Black crappies average eight to twelve inches in length and are easily recognized by their highly compressed, diamond shaped bodies. They are dark green to golden brown in color, with mottled patches of dark scales.

Typical sunfish, black crappies spawn from May to July. The nests are built in ten to 24 inches of water in sand or gravel areas with some vegetation. Most nests are kept five to six feet apart.

Black crappies provide good fishing opportunities. Usually occurring in large schools, they can provide fast and furious action for anglers. This is especially true in early to mid-spring when large numbers gather prior to spawning. And, like the rest of the sunfish family, black crappies make a delicious meal.