Crappie

If you're headed to Boaz, Alabama, for crappie, you're likely targeting Weiss Lake or Guntersville Lake, both within easy driving distance. Weiss Lake, known as the 'Crappie Capital of the World,' is a shallower, stained-water system perfect for spider-rigging with minnows or jigs around submerged timber and brush piles. Guntersville, on the other hand, is a larger, clearer lake that holds some truly impressive slabs. Spring and fall are prime times, as crappie move shallow to spawn or feed aggressively before winter. A local tip: pay attention to water clarity. On Weiss, in stained water, brighter jig colors often outperform natural hues. On Guntersville, use your electronics to locate submerged creek channels and ledges where crappie congregate. Remember to check the daily creel limits before you go.