Crappie

Crappie fishing near Vacaville offers some decent opportunities, particularly in Lake Berryessa and smaller local reservoirs. These panfish school up nicely, making for some exciting days on the water when you find them. Spring is prime time for crappie as they move into the shallows to spawn. Small jigs, minnows, and crappie nibblers are all effective baits. Look for submerged structure like brush piles, fallen trees, or weed beds, as these are crappie magnets. A local tip: early morning and late evening are often the most productive times. Many anglers find success trolling slowly along the edges of flooded timber. Check local regulations regarding size and bag limits, as they can vary between lakes. Access to Lake Berryessa is available through several boat ramps and shoreline access points, but be aware that parking can fill up quickly on weekends.