White Crappie

Identification:  A silvery sunfish with a deep body that is very thin from side to side. The mouth is large and the upper jaw extends to below the middle of the eye. Color is dark olive on the back and silver on the sides, with several dark vertical bars (often faint). The dorsal fin has 6 spines. Adults can grow to 21 in. (5 lbs.), but most range from 8-15 in. (1-2 lbs.).

Distribution and Habitat:  Common statewide in streams, rivers, and reservoirs. In streams and rivers, preferred habitat includes backwaters or pools around cover in the form of log jams, undercut banks, and submerged vegetation. The White Crappie is stocked throughout the state in reservoirs, where it associates with brush piles, standing timber, rock ledges, and other cover.