Crappie

Crappie fishing near Norco requires a bit of a drive, but it can be worth the effort. Lake Perris and Lake Skinner, both within an hour's drive, are known to hold decent populations of crappie. Focus your efforts around submerged structure, such as brush piles, flooded timber, and docks. Spring is the prime time, when the crappie move shallow to spawn. Small jigs and minnows are the go-to baits. Try fishing under a bobber or slow-trolling to cover more water. Fall can also be productive as the fish school up before winter. Local tip: Pay attention to water clarity, as crappie prefer clearer water. Also, check the lake level reports before you head out, as low water can affect access and fishing conditions. The crappie in these lakes tend to be on the smaller side, but they're still a fun and tasty target.