Crappie

Crappie anglers visiting Carterville, Illinois, will find ample opportunities at Crab Orchard Lake. This sprawling reservoir is renowned for its thriving crappie population. What sets Crab Orchard apart is its diverse habitat, including submerged timber, brush piles, and creek channels, all ideal for crappie to congregate. Spring is undoubtedly the best time, as crappie move into the shallows to spawn. Look for them near submerged brush and weed edges in coves and along the shoreline. A helpful local tip is to use minnows or jigs under a bobber near these structures. Also, be aware that Crab Orchard can get crowded during the spring spawn, so consider fishing during the week or exploring less-pressured areas of the lake. The crappie here are generally good-sized, with many fish exceeding 10 inches. Vertical jigging around submerged structure can also be effective throughout the year. Check local regulations regarding creel limits and size restrictions before heading out.