Crappie

If you're looking for crappie fishing near Mill Valley, you'll need to venture a bit inland. The reservoirs in the Mount Tamalpais watershed, such as Bon Tempe and Alpine Lake, can offer decent crappie fishing, although they aren't specifically known for it. Spring is the prime time, as the crappie move into the shallows to spawn. Target areas with submerged brush, fallen trees, or weed beds. Small jigs, minnows under a bobber, or even small crankbaits can be effective. Marin Water manages these lakes, so be sure to check their website for specific regulations regarding fishing licenses and boat permits. A local tip is to focus on the coves and backwaters of the reservoirs, as these areas tend to warm up faster in the spring and attract crappie. While the crappie here may not be as large as in some other California lakes, they can still provide a fun and rewarding fishing experience, especially when the bite is on.