Ice fishing is a popular winter pastime, allowing anglers to enjoy their favorite hobby even in the coldest months. One of the most sought-after fish during ice fishing season is the crappie, a delicious and challenging catch.
To increase your chances of success while ice fishing for crappie, it’s essential to use the right tackle, specifically the best ice fishing crappie jigs.
Jigs are a versatile and practical type of lure that can be used year-round for crappie fishing, but they are especially crucial in the icy conditions.
Ice jigs come in various styles, sizes, and colors, allowing anglers to tailor their tackle to the specific conditions and target crappies in deeper or shallower water.
When selecting the best ice fishing crappie jigs, it’s vital to consider factors such as the water column, the presence of weed beds, and the type of live bait you plan to use.
While a wide range of quality ice fishing jigs are available, some features are particularly crucial for crappie fishing success.
First and foremost, the material must be durable and capable of withstanding harsh winter conditions. Size is another critical factor, as smaller jigs are often more efficient in coaxing crappies out of their hiding spots in the cold water.
The variety of colors and styles plays a significant role in attracting crappies, as having an array of options in your tackle box can make the difference between a successful day on the ice and going home empty-handed.
13 Best Ice Fishing Crappie Jigs
As ice anglers, we know the importance of having the right jigs in our tackle box when targeting crappie.
Our list of the 13 best ice fishing crappie jigs considers various factors such as water column, ice jigs for deep and shallower water, soft plastics, live bait options, various colors, and more.
These crappie fishing essentials will prove valuable to beginners and experienced ice anglers in different habitats, from open water to weed beds. So, let’s dive into our top picks and help you land more slab crappie this winter season.
1. PLUSINNO Ice Fishing Jigs
Pros
- Attractive color combinations and glow in the dark features
- Sharp, durable high-carbon steel hooks
- Realistic design simulates live bait
Cons
- Smaller size may be less suitable for larger fish
- Limited to 5 shapes of ice jigs
- Glow feature may not be as strong as advertised
These PLUSINNO ice fishing jigs boast a variety of colors, including some that glow in the dark, which can increase their visibility in murky water and bring success in low-light conditions.
The high-carbon steel construction ensures durability, while the sharp, barbed hooks make it difficult for crappie or other game fish to escape once hooked.
These jigs’ highly detailed paint and balanced design make them well-suited for use in various fishing situations.
With five different shapes and sizes, it’s a good idea to experiment with the various options to find the perfect fit for your preferred fishing location and target species.
2. BASSDASH Ice Fishing Lure Kit
Pros
- Lead construction for fast drop rates and sharp high carbon hooks
- Detailed paint and bright coatings with 21 glow-in-the-dark pieces
- Variety of jig types and colors suitable for different fish species
Cons
- Tip with live bait or soft plastic baits for best results
- Requires a separate purchase of a quality tackle box for enhanced organization
- May need to switch between sizes to determine best lure for target fish
The 24-piece kit includes four different jig types with six color variations each, ensuring that ice anglers have plenty of options to experiment with.
The detailed paint and bright coatings make these jigs highly visible, especially in deeper and murkier water, while the glow-in-the-dark feature aids in attracting fish during low-light conditions.
Simply tip the jigs with a wax worm, small minnow, or soft bait to enhance their appeal to the fish.
One of our favorite aspects of this kit is the lead construction, ensuring quick drop rates and improved effectiveness when fishing at various depths in the water column. The ultra-sharp high carbon hooks also allow for better penetration and hold when the fish bite.
Although the kit has a compact tackle box, it may not be the most durable or space-efficient solution for storing and organizing your jigs. Investing in a higher-quality tackle box or purpose-built ice fishing storage container would be a good idea for ultimate convenience.
3. Dovesun Ice Fishing Jigs Kit
Pros
- 20 pieces with various shapes and sizes
- Glow in the dark feature
- High-quality carbon steel hooks
Cons
- Hooks might be dull
- Paint may wear off quickly
- Possible incomplete kits
The soft baits are designed with a realistic look, which is essential for attracting fish during the prime time of ice fishing season.
The kit’s carbon steel hooks are sharp and durable, allowing for quick and easy penetration while catching fish.
However, some customers report that the hooks may be dull and may struggle to pierce through live bait. Painting on the jigs may wear off quickly after a few uses in the water. There are also instances where the kit arrives missing a few jigs.
When using these jigs, it is a good idea to vary the presentation by changing colors or types of soft baits, such as wax worms or Euro larvae. This helps you explore different water column depths and increase your chances of catching crappie.
4. Trainpower Crappie Jigs
Pros
- Universal use for different fish species
- TPE material for durability and realistic movements
- Attractive classic color combinations
Cons
- Limited weight options (1/32oz and 1/16oz)
- Not American-made
- Paint quality may vary
The Trainpower Crappie Jigs are ideal for ice fishing enthusiasts looking to target not only crappie but also trout, panfish, sunfish, and other small to medium-sized fish.
Made with TPE material, these soft plastic lures offer higher softness, extensibility, and durability than traditional materials.
With their classic color combinations like fluorescent green with treasure blue, black with red, pink with pink, and luminous green and luminous color, these jigs will attract fish and perform well in a variety of water columns.
The high carbon steel jig heads come in two weight options, 1/32oz, and 1/16oz, to cater to different ice fishing preferences.
When using these jigs, we recommend pairing them with live bait or soft plastics for an enticing presentation.
The variety of colors make these lures effective in different water types, whether murky or clear, and their realistic movement is perfect for targeting crappie and other fish in both shallower water and deeper water.
5. THKFISH Ice Fishing Jigs 54Pcs
Pros
- Diverse assortment with 54 jigs in 10 different shapes and colors
- Jigs made of durable lead material and high carbon steel hooks
- Diamond on jig head provides light reflection to attract crappie
Cons
- May be smaller than expected for some anglers
- Not suitable for larger fish species
- Box size could be an issue for storage and transport
The jigs are made from lead material and high-carbon steel hooks, ensuring durability and longevity in the tackle box.
This feature increases the chances of hook-up ratios, making it an asset for ice-fishing enthusiasts who are looking to improve their catch rate.
Designed for several species, these jigs target crappies, panfish, walleyes, and pike. However, they may not be suitable for larger fish; some anglers may find them on the smaller side.
6. Goture Ice Fishing Jig Set
The Goture Ice Fishing Jig Set is a top choice for anglers seeking effective, fast-dropping crappie jigs.
Pros
- Heavier tungsten material for faster sinking
- Unique design and bright colors for increased attraction
- High-strength stainless steel hooks for improved catch rate
Cons
- May not work well in murky water
- Limited to smaller sizes
- No weed guard for fishing in heavy vegetation
The Goture Ice Fishing Jig Set offers a great selection of tungsten ice jigs designed to drop quickly and reach the underwater strike zone more efficiently.
By sinking faster than traditional ice jigs, these lures cover a larger water column area, increasing the chances of attracting fish.
They feature bright colors and unique shapes that are more likely to draw fish’s attention. The stainless steel hooks also provide durability and better penetration, making it easier to catch bigger fish like crappie and perch.
One downside to these jigs is their effectiveness may decrease in murky water. Although they work well in clear water conditions, crappie anglers may want to consider alternative lures for darker environments.
Similarly, the smaller size of these jigs might limit their catching power for larger fish. Lastly, lacking a weed guard may make it difficult to avoid snags when fishing in areas with heavy vegetation.
With their fast-dropping tungsten construction, eye-catching designs, and strong hooks, these jigs increase the chance of hooking crappie and other favorite fish species. However, anglers should consider using these jigs in clear water for the best results and avoid heavily vegetated areas.
7. Jiatai Ice Fishing Jigs 24Pcs
Pros
- Wide range of colors and styles
- Suitable for various fish species
- Durable and sharp hooks
Cons
- No included storage box
- Some may prefer larger sizes
- May not glow as long as other options
These jigs are made of lead material, ensuring fast sinking in deep water and durability. The vivid colors and distinct eyes make them attractive for panfish, crappie, sunfish, and walleye fishing in the cold water.
Furthermore, the jigs are suitable for soft baits, such as soft plastics, wax worms, and euro larvae, enhancing their overall appeal to fish.
The sharp hooks on these Jiatai Fishing ice fishing jigs provide excellent hooksets, ensuring that it is unlikely to escape once a fish bites.
Despite their small size, the hooks are designed to withstand the pressure from bigger fish, making them a reliable choice for targeting slab crappie and larger walleye.
The jigs can be used effectively in shallower and deeper water, making them a perfect addition to any ice angler’s tackle box.
While they may lack some of the advanced features of more expensive options, their variety, durability, and effectiveness make them an excellent choice for targeting a range of fish species during winter.
8. JSHANMEI Fishing Lures Ice Fishing Jigs 48pcs Set
Pros
- Wide variety of shapes and colors
- Glow-in-the-dark options available
- Sharp and durable hooks
Cons
- Some jigs may be too small for larger fish
- Some customers may prefer individual lure selection
- Not tested for other ice fishing styles
The JSHANMEI Fishing Lures Ice Fishing Jigs 48pcs Set offers ice anglers a diverse selection of ice fishing crappie jigs.
With 10 different shapes and various colors for each, our set caters to a broad range of target species, from Panfish and Trout to Walleye and Pike. The unique shapes and sharp hooks allow for faster drops and better penetration, increasing the chances of catching fish.
The JSHANMEI set stands out with its realistic eyes and vivid patterned coatings.
Ice anglers can also appreciate the lifelike action of these jigs, making them effective in fresh and saltwater. When using these jigs, consider pairing them with soft baits, like a wax worm or crappie minnows, to increase the likelihood of attracting larger fish.
9. ChGioMou 50 Pcs Crappie Lures Kit
Pros
- Comprehensive kit with 10 ice fishing jigs and 40 soft lures
- Suitable for various species, including Crappie, Bass, and Trout
- Packaged in a convenient and compact plastic box for easy storage
Cons
- May not be the best option for targeting larger fish
- Lures may not be as durable as other premium options
- The assortment may not include some specific colors or styles preferred by some anglers
In addition to crappie, this kit’s lures can also target a range of other fish species, such as bass and trout, making it an ideal option for anglers who enjoy multi-species fishing.
The entire kit comes packaged in a compact and organized plastic box, ensuring that all your essential tackle remains secure and easily accessible on the ice.
10. AGOOL Ice Fishing Jigs Kit
Pros
- Attractive and vibrant colors
- Glow-in-the-dark feature for low-light conditions
- Durable and sharp hooks
Cons
- Some jigs may be larger than expected
- Limited size references
- Might not suit all fishing preferences
These jigs are designed with bright patterns and realistic details, making them highly attractive to crappie and other fish species like panfish, bluegill, and walleye.
One of the best features of these jigs is their glow-in-the-dark functionality. This is perfect for late winter ice fishing when underwater visibility is reduced, as the jigs’ luminescence can attract fish from a greater distance.
To make the most of this feature, it’s a good idea to let the jigs absorb enough light before using them.
Our favorite aspect of these jigs is their durable, sharp, high-carbon steel hooks. These hooks ensure better penetration and reduce the chances of fish escaping, which is especially important when targeting larger fish in deeper water.
The barbed design of these hooks further increases the hook-up ratio, making this a valuable piece of gear for any ice angler.
It’s worth mentioning that some users have found the jigs larger than expected, and there is limited size reference provided. However, many ice anglers appreciate having a variety of sizes for different fishing conditions, enabling them to target different fish species in various water columns.
11. Acme Tungsten Sling Blade Jig
Pros:
- Realistic Movement: The Acme Tungsten Sling Blade Jig is designed to mimic the movement of prey, making it an irresistible target for predatory fish.
- Durable Construction: The jig is crafted with high-quality tungsten, providing a denser weight and smaller profile than traditional lead jigs. The result is a more durable and long-lasting product.
- Versatility: The Sling Blade Jig is suitable for use in freshwater and saltwater environments, making it a versatile tool for anglers targeting different fish species.
Cons:
- Higher Price: The Acme Tungsten Sling Blade Jig is more expensive than traditional lead jigs, which may make it less accessible to some anglers.
- Limited Color Options: The jig is only available in a limited range of colors, which may limit its effectiveness in certain fishing conditions.
The Acme Tungsten Sling Blade Jig is the perfect tool for anglers catching big fish in freshwater and saltwater environments.
This jig is crafted with high-quality tungsten, providing a denser weight and smaller profile than traditional lead jigs. The result is a more natural presentation that mimics the movement of prey, easily attracting fish.
The Sling Blade Jig features a unique design that allows it to dart and swim through the water with a realistic motion, making it an irresistible target for predatory fish.
The jig is equipped with a sharp, durable hook capable of holding onto even the strongest fish, ensuring you can confidently reel in your catch.
Whether you’re targeting crappie, bass, pike, walleye, or other species, the Acme Tungsten Sling Blade Jig is a versatile and effective tool to help you catch more fish.
With its sleek design, durable construction, and realistic movement, this jig is a must-have for any serious angler.
12. Lindy Little Nipper Jig Hand-Tied Fishing Lure
Pros:
- Realistic Movement: The Little Nipper Jig mimics live bait movement, making it an irresistible target for predatory fish.
- Hand-Tied Construction: The jig is hand-tied with high-quality materials, ensuring its durability and effectiveness.
- Versatility: The Little Nipper Jig can be used in fresh and saltwater environments, making it a versatile tool.
Cons:
- Limited Color Options: The jig is only available in a limited range of colors, which may limit its effectiveness in certain fishing conditions.
The Lindy Little Nipper Jig Hand-Tied Fishing Lure is a top-quality product designed to help anglers catch more fish. This jig is hand-tied with high-quality materials, ensuring that it is both durable and effective in attracting fish.
The Little Nipper Jig is versatile and can be used in fresh and saltwater environments, making it a must-have for any angler.
The Little Nipper Jig features a unique design that mimics the movement of live bait, making it an irresistible target for predatory fish.
The jig is equipped with a sharp, durable hook that is capable of holding onto even the strongest fish, ensuring that you can reel in your catch with confidence.
Whether targeting bass, walleye, crappie, or other species, the Lindy Little Nipper Jig Hand-Tied Fishing Lure is a versatile and effective tool to help you catch more fish with its hand-tied construction, realistic movement, and durable hook.
13. VMC Tungsten Probe Jig
Pros:
- Realistic Movement: The VMC Tungsten Probe Jig is designed to mimic the movement of prey, making it an irresistible target for predatory fish.
- Durable Construction: The jig is crafted with high-quality tungsten, which provides a denser weight and a smaller profile compared to traditional lead jigs. The result is a more durable and long-lasting product.
- Versatility: The Probe Jig is suitable for use in both freshwater and saltwater environments, making it a versatile tool for anglers targeting different species of fish.
Cons:
- Limited Color Options
This jig is crafted with high-quality tungsten, providing a denser weight and smaller profile than traditional lead jigs. The result is a more natural presentation that mimics the movement of prey, easily attracting fish.
The Probe Jig features a unique design that allows it to dart and swim through the water with a realistic motion, making it an irresistible target for predatory fish.
The jig is equipped with a sharp, durable hook capable of holding onto even the strongest fish, ensuring you can confidently reel in your catch.
Whether you’re targeting bass, pike, walleye, or other species, the VMC Tungsten Probe Jig is a versatile and effective tool to help you catch more fish.
Buying Guide: Ice Fishing Jigs
Features to Consider
When choosing the best ice fishing crappie jigs, we should consider several key features. These include the type of jig, weight, colors, and materials. Considering these factors, we’ll be on our way to an enjoyable and productive ice fishing experience.
Type of Jig
Various ice jigs, such as horizontal tungsten jigs, vertical jigs, jigging spoons, and soft plastics, are available. We should consider the water column we’re targeting, as different jigs work best at different depths.
For example, horizontal jigs work better in shallower water, while spoons and soft plastics suit deeper water.
Weight
Lighter jigs are generally better for shallow water, while heavier, small spoons are suitable for deeper water.
For example, a 1/16-ounce tungsten jig might be ideal for relatively shallow water, while a 1/8-ounce jig is better suited for deep water.
Colors
Natural colors such as green, blue, and silver might be more effective in clear water. On the other hand, in murky water, we might opt for bright colors like chartreuse, orange, or pink.
Materials
Many ice anglers prefer using soft plastics or soft bait with their ice jigs.
These can include wax worms, euro larvae, and minnow heads. Soft plastics are effective because they mimic live bait and are more appealing to fish.
Additional Factors
Besides the features mentioned above, we should also consider the following factors when purchasing the best ice fishing crappie jigs:
- Variety of sizes and styles: We should have diverse jigs in our tackle box to be prepared for different situations.
- Quality of materials and construction: Good quality jigs will last longer and more effectively attract fish.
- Ease of use: Intuitive and user-friendly jigs will make our ice fishing experience more enjoyable.
- Cost: Although investing in high-quality jigs is important, we should aim for a balance between quality and affordability.
Conclusion – Best Ice Fishing Crappie Jigs
Crappie fishing through the ice can be fun, exciting, and challenging to say the least. Once you are armed with the correct gear and tackle, nothing can stop you from pulling in your limit of these tasty fish!
If you have any questions or comments, please leave them below. Until next time Happy Crappie Angling!
Nice post, Have always thought that panfishes are bigger than crappies. I have also come across it that crappies are easy to catch in the winter than summer so I can’t agree less with you.Ice fishing is good most especially in winter and I think all crappies jigs you mentioned are really good.
Wow Cory I didn’t know that the type of fishing lure needs to be a specific color depending on the color of the water. This is very insightful. Actually, I’ve always wanted to go fishing around my area. I’m currently living in Okinawa, and I see a lot of people fishing around dawn or nights. What should one beginner start in terms of gear, if they’re thinking about starting fishing?
Thanks!
Jose
I would get yourself some warm clothes to start if your ice fishing. Other then that make sure to have a sturdy rod reel combo. Plenty of different colors and sizes of jigs depending on the species of fish you are angling for. A five gallon bucket always comes in handy. Just have fun with it that’s the main thing!
I enjoyed your article, and learned quite a bit. I have never been ice fishing, but have always wanted to try it. I am glad I found your website and this article because I am a complete beginner and really never gave the color of the jigs much thought. You have explained how important the color of the jigs are, and I am excited to go out and try some ice fishing. I like the Tailored Tackle, because it is an assortment of 75 pieces.
Hi Cory; I learned something about fishing from your post today. When ice Fishing, is it real Ice you are using? Is the Ice Jig used for Bait to catch the fish? By looking at one of your displays, I assumed that those are used for bate to attract and catch the Crappie.
Is the Crappie catch able during some other seasons of the year? In my limitation, I believed the lake would be frozen during Winter. I see now that I am wrong.
DorcasW
You are actually fishing on a frozen lake when your ice fishing and the jigs are used instead of live bait to catch the fish. Crappies can be caught all year round.
I’m new to ice fishing, but I would like to know, How long does it take for you catch Crappie? Do you have to have a special type of pole or reel to use? How would you know where to fish for these type of fish?
I heard ice fishing can take the stress out of your life and get you more connected with nature is that true? I tried my hand at fishing for blue gills and came up short due to horse Fly bites OUCH! But the experience was good for a newbie like me. Could you offer any tips to catching Small Mouth Bass and Walleye as well?