Crappie · Species guide
Black crappie
Pomoxis nigromaculatus
Illustration: Duane Raver / USFWS. Public domain. Fish are not shown at the same scale.
Look for these features
- 01Irregular dark blotches instead of distinct vertical bars.
- 02Usually seven or eight dorsal spines.
- 03A deep, compressed body with a large mouth.
Common in East Texas. Clearer water and submerged cover can provide useful starting context, without guaranteeing a catch.
TPWD species reference ↗ · Checked September 6, 2026.
Put it to work
Your next step
Compare it with the white crappie below. Learn the spine count as well as the marking pattern.
Identification is one part of the trip. Use current rules for the state and exact waterbody you fish.