underwater, making it easier for crappie to see. Green monofilament is an optimum color for blending in to the water.

“That’s about as big as a fish that big gets,” Author Unknown

The green line somewhat blends into its surroundings like a chameleon, but will be more visible in clear water. Where the clear fluorocarbon works great underwater, the clear monofilament is outstanding in all situations. 

Be sure to visit my resources page for recommended gear – Click Here

Braided lines will be detected by the crappie no matter what, but has other benefits. It allows for further casting distance, excellent strength, and will not stretch out. This line is most popular around heavy cover and dirty or muddy water. To get the optimum use out of braided line; use it in conjunction with a leader of fluorocarbon. 

“So long, and thanks for all the fish,” Douglas Adams

If you would like to find a way to make some money by fishing and writing about it or making videos about it like I am doing here, check out the guys that can teach you how to do it here.

Do not try to pursue crappie (or bluegill) in heavy cover with a light-weight mono line, it will not end well at all. Again, the lake/river you are fishing, the time of year, weather conditions, and time of day will play a factor in which line you choose.

Some sceneries call for the tougher braided line even though you can see it and other situations are prime for the mono line or fluorocarbon.

Delving into each type of line a little deeper now. Here are the benefits of using the fluorocarbon line:

• Low visibility – doesn’t distort light that is passing through the water   
• Abrasion resistance – works great in the thicker cover/forage
• Sensitivity – better to help you detect the bites on your line
• Toughness – virtually no detrimental effects from the UV rays
• Waterproof – meaning it doesn’t absorb water as it hangs out in, on or under the lake
• Diameter – you can upsize your diameter and it will still be undetectable by the fish. 

The best qualities or pluses to the mono line:

• Good knot strength, smooth and easy casting
• Good retention of color
• Abrasion resistance is good
• The line floats on top of the water
• Affordable
• Stretches up to 25% more than others if you drag a stick or set through your hook a little too hard. 

 “Which fish dresses the best? A: 
A swordfish because it always looks sharp!”
 Johnny B. Laughing

Braided line best qualities are as follows:

• Little to no stretch – ideal for deep water fishing
• High abrasion resistance
• Good strength to size ratio
• Floats – best for topwater baits
• Breaking strength doesn’t weaken when wet
• Ideal for fishing in heavy vegetation

We have covered that the crappie are not line shy and they are not afraid of the fishing line. We also discussed the 3 types of fishing line and their benefits. So in conclusion, lets give you the top 10 best selling brands of fishing line.

1. Berkley Fireline Fused
2. Spiderwire Braided Stealth
3. Berkley Trilene Monofilament
4. KastKing Mega 8
5. Power Pro Braided
6. KastKing FluoroKote
7. Stren High Impact
8. Stren Catfish monofilament
9. Spectra 100% pre-braided
10. South Bend Monofilament

Crappie are an invasive, smart, and predatory fish. They are cautious of fishing line and they do not shy away from it. They just know what is on the other end of that line and that they want no part of it.

Just like, if they can see your shadow standing close to the shore, they will swim away. They are opportunistic and sneaky, so you have to be quick on your feet and beat them at their own game.

You need to remember to use an almost invisible fishing line in order to have a successful crappie fishing trip, but make sure the line is strong enough too, just in case you catch that HUGE monster trophy fish. Fishing line is just as important as the rod, reel, and lure. So, if you get the optium crappie fishing gear, you will have a great and memorable fishing experience.