Crappie

Crappie fishing near McGraw, NY, can be productive in several of the smaller lakes and ponds in the area. While not necessarily a destination fishery, places like Song Lake and other smaller, less-pressured bodies of water hold populations of Crappie. Spring is undoubtedly the best time to target them, as they move into shallow water to spawn around submerged structure. Look for them near docks, brush piles, and weed beds. Small jigs and minnows are the go-to baits. A local tip is to use a bobber to suspend your bait at the right depth, especially during the spawn. Many of these lakes are accessible by small boat or kayak, providing access to the best fishing spots. Be mindful of local regulations regarding boat launches and permits. The Crappie in this area are typically decent sized, and a limit can be caught with some patience and persistence.