Mar 28, 2014 · Thornhill says they can be successfully raised in farm ponds that meet certain criteria. "Crappie are sight feeders, so you want clear water, visibility of 2-1/2 to 3-feet or so," says Thornhill. "You also want to have established, rooted vegetation in the pond, at least up to 20% of the surface area because crappie need a place to hide.