Fall is one of the best times of the year to catch slab crappie, those big, hefty crappies that every angler dreams about. As the weather cools down, crappies start to feed heavily, making them more likely to bite. But to catch these fall slabs, you need to use the right lures. Here are some of the best lures to help you reel in a trophy crappie this fall.

Jigs

Jigs are the go-to lure for crappie fishing, and they work especially well in the fall. You can find jigs in all sorts of colors and sizes, but for fall crappies, smaller jigs in the 1/16 to 1/8 ounce range are perfect. Try using bright colors like chartreuse, pink, or white, which are easy for crappies to see in cooler, often murkier waters. You can tip your jig with a minnow or soft plastic bait to make it even more irresistible.

Soft Plastic Grubs

Soft plastic grubs are another excellent choice for catching slab crappies in the fall. These lures have a wiggly tail that creates a lot of movement in the water, which crappies find hard to resist. You can rig them on a small jig head and slowly retrieve them through the water. Popular colors include white, chartreuse, and shad, which mimic the baitfish that crappies are feeding on this time of year.

Minnow Imitations

Minnows are a natural food source for crappies, especially in the fall when they are feeding up for winter. Minnow imitation lures, like small crankbaits or swimbaits, can be very effective. Look for lures that are 2 to 3 inches long and have a natural swimming action. Crappies often school up in the fall, so once you find them, these lures can help you catch multiple fish in the same spot.

Small Crankbaits

Small crankbaits are great for covering a lot of water and finding where the crappies are hiding. These lures dive down to different depths depending on their design, so you can target crappies that are holding at different levels in the water. Use crankbaits in natural colors like silver, black, or bluegill patterns to mimic the fish crappies are hunting.

Tube Jigs

Tube jigs are a classic crappie lure and are especially effective in the fall. These lures have a hollow body and a skirted tail that flutters in the water, mimicking the movement of small prey. Tube jigs are great for fishing around structures like submerged trees, brush piles, or docks where crappies like to hide. Try using colors like black, red, or chartreuse, which stand out in the water.

Tips for Fall Crappie Fishing

• Focus on Structure: In the fall, crappies often move to deeper water and gather around structures like brush piles, docks, or submerged trees. These areas provide shelter and attract baitfish, making them prime spots for crappie.
• Fish Slowly: As the water cools, crappies may become less aggressive. Slow down your retrieve to give them more time to strike. A slow and steady presentation can make all the difference.
• Vary Your Depths: Crappies can be found at different depths in the fall. Start shallow and work your way deeper until you find where they’re holding. Using a depth finder can also help you locate the schools.

With these lures and tips, you’ll be well-equipped to catch some big slab crappies this fall. Whether you’re fishing from the shore or a boat, fall crappie fishing can be a rewarding and exciting experience. So grab your gear, head to your favorite spot, and get ready to hook some trophy crappies!