Apr 14, 2023 · The best crappie bait for ponds is a steady supply of natural forage and baitfish for the crappie to eat. This is usually juvenile bluegill (less than 3 inches), mosquitofish, shiners, shad, or fathead minnows. Plus all the other good stuff that grows in a nutrient-rich and healthy pond like crustaceans, insects, larvae, eggs, etc.