Clearly, both male and female Crappie weigh more before they get together and party, versus after they've spawned out. And lots of folks love to catch these fish pre-spawn, when they are at their peak weight of the year.

My question: What's the benefit of catching a fish with extra, non-edible (to 99% of us, anyway) weight? Is it just bragging rights? I've personally never noticed larger fillets during the spring, but then again, I've never given it much thought before, either.

Interestingly enough, we all hear/read folks talk about "those fat spring/summer/fall/winter time crappie". Haha! Is there really a difference? (In terms of fillets, anyway)

Hmmmm

The differance is LAG TIME! It gets me everytime!!!!!!!!!!!

bragging rights

Wait.... Yall dont eat CRAPPY CAVIAR? MMM MMM

All the publicity surrounding spawning crappie:
- more folks have access to them this time of year
- they are easier to find and catch
- warmer temps brings out fair weather anglers
- it's a tradition, like spring cleaning
- they are one of the tastiest freshwater fish in this region

The benefit to me is that because I don't play golf I get to fish more often and warm weather, willing fish and being on the water in the spring are some of my favorite things. I only keep 1/2 a dozen (when I manage to catch them) anyway.

So are you saying you quit catching at half a dozen, as well?

The chance to catch a < 3 pounder......that's why I do it....

they are just on a very active bite pre-spawn.