The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department implemented a three-month special restriction for crappie at Lake Fork. From Dec. 1 until the last day of February, anglers must retain the first 25 crappie caught regardless of size.
The remainder of the year the standard, statewide rules for crappie or 10-inch minimum length limit apply. Both seasons have a 25-fish bag limit.
The special regulations were put in place to protect crappie during the colder winter months when they congregate in large schools in deep water, 25-40 feet. Pulling a small crappie up from these depths quickly can cause the fish to become paralyzed due to not being able to decompress quickly enough.
The cooler water temperatures cause the shad to form large schools and the crappie take advantage of the shad.
The Longview-Journal Outdoors reports limits or near limits being reported. Main lake points in the 20-30 foot range are good place to start looking for the fish. Find the shad and crappie will be there soon enough.
Live bait is recommended for younger or less experienced crappie anglers. Tie two jigs on 6 pound test fluorocarbon about 18 inches apart on medium to light spinning gear. Try to present the bait just above the school. Keep it mobile.