Crappie

Crappie fishing around Atlanta centers on the large reservoirs surrounding the city. Both Lake Allatoona and Lake Lanier offer excellent Crappie opportunities, although each has its nuances. Lanier is generally considered the more productive of the two, with abundant standing timber and submerged brush providing ideal habitat. Allatoona, while clearer, still holds good numbers of Crappie around submerged structure and bridge pilings. The pre-spawn period in early spring (March-April) is the best time to target Crappie as they move into shallower water to spawn. Minnows and jigs fished under a float are the go-to presentations. A local tip: Focus on creek channels and coves in the upper reaches of the lakes during the spring. Also, pay attention to water clarity, as Crappie tend to prefer slightly stained water. The Crappie in these lakes are known for their good size, with many exceeding a pound.