slowing down the presentation, downsizing the bait, or going "live" is what I've been known to do. That is, of course, if the water conditions are only slightly out of whack ... and not totally messed up. When they are messed up, I usually just don't go there :pOriginally Posted by TightLines<))><
I use the RR marabou, tube jig, and marabou jig on a normal basis ... so, when conditions are good, and I still can't seem to get bites, even after downsizing or slowing the presentation, then I'll offer them something live.
When deciding on what live offering I will offer, availability is my first concern. I'd prefer to offer them something from their own foodsource biomass ... Brook Silversides, Shad, Fathead Minnows, Shiners, or some kind of bug larvae (in that order). If available, I'll use the smallest I can find/get.
Fatheads, Shiners, and larvae are purchased. Shad are caught with a cast net. Brook Silversides are a whole other project, though, as they have to be dip netted during the hours of dark.
Alot of times, when we think the Crappie have lockjaw, the truth of the matter is that we are just not fishing where they are :D --- But, even if that's the case, you're still subject to catching other edible species, or at least something that will give you a tussle
... cp