Slab crappies are meat eaters—sure enough minnow munchers. They take artificials well at times, especially jigs—but big crappie will turn their noses at even the best of the best crappie lures.

These are wonderful times to be a crappie fan; we finally have quality, dedicated crappie rods and gear. Creative anglers and companies are crafting exciting new tackle, lures, and equipment, at last ...