Crappie

Crappie fishing near Watkins Glen can be rewarding, especially in the smaller, shallower lakes and ponds scattered around the area. While Seneca Lake is less known for crappie, the backwaters and connected tributaries can hold some surprises. Spring (April-May) is the peak season as crappie move into the shallows to spawn. Look for areas with submerged brush, docks, or overhanging trees. A simple jig suspended under a bobber is often all you need. A local tip: try fishing in the late afternoon as the sun starts to set – this is when crappie tend to become more active. The crappie population in these smaller bodies of water may not produce trophy-sized fish, but you can often find good numbers for a tasty meal.