Crappie

If you're chasing crappie near Murrieta, Diamond Valley Lake is your best bet. This large reservoir offers excellent crappie habitat, with submerged trees and brush piles that attract these tasty panfish. The best time to target them is during the spring spawn, typically March through May, when they move into the shallows to reproduce. Look for them in coves and near submerged structure in 5-15 feet of water. Small jigs and minnows are the go-to baits. A local tactic is to troll slowly with crappie jigs tipped with live minnows. Another popular spot is near the dam, where submerged trees provide cover. Diamond Valley can be a large lake to navigate, so consider using your electronics to locate schools of crappie. Keep an eye on the water temperature, as this will significantly impact their behavior and location. The crappie in Diamond Valley tend to be good-sized, offering both quality and quantity for anglers. Remember to check the lake's regulations regarding creel limits before you head out.