9 Reviews
%2F%2Fusers%2F9a805c46-4054-4dc8-a2e1-e249cb704f6f%2Fimages%2Fcrappie-jigging-trolling-spencer-creek-8066.png&w=1200&q=75)
The Pomoxis Nigromaculatus belongs to the order Perciformes and family Centrarchidae. It typically measures between 4 and 19 inches in length, with a weight range up to 5 lbs. - Habitat: river, lake systems - Crappies are game fish and the largest members of the Centrarchidae family - Present as Black Crappie (Pomoxis nigromaculatus) and White Crappie (Pomoxis annularis)
Captain Mike Meeks leads productive crappie fishing charters on Oologah Lake this Tuesday May, targeting both crappie and striped bass in prime lake structures. His half-day guided trips focus on jigging submerged brush and timber, with trolling and light tackle techniques proving especially effective during the spring bite. All skill levels benefit from expert instruction on bait selection and casting methods, with top-tier fishing equipment included. The charter utilizes Oologah Lake's abundant fish populations around Spencer Creek areas, where clear conditions and calm waters create ideal fishing scenarios. Licensed local guide service provides educational and successful outings designed to maximize your time on the water while building your crappie fishing skills.
Captain Mike Meeks of Slabbin Mike's Crappie Fishing and Guide Service on Tuesday May offers half-day crappie fishing charters on Oologah Lake starting at competitive rates. The 6-hour guided trip includes all necessary fishing equipment, tackle, and expert instruction on proven techniques like jigging and trolling. Licensed guide service welcomes all skill levels, with small group capacity ensuring personalized attention. Book online or call for current availability and seasonal pricing.
This charter targets crappie and striped bass using specialized techniques around submerged brush and timber structures. Captain Mike provides hands-on instruction for bait selection, casting methods, and reading lake conditions. The trip covers multiple productive areas of Oologah Lake, known for abundant fish populations and consistent action during spring months.
All top-tier fishing equipment is included, from rods and reels to tackle and bait. The educational approach helps anglers understand seasonal patterns, depth changes, and structure fishing that makes Oologah Lake a premier crappie destination in Oklahoma.
Crappie thrive in Oologah Lake's diverse structure, from submerged timber to creek channels and brush piles. May brings excellent fishing as warming waters draw crappie into shallows for spawning activity. These panfish respond well to small jigs, minnows, and light tackle presentations around cover. Captain Mike's local knowledge pinpoints the most productive depths and structures where crappie concentrate during different times of day.
The half-day charter launches from Spencer Creek area with all fishing gear provided, accommodating small groups for personalized instruction. Captain Mike covers effective techniques including jigging, trolling, and light tackle methods proven successful on Oologah Lake. Clear communication about lake conditions, fish behavior, and seasonal patterns ensures both novice and experienced anglers gain valuable skills while enjoying consistent action on the water.
Crappie (Pomoxis nigromaculatus and Pomoxis annularis) are popular freshwater game fish belonging to the order Perciformes and family Centrarchidae. These panfish are among the most sought-after species in Oklahoma lakes, with Oologah Lake providing excellent habitat for both black and white crappie varieties during May spawning season.
Crappies are the largest members of the sunfish family, prized by anglers for their fighting ability and excellent table fare. Black crappie display irregular dark blotches across their silvery sides, while white crappie show distinct vertical bars. Both species inhabit similar lake environments and respond to comparable fishing techniques.
These adaptable fish thrive in lakes, rivers, and reservoirs with adequate cover structure. Oologah Lake's submerged timber, brush piles, and creek channels provide ideal crappie habitat. They prefer areas with moderate current and depths ranging from shallow spawning flats to deeper winter sanctuaries.
Typical crappie measure 4 to 19 inches in length, with most keeper-sized fish ranging 8-12 inches. Trophy specimens can reach up to 5 pounds, though fish weighing 1-2 pounds represent excellent catches for most anglers.
Crappie feed primarily on small fish, aquatic insects, and zooplankton. They exhibit schooling behavior, especially during spring spawning when large groups concentrate in shallow areas. Dawn and dusk feeding periods often produce the most consistent action for anglers.
Spring spawning occurs when water temperatures reach 60-65 degrees, typically March through May in Oklahoma. Males construct nests in shallow areas with firm bottoms, becoming aggressive defenders that readily strike lures and baits presented nearby.
Effective methods include jigging small plastics around structure, trolling crankbaits over submerged timber, and live minnow presentations under slip bobbers. In May around Adair, anglers find success targeting spawning areas with 1/16-ounce jigs in white, chartreuse, or pink colors worked slowly through brush piles and fallen trees.
Crappie rank among the finest eating freshwater fish, with sweet, flaky white meat and minimal fishy taste. The fillets are excellent pan-fried, baked, or prepared in fish cakes. High in protein and low in mercury, crappie provide healthy omega-3 fatty acids making them ideal for regular consumption.
Q: What is the best bait for crappie?
A: Small jigs in white, chartreuse, or pink colors work exceptionally well, along with live minnows suspended under slip bobbers near structure.
Q: Where can I find crappie near Adair?
A: Oologah Lake offers excellent crappie fishing around submerged timber, brush piles, and creek channels, especially near Spencer Creek areas during spring months.
Q: Is crappie good to eat?
A: Yes, crappie are considered among the best-tasting freshwater fish with sweet, flaky white meat that's perfect for frying or baking.
Q: When is the best time to catch crappie?
A: Spring spawning season from March through May provides the most consistent action, with early morning and evening hours typically most productive.
Q: What size crappie should I keep?
A: Most anglers target crappie 8 inches or larger, which provide good-sized fillets while allowing smaller fish to grow and reproduce.
Q: Do crappie bite in cold weather?
A: Crappie remain active in cooler months but move to deeper water and bite more slowly, requiring smaller presentations and patient fishing techniques.
Captain Mike Meeks knows Oologah Lake like the back of his hand, and he's ready to share his expertise with you on this half-day fishing adventure. Whether you're a seasoned angler or just starting out, you'll have a blast targeting crappie and striped bass in some of the lake's most productive spots. Mike's got all the top-notch gear you'll need, and he'll teach you the tricks of the trade - from picking the right bait to perfecting your cast. This trip is all about honing your skills while reeling in a great catch. With Mike's guidance, you'll learn the ins and outs of lake fishing and hopefully land some impressive crappie and bass. It's a hands-on experience that'll leave you feeling like a pro, no matter your starting skill level. So grab your hat and sunscreen, and get ready for a fun-filled morning or afternoon on the water with a true Oklahoma fishing expert.