Crappie
LOCATIONS
BODIES OF WATER
Crappie can be found in various bodies of water throughout the Mid Atlantic region, including lakes, reservoirs, ponds, and slow-moving rivers. They are highly adaptable and can thrive in both freshwater and brackish water environments.
Maryland: Deep Creek Lake, Liberty Reservoir, Prettyboy Reservoir, Tuckahoe Lake, Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge.
Virginia: Smith Mountain Lake, Lake Anna, Lake Chesdin, Lake Moomaw, Lake Drummond.
West Virginia: Summersville Lake, Tygart Lake, Stonewall Jackson Lake, Burnsville Lake, Cheat Lake.
Delaware: Noxontown Pond, Killens Pond, Coursey Pond, Wagamons Pond, Haven Lake.
North Carolina: Falls Lake, Jordan Lake, Lake Norman, High Rock Lake, Shearon Harris Lake.
South Carolina: Lake Marion, Lake Moultrie, Lake Murray, Lake Hartwell, Lake Jocassee.
STRUCTURE/HABITAT
Crappie are commonly found in areas with structure and cover, such as submerged vegetation, fallen trees, brush piles, and boat docks. They prefer calm or slow-moving waters and are often found near structures that provide shelter and ambush points.
Look for them around submerged trees, brush piles, and underwater ledges. They tend to concentrate near drop-offs and areas with varying depths. During spawning season, they may move to shallower areas near vegetation and submerged cover.
PATTERNS
SPRING
During the spring, crappie move into shallower areas for spawning. Look for them near submerged vegetation, brush piles, and fallen trees. They are more active during this time and readily take various baits and lures.
SUMMER
In the summer, crappie tend to move to slightly deeper waters, particularly around submerged structures and drop-offs. They may also congregate near areas with cooler water temperatures, such as inflows or deeper sections of lakes and reservoirs. Fishing early in the morning or late in the evening can be productive during this season.
FALL
As fall arrives, crappie become more active and feed aggressively in preparation for the upcoming winter. They may move to shallower areas again, especially near submerged vegetation and fallen trees. Look for them in creek mouths, coves, and near rocky points. Use small jigs, spinners, or live bait to entice them.
WINTER
Crappie can be caught throughout the winter, although they may be more sluggish. Look for them in deeper holes, near submerged structures, or close to the bottom. Slow presentations with small jigs or live bait are often effective during the colder months.
Bait
Crappie can be caught using a variety of baits, including minnows, jigs, small spinners, and soft plastics. Adjust your bait selection based on the season and the preferences of the fish.