If you’re an avid angler, chances are that you’ve heard of both crappie and bluegill. While these two fish look quite similar, they actually have some key differences that make them uniquely suited for different types of fishing.
This blog post will explore the key differences between these two fish species and provide tips on how to catch each one.
The Physical Differences Between Crappie and Bluegill
The first difference between crappie and bluegill is physical in nature. The most obvious difference is their size; crappie tend to be larger than bluegill, growing up to 12 inches in length, while bluegill typically only reach a maximum of 8 inches.
Additionally, crappie have deeper bodies with more slender fins while bluegill have much rounder profiles with wider fins.
Finally, it’s worth noting that the coloration of both species can vary significantly depending on their environment; however, as a general rule, crappie tend to be darker in color (ranging from silver to black) while Bluegills are usually olive green or yellowish brown.
Where You Can Find Crappie and Bluegill
Another major distinction between these two species is where they can be found in the wild. Crappies prefer deep water habitats such as lakes and reservoirs, while bluegills are more commonly found near shallow waters like ponds and streams.
Crappies can also tolerate colder water temperatures better than bluegills, which means that they are often found at greater depths during the winter months when water temperatures drop below 30 degrees Fahrenheit.
How to Catch Each Fish Species
When it comes to catching either crappie or bluegill, there are several things you need to keep in mind. When fishing for crappies, it’s important to use small lures such as jigs or minnows since they tend to shy away from larger baits.
Additionally, since they prefer deeper waters you should cast your line further out into the lake or reservoir than when fishing for bluegills.
On the other hand, when fishing for bluegills it’s best to use larger lures such as worms or crickets since they feed mainly on insects and larvae near the surface of the water.
Additionally, since they prefer shallow waters you should cast your line closer to shore than when fishing for crappies.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while both crappies and bluegills look quite similar at first glance there are some key differences between them that make them ideal choices for different kinds of fishing trips—whether you’re looking for something big or small!
By understanding their physical characteristics as well as where they live in the wild and what types of lures work best on each species you will be able to easily target whichever type of fish you want during your next outing! Good luck!
