Crappie

Crappie fishing in Decatur centers around Lake Decatur, a 3,000-acre reservoir known for its healthy crappie population. Spring is the peak season when crappie move into the shallows to spawn. Target submerged timber, brush piles, and bridge pilings with jigs and minnows suspended under a bobber. As the water warms in the summer, crappie tend to move deeper, so adjust your tactics accordingly. Fall is another good time to target crappie as they feed heavily before winter. A local secret: try fishing near the Route 48 bridge and the Decatur Beach area, as these spots often hold good numbers of crappie. The average size is around 9-12 inches, but larger slabs are definitely possible. Lake Decatur offers several boat ramps and access points, but be prepared for crowded conditions on weekends, especially during the spring spawn.