The word "crappie" refers to a type of freshwater fish that originates in North America. Although the name "crappie" may be the most commonly used term to describe this species, there are a number of synonyms that can be used interchangeably. Some common alternatives to "crappie" include speckled perch, bachelor perch, slabs, papermouths, and sac-a-lait. These names often refer to different traits of the fish, such as their spotted pattern, their tendency to school in large groups, or the taste and texture of their meat. No matter which term you use, the crappie is a beloved gamefish that can be found in lakes, rivers, and ponds across the United States.