I've had only 2 -3 successful crappie spawns in 10 yrs. The predators I have seem to handle the crappie population pretty well. I have more of a problem with red ear and perch. It takes a couple yrs. up here before the crappie spawn anyway. If you want nice eating size crappie, you'll have to let them feed for a couple yrs. without having to compete with the bass and BG. They just can't compete. IMHO