The crappie life revolves around their place of birth (aka spawn). I have been told this numerous times by Ky and TN wildlife agents that crappies roaming range is about 1.5 miles from spawn area. Of course there are exceptions to all theories. I believe this theory. I could catch fish within a mile or two from our home on Ky lake until we were invaded by the illegal aliens called Asian carp. Record day, weather info, water conditions of the catch and build you a library. Return, and return often.
Most of us are greenhorns. Some just better at bragging that others.