Crappie Jig Secrets, Kayak PFD Choices, & Big Bass Catches

Good morning, Crew!

Thanks to all our subscribers, both new and longtime readers, for being part of the Kayak Fishing Guide community.

Your support and enthusiasm keep this newsletter going strong.

🙏 We know many of you have seen the news and social media posts about the passing of Henry Bryant, IV, a fellow kayak angler, in a drowning accident. During this difficult time, we are thinking about his family, friends, and the kayak fishing community.

This week’s issue is packed with useful tips and exciting catches, let’s dive in.

~ Kayak Fishing Guide Team

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THREE FISHING TIPS
Best Jig Colors for Spring Crappie in Murky vs. Clear Water

Spring crappie fishing can be a blast, but picking the right Crappie jig color can mean the difference between a slow day and a full stringer.

Water clarity plays a huge role in how fish see your bait, so choosing the right colors for murky or clear conditions is key.

Here’s how to dial in your jig selection this spring.

1. Bright Colors for Murky Water
When fishing stained or muddy water, crappie rely more on contrast and visibility than subtle color details.

Bright, bold colors stand out and make it easier for fish to spot your jig.

• Chartreuse, orange, and pink work great in low visibility.

• Glow-in-the-dark or UV-enhanced jigs add extra visibility.

• Black and chartreuse combinations create strong contrast.

2. Natural Tones for Clear Water
In crystal-clear water, crappie get a good look at your bait, so natural colors that mimic small baitfish work best.

Subtle, realistic shades help you fool wary fish.

• White, silver, and shad-colored jigs blend in naturally.

• Translucent or pearl baits match minnows in the water.

• A hint of blue or smoke can imitate small shiners.

3. Adjust to Light Conditions
Sunlight and cloud cover can change how colors appear underwater, so don’t be afraid to switch things up.

What works on a sunny morning might not be as effective when clouds roll in.

• Darker jigs work better in overcast conditions.

• Lighter colors shine in bright sunlight.

• If the bite slows, try a two-tone jig with contrast.

🎣 Give these color tricks a try, and you’ll be landing more spring crappie in no time. Experiment with different shades and see what the fish are biting—sometimes, a small change makes a big difference!

📷️: Jason Brenic

BEST LINKS
Favorite Finds

➡️ Take a look at what’s been catching our eye online this week!

• Uncover the features that make the Garmin Striker 4 a must-have for every budget-conscious kayak fisherman. (OutdoorLife)

• Learn the secrets local fishermen use to locate crappie as they move into creeks and streams during the warming pre-spawn period. (CBS 19)

• See how these three essential rigs can boost your spring bass fishing success. (Game and Fish)

KAYAK GEAR
Inflatable vs. High-Back PFDs

A PFD (Personal Flotation Device) is a must-have for kayak fishing, but not all vests are the same.

The two most popular choices are high-back PFDs and inflatable PFDs, each with its own benefits. Picking the right one comes down to comfort, safety, and how you fish.

High-back PFDs are designed for all-day wear with built-in flotation that requires no activation.

They offer extra storage with zippered pockets and gear loops, making them a great choice for anglers who like having tools within reach. The high-back cut keeps it from interfering with kayak seats, making paddling more comfortable.

• Always ready—no manual inflation needed.

• Extra pockets for storing small gear and tackle.

• More bulk but better buoyancy in emergencies.

Inflatable PFDs are a lightweight alternative that stays out of the way until needed. They provide maximum mobility for casting and paddling, which is great for warm-weather fishing.

The trade-off is that they require manual inflation, meaning you have to pull a cord (or rely on water-activated models) if you fall in, while some are automatically activated.

• Less bulk for better range of motion.

• Cooler to wear in hot weather.

• Must be inflated before it provides flotation.

Both options work well for kayak fishing, so choose the one that best fits your needs. If you prioritize storage and constant flotation, go with a high-back PFD.

If you want minimal bulk and don’t mind manual inflation, an inflatable might be the better fit. Either way, wearing a PFD is non-negotiable—safety always comes first!

KAYAK RIGS
NuCanoe Unlimited

Alexis is off to a strong start in customizing his NuCanoe Unlimited for his ultimate fishing setup.

🎣 Hope you have an awesome fishing season, Alexis!

📷️: Alexis Arroyo

FRESHWATER CATCH
Largemouth Bass

Congrats to Chad on a PB! Landing a personal best is always exciting, and this one was a beast, 23.75 inches long and tipping the scales at 8.04 pounds!

Lake Fork is legendary for giant Texas largemouth, and spring is prime time to hook into a trophy.

As water temps rise into the 60s, bass move into shallow coves, creek channels, and spawning flats. The lake’s timber, hydrilla, and submerged structure provide perfect ambush points for feeding fish.

To up your chances at a big bite, keep these tips in mind:

• Target pre-spawn bass around points and creek mouths before they move onto beds.

• Use big baits like swimbaits, jigs, and suspending jerkbaits to tempt trophy-sized fish.

• Fish slow and precise—bed fish won’t chase but will strike if the bait stays in their zone.

• Try topwater early on warm mornings, especially in grassy pockets.

Catch-and-release is encouraged on Lake Fork to keep its big bass thriving, so snap a quick photo and let those giants swim!

📷️: Chad Davison

SALTWATER CATCH
Red Drum

Donny is out getting after the Red Drum in South Carolina.

South Carolina’s coast is a prime spot for targeting red drum, also known as spottail bass.

These hard-fighting fish thrive in tidal creeks, grass flats, and oyster beds, making them a kayak angler’s dream.

Fall is peak season when big bull reds move inshore, but you can catch slot-sized fish year-round in the shallows.

To hook more redfish, focus on areas with structure and a steady food supply. Some top tips include:

• Target structure like docks, submerged logs, and grass lines where redfish ambush prey.

• Use live bait like mud minnows, shrimp, or finger mullet for reliable bites.

• Try artificial lures such as gold spoons and paddle-tail swimbaits for an active approach.

• Stay quiet and make accurate casts—redfish in shallow water spook easily.

South Carolina regulations protect this prized species, so check slot limits before keeping a catch. Whether you're after a trophy or just a fun fight, the red drum never disappoints!

📷️: Donny Kline

HUMOR
Fishing Memes

THAT’S A WRAP
Before You Go!

That’s a wrap, Crew! 🎣 

Thanks for spending part of your day with us—we appreciate having you here. Hope you have a great weekend, and if you get a chance, hit the water and reel in something big!

~ Kayak Fishing Guide Team

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