Crappie

Chasing crappie on Big Bear Lake offers a unique alpine lake experience. What sets Big Bear apart is its clear, deep water and the distinct seasonal changes that drive crappie behavior. Spring is prime time, as crappie move into the shallows to spawn. Focus your efforts in areas with submerged structure like fallen trees or weed beds in the lake's west end near Papoose Bay. As the water warms in summer, crappie retreat to deeper, cooler waters, often suspending near submerged timber. Try using a slip bobber rig to target these suspended fish at varying depths. Local tip: Big Bear Lake can get windy, so check the marine forecast before heading out and consider fishing from the more sheltered north shore. The crappie here tend to be good-sized, reflecting the lake's healthy ecosystem, but remember to check current regulations regarding size and bag limits.