Complementing the umbrella rig’s benefit of quantity, you also have an amplified element of experimentation.
Jigs have always offered quick-change flexibility that allows anglers to test various body types and colors, but multiple arms means multiple test points.
In other words, if the crappie are slow to respond, try different baits until you determine some pattern of preference.
Throughout the process, keep an open mind — there’s no rule stating that you have to rig only jigheads and plastic bodies.
In shallow water, for example — or if the crappie are frequently chasing baits to the surface — you might not want that rig sinking too far. Try lightening up by replacing the more-common leadheads with small swim-bait hooks sized to fit your bait.
For a more-aggressive approach, don’t hesitate to rig one of those two-armed rigs with a pair of small hard baits like the Strike King’s Bitsy Minnow or Rapala’s Ultra Lite Minnow. Twin Road Runners, tiny spinnerbaits or the classic beetle spins will also make for a crappie-tempting package.
As is the case in the bass world, resistance to the multi-arm crappie rig might persist, but there will always be those innovative types whose willingness to try something new avails new avenues of opportunity.
Experimentation, modification and observation — these are the pillars upon which modern tactics are built. Give these rigs a fair shake and you might be surprised what shakes back.
