Crappies are spiny, beware of the trademark spiny-rays on the dorsal fin of this sunfish - ouch! Crappies are also spotty, they have a beautiful blotchy pattern on their back and sides. Look for an olive-colored back, a greenish-yellow belly, and 7-8 dorsal spines. Crappies are tricky to catch because of the very thin membrane around their mouth, which makes it hard to set the hook. This is why they are nicknamed "paper mouth."  Despite being pokey, they are one of the most delicious panfish for eating!  Yum!