What kind of crappie do we have in Florida?
There are two crappie species reported in Florida. The black crappie (Pomoxis nigromaculatus) is by far the most common species; it is found throughout the state. The white crappie (Pomoxis annularis) is reportedly located in two rivers in the panhandle.

What is a blacknose crappie?
A blacknose crappie is just a black crappie with a wide, dominant black stripe running from the top fin to the tip of the nose. Untrained observers can easily recognize this stripe.

Is the blacknose crappie a different species or subspecies?
No. Scientists at Auburn University have determined that blacknose crappie are a genetic variation of black crappie and not a hybrid of white and black crappie or a subspecies.

Do blacknose crappie occur naturally in Florida?
An early study reported that blacknose crappie occurred in 13 states, including Florida. Recently, naturally occurring blacknose crappie have been collected in Lake Seminole. This represents the only known population of blacknose crappie in Florida.

Is Florida still stocking blacknose crappie in its lakes?
No. The FWC genetics policy is still being written; however, a goal of the policy is to stock native Florida fish, not fish from out of state. This is why it is important for biologists to locate other blacknose crappie populations in Florida for use in any additional stocking programs.

Do blacknose crappie grow faster, live longer, or fight harder than regular black crappie?
While some fishing guides in Tennessee have claimed that blacknose crappie grow faster and fight harder, anglers catching blacknose crappie in Starke Lake did not report a difference in the fish’s fighting ability. In their limited experience with these fish thus far, FWRI researchers have not observed any differences.

Where are the best places to fish for black crappie in Florida?
Each year, FWC biologists provide black crappie anglers with information about Florida’s top fishing spots: http://myfwc.com/fishing/updates/

I want to know more about black crappie. Where can I find additional information?
You can learn more about black crappie, including information about its life history, its recreational angling appeal, and its defining characteristics. Visit the Black Crappie Section or http://myfwc.com/fishing/fishes/panfish.html#crappie for more information.